Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Discover the enchanting world of traditional Vietnamese water puppetry at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi, one of Vietnam’s most famous cultural experiences. Operated 365 days a year, this theater is a must-visit attraction for any traveler. Learn about its history, ticket prices, showtimes, and more with Vietnam Discovery Travel.

2. History and Overview of Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, located at 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, near Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of Hanoi, is one of the most famous cultural venues in Vietnam. Founded in 1969, the theatre has played a pivotal role in preserving the age-old art of water puppetry, which dates back to the 11th century.

Vietnamese water puppetry was originally performed in flooded rice fields in Northern Vietnam, where farmers would use wooden puppets to tell stories of daily life, folklore, and historical events. Over time, the performances moved to dedicated stages, with Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre becoming the leading venue for this unique art form. Today, the theatre attracts both local and international audiences, showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage of Vietnam.

3. Unique Features of Water Puppetry

Water puppetry is a distinct art form that sets it apart from traditional puppetry. The stage is a shallow pool of water, and puppeteers stand waist-deep behind a screen to control the puppets, which seem to float and move gracefully across the water. Accompanied by live music from traditional instruments like the bamboo flute, drums, and gongs, the performances depict tales from Vietnamese folklore, legends, and rural life.

The puppets are intricately carved from wood and painted with vibrant colors, bringing the stories to life in an unforgettable way. Some famous scenes include the legend of King Le Loi returning the magical sword to the giant turtle in Hoan Kiem Lake and various depictions of everyday rural activities like fishing and farming.

4. Location and How to Get There

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is conveniently located at 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, a short walk from the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake. This central location makes it easy to combine a visit to the theatre with other famous attractions in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. You can reach the theatre by walking from nearby landmarks such as Ngoc Son Temple and the Hanoi Opera House.

For those coming from further afield, there are several transportation options available:

• Taxi: A taxi ride from anywhere in the city center will take only 5-10 minutes. Prices generally range from 50,000 VND ($2 USD) to 100,000 VND ($4 USD), depending on traffic and distance.
• Cyclo: For a more traditional experience, hop on a cyclo, a pedal-powered rickshaw, and enjoy a scenic ride through the bustling streets of Hanoi.
• Public Bus: The theater is easily accessible by bus, with several routes stopping nearby, such as routes 09, 14, and 36.

5. Showtimes and Performance Schedule (2024 Update)

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre offers daily performances with up to 5 shows a day. This makes it easy for visitors to choose a time that fits their schedule, especially when exploring the nearby attractions in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The standard performance times for 2024 are as follows: 15:00 PM, 16:10 PM, 17:20 PM, 18:30 PM, 20:00 PM.

Each show lasts approximately 50 minutes, and performances are available in both Vietnamese and English, making it accessible to international visitors.

6. Ticket Prices and Booking Information

Ticket prices for Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre are affordable and provide great value for the unique experience they offer. The 2024 updated prices are as follows:

• Standard ticket: 100,000 VND ($4 USD)
• Premium ticket (closer seating): 150,000 VND ($6 USD)
• Children under 5: Free admission

Tickets can be purchased directly at the theatre’s box office, but it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can also book tickets online through reputable travel agencies or the theatre’s official website.

7. What to Expect During the Show

Visitors to Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre are in for a cultural treat. The lively performances, accompanied by traditional music, tell stories of Vietnamese folklore, mythology, and everyday life. Some of the highlights include:

• The Dance of the Dragons: A stunning visual spectacle where dragons swirl and dive across the water.
• Fishing Village: A depiction of the daily life of Vietnamese farmers and fishermen, using humor and charm.
• The Legend of Hoan Kiem Lake: This iconic story narrates the tale of King Le Loi and his magical sword.

The theatre is equipped with modern sound and lighting systems, ensuring that every seat provides a good view of the stage. The indoor space is air-conditioned, providing comfort during Hanoi’s hot summers and cold winters.

8. Nearby Attractions and Things to Do

The theatre’s prime location near Hoan Kiem Lake means there’s no shortage of activities to do before or after a show. Some nearby attractions include:

• Ngoc Son Temple: Located on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake, this beautiful temple is a short walk from the theatre.
• Hanoi Old Quarter: Stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter and discover local handicrafts, street food, and souvenirs.
• Hanoi Opera House: Just a 10-minute walk away, this French colonial building is one of the most beautiful architectural landmarks in the city.

9. Visitor Tips and Recommendations

Here are some tips to ensure you have the best experience at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre:

• Arrive Early: Arriving 15-20 minutes before the showtime ensures you get good seats and allows you to soak in the atmosphere.
• Photography: Taking photos or videos during the performance is not allowed, so make sure to respect the theatre’s rules.
• English Commentary: Some performances offer an English commentary, so check in advance if you need this option.

10. Conclusion 

Experiencing a performance at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is a must-do when visiting Hanoi. The rich cultural heritage of water puppetry, combined with the stunning performances and traditional music, offers a unique insight into Vietnam’s history and traditions. For more unforgettable cultural experiences and tours in Vietnam, including customized tours via WhatsApp, be sure to check out Vietnam Discovery Tours.