Watch a traditional water puppet show
Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet performance—a unique form of puppetry that originated in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta. Performed on a shallow pool of water with intricately carved lacquered puppets controlled by puppeteers hidden behind a screen, the show combines folk tales, rural scenes, live traditional music, and skilled puppetry to deliver a culturally rich 45–50 minute experience.
Location
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre (near Hoan Kiem Lake), Hanoi, Vietnam
Duration
Approximately 45–50 minutes (plan for 1–1.5 hours including arrival and possible backstage viewing)
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. Evening performances (early night shows) are most atmospheric. Book ahead during December–February (busy holiday season) and during Tet (Lunar New Year).
Pricing
Typical ticket prices range from 100,000–200,000 VND (~US$4–8) for standard seats. Premium seats and guided-tour packages cost more. Prices rise during peak season; discounts may be available for children or groups.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Authentic water puppetry using lacquered wooden puppets on a watery stage
Live traditional Vietnamese music (đàn bầu, drums, flutes) and singing
Stories from Vietnamese folklore, rural life, harvest scenes, and legends
Close to Hoan Kiem Lake—easy to combine with an evening stroll
Unique cultural experience native to northern Vietnam
Itinerary
Arrive at the theatre / collect tickets
Arrive early to exchange vouchers/tickets, choose good seats, and view displays of puppets in the lobby.
Seating and short introduction
An announcer or leaflet may provide context about the puppet troupe and the stories to be performed.
Performance begins
The show runs about 45–50 minutes with several short scenes—no formal intermission. Lights, music, and water effects are integral.
Finale and applause
The troupe typically receives applause; you may have a chance to applaud performers and musicians.
Backstage / puppet displays
Many visitors view puppets in the lobby or peek backstage to see how the puppeteers work (availability varies).
Safety Requirements
Keep children supervised—stage area is water-filled and can be slippery
No flash photography or loud recording during the performance (respect performers and other guests)
Be cautious crossing busy streets near Hoan Kiem Lake when arriving/departing
Follow theatre staff instructions for seating and exits
Tips
Buy tickets in advance during high season or on weekends to guarantee seats
Choose seats near the center for the best view of puppet movement and choreography
Bring small change (cash) for souvenirs and snacks in the area
Combine the visit with an evening walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and dinner in the Old Quarter
If you want photos, ask staff about photography rules—avoid flash and professional recording equipment
Learn a few Vietnamese phrases (e.g., 'Cảm ơn' = thank you) to be polite to staff
Expect a small souvenir area with puppets and traditional musical CDs—support the artists if you can
