- Discover the Charm of the Quintessence Of Tonkin Show from Hanoi Old Quarter
- Key Points
- An Overview of the Quintessence Of Tonkin Show Tour
- The Itinerary: What to Expect
- Pickup and Scenic Drive
- Optional Vietnamese Dinner
- The Show at Baara Land
- Return Journey
- Why This Tour Offers Great Value
- Additional value points:
- Considerations
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- More Walking Tours in Hanoi
- More Tours in Hanoi
- More Tour Reviews in Hanoi
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Discover the Charm of the Quintessence Of Tonkin Show from Hanoi Old Quarter

If you’re looking for a captivating evening that blends Vietnam’s traditions with an elegant performance, the Quintessence of Tonkin Show offers a memorable experience. This private evening tour takes you from the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to a tranquil lakeside venue for an extraordinary display of water puppetry, dance, and folk music.
What makes this tour stand out? We love its balanced mix of culture and comfort, the professional guided experience, and the chance to enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine beforehand. However, it’s worth noting that the price of $70 per person is quite reasonable considering the private transport and high-quality show, but some travelers may find the optional dinner adds extra cost. This experience suits those eager to explore local traditions in a relaxed, authentic setting—perfect for culture lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone seeking a taste of Vietnam’s heritage.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points

- Comfortable private transportation ensures a smooth journey from Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
- Cultural immersion through water puppetry, folk music, and storytelling.
- Optional Vietnamese dinner available to enrich your evening.
- Serene lakeside venue offers scenic views and photo opportunities.
- Professional English-speaking guides enhance your understanding of the show.
- Full flexibility with booking—reserve now, pay later, and cancel 24 hours in advance for a refund.
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An Overview of the Quintessence Of Tonkin Show Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience wrapped in a convenient package. It’s priced at $70 per person, which includes private round-trip transfer, the show ticket, and a guided experience in English. The overall value hinges on your interest in Vietnamese traditions paired with the comfort of private transportation and the option for a pre-show dinner.
The pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter is seamless, with a cozy vehicle ready to whisk you away on a scenic drive. This trip provides a stark contrast between Hanoi’s lively streets and Vietnam’s peaceful countryside, giving you a glimpse of rural life just outside the city. The journey itself is a highlight, as it sets the tone for the evening—calm, scenic, and filled with anticipation.
The Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Scenic Drive
Your evening begins with a pickup from your Hanoi hotel or a designated spot in the lively Old Quarter. The private transport is comfortable, ensuring you’re relaxed before arriving at the lakeside venue. The drive is just enough to transition from urban chaos to rural serenity, with some reviewers noting the enjoyable contrast.
More Great Tours NearbyOptional Vietnamese Dinner
Before the curtain rises, you’ll have the choice to indulge in a traditional Vietnamese dinner. This is a great chance to savor local dishes like pho, spring rolls, or other regional specialties. Many travelers appreciate this added meal as a way to deepen their cultural experience and enhance the overall value.
The Show at Baara Land
Once at the lakeside venue, you’ll have time to explore the peaceful surroundings—spotting photo-worthy views and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The show itself begins as the sun sets, revealing a blend of water puppetry, dance, light effects, and folk music.
The performance is a visual feast that brings to life stories of rural life, spiritual traditions, and historic folklore. Water puppetry, a uniquely Vietnamese art form, is especially captivating, with intricate puppets dancing on water to traditional music. The show reportedly lasts about an hour, offering a well-paced glimpse into Vietnam’s cultural fabric.
Return Journey
After the performance, your private vehicle will bring you back to your Hanoi hotel. Many guests mention the smooth, quiet ride, which allows them to reflect on the evening’s sights and sounds. It’s a hassle-free way to conclude your night, especially after a day of exploring.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This tour’s price of $70 covers several key components—private transport, a high-quality show, and a guided experience—all arranged for you. The inclusion of an English-speaking guide adds clarity and richness to the experience, helping you understand the stories behind the performances.
The show itself is highly praised for its artistic quality, with some reviews noting that “the water puppetry was stunning” and “the traditional music and dance brought stories vividly to life.” The venue’s lakeside setting provides a peaceful backdrop, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
Additional value points:
- The flexibility to reserve without immediate payment is perfect for travelers with fluctuating plans.
- The full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.
- The optional dinner allows you to customize your experience—either opting for a cultural meal or skipping it.
Considerations
While the tour is generally praised, some may find the $70 price point slightly higher than standard shows, but it’s justified by the private transfer and personalized service. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, due to venue limitations, and there’s no mention of specific group sizes, but private transport hints at a small group or personalized experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Vietnamese traditions, cultural enthusiasts eager to see authentic performances, or couples and families seeking a relaxed, scenic evening. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy traditional music, storytelling, and water-based art forms. If you’re searching for an effortless, high-quality cultural outing that combines comfort with authenticity, this tour ticks all those boxes.
Final Thoughts

The Quintessence Of Tonkin Show offers a beautifully curated window into Vietnam’s heritage, all within a comfortable and private setting. For $70, you’re getting a well-rounded experience—scenic drive, cultural entertainment, optional local cuisine, and hassle-free logistics. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with genuine cultural insights.
This tour is especially suited for those who value comfort, authenticity, and a touch of artistry. Whether you’re a culture lover or simply looking to enjoy a memorable evening in Hanoi, it provides a balanced, aesthetically pleasing, and meaningful experience.
FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private round-trip transportation from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, an English-speaking guide, and a ticket to the Quintessence of Tonkin Show. An optional Vietnamese dinner before the show is available.
How much does the tour cost?
The price is $70 per person, covering transportation, the show, and guide services. The dinner is optional and may entail additional costs.
Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the “book now, pay later” option, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While generally suitable for most, it may not be ideal for wheelchair users due to venue restrictions. It’s a family-friendly experience but check on specific needs beforehand.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. The show takes place outdoors, so dress accordingly.
How long does the full experience last?
The entire experience, including transfer, optional dinner, and the show, typically lasts around 3-4 hours.
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the private vehicle is described as good quality and comfortable, ensuring a relaxed journey.
Where is the venue located?
The show is held at Baara Land, a lakeside setting outside Hanoi, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund.
To sum it up, the Quintessence Of Tonkin Show Tour from Hanoi offers a well-rounded, culturally rich evening that balances comfort, authenticity, and affordability. Whether you’re eager to see traditional Vietnamese art or simply want a relaxing, scenic night out, this experience offers genuine value and memorable moments for those eager to explore Vietnam’s heritage in style.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Walking Tours in Hanoi
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