Among the most entertaining cultural experiences to be incorporated into your tours in Hanoi, while exploring this vibrant city of Hanoi, is undoubtedly the Hanoi Water Puppet Show tour. This thousand-year-old artistic performance was born in the rice fields of the Red River Delta, which combines Vietnam’s rich history with its folklore, having puppets glide across the water to the tune of traditional live music. Unlike any other place in Vietnam, the water itself is an important attribution to this fascinating performance and a must-witness by any visitor. Join IMPRESS TRAVEL on our Hanoi tours and experience this magical cultural treasure right before your very eyes!
Hanoi Water Puppet Show
Let’s enter the fantastic world of Water Puppet-one of the listed ‘must-sees’ on any of our Hanoi tours. This remarkable theatrical activity, dating back more than 1,000 years, was first performed in the Red River Delta and is a perfect reflection of Vietnamese rural life and strong traditions. The Hanoi Water Puppet Show is not solely a form of entertainment; rather, it is a gateway to the very heart of Vietnamese culture through stories about farming and fishing, legendary heroes, and folk tales passed on from generation to generation.
Originally performed in flooded rice paddies, Water Puppet depicts the daily activities of villagers in Vietnam. You shall see puppets acting out scenes of joyful harvests, fishing trips, and even legendary battles-make alive how closely the Vietnamese are tied to their land and water. The water itself symbolizes the rice paddies that sustained their agricultural life, creating a mystical connection between the performance and the very soul of Vietnam.
The craftsmanship of each puppet is just fantastic! These puppets are hand-cut from wood and then elaborately painted to bring life to each character. Skilled puppeteers operate them from behind the scenes, standing waist-deep in water, so the movement is so fine that at times the puppets appear to dance on the surface of the water! It takes years and years to perfect the performance of the Hanoi Water Puppet Show; it is, therefore, truly a wonder to be able to appreciate such artistry in action.
And, of course, the music! Accompanied by traditional Vietnamese instruments, drums, flutes, and gongs, the show itself makes for a build-up of emotions, even to the dramatic elements. Set to emotive music and water puppets, an atmosphere nothing short of magic-a voyage through time, so to speak.
We start the day with an easy and hassle-free pickup from your hotel or meeting point. A big smile greets you from a friendly guide abounding in interesting tales about Hanoi as you set off to begin your adventure. At IMPRESS TRAVEL, we try to make your experience seamless and enjoyable right from stepping out of the door!
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
First on the list is the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you learn about the life and legacy of President Ho Chi Minh, who was the beloved father of Vietnam. This really is a very solemn yet overwhelming spot, which makes it one of the several must-visit places in the country when it comes to history. A walking tour around the premises may take 15-60 minutes, depending on how schedules are laid out that particular day.
Next, we will visit two of the most beautiful religious sites in Hanoi: first, the One Pillar Pagoda sitting on one stone pillar to symbolize purity in Buddhism, and then the serenity of Tran Quoc Pagoda-the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi-located alongside peaceful West Lake. These stops provide great opportunities to see stunning architecture and spiritual history in as little as 15-60 minutes.
Temple of Literature
From here, we’ll go to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university and a true icon of education and wisdom. Founded in 1070, this well-preserved site will give you a taste of the deep intellectual traditions of Vietnam. As you walk through the courtyards and take in the ancient inscriptions, you will appreciate how deeply knowledge is valued in Vietnamese culture. We’ll spend 30-60 minutes here.
Now, you arrive at Hanoi’s Old Quarter to enjoy a scrumptious lunch, highly recommended because of its local Vietnamese cuisine. You will enjoy a slew of the freshest local tastes, from steaming bowls of pho and fresh herbs to the smells of grilled meats served over bun cha you will be swept off your feet by the real Hanoi street food flavors!
Next, we visit Bat Trang Pottery Village, which is located not very far from Hanoi. This village encapsulates the centuries-long tradition of pottery making, and you will try your hand at creating something ceramic. It is one of the most interactive ways to come into contact with Vietnamese artistic traditions; you could also peek at the various shops for unique souvenirs.
Bat Trang Pottery Village
Of course, this is followed by the highlight of any day: the Hanoi Water Puppet Show! You’ll be astonished at the magic when, in the Thang Long Theatre, you see wooden puppets float over water, acting out Vietnamese folklore, everyday life, and legendary heroes. This musical theater is, therefore, an incomparable experience of the heart of Vietnamese culture. The show takes about 30-45 minutes in all and leaves one in absolute wonder.
After a great day of findings and culture, we transport you back to your hotel. You will also have some time to freshen up on your own and reflect on the visions, sounds, and unforgettable moments of the Hanoi Water Puppet Show tour. Our guide will ensure you are fully informed for the rest of your stay in Hanoi.
That is one place that you should seriously see: the Hanoi Water Puppet Show. Great choice! The following are ways to maximize your time during the tour, with some handy tips and insight to go by. Whether a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, these important details will be of great help to completely enjoy this unique experience as part of your Hanoi tours.
The Hanoi Water Puppet Show operates all year round, although the best months to visit are during the off-peak months. The good months to visit would be during April, May, September, and October. These months are the best to visit because these months have favorable weather conditions with less crowd so that you can comfortably enjoy yourself. If you are traveling during peak months, it is highly recommended that bookings are done in advance, especially during holidays when it easily fills up with increasingly curious visitors who want to see this kind of performance.
Each Hanoi Water Puppet Show is approximately 45-60 minutes in length and allows ample time to enjoy the spectacle of dancing puppets and traditional music. The shows are mainly performed in highly popular venues such as Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, which has its seating divided by proximity to the stage. Though the actual show is in Vietnamese, there is no need to worry about this since the visual storyline and vigorous music can easily allow one to follow the show. Other places even include an English summary or guide that can help international guests who may not understand storylines.
Ticket prices for the Hanoi Water Puppet Show are really low, in the range of 100,000 to 200,000 VND ($4-9 USD), depending on where one sits. VIP seats grant closer views, but middle rows generally offer the best vantage point to take in the show without getting too close to the splashes! Similarly priced at Lotus Water Puppet Theater, there may be discounts at times for children or if a group booking has been made.
Want the most optimal seat in the house? The middle rows are great for viewing the show and not getting too wet. Be careful if you sit in the front because a few puppets at times do get water on their audience. Also, for photo opportunities, please check venues, some require a little additional fee for photographs or video, but it’s worth getting a few shots of this special night out.
During your Hanoi Water Puppet Show tour, you will be taken to visit any of these sacred places, which include temples and pagodas. Importantly, you have to ensure that you understand how to dress sufficiently modestly: cover your shoulders and knees, especially when you enter religious sites. At the show, be considerate about noise and distracting others through actions like using your phone while the performance is going on, to enable every single person present to enjoy the performance to full capacity.
IMPRESS TRAVEL can arrange a Hanoi Water Puppet Show tour for you to conveniently enjoy the show without any hassles. Pre-booking will provide you with the best seating, and guides will be able to offer much valuable information. You can comfortably book your assigned place through our website below or inform our team directly. A booking with us means everything is arranged in detail for a smooth and enjoyable day, so just sit back and enjoy your show.
Water puppet artist
IMPRESS TRAVEL proudly arranges a Hanoi Water Puppet Show tour for our customers with the most fully authentic experience, tailored to their interests and preferences. Our guides will add many fascinating stories and deep insight into the history and cultural values of this thousand-year-old art genre to your visit. We pride ourselves on personal services, meaning your tour will be tailor-made, whether you are traveling alone, as a family, or in an escorted group. Close relations with local artisans and performers ensure insider access to richly rewarding contacts with Vietnam’s heritage.
With the strong commitment to quality and safety, the trust and praise of IMPRESS TRAVEL have come from countless travelers. We are committed to exceeding your expectations by ensuring every single moment of your tour is smooth and enjoyable. Don’t let this be a missed cultural experience; shut down your Hanoi Water Puppet Show tour today with Impress Travel for your seamless journey right into the heart of Vietnam’s cultural treasure. For further details and reservations, please contact Impressive Travel at (+84) 912 379 189 or email info@impresstravel.com.
Hanoi Head Office
Saigon Office
In a nutshell, the Hanoi Water Puppet Show remains an indelible highlight of any Hanoi tour, capturing the most compelling elements from Vietnamese folklore, traditional music, and skilled puppetry that bring rich cultural heritage into being. This particular art will give an immersive experience of the beauty of Vietnam’s history and daily life. For an unforgettable and smooth tour, book your Hanoi Water Puppet Show now with IMPRESS TRAVEL. With our experience, knowledge, and authentic attitude, we are sure you will go home with wonderful memories from this magic show. Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ha Noi and to book Ha Noi Tours at the best prices.
Day 1: HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)
Day 2: HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)
Day 3: HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)
Day 4: HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)
Day 5: HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)
Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi
Day Inclusions: Transfer, breakfast, lunch, tour guide, rowing boat, entrance fee, bicycles, hotel in Hanoi.
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, shuttle bus A/C transfer, English speaking tour guide on CRUISE only, entrance fee, full board, joint Cruise in Halong bay with private cabin (2 persons share 1 cabin)
What’s included in this trip :
4 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
| City | Hotel | Room |
| Hanoi | Silk Path/ La Siesta Premium | Deluxe with windows |
| Halong Bay | Paradise Sail/Bhaya cruise | Deluxe with windows |
5 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
| City | Hotel | Room |
| Hanoi | Peridot Hotel/Apricot | Deluxe with windows |
| Halong Bay | Paradise Elegance/Au Co | Deluxe with windows |
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Impress Travel offers daily tours to attractive destinations in the capital of Hanoi as well as package tours to explore the most popular destinations in North Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa, or adventure tours to explore the Northeast & Northwest regions such as Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Mu Cang Chai. Our products focus on providing travel services for private tours, small groups, family groups, and couples who need to make special requests for the trip. For the trip to Hanoi & North Vietnam, your submission to Impress Travel & Destination Management Company (DMC), which will bring the greatest value to your trip.
To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).
