Leading to the Ngoc Son Temple, one of the primary destinations for Hanoi visitors interested in Buddhist culture, is the Huc Bridge, or ‘the bridge where light is absorbed’. The bridge is a gorgeous, wooden, red lacquered piece of architecture. Besides leading to the Ngoc Son Temple, you’ll also find the bridge to provide you with a gorgeous view of the surrounding lake, where you’ll find Tortoise Island, in the middle of the lake, which houses the famous tortoise. This tortoise lived for decades on Tortoise Island before it passed on, and the tortoise has since been prepared by a taxidermist and presented, respectfully, to visitors to Huc Bridge and the surrounding area.
Ngoc Son Temple itself is of vital importance to Buddhists in the area. Filled with the smoke from traditionally lit incense throughout most of the day, Ngoc Son Temple and the surrounding area carry the atmosphere of a holy place.