Stories from local legends are told at this theatre with hand-carved wooden dolls and colourful dragons that perform on a stage on the water.

The Vietnamese art of water puppetry is a true cultural experience that is not to be missed while in Hanoi. Performed entirely in Vietnamese, the music and gesturing puppets tell a story that can be interpreted by all. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre was founded in 1969 and is one of the best places to watch the art of Vietnamese water puppetry. Dating back to the 11th century, this unique type of performance art started in the waters of the Red River that runs through Hanoi. Today, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is one of the few traditional theatres still in operation and its wooden, lacquered puppets are world-famous. Since 1990 the theatre has regularly travelled internationally and has appeared at art festivals all over the world. Performed on a stage that resembles a pond, puppeteers stand waist deep in the water, hidden behind a screen. They spectacularly manoeuvre the puppets with a long, submerged rod. Expect to get splashed if you are seated in the front row, however, this is also the prime spot to admire the exquisite details of the handcrafted puppets. Enjoy the screams of surprise from the audience when dragons or princes emerge out of the water and see local legends unfold.There is a live orchestra and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is known for its comical performances, so you’ll be laughing a lot too.Stay back after the performance to enjoy a drink at the theatre’s café, which has great views over picturesque Lake Hoan Kiem.Shows at the theatre are all under an hour in length. Booking the inexpensive ticket in advance is recommended, as the theatre is incredibly popular. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is located on the edge of the Old Quarter. The theatre is open daily and there are up to six shows per day. Some shows display an English translation on a screen

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Hanoi Lotus Boutique Hotel

Old Quarter

per person

10 Jan - 13 Jan

found 22 hours ago

Return flight included

Singapore (SIN) to Hanoi (HAN)

9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,256 reviews)

A nice hotel located within walking distance of shops and restaurants in Hanoi. Several cafes located right around the corner. The free breakfast is not on site, but right around the corner at a local cafe. There is no gym on site, but they were kind enough to point me to a gym located 5 minute walk away. There are some signs of some wear and tear, but nothing too bad that it would keep me from staying here again. The balcony was not the best view, but still nice to have in the evenings. Good value.

Reviewed on 30 Oct,2024

AnHa Villa Luong Son

per person

20 Dec - 25 Dec

found 22 hours ago

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Singapore (SIN) to Hanoi (HAN)

4/10 (1 review)

The Oriental Jade Hotel

Old Quarter

per person

10 Jan - 13 Jan

found 22 hours ago

Return flight included

Singapore (SIN) to Hanoi (HAN)

9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,006 reviews)

Excellent boutique hotel, wonderfully attentive staff, right in the centre of bustling Hanoi. Loved every minute of our stay here.

Reviewed on 27 Oct,2024

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