Water Puppet Theater
Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
Water Puppet Theater
Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
A unique traditional art form of Vietnam, originating from the flooded rice paddies of the 11th century.
Hanoi
Theater
Culture
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater is a professional institution with a history spanning over 55 years, serving as a guardian of unique Vietnamese art. Here, ancient legends and scenes of rural life come alive, masterfully performed by puppeteers who control wooden figures directly from the water. This is one of the most unusual and authentic performances you can see in Hanoi.
- Duration
1–1.5 hours
- Average budget
from $5
- Admission
from 100,000 ₫
- Best months
Year-round
- Show language
Vietnamese
What you need to know
The art of water puppetry originated in the Red River Delta in the 11th century. Back then, farmers used water as a stage and scenery during harvest festivals to appease the gods. Controlling figures made of suong wood requires supreme skill: actors, waist-deep in water, remain hidden behind screens while maneuvering the figures using bamboo poles and underwater mechanisms.
The performance is accompanied by a live orchestra using traditional instruments such as the đàn bầu and drums. In the 17-scene show, you will see the dance of the golden dragon, fairies, and scenes of rural life, where the recurring character Teu pokes fun at villains. The secrets of this art have been strictly guarded by masters from the village of Dao Thuc for centuries.
The theater operates daily, putting on about 500 performances a year. For a more relaxed experience, choose daytime sessions, and for the full atmosphere, evening shows are recommended, which should be booked in advance.
On site
- Address
57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hanoi
- Getting there
On foot from the Old Quarter or via Grab taxi
- Booking
On the official website or at the box office 30 mins prior
- Photos & video
It is better to choose back rows
- Connectivity
Wi-Fi available nearby
- With kids
Ideal for family leisure