Is Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre Worth Visiting in Hanoi?

Prices, Entry, and Travel Tips

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is a very famous venue in Hanoi, and is known for its traditional Vietnamese water puppet performances that highlight local folklore and culture through puppetry on a water stage.

As one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hanoi, you should make time to visit. It's a famous attraction for many reasons. Also, this is a fairly popular place with tourists, so be prepared for crowds. During peak season, this spot can get even more crowded, so plan accordingly.

What is Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre?

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi offers a unique cultural experience showcasing traditional Vietnamese water puppetry, a folk art form that dates back to the 11th century. Visitors can enjoy lively performances featuring wooden puppets dancing on water, accompanied by live traditional music and narration in Vietnamese with some English explanations. The theater provides an entertaining way to learn about Vietnamese legends, rural life, and history. It is a popular attraction in Hanoi, easily accessible in the city center near Hoan Kiem Lake. The venue itself is intimate, allowing audiences to enjoy the detailed artistry of the puppets. Performances last about 50 minutes, making it a manageable outing for families and solo travelers alike. Tickets are reasonably priced, and shows are held multiple times daily, requiring advance booking during high tourist seasons.

Families with children absolutely love it, as it offers plenty of fun. You'll make some great family memories from your trip here, as it's one of the top family-friendly attractions in the area. It's not particularly romantic for couples, but not bad either. Budget travelers and backpackers love the venue. It's fun, interesting, and exciting.

Visiting Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

How much does Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre cost?

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre Price per person

₫100000

Entry to Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre costs approximately 100,000 VND for adults and a discounted rate for children, with tickets available online or at the venue.

Do I need a tour for Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre?

You'll be on your own to explore the area.

Do I need to book in advance?

Booking in advance is not required, but it is highly recommended to reserve your place. Entry tickets cost approximately 100,000 VND for adults and a discounted rate for children, with tickets available online or at the venue. Also, if you don't want to go inside, it's possible to see the venue from the outside for free if you just want to walk by. In fact, many tours in Hanoi will pass by the outside while giving you an overview.

How long does it take to visit Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre?

You should probably expect to spend around 2 hours here. Everything is indoors here, so you can escape the weather if needed.

When is the best time to visit Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre?

As for the time of year, Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is equally busy year-round. To avoid the crowds, try to arrive early or later in the day. Visit on weekdays, and avoid the high season if possible. It's only possible to visit during the day.

More things to do around Hanoi

For even more trip ideas, check out these other articles about Hanoi.