The Thang Long Water Puppet Show in Hanoi is a must-see cultural experience for visitors to Vietnam. Tickets start at just $7.36 per person, offering a 50-minute performance that brings to life the country’s rich traditions and folklore. With convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, and flexible cancellation options, it’s an affordable way to take in Vietnamese culture. However, it’s important to arrive early, as latecomers won’t be admitted. Those who embrace this unique show are in for a truly captivating journey.
- Key Points
- Ticket Information and Pricing
- Show Details
- Venue and Accessibility
- Rules and Restrictions
- Customer Reviews and Experiences
- Planning Your Visit
- Getting to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Performance?
- Is There an Age Limit for Attending the Show?
- Do I Need to Arrive at a Specific Time for the Performance?
- Can I Buy Tickets on the Day of the Show?
- Are There Any Food or Drink Options Available at the Venue?
- The Sum Up
- More 1-Day Tours in Hanoi
- More Cycling Tours in Hanoi
- More Tour Reviews in Hanoi
- Still browsing? Here are more Hanoi experiences we've covered recently
Key Points

- Ticket prices start at $7.36 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- The 50-minute Thang Long Water Puppet Show offers a glimpse into Vietnamese folklore, traditions, and daily life through intricate puppet movements on water.
- The show takes place at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi, with ticket exchange required 30 minutes before showtime and strict rules to ensure safety and enjoyment.
- Customers can reserve a spot and pay later, and the ticket includes a water puppet show ticket, a program flyer, and hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- Reviews are generally positive, with some noting that tickets are cheaper if purchased at the theater the day before the show.
Ticket Information and Pricing

The ticket price for the Thang Long Water Puppet Show starts from $7.36 per person.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can also reserve their spot and pay later.
The ticket includes a Thang Long water puppet ticket, a show program flyer in the local language, and hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Customers have the flexibility to cancel their booking or pay later, making it a convenient option for planning their Hanoi experience.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Hanoi
Show Details

The Thang Long Water Puppet Show lasts for 50 minutes, offering visitors a chance to experience Hanoi’s ancient art of water puppetry.
The performance depicts daily life of Vietnamese villagers, as well as legends, myths, and history of the country. The show is accompanied by traditional Vietnamese folk music, immersing the audience in the rich cultural heritage.
Through the intricate movements of the puppets on the water surface, the show provides a captivating glimpse into the vibrant and fascinating world of Vietnamese folklore and traditions.
Venue and Accessibility

Located in the heart of Hanoi, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre hosts the captivating water puppet shows.
The theatre is the meeting point where visitors can exchange their tickets 30 minutes before the showtime at 78 Hang Quat, Hoan Kiem, Ha Noi.
Unfortunately, the venue isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with strollers, as there’s no accessibility accommodation available.
Guests should also note that there’s no luggage storage, and re-entry isn’t allowed after leaving the premises.
It’s crucial to arrive at least 15 minutes early, as latecomers won’t be admitted.
Rules and Restrictions

While attending the Thang Long Water Puppet Show, visitors must adhere to several rules and restrictions.
Pets, weapons, sharp objects, smoking, and food/drinks are strictly prohibited. Large bags, drones, and flash photography are also not allowed.
Plus, visitors must enter the venue at least 15 minutes before the show begins, as latecomers won’t be admitted.
Alcohol, drugs, chewing gum, fireworks, and noise-making devices are also banned.
These rules are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all attendees, as well as to preserve the integrity of the cultural performance.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews and Experiences
Many visitors have shared their experiences with the Thang Long Water Puppet Show. The overall rating stands at 4.6/5 based on 112 reviews.
The Thang Long Water Puppet Show enjoys a stellar 4.6/5 rating based on 112 visitor reviews.
Some highlights include:
-
Bhavit from the UK praised the "fun show with talented musicians and puppeteers" and called it a "good experience."
-
Jhocelin from the US recommended the show and noted that "tickets are cheaper at the theater if purchased the day before."
-
Kristína from Slovakia described the "beautiful performance showcasing traditional life" and hassle-free ticketing.
While not a must-watch, the Thang Long Water Puppet Show offers a memorable encounter with Vietnamese culture.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Hanoi
- Hanoi: Street Food Walking Tour & Water Puppet Show
- Hanoi: Quintessence of Tonkin Show – A Cultural Spectacle
- Private Evening Cyclo Tour With Water Puppet Show
- Private: Culinary Journey With Enchanting Water Puppet Show
- [Special Tour] Food Tour With Water Puppet Show in the End
- Hanoi Old Quarter Cultural Walking Tour & Water Puppet Show
Planning Your Visit

How can visitors prepare for their trip to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre?
First, arrive at least 15 minutes before showtime to ensure entry. The theatre doesn’t allow re-entry, so plan accordingly.
Bring only small bags, as there’s no luggage storage. While strollers aren’t permitted, the venue is accessible for most visitors.
Guests should adhere to the theatre’s rules, which prohibit items like pets, weapons, and outside food/drinks.
With proper planning, visitors can fully enjoy the 50-minute water puppet performance, which showcases Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage through traditional music and storytelling.
Getting to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is located at 78 Hang Quat, Hoan Kiem, Ha Noi in central Hanoi.
Getting there’s easy:
-
Take a taxi or ride-hailing service – it’s a quick 10-15 minute ride from most central Hanoi hotels.
-
Use public transportation – the theatre is a short walk from the St. Joseph’s Cathedral metro station.
-
Walk if your hotel is nearby – it’s about a 20-25 minute stroll from the Old Quarter.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to exchange your tickets and find your seats.
Don’t be late as latecomers won’t be admitted.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Performance?
No, flash photography and video recording are not allowed during the performance. The rules prohibit taking photos or videos to avoid disrupting the show and respecting the performers.
Is There an Age Limit for Attending the Show?
There is no specified age limit to attend the Thang Long Water Puppet show. Children of all ages are welcome, though parents should consider if the 50-minute performance length is suitable for younger kids who may have difficulty sitting still for the duration.
Do I Need to Arrive at a Specific Time for the Performance?
Visitors should arrive at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre at least 15 minutes before the show begins. Latecomers won’t be admitted, so it’s important to plan ahead and leave enough time to get to the venue.
Can I Buy Tickets on the Day of the Show?
Yes, you can buy tickets on the day of the show. The information states that latecomers won’t be admitted, so it’s best to arrive at least 15 minutes before the performance begins to exchange your ticket.
Are There Any Food or Drink Options Available at the Venue?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. There are no food or drink options available at the venue, so guests are advised to plan accordingly before the show.
The Sum Up

The Thang Long Water Puppet Show in Hanoi offers a unique cultural experience that transports visitors into the daily life and folklore of Vietnamese villages. With affordable ticket prices, convenient transportation, and flexible cancellation options, it’s an engaging and accessible way to take in the country’s rich history and traditions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this 50-minute performance is not to be missed.
You can check availability for your dates here:More 1-Day Tours in Hanoi
- From Hanoi/Cat Ba: Lan Ha Bay Day Trip with Cruise and Lunch
- From Hanoi: Halong day trip, Route 2, 6hours, Small group
- From Hanoi: Ha Long Bay 1 Day Tour With A Luxury Cruise
- From Hanoi- 1 Day Ninh Binh Save Cost With Transfer Optional
- From Hanoi: Day Trip to Ninh Bình The Colors of Nature
- PRIVATE TOUR HALONG BAY ONE DAY with Cave, Kayaking, Sampan
More Cycling Tours in Hanoi
- Hanoi:Ninh Binh-Trang An-Mua Cave-Hoa Lu&Cycling BEST SELLER
- Ecotourism Ninh Binh: Boat trip, Biking, Cave hiking and Pagoda
- Hanoi: Mai Chau Valley 2D1N with Cycling & Foot Massage
- From Hanoi: Half-Day Red River Biking Group Tour
- Hanoi: Mai Chau Valley Day Tour – Authentic Lunch & Cycling
- From Hanoi: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, Mua Cave & Cycling in Ninh Binh
More Tour Reviews in Hanoi
- Ha Long Bay Luxury Cruise from Hanoi with Jacuzzi & Local Lunch
- Ninh Binh Thung Nham, Cuc Phuong National Park 2 Day Tour
- Ba Be National Park: Great Paddling Adventure in North East
- Hanoi’s Old Quarter Street Food Experience for Small Groups
- (Free Pick-up) Foot Massage In Hanoi Old Quarter
- Hanoi: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Still browsing? Here are more Hanoi experiences we've covered recently
- Ha Long Bay Luxury Cruise from Hanoi with Jacuzzi & Local Lunch
- Ninh Binh Thung Nham, Cuc Phuong National Park 2 Day Tour
- Ba Be National Park: Great Paddling Adventure in North East
- Hanoi’s Old Quarter Street Food Experience for Small Groups
- (Free Pick-up) Foot Massage In Hanoi Old Quarter
- Hanoi: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
- Food Tour
- Hanoi: Vietnamese Students Culture Exchange Tour
- Hanoi: Old Quarter Street Food Walking Tour with Guide
- Hanoi by Night: Private City Jeep Tour and Jazz Music Club
- Hanoi: Cat Ba, Lan Ha & Ha Long Bay Luxury Cruise with Lunch
- From Hanoi: Explore Hanoi City half Day
