Hanoi: Water Puppet Show Tickets

Overview

50 minutes

Mobile ticket

See a unique art form that originates over 1,000 years ago in the Red River Delta. In the past, water puppetry showed the daily life of villagers such as farming, fishing and romance. Now, watch plays about ancient Vietnamese legends, myths and history.

The world-famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi has its roots in an art form that dates back to the 11th century. The tradition of water puppet theater stems from a time when rice paddy fields were flooded and villagers would create 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.

Additional Info

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

What‘s Included

Tickets for the Hanoi Water Puppet Show in advance

What To Expect

Skip the lines at the Water Puppet Theater with this service that includes show tickets. Choose from several Water Puppet Show times. Experience one of Vietnam's most memorable and traditional art forms during a live 50-minute performance. The art of water puppetry has a distinct Vietnamese identity. It came into existence more than a thousand years ago in the Red River Delta. In its earliest days, water puppetry portrayed the daily life of villagers – in farming and fishing activities, children’s play and in romance. Today the performance also brings in ancient legends and myths.

Options

Standard Ticket

Duration: 50 minutes
Experience

VIP 2nd Class Rows

Duration: 50 minutes: Choose this option to book seating for rows 6-10 (G, H, I, K, L) of the theatre close to the stage, to help you enjoy

VIP First 5 Rows Ticket

Reviews

4.00

6 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Check before you go
Peter S,
Mar 27, 2025
- Viator
1.00
They did not have our reservation,so I had to new tickets.I had the stasis try there best to get a hold of the company,but no luck
A fun, historical...
craig p,
Feb 11, 2025
- Viator
5.00
A fun, historical Vietnamese art form, absolutely worth an hour of your time in Hanoi. Buy VIP tickets for best seats.
Great show. Sit in front row or near the back.
David M,
Nov 10, 2024
- Viator
3.00
Amazing show with stunning puppet performances, singing and music. Seats aren't stepped enough near the front, so all I could see was the back of some guys head.
A must see
Robyn W,
Mar 31, 2024
- Viator
5.00
A must see for Hanoi. A hugely enjoyable 50 minutes of Vietnamese culture that is different from anything else I’ve seen and a bit of fun.
A must see in Hanoi
Philip,
Mar 17, 2024
- Viator
5.00
Definitely recommended. It’s not just for tourists or travellers. Great communication from the Theatre regarding ticket collection. Allocated great seats too. Worth an hour of anyone’s time