*** Updated December 2019 ***
When I was researching things to do in Hanoi ahead of my recent trip to Vietnam, one of the first items to make my list was a Vietnamese water puppets performance. This traditional art has been practiced for centuries and something every visitor should experience. While there are many venues, The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is ahead of its class. I returned to Hanoi two years later and made a return visit with the ten other ladies in our group. For a glimpse into exactly what you can expect from a visit read on for all the details …
What Are Vietnamese Water Puppets?
Rural folk in the Red Delta region have enjoyed lively performances of Vietnamese water puppets since the 11th century. The traditional art form was originally performed in flooded rice fields as a means for hard-working villagers to relax and escape the harshness of daily life. The shows depict elements of traditional rural life and are an important method of handing down stories to the next generation. The puppets, which are made of wood and are waterproofed with lacquer, are controlled by skilled puppeteers standing in waist deep water using hidden apparatus to create the illusion the figures are dancing on the water’s surface. A minimum of three years of training is required to master the art and in days gone by father’s would only teach their sons as it was feared that sharing with their daughters would mean that the secrets would be lost if they married outside of the village. I’m pleased to say this is no longer the case and during our visit a number of the puppeteers hiding behind the curtain were women. Despite the waterproofing, the puppets only have a life span of about 4 months when they are used daily and need to be frequently replaced. Each performance is accompanied by traditional Vietnamese folk music from a live band playing drums, cymbals, wooden bells, horns and bamboo flutes.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre Hanoi
In modern Vietnam, visitors no longer need to head to the communal ponds of the northern villages to enjoy this ancient art form. These days many cities have purpose-built theatres and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is arguably the most famous of them all. Until the 1960’s Vietnamese water puppets were largely unknown outside of northern Vietnam. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre was established in Hanoi in 1969 and locals and visitors alike streamed through the doors to experience this most curious of Vietnamese traditions. Not content to wait for the world to come to them, the master puppeteers from the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre took their show on the road and have performed hundreds of cultural tours throughout the world including in Switzerland, Japan and the USA. It is by far one of the most popular attractions in Hanoi and tickets sell out well in advance. Thang Long is smack bang in the middle of ancient town and just a short walk from the Red Bean restaurant where we enjoyed a fabulous meal.
Buying Tickets To Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
There are two ways to secure your self the hottest tickets in town; spend hours queuing up yourself for a bargain ticket or pay a bit extra and get someone else to do it for you. Should you chose to do it yourself, simply show up to the ticket booth at the front of the theatre and take your chances with the masses. If you chose this option, it is highly likely that you will not be able to secure tickets for the same day. Tickets from the booth will set you back just VND100,000 a piece (approx AUD$5.50, USD$4.40 or GBP£3.30). Or you can do what I did and book your tickets in advance through Viator. You will pay a little bit extra (approx AUD$14, USD$11 or GBP£8) but you will not spend a single minute in line and your tickets will be hand delivered to your hotel. I don’t know about you, but my time is valuable and I was more than happy to shell out the extra few dollars. I didn’t notice when I booked that there are two classes of tickets, standard and VIP. A VIP ticket will guarantee you a seat in the first four rows of the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. We were lucky that our standard tickets happened to be in row E, just behind the VIP’s, but if I had my time again I would have splurged the extra AUD$6 for the upgrade. The show goes for roughly an hour and there are four shows daily; 4.10pm, 5.20pm, 6.30pm and 8.00pm.
The Show
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre was a short walk from the Hanoi Glance Hotel where we stayed and is directly across the road from Hoan Kiem Lake which is one of the best things to do in Hanoi, so it’s well worth getting there a little early to explore the grounds. We left ourselves plenty of time and were seated in seats E12/13 quickly and efficiently. As we waited for the theatre to fill a rat ran through the stalls and under the feet of some of the guests which created havoc. It did unsettle me and I kept a cautious eye on the ground after that. As the theatre lights went down and the stage lights began to glow a hush descended over the crowd before the first haunting strains of the band pierced the silence. It wasn’t long before the stars of the show made their grand entrance. While traditional shows often tell a story in sequence, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre features a series of short skits with varying themes including the dragon’s dance, catching frogs, fishing and the eight fairies dance. While each story is narrated entirely in Vietnamese, it is possible to get the gist and there were many humorous moments that transcend language. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre puts a modern spin on the traditional art by incorporating dramatic lighting and special effects. Keep your eyes peeled for the fire effects.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre October 2019
I was back in Hanoi in October 2019 with ten other ladies as part of an epic whirlwind tour of Asia. We started with 4 days in Taipei before moving on to Bangkok, Hoi An, Halong Bay and finally Hanoi. Once again I booked our tickets through Viator and they were waiting at our hotel on check in, but this time we booked VIP tickets to the 6.30pm show at a cost of ~AUD26 each. Earlier in the day we disembarked our Orchid Cruise of Halong Bay and arrived back at our hotel the Hong Ngoc Dynastie at around 2pm. We headed straight out on a cyclo tour of the city before heading to the Vietnamese water puppets at the Thang Long Theatre. VIP tickets guarantee holders a seat in the first four rows, of course we ended up in the last of these, row D. The show was much the same as the first time around and the ladies thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
The Final Word
It has been said that you haven’t really visited Vietnam if you haven’t experienced a performance of the famous Vietnamese water puppets. I was hopeful when I booked that the performance would offer the authentic experience I craved and would not be watered down to appease the hordes of tourists. I enjoyed the short show much more than I was expecting and I was surprised to find that the vast majority of the audience was Vietnamese. If you only do one thing while you are in Hanoi, I suggest you do this! Getting to Hanoi is a whole lot easier for my fellow Sydney Siders after Vietnam Airlines started flying the route direct in March 2017. I booked my flight from Sydney to Saigon with Vietnam Airlines on a whim and hadn’t completely decided on my itinerary. When it turned out I needed to be in Hanoi on night 1 to make things fit, I had little choice but to book a connecting flight to Hanoi with Vietjet for the same night. It was a long day and I really wish I had booked the direct flight. Make sue you read all my tips for booking a bargain flight before you make your next booking. It could save you thousands!
What are your favourite things to do in Vietnam? I’d love to hear your thoughts on my visit to the Vietnamese water puppets in the comments below.
Until Next Time …
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Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored. I paid for my visit to Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in full. As always, all opinions are my own. This post contains some affiliate links which will earn me a few cents to contribute to the running of this site if you make a qualifying purchase at no extra cost to you.
Wheretonow says
The water puppet show is definitely my highlight in Hanoi. I went in there having absolutely no expectations and left surprised. Hanoi itself was quite disappointing !
Joy says
I had initially written off the water puppet show for fear that it would be a waste of my precious one hour. Like you, I booked my flights first -as I needed to take advantage of the Emirate’s sale last month- and then filled out the itinerary later. Turns out I need more than two days in Hanoi now that I have found out that there’s so much to do. So, besides going on a two day Halong Bay Cruise and sampling the street food, I have to find one hour on day two to watch the puppet show before catching my flight to Saigon, thanks to your review!
Allison Smith says
We only had two days as well Joy but made the most of it ?
Gina says
This is absolutely incredible and I can’t believe I missed this when I was in Vietnam. The show looks fantastic and I had no idea it takes 3 years to master this art. I’ve never seen puppets dance on water and the puppeteers must have some major muscles from all the movement.
Allison Smith says
It was a great experience Gina! Well worth spending an hour at while in Hanoi.
Abigail Sinsona says
This is the first time I’ve heard about this kind of show in Vietnam. I’ve read a lot of blogs on things to do in Vietnam and this isn’t really on most people’s list. And yet, it is an interesting art form that I’m sure would be fun to watch! I need to add this to my list because I feel like your blogs on Vietnam is going to be my go-to guide!
Allison Smith says
Lots more to come soon Abigail ?
Suruchi says
The Vietnamese water puppet show looks great and the fire work in it is beautiful. It is good to know that now girls too are part of this art. I would love to see and enjoy this show once in Vietnam.
Allison Smith says
I loved the that some of the puppeteers were women despite the early traditions of exclusion.
Elena says
Thank you for sharing :). I never heard about Vietnamese water puppets before, so it was interesting to read historical background from where they came. Moreover, I appreciated finding a nonbiased opinion. Frankly, these days, I am getting tired of reading a long post about some “must see” or “must do” experience only to find at the end that it was sponsored.
Allison Smith says
It is unbelievable that it dates back so far! I know what you mean Elena but I can assure you all my opinions are truthful whether sponsored or not. ?
Cat says
I have not heard of water puppets. I bet it is quite fun to see it with all the dramatic lighting. I will keep this in mind when I visit Vietnam!
Allison Smith says
I’m sure they didn’t have all the dramatic lighting and fire effects when this art originated. Good to see they are moving with the times while still remaining true to the origins ?
Kasia says
This is beautiful. I like unique places and events to see while visiting new country. If I have a chance to go to Vietnam I will make sure to see this Theatre in Hanoi 🙂
Best,
Kasia
Allison Smith says
That’s great Kasia! Vietnam is a beautiful country ?
Archana Singh says
Reading your post I feel so bad that I didn’t see the Vietnamese Water Puppet show. It looks like a wonderful cultural showcase. I know what not to miss on my next trip.
Allison Smith says
There is always next time Archana!
Candiss says
Sounds like a great experience and it is great to hear that it was not just for western tourists! I can’t wait to make it to Vietnam and this is now going on my list.
Allison Smith says
I was really surprised to see so many Vietnamese in the audience. They were laughing a lot more than those of us who didn’t understand the narration lol
Carmen Bagui says
I was not familiar with the water puppets before reading this post. I can only imagine how magical they seem floating on the water. I would definitely take your advice and order the tickets online!
Allison Smith says
It really was something unique and quite different!
Jean says
One of my biggest regrets was visiting Vietnam and not seeing these water puppets. We just didn’t have a lot of time and heard how long the wait could be to get tickets. Next time we’ll be sure to go and try capture photos as good as yours.
Allison Smith says
So glad I chose to skip the queue. It was a few $ more but for us it was worth it!
Kate says
Damn I wish I had seen this when I was in Hanoi, it looks beautiful!
I became so desensitised to rats after travelling in Southeast Asia. I remember it was so commonplace to see them on the streets or even in shops in Thailand and Malaysia, and I just got used to it!
Allison Smith says
I don’t think I will ever become desensitised to rats lol. Just lucky it wasn’t too close to me ?
Natasha says
I think this is something I will have to see when I come to Vietnam! I love experiencing different countries tradition and culture! SO this would be perfect! However Im not a fan of getting wet.. but might have to go to this as a one of!
Allison Smith says
No need for you to get wet Natasha! The puppeteers are the only ones in danger of that!
kristelle says
wow i have been to vietnam but never heard about this show in Hanoi
Allison Smith says
Such a shame you missed it Kristelle! There is always next time!
Rhiannon | Rhiannon Travels says
I’ve never heard of Vietnamese water puppets before, what a cool experience that would have been! So unique and interesting to watch. Puppet shows in general are lots of fun, but a water version would be super awesome to see!
Allison Smith says
It was very different Rhiannon and a fun way to spend an hour ?
Tanvi | tanderlust says
There are so many things in this world we aren’t aware of! Great post ?
Allison Smith says
That is so true Tanvi! I do try to do lots of research before I visit a new place but sometimes it’s hard to find info online.
Mariella says
hahaha this is amazing! I also went to the water puppets in Vietnam and I thought it was so unique but strange at the same time. Good show though haha Safe travels. – Mariella
Allison Smith says
Totally agree Mariella! It’s amazing how they cross them over without getting tangled!
Samantha Sparrow says
I’ve never heard of Vietnamese water puppets, this is so cool! I’d love to experience this in person, those performers must work so hard at what they do!
Allison Smith says
They are very skilled at what they do Samantha!
lloyd says
What the? How i missed this travelling through Nam i will never know 🙁 will have to head back one day soon and use this guide because this is just to cool. Water puppets, who would have thought it 🙂
Allison Smith says
It hard to fit everything in Lloyd! Hope you get back to Vietnam soon to check it out!
Tatum Skipper says
Looks like a creepy little puppet show haha but pretty fun to experience once in your life. Seems kind of like a Blue Man Group show…I always admire performers and what they do!
Allison Smith says
They do look a little creepy lol but is was definitely unique and interesting!
Paula - Gone with the Wine says
I love seeing some local, traditional arts and performances. They all seem so exotic compared to things I one sees at home. It is like a jump into the culture of the country you are visiting. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Allison Smith says
It sure is Paula. It’s one of the best things about travelling!
Tania Mukherjee says
I am planning to head to Vietnam and reading blogs on the country, but strangely enough I never came across the water puppet show. Thank you so much for writing about such a unique experience. There is no question of missing this show. Also thanks for giving the heads up on the long queue situation. Looks like viator is the way to go!
Allison Smith says
Hope you love Vietnam Tania and of course the water puppets!
Lisa says
I’ll be honest when I say, that seeing the Vietnamese water puppets definitely did not top my list when I visited there. That said, the theatre, and performance, sounded really exceptional. Good tip about paying online, I always like to beat the lines when possible!
Allison Smith says
It’s not something I would normally consider first either Lisa but I read a lot about it online while doing research and I knew it would be a great peek into the local culture which I couldn’t resist ?
Suzanne says
I never even knew about the water puppets in Hanoi! What an innovative idea! It must be so beautiful to see them skimming the surface with all those beautiful lights. This is definitely one thing I would do if I ever visit Vietnam.
Allison Smith says
I was constantly wondering how they did it and trying to get a peek and the apparatus below the surface. I still have no clue lol but if was a fun way to spend an hour ?
David Meldrum says
This is something I may have to include on my trip when I’m in Vietnam! I love how the tradition has went on for so long and is being passed onto the younger generations! Three years of training to be a master says that it’s taken very seriously! Interesting article!
Allison Smith says
Thanks Natasha. Hope you enjoy your trip to Vietnam and do manage to see the water puppets ?
James says
When I visited Hanoi I didn’t visit the Vietnamese Water Puppet Show. It does look like a wonderful night out and with all the lighting it makes for very Instagrammable pictures. I would definitely go watch a show on any future visits to Hanoi, the fact that most of the crowd are locals will make it a more authentic Vietnamese night out.
Allison Smith says
Such a shame you missed it James. You know what they say … there is always next time …
Kristina says
I missed out on this when I went to Vietnam. I’m still bummed about that. What a wonderful cultural experience you had!
Allison Smith says
It really was Kristina. I love getting involved with the local traditions when I travel.
Ektala la Temeraria says
WoW! Never heard before about water puppets! I’m water lover and everything connected to this element stimulates my curiosity. Will add definitely to my bucket list when discovering Vietnam..:)
Allison Smith says
Then you can’t miss this Ektala! Hope you love Vietnam as much as I did ?
neha says
Puppets are a popular source of entertainment in Rajastha, India as well. And I really enjoy their show. But I never knew about water puppets. I guess the water element makes the whole puppet show all the more exciting. I will definitely like to watch soe when I am in Vietnam
Allison Smith says
I’ve never been to India to compare but I agree the water element adds a whole new dimension to a puppet show!
SindhuMurthy says
I have seen puppet shows in Rajasthan in India but have never heard of the water puppets. It is quite interesting to know how similar cultures across different countries could be and yet so diffrent. I know quite well that puppeteering is no easy job and the fact that the puppets are immersed in water would make it even more difficult. I m quite glad to know that such an art form is being preserved at a national level.
Allison Smith says
I’d love to see the puppet show in Rajasthan to compare. I’ll have to check it out if I ever make it to India!
Sandy N Vyjay says
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre looks unique and fascinating. This is puppetry of an altogether different level. It must be a great experience to watch this mesmerizing show. I love the fact that they have been able to preserve this rich tradition and also blend modern elements.
Allison Smith says
It was a great experience Sandy and a lovely glimpse into a totally different culture.
Tracy says
I only been to Vietnam once and I missed this water puppet show as I run out of time. I enjoyed my days there and orh, I love their Vietnamese coffee with eggs! 🙂
Allison Smith says
Such a shame Tracy but there is so much to do it’s hard to fit it all in!
Nuraini says
I absolutely loved watching the water puppet show. I didn’t quite relate to all of the themes, but it was such a novelty, and not quite getting it means it’s still so local in the storyline themes. And I thought the puppeteers skills were something – I don’t know how they worked out zigging and zagging the puppets across each other sometimes!
Allison Smith says
So true Nuraini. I was trying to figure it out myself lol
Stacey Billingsley says
What an amazing experience! I would love to see this. I’m a drama teacher, and I spend some time every year showing the kids some examples of Bunraku. I will add this to the mix now. Of course, discussing it and showing pictures will never be the same as seeing it in person. Thanks for sharing!
Allison Smith says
I’m sure the kids will love it Stacey! I love that you are bringing unique experiences to them that they may not otherwise get to experience ?
Rachel silverwood says
I’d never heard of water puppets before reading this post! But wow it looks like such a unique show and a create slice of culture 🙂
Allison Smith says
I had never heard of it before visiting either Rachel but so glad we discovered it!
My Travelogue by Bhushavali says
Water puppet?? I’ve never heard of this! Its an art form surviving and still practiced since 11th C!? Wow! I really hope to see one myself! That bit of extra payment is ok if you the tickets get delivered at your hotel! With live music and lightings it just looks gorgeous!
Allison Smith says
I know right! It’s hard to comprehend that the custom has been alive so long. I hope that even in the modern world they don’t it slip and keep bringing this ancient art to the people.
Bee says
Oh great tips on visiting the puppet show, def will use this should I visit Vietnam. It looks amazing
Allison Smith says
I loved everything about Vietnam Bee. Can’t wait to go back!
Punita Malhotra says
This is the first time i have heard of water puppetry. What an eye-opener. I’m inspired to go for a puppet show myself now…water or no water 🙂
Allison Smith says
It was my first experience with water puppets too Punita. It’s always exciting to uncover new experiences!
Kristine Li says
I enjoyed this water show too, pretty impressed! Got my tickets at the booth, went for coffee nearby and then went for the performance. I wondered what are the long-term health effects of the performers constantly being soaked waist deep in water though! Gotta admire those performers for what they do.
Allison Smith says
You were lucky them Kristine. I have heard many horror stories about the wait, particularly in peak season. I had wondered about that myself. My son used to be a swim teacher and the effect of the chlorinated water of his skin was awful and one of the main reasons he gave it up! Hopefully they have enough puppeteers so that they don’t have to work every day!