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Hanoi Water Puppet Show: Reserved Seat Tickets

Hanoi & Ha Long Bay, VietnamAbout 50 minutesGuided in English

Watch Vietnam's unique folk art of puppets dancing on water, with live traditional music, at a theatre beside Hoan Kiem Lake.

About 50 minutesExplore at your own pace
Individual ticketKeeps the experience personal
EnglishLive guide or host
CancellationNon-refundable: tickets are issued for your chosen date and time

Highlights

  • Puppets dancing on water
  • Live traditional music and singing
  • Scenes of village life and legend
  • Central theatre by Hoan Kiem Lake
  • A great first evening in Hanoi

Full description

Water puppetry began in the flooded rice paddies of northern Vietnam centuries ago, and Hanoi’s theatres keep the tradition alive. Puppeteers stand hidden behind a bamboo screen, waist-deep in water, steering lacquered wooden puppets that splash, swim and dance across the pool.

The short scenes show village life, legends and festivals: fishermen, buffalo, dragons and the golden turtle of Hoan Kiem Lake. A live orchestra with singers and traditional instruments plays alongside, so no language is needed to enjoy it.

Itinerary

  1. Arrive at the theatre

    Collect your tickets at the box office about 15 minutes before the show.

  2. The show

    Around 50 minutes of short scenes with live music.

Included

  • Reserved seat ticket for your chosen show time

Not included

  • Hotel transfers
  • Camera fee if the theatre charges one

Meeting point

Water puppet theatre near Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi (theatre and address confirmed with your tickets)The exact spot and your host's details arrive with your confirmation.

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Know before you go

  • Show times vary by day; we confirm yours with your quote
  • Seats are allocated by section
  • Arrive early; latecomers may be seated at the back
  • Suitable for all ages

Frequently asked questions

Is it in Vietnamese?

Songs are in Vietnamese, but the stories are visual and easy to follow.

Which seats are best?

The front rows are closest but can get a little splashed; tell us your preference.

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