Hanoi: Full-Day City Tour and Water Puppet Show

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history and vibrant culture. This full-day tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and offering a glimpse into the unique art of water puppetry. From the ancient Tran Quoc Pagoda to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the tour promises an engaging journey through Vietnam’s heritage. But the real highlight might just be the mesmerizing water puppet show, a centuries-old tradition that leaves audiences enchanted. What secrets does this captivating performance hold?

Key Points

• A full-day tour of Hanoi’s iconic sites, including the Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Complex, One Pillar Pagoda, Vietnam Ethnology Museum, and Temple of Literature.
• Experience a traditional 50-minute water puppet show near Sword Lake, a unique Vietnamese art form.
• Enjoy a delicious local Vietnamese lunch and refreshing drinks during the tour.
• Hassle-free transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, and an English-speaking guide providing informative commentary.
• Tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments, and the itinerary is subject to change due to weather and operating conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day Hanoi city tour and water puppet show experience provides an opportunity to explore the cultural and historical highlights of Vietnam’s vibrant capital.

The tour begins with pickup from the Old Quarter area and includes visits to iconic sites like Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Complex, One Pillar Pagoda, Vietnam Ethnology Museum, and the Temple of Literature.

Guests will also enjoy a local Vietnamese lunch and conclude the day with a traditional 50-minute water puppet show near Sword Lake.

Included services cover transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and hotel drop-off.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from the Old Quarter area and takes guests to visit several iconic sites in Hanoi.

First up is the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in the city. Next, they’ll explore the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the mausoleum and the Ho Chi Minh Museum.

The tour then visits the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist temple, and the Vietnam Ethnology Museum to learn about the country’s diverse cultures.

After lunch, they’ll end the day at the Temple of Literature before enjoying a 50-minute traditional water puppet show near Sword Lake.

Included Services

The Hanoi City Tour and Water Puppet Show includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and immersive experience for participants.

These services include:

1. Transportation by shuttle bus, providing convenient pickup from the Old Quarter area and drop-off at the hotel after the tour.

2. An English-speaking tour guide, who’ll provide informative commentary and insights throughout the day’s activities.

3. Admission fees to all the attractions, including the Vietnam Ethnology Museum and the traditional water puppet show near Sword Lake, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The tour also includes a delicious local lunch and refreshing drinks, allowing participants to savor the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

Important Information

Although participants are encouraged to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

The itinerary is subject to change due to weather and operating conditions. Visitors should note that Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, as well as from June 15 to August 15 for maintenance. During these times, photo opportunities will still be available.

Plus, on Mondays, the Women’s Museum will be visited instead of the Ethnology Museum.

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Customer Feedback

According to customer reviews, the Hanoi City Tour and Water Puppet Show has received an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 107 reviews.

Customers have praised the tour’s informative guides, delicious local cuisine, and efficient organization.

Some key highlights include:

1. Guide rating: 4.8/5, with reviewers noting the guide’s extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling.

2. Transportation rating: 4.6/5, though a few customers mentioned minor issues with USB charging on the shuttle bus.

3. Value for money: 4.6/5, as customers felt the tour provided an excellent experience at a reasonable price.

Pickup and Dropoff

The tour includes pickup from the Old Quarter area of Hanoi.

Guests will be transported by shuttle bus to the various sites on the itinerary. After concluding the water puppet show near Sword Lake, the tour will drop guests off at their hotels.

The transportation by shuttle bus is included in the tour price. Pickup and dropoff locations are conveniently located in the city center, making it easy for guests to access the tour.

Efficient transportation is an important part of ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for participants.

Vietnamese Cuisine for Lunch

After visiting the various historical and cultural sites around Hanoi, the tour provides a chance for participants to savor the flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine for lunch.

The lunch menu typically includes:

1. Pho – A classic Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and an array of fresh herbs and vegetables.

2. Bún chả – Grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a sweet and tangy dipping sauce.

3. Bánh mì – A Vietnamese-style baguette sandwich filled with a variety of ingredients, such as pâté, pickled vegetables, and flavorful meats.

The delectable meal offers a true taste of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

Traditional Water Puppet Show

Concluding the Hanoi city tour, visitors are treated to a captivating 50-minute performance of the traditional Vietnamese water puppet show. The intricately-carved puppets, manipulated by skilled puppeteers hidden beneath the water, bring to life a vibrant display of Vietnamese folklore and mythology. Audiences are mesmerized by the graceful movements of the puppets as they reenact scenes from rural life, complete with music, singing, and special effects.

| Key Features | Description |

| — | — |

| Origins | Developed in the 11th century as a form of entertainment for farmers during the flood season |

| Technique | Puppets operated by bamboo rods and strings from behind a curtain, creating the illusion of movement on the water’s surface |

| Significance | Preserves an important aspect of Vietnamese cultural heritage and oral traditions |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour itinerary can be customized to the customer’s preferences, though it may incur additional costs. Customers can discuss their specific interests with the tour provider to tailor the tour to their needs.

What Languages Do the Tour Guides Speak Besides English?

According to the tour details, the guides are English-speaking. However, the website doesn’t specify if other languages are available. Customers should inquire about additional language options when booking the tour to ensure their needs are met.

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour is suitable for families with young children. It includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a water puppet show that can be enjoyed by all ages. However, the itinerary may not be fully accessible for those with mobility impairments.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts or special offers. However, some providers may offer group rates or child discounts, so it’s best to check with the tour operator directly for the latest pricing and availability.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also opt to reserve their spot without upfront payment and pay later if needed to accommodate schedule changes.

The Sum Up

Embark on an immersive journey through Hanoi’s vibrant culture with this full-day city tour and traditional water puppet show. Explore iconic sites, enjoy a delicious local lunch, and witness the captivating 50-minute water puppet performance. With convenient hotel pickup and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a hassle-free exploration of Vietnam’s rich heritage, providing an unparalleled experience for visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here: