Overview
Available languages
45 minutes
Mobile ticket
The tradition of water puppet theatre stems from a time when rice paddy fields were flooded and villagers would make entertainment by standing in the waist-deep water with the puppets performing over the water.
Using large rods to support the puppets it appeared as if they were moving across the water with the puppeteers hidden behind a screen.
This tradition is unique to North Vietnam but has recently found fame on stages all over the world; so it’s a rare treat to see the puppets perform in their original location at the Dragon Water Puppet Theatre. Performances are accompanied by a Vietnamese orchestra playing traditional music using drums, wooden bells, horns, bamboo flutes and cymbals. There are also authentic Vietnamese operatic songs telling the story that is being acted out by the puppets. Most of the shows recount Vietnamese folk tales and legends with topics including the celebration of the rice harvest depicted in a humorous fashion.
Additional Info
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The performance at 10:30 AM, 14:30 will be at Vietnam Historical Museum 02 Nguyen Binh Khiem street, district 1
What To Expect
Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
- Watching the private water puppet show in a “mini-home theatre” placed at the house of a famous and experienced water puppet artisan; - Learning how to control the water puppets; - Listening to the history of water puppetry and the story in the puppet plays told by the artisan.
Options
Water Puppet Show in Ho Chi Minh City
What‘s Included
All entrance fees
Personal expensive
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
4 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A Splash of Fun: Water Puppet Show in Ho Chi Minh City, March 20, 2025
264dup,Mar 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My friend and I decided to check out the Water Puppet Show in Ho Chi Minh City on March 20, 2025, and it was such a unique experience! Held at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre (or one of the other local venues, depending on where you went), this traditional Vietnamese art form was unlike anything we’d seen before. The moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt lively yet intimate, with the sound of traditional music setting the tone. The show itself was a fascinating blend of skill and storytelling. Watching the puppets glide across the water, controlled by hidden performers behind a bamboo screen, was mesmerizing. The way they moved—dragons spitting fire (well, water and lights!), fishermen rowing boats, and mythical creatures dancing—made it hard to believe it was all done by hand. The accompanying live music, with drums, bamboo flutes, and singing, really brought the scenes to life, even if we didn’t catch every word of the Vietnamese narration. We both loved the humor sprinkled throughout—like the cheeky puppets splashing water toward the audience (don’t worry, we stayed dry in our seats!). The short tales, rooted in Vietnamese folklore and rural life, were charming, though a little heads-up: if you’re not familiar with the culture, some parts might feel a bit abstract. My friend and I wished there’d been a pamphlet or subtitles in English to catch all the details, but the visuals were entertaining enough to keep us hooked for the hour-long performance. The venue was cozy, and the crowd (a mix of locals and tourists) added to the vibe. Tickets were super affordable—around 150,000 VND each, I think—which made it a great value for such a cultural treat. Afterward, we grabbed some pho nearby and couldn’t stop talking about our favorite parts, like the synchronized puppet fish chasing each other. If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, I’d definitely recommend the Water Puppet Show for a fun, quirky night out. It’s not just a performance—it’s a peek into Vietnam’s heritage. My friend and I agreed we’d go again if we’re back in town!
How fantastic the show is!
182minhtri th,Jul 21, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The water puppet show in Ho Chi Minh City was fantastic, offering a mesmerizing blend of tradition and artistry. The puppeteers skillfully brought Vietnamese folklore to life on a water stage, accompanied by enchanting live music. The vibrant, intricate puppets and captivating performances were truly unforgettable. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a unique cultural experience in Vietnam.
Best tour group
jaeger2018,Jul 20, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00We booked our tour through Saigon foody tour group. Luc organised everything for us great your group he even organised a young lady called flower to meet us at the gate to pass on our tickets ahead of even accompanied us to our seats then left once we where settled amazing.
Excellent Water Puppet Show
minhtri th2024,Jul 19, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The Water Puppet Show is a mesmerizing cultural experience! The puppetry, performed over water with intricate movements, showcases Vietnamese folklore and history beautifully. The live music and vivid storytelling create a captivating atmosphere. A must-see for anyone visiting Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam!
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Operated by Saigon Foody Tour