Explore the enchanting world of Vietnamese culture with Hanoi’s "Water Puppet Show & Puppet Making Village Full-Day" tour. This immersive experience takes you on a journey through the charming countryside, where you’ll witness the intricate craft of puppet-making. From delectable local cuisine to a captivating live performance, this tour offers a unique glimpse into a centuries-old art form. Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast or simply curious, this full-day adventure promises to surprise and delight.

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Key Points

This full-day tour from Hanoi includes a visit to a puppet village, a hands-on puppeteering experience, and a live water puppet show.
The tour costs $7.32 per person and includes round-trip transfers, lunch, and an expert guide.
Visitors can observe traditional puppet-making and create their own puppet show at the Water Pavilion.
The 50-minute water puppet show at Thang Long Waterpuppet Theatre can be pre-booked as part of the tour.
Due to accessibility limitations, the tour and water puppet show may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Options and Pricing

Two tour options are available for visitors interested in experiencing the Hanoi water puppet show.

The full-day tour to the Puppet Village costs $7.32 per person and includes round-trip transfers from Hanoi, lunch featuring local specialty Giao Cu Pho, and an expert guide. It runs from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

Alternatively, guests can purchase pre-booked tickets to the 50-minute Water Puppet Show at the Thang Long Waterpuppet Theatre, skipping the lines.

Both options provide opportunities to take in Vietnam’s rich puppetry heritage and witness the captivating water puppet performance.

Looking for more options in Nam Dinh? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Hanoi: Water Puppet Show & Puppet Making Village Day Trip

Experience and Activities

Visitors can engage with Vietnam’s puppetry heartland, learning about the cultural and historical significance of this art form.

At the puppet village, they’ll witness puppet-making from local artisans and participate in creating a show, from character creation to live performance. The hands-on experience allows visitors to understand the intricacies of this traditional Vietnamese art form, which has origins over a thousand years ago in the Red River Delta.

Guests can also enjoy a live water puppet show, a unique performance where wooden puppets appear to dance on the surface of water, mesmerizing the audience.

Itinerary Details for Full-Day Tour

The full-day tour to the puppet village begins with a pickup from the hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter at 8:00 AM. After a 2-hour drive, visitors arrive at Nam Chấn to explore the countryside and observe puppet crafting. A local lunch features the specialty Phở Giao Cù at noon, followed by a hands-on puppeteering experience at the Water Pavilion. Artisans then share the stories behind the puppet shows before a live water puppet performance at 3:00 PM. The tour returns to Hanoi, dropping off participants by 6:30 PM.

| Time | Activity |

| — | — |

| 10:45 AM | Arrival at Nam Chấn, explore countryside and puppet crafting |

| 12:00 PM | Lunch at a local spot, tasting Phở Giao Cù |

| 1:30 PM | Visit Water Pavilion for hands-on puppeteering experience |

Additional Information and Requirements

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Comfortable shoes are recommended for the tour, as it involves exploring the countryside and engaging in hands-on puppet-making activities.

The meeting point for the water puppet show is the Thang Long Waterpuppet Theatre, located at 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street in the Hoan Kiem District. Guests should arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled showtime.
Unfortunately, the tour and show aren’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Plus, pets aren’t allowed during the tour or the water puppet performance.

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Accessibility and Restrictions

Unfortunately, the tour and water puppet show aren’t suitable for wheelchair users.

The old buildings and narrow paths at the puppet village make it difficult for those with mobility challenges to access the facilities. Plus, the water puppet theatre itself isn’t equipped with wheelchair-friendly seating.

Pets are also not allowed during the tour or show. This is likely for the safety and comfort of other guests.

While the tour and performance provide an immersive cultural experience, individuals with certain accessibility needs may find participating challenging. It’s important to be aware of these restrictions when planning the trip.

Exploring Vietnam’s Puppetry Heartland

For those seeking an immersive cultural experience, the full-day tour to Vietnam’s puppetry heartland offers a unique opportunity to engage with the country’s rich artistic heritage.

Visitors can:

Witness the intricate process of puppet-making, learning from skilled artisans about the significance of this centuries-old tradition.
Participate in hands-on workshops, where they can create their own puppet characters and even perform in a live show.
Gain insights into the captivating stories and symbolism represented in Vietnam’s water puppet performances, a beloved art form with roots tracing back over a millennium.

The Ancient Art of Water Puppetry

Although water puppetry has captivated audiences for over a thousand years, the centuries-old Vietnamese art form continues to mesmerize modern-day visitors.

Originating in the Red River Delta, this unique performance features wooden puppets that glide across a pool, manipulated by skilled puppeteers hidden beneath the water.

The shows narrate traditional folktales and legends, transporting audiences to a world of mythology and culture.

With pre-purchased tickets, visitors can skip the lines and enjoy an immersive 50-minute performance at the renowned Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi, witnessing this enchanting and ancient tradition firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not allow guests to bring their own food and drinks. Lunch at a local restaurant is included in the tour, and water is provided. Outside food and beverages are not permitted during the excursion.

What Should I Do if I Lose My Tour Ticket?

If you lose your tour ticket, you should contact the tour operator as soon as possible. They may be able to provide a replacement ticket or assist you in accessing the tour without it, though additional fees may apply.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

There are no discounts specifically mentioned for students or seniors on this tour. However, the tour operator may offer discounts for certain groups, so it’s best to inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.

Can I Take Photographs During the Puppet Show?

Photography is generally allowed during the water puppet show, but visitors are asked to avoid using flash to avoid disrupting the performance. Check with the theater staff for any specific rules or restrictions on photography.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour or Show?

There are no age restrictions for the tour or puppet show. Both events are suitable for visitors of all ages, though children must be accompanied by an adult. Families can enjoy this cultural experience together.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s captivating cultural heritage. Travelers can explore the artistry of water puppetry and witness the intricate craftsmanship behind these captivating figures. With a delectable local lunch and a hands-on puppeteering experience, this full-day adventure provides an unforgettable window into the enchanting world of Vietnamese tradition.