Along with Hoan Kiem Lake and The Huc Bridge, Ngoc Son Temple is a highlight in its complex and it is also a symbol of Hanoi. Built in 19th century in Jade Island in the middle of the lake which can be reached by The Huc Bridge, Ngoc Son Temple supposedly dates back to the 14th century although the current structure was built in 18th century. The name Ngoc Son means Jade Mountain dedicated to Tran Hung Dao who defeated 300 000 soldiers led by Mongol Emperor Kublai Khan in 13th century. There are also the altars worshipping several saint and deities like Van Xuong.
The temple includes a main building housing the altars and a pavilion in front of the altars as well as some ancient artifacts. A large bronze brazier lies in front of the main hall for visitors put their burning incense sticks on. Inside the temple is the first of two altars. On it sit the two scholars along with several other deities. Behind this altar is the high altar worshipping the Tran Hung Dao. There is a room on the side is a preserved specimen of the 250-kg giant tortoise found in the lake.
