Do not miss Thang Long Water Puppet: culture tours in Hanoi
In the bustling streets of Hanoi, amidst the vibrant tapestry of Vietnamese culture, lies an ancient tradition that transcends time and captivates the soul – Thang Long Water Puppet. Originating from the fertile lands of the Red River Delta over a millennium ago, this unique art form has evolved into a cherished cultural treasure, enchanting audiences with its mesmerizing performances that blend history, storytelling, and craftsmanship. In this comprehensive exploration, we embark on a captivating journey to unravel the intricate layers of Thang Long Water Puppet, delving into its captivating story, intricate history, diverse types, origins, invention, locations, transportation, directions, visual splendor through photos, and its profound cultural value.
The enchanting story of Thang Long Water Puppet traces its origins to the agricultural communities of the Red River Delta in northern Vietnam. According to legend, during the annual flooding of the rice paddies, farmers sought respite from their labors by crafting rudimentary puppets from wood and bamboo. With ingenuity and creativity, they transformed these humble materials into intricate works of art, bringing them to life atop the water’s surface using long poles and strings. Thus, the Thang Long Water Puppet was born – a testament to the resourcefulness, communal spirit, and boundless imagination of the Vietnamese people.
History of Thang Long Water Puppet
Thang Long Water Puppet boasts a rich and storied history that spans over a millennium, dating back to the Ly dynasty in the 11th century. Historical records indicate that performances were held as early as the 10th century, making water puppet one of the oldest forms of Vietnamese traditional theater. Initially performed in rural villages as part of communal celebrations and festivals, the art form gradually gained popularity, evolving into a cherished cultural tradition cherished by the Vietnamese people. Despite facing challenges such as political upheavals, cultural shifts, and foreign influences, Thang Long Water Puppet persevered, preserving its essence and captivating audiences with its timeless charm.
To truly appreciate the significance of Thang Long Water Puppetry, one must understand its historical context and evolution over time. During the Ly and Tran dynasties, water puppetry flourished as a form of entertainment for the royal court, with performances held in elaborate theaters and palaces. The art form reached its zenith during this period, with skilled puppeteers crafting intricate puppets and staging elaborate productions that captivated audiences with their beauty and sophistication. However, with the decline of the imperial court and the onset of colonial rule, water puppetry fell out of favor and faced the threat of extinction. It was not until the latter half of the 20th century that water puppetry experienced a revival, thanks to the efforts of dedicated artists and enthusiasts who sought to preserve and promote this ancient art form.
Types
Thang Long Water Puppet encompasses a diverse array of performances, each offering a unique glimpse into Vietnamese culture, history, and mythology. Traditional performances often feature iconic tales from Vietnamese folklore, including legends of dragons, princesses, and mythical creatures. These timeless stories are brought to life through intricate puppet, accompanied by live music, singing, and traditional instruments such as the đàn bầu and bamboo flutes. Additionally, modern interpretations of water puppet have emerged, incorporating contemporary themes, innovative techniques, and experimental storytelling. From classic myths and legends to thought-provoking social commentaries, Thang Long Water Puppet continues to evolve, captivating audiences with its blend of tradition and innovation.
Origin
Agricultural traditions
The origins of Thang Long Water Puppet are deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of the Red River Delta, where the art form first emerged over a thousand years ago. The flooded rice fields provided the perfect setting for early performances, with puppeteers utilizing the water’s surface as a makeshift stage. Over time, Thang Long Water Puppet migrated from the countryside to urban centers, finding a permanent home in theaters and cultural institutions across Vietnam. While the precise origins of water puppet may remain shrouded in mystery, its enduring legacy as a cultural treasure is undisputed, serving as a symbol of Vietnamese creativity, ingenuity, and resilience.
Invention
The invention of the Thang Long Water Puppet is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Vietnamese people, who transformed everyday materials into a captivating form of entertainment. While the precise origins of water puppet remain uncertain, it is believed to have emerged organically from the agricultural traditions of the Red River Delta. Farmers, seeking amusement during the flooded rice paddies, devised ingenious ways to entertain themselves and their communities, giving rise to the art of water puppet. By manipulating puppets using long poles and strings, they brought ancient stories and legends to life, creating a magical spectacle that continues to enchant audiences to this day.
Evolution of Thang Long Water Puppet
Water Puppet Show
Thang Long Water Puppet has undergone significant evolution over the centuries, adapting to changing times while preserving its cultural essence. During the Ly and Tran dynasties, water puppet flourished as a form of entertainment for the royal court, with elaborate performances featuring intricate puppets, ornate sets, and live music. In the subsequent centuries, water puppet became more accessible to the masses, with performances held in village squares, temples, and marketplaces. The art form continued to evolve, incorporating new stories, characters, and techniques, while retaining its core elements of storytelling, music, and puppet. Today, Thang Long Water Puppet remains a vibrant and dynamic art form, captivating audiences with its timeless charm and universal appeal.
Locations
Today, Thang Long Water Puppet can be experienced in theaters and cultural centers throughout Vietnam, with Hanoi serving as the epicenter of the art form. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, stands as a beacon of Vietnamese culture, attracting visitors from around the world with its enchanting performances. In addition to Hanoi, water puppet troupes can be found in cities and towns across Vietnam, each adding their own unique flair and interpretation to the traditional art form. Whether performed in a grand theater or a humble village square, Thang Long Water Puppet continues to captivate audiences with its timeless charm and universal appeal.
If you want to go to Thang Long Water Puppet, follow the address below: 57b Dinh Tien Hoang – Hoan Kiem – Ha Noi
Transportation and Directions to Thang Long Water Puppet
For those eager to experience the magic of Thang Long Water Puppet firsthand, transportation options abound in Hanoi. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater is conveniently located in the historic Old Quarter, within walking distance of many hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can easily reach the theater by taxi, bicycle, or on foot, navigating the bustling streets and narrow alleyways that define Hanoi’s vibrant urban landscape. With its central location and accessibility, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater offers an immersive cultural experience that is not to be missed.
You can use a technology bike or taxi, which leads to the right place and you don’t need to find the way to the Thang Long water puppet.
Visual Splendor
The visual splendor of Thang Long Water Puppet is a feast for the senses, with elaborate puppets, vibrant costumes, and mesmerizing stage sets creating a magical atmosphere. Puppets are meticulously crafted from wood and bamboo, with intricate details that bring characters to life with a flick of the wrist. Traditional costumes, adorned with colorful fabrics and intricate embroidery, add to the spectacle, transporting audiences to a bygone era of Vietnamese history and culture. The stage itself is a work of art, with water serving as a dynamic backdrop for the performers, who manipulate puppets with grace and precision. Through its visual splendor, Thang Long Water Puppet creates a captivating world where myths, legends, and folktales come alive before our eyes.
Value
The tradition
The value of Thang Long Water Puppet extends far beyond its entertainment value, encompassing cultural, historical, and artistic significance. As a cherished tradition passed down through generations, water puppet serves as a bridge between the past and the present, preserving ancient stories, customs, and beliefs for future generations to enjoy. Additionally, Thang Long Water Puppet plays a vital role in promoting tourism and cultural exchange, attracting visitors from around the world to experience the magic of Vietnamese puppet firsthand. Through its captivating performances and timeless appeal, Thang Long Water Puppet continues to enrich the cultural fabric of Vietnam and inspire audiences both near and far, ensuring that its legacy endures for generations to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Thang Long Water Puppetry stands as a testament to the creativity, ingenuity, and resilience of the Vietnamese people. From its humble origins in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta to its status as a cherished cultural treasure, water puppetry has endured the test of time, captivating audiences with its timeless charm and universal appeal. As we celebrate the beauty and cultural significance of Thang Long Water Puppetry, let us also reflect on its profound impact on Vietnamese society and its potential to inspire and unite people around the world. Through its performances, stories, and traditions, water puppetry continues to enrich our lives and remind us of the enduring power of art to transcend boundaries and connect us to our shared humanity.
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We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. First, North Vietnam Hanoi Tour will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city, with a half-day city tour, you will visit the most iconic attractions in Hanoi such as President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake and the old quarter of Hanoi. After Hanoi, 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. For ending two days of Inspirational Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Halong Tour, we will spend one night stay on a cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world. Let’s explore the Magnificent North of Vietnam with Impress Travel.
HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)
Good morning, pick you up at Noi Bai International
Airport and transfer to Hanoi Capital city.
Check-in the hotel then have lunch at the restaurant.
Afternoon sightseeing tour begins with a visit to President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum ( closed on Monday and Friday, every afternoon, and whole from 15 June – 15 August, view the outside the building). Inside the mausoleum, there are sightseeing of the Presidential Palace (view from outside), President’s Fishpond, House On Stilts, and One Pillar Pagoda.
Next, we will pay a visit to the Temple of Literature. It is where Confucius – The founder of Confucianism was worshiped. This place as known as the first National University of Vietnam. It is where kings, mandarins, talented people of Vietnam training to the functionary.
Our tour continues with an exciting visit. We will visit one of the most beautiful lakes in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake. Then, we will go to the Ngoc Son Temple, which is in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Continue a short walking tour around the old quarter with a tour guide.
Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi
Day 02
HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)
Good morning, have breakfast at the hotel.
7.30 – 8.00 AM: Pick you up at your hotel in the Old Quarter and transfer to Tam Coc.
8.00 – 10.00 AM: After two hours of transferring, our tour guide will introduce you to Vietnam as the history, culture, lifestyle of local people. On the conical hat, we will have a mini-game show to teach you how to say and write some Vietnamese simple words such as Xin Chào, Tạm Biệt, Tôi yêu Ninh Bình, etc. We will give you a little souvenir and you can wear it during the trip.
10 AM: We will prepare for a boat trip to visit the beautiful Tam Coc. It takes 1.30 hours rowing along the Ngo Dong river through the three mysterious caves. You can enjoy spectacular scenery surrounded by rice paddies and towering limestone mountain peaks.
11.30 AM: We will get on Thanh pier for a short walk to visit Thai Vi Temple, which is one of the well-known temples in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. We will continue 10 minutes walking along majestic valley with rice fields, rivers and lotus ponds for Tam Coc Nature Lodge where we will relaxing
Enjoy your lunch in here – Vietnamese food.
1.30 PM: you have a chance to be a fisherman and learn how to catch the fish in the pond or river.
2:00 – 3:00 PM: We ride a bike to Thung Nang, along the river among the rice field, lotus ponds, and limestone Mountains. We will continue to through a peaceful Dan Khe Trong village. This area is a real picture of the rural countryside in the north of Vietnam.
15: 00: Return the van, drive to visit Hoa Lu Ancient citadel which was built in the 10th century, and the temple dedicated to King Dinh and King Le
4:00 PM: Back to Hanoi Capital.
18:30: Arrive in Hanoi & we will drop you at your hotel in the Old Quarter.
Have dinner is available on your request.
Overnight at the Hanoi Hotel.
Day Inclusions: Car/Mini-Van, Outstanding English speaking guide, Lunch – Vietnamese Cuisine at Tam Coc Nature Eco Lodge, All sightseeing tickets, Good bike with gears, 02 bottles of Mineral water, Services charges and government tax, Rowing boat to visit Tam Coc, One conical hat as souvenir, Demonstration of teaching to learn how to write, speak Vietnamese, and catch fish
Day 03
HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)
Good morning! Enjoy your with have breakfast at your hotel, then check-out the hotel.
07:30 am – 08:00: Pick up from your hotel to travel to Halong Bay (notice: pickup time can be a bit flexible depending on each different Cruise, distance Hanoi – Halong bay is 160km, a stop for break time on halfway for a refreshment).
You enjoy the drive and sightseeing the peaceful countryside scenery during the bus trip (4 hours), we arrive at the Ha Long bay seaport at around noontime.
12h 30: You will aboard the cruise, check-in & enjoy a welcome drink while your cabin will be assigned.
Check-in your cabin and put your luggage in, relax and may do a short inspection tour by moving around the cruise to discover about the cruise’s architecture & design
Enjoy the sumptuous lunch with fresh seafood meal while cruise slowly gliding out into the Halong bay.
15h00 – 16h00: Explore the amazing Sung Sot Cave – the most beautiful cave in Halong Bay.
16h00 – 17h00: Cruising to Titop Island. Go swimming and relaxing at the beach of Titop or climb up to the top of the island for a view panorama of Halong Bay.
17h00 – 17h30: Return to the boat, enjoying beautiful seascape on the way.
17h30 – 19h00: Enjoy Sunset Party on the sundeck and admire the best moments of the day when the sun starts to set.
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)
Day 04
HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)
Start your day with Tai Chi exercises or a photo hunt.
07h00 – 07h30 Have breakfast on board and enjoy the peaceful morning of Halong Bay.
08h30 – 09h30 Kayak among the hidden areas of the bay, around the Drum Cave.
09h45 Return to the boat. Freshen up and check out of your cabin.
10h00 – 10h30 Continue your cruise exploring the Bay, passing Ba Hang fishing village, Dog Islet, and more.
10h30 – 11h30 while heading back to the harbor, watch the fruit carving demonstration and participate in the Cooking Class before enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
11h45 – 12h00 Disembark V’Spirit Classic.
12h15 – 12h30 Transfer back to Hanoi.
About 16:00 – Arrival back to Hanoi central city, recheck in the hotel
Dinner is available on your request.
Free time & Overnight in Hanoi city
Day 05
HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)
Good morning, enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Then, you have some free time to explore Hanoi city before going to Noi Bai airport for your scheduled flight.
The end of the tour, thank you and see you again!
What’s included in this trip :
A/C accommodation with DOUBLE or TWIN ROOM (2 persons share 1 room; single room can be available on request) with daily breakfast
A/C transfer from Airports to the hotel and other tourist destinations according to the itinerary
Bus round trip to Hanoi – Ha Long Bay; (private land transfer available on request)
2 days 1 night on Joint Cruise trip in Ha Long Bay, with DOUBLE or TWIN (2 persons share 1 cabin; single cabin can be available on request), full meals on board
Kayaking in Ha Long Bay
Meals as indicated in the itinerary. (Breakfast = 04; Lunch = 04; Dinner = 01)
English- speaking guides as specified (Chinese/ Malaysian speaking guide can be available on request)
Entrance fees
Mineral water (2 bottles/ per day with sightseeing tour)
What’s excluded in this trip:
All international and domestic flights
Specified as Chinese/ Malaysian/ Indonesian/Thai speaking guide can be available on request to pay for extra-fee.
Travel Insurance
Airport taxes
All meals not mentioned
Tips for tour guides, drivers, crew members in Ha Long Bay, other attendants if may have (3 USD/pax/day)
Other personal expenses not mentioned.
3 STAR HOTELS & CRUISES IN VIETNAM SELECTED
Destination
Room Type
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE
Hanoi 3-star Hotels
Adamas Deluxe City
ADAMAS HANOI HOTEL Refer: http://swancruiseshalong.com/
3-star Halong Bay Cruises
Swan Cruise Deluxe
SWAN CRUISE HALONG BAY
Refer: http://swancruiseshalong.com/
4 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED
Destination
Room Type
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE
Hanoi 4-star Hotels
The light deluxe with window
THE LIGHT HOTEL HANOI
Refer: thelighthotelhanoi.com/en/
4-star Halong Bay Cruises
Sealife Suite Canbin
HUONG HAI SEALIFE CRUISE HALONG BAY
Refer: www.sealifegroup.com
5 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED
Destination
Hotel Category
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE
Hanoi 5-star hotels
Deluxe Sketch Apricot Hotel
APRICOT HOTEL HANOI
Refer: apricothotels.com/room/sketch
5-star Halong bay Cruises
Deluxe Room with Ocean View Margaret
MARGARET CRUISE HALONG BAY
Refer: https://margaretcruises.com
The hotels and cruise are subject to change to similar category in case of fully booked
Ranana
You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.
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.
Ebrahim
Tour of Vietnam
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!
Solly Pochee
The tour was fantastic
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
Bernard Lim
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel
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.
Derek.Schooling
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel
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
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The bus station has a team of staff on duty 24/24, ensuring the security of the bus station, ready to pick up inter-provincial routes. However, the ticket counters only operate…