In the heart of Hangzhou, in east China’s Zhejiang Province, lies the picturesque West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its historical and cultural significance. Thousands of kilometers away, in Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, another West Lake mirrors its Chinese counterpart, not only in name but also in the legends that surround it.
At the edge of Hanoi’s West Lake stands Tran Quoc Pagoda, perched on a serene island and bearing a resemblance to Hangzhou’s iconic Leifeng Pagoda. This architectural parallel is more than a coincidence; it reflects the deep-rooted connections between the two cultures.
According to an ancient legend shared by both communities, two fairies once descended from heaven without permission. When the time came for them to return, they couldn’t bear to part with the mortal world. Each fairy cast a bronze mirror towards the earth as a token of their affection. One mirror fell in Hangzhou, creating the West Lake there, while the other landed in Hanoi, giving birth to Vietnam’s West Lake. These mirrors transformed into lakes that became central to the cultural landscapes of their respective cities.
While this tale remains a myth, it symbolizes the enduring bond between China and Vietnam. The shared legends and similar landmarks underscore a historical tapestry woven with mutual influences and cultural exchanges. Visitors to either lake can feel this connection, experiencing firsthand the stories that have bridged these two nations across time and distance.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
