Experiencing Water Puppetry in Hanoi : Where Legends Float

By Kristina Andita Pradani -

Where to go in Hanoi, Vietnam?

If you’re into art and musical theater, then this place is for you!


 The Water Puppet Show

Múa rối nước

Fee : 50.000 - 300.000VND (1.5 - 8 USD)

Location : The Long Water Puppet Show, Hanoi Vietnam

Sign : In front of Hanoi’s lake



Water puppetry is unique in Vietnam due to its distinctive blend of water, folklore, and traditional performance art that you won't find elsewhere. Here are the key elements that make it truly special:




  • Stage on water: Unlike conventional puppetry, the stage is a pool of water. Puppets appear to “walk,” “swim,” and even perform stunts on the water’s surface, creating magical illusions.
  • Hidden puppeteers: The artists stand waist-deep behind a screen, maneuvering puppets with long bamboo poles and string mechanisms beneath the water completely hidden from the audience.
  • Cultural storytelling: Performances are deeply rooted in Vietnamese rural life, folklore, and legends, such as the story of the dragon king, rice planting, and fishing. It’s a visual journey through the country’s traditions and values.
  • Live traditional music: Accompanied by a live orchestra using traditional Vietnamese instruments like the đàn bầu (monochord) and drums. Musicians also provide voices and sound effects, enhancing the drama and humor.
  • Historical roots: Originated over 1,000 years ago in the Red River Delta, often performed in flooded rice paddies during festivals—making it not just entertainment, but part of Vietnam’s agrarian heritage.

Fyi, the water puppet show will be fully in Vietnamese language, including the historical explanation, music, and, closing, therefore, they rented a translator device for 50.000 - 100.000VND (1.5 - 4 USD) in english and some other language as well.

The seating plan looks like a stadium, so if you want to be able to record the full stage with your phone, then row D will be the best seating, the front row may get a little splotch of water, the back row is a bit dark and too far to see. But again, it's up to you on how you want to choose your best seat and experience!


So far, the lighting were good and the story is mainly based on the traditional Vietnamese culture, including their childhood, how they cook their food, and, house core, but the most fascinating one is their historical story in war and their folklore, where they add a dragon that can burst a fire and lot of other interesting thing.

Whether you're a traveler seeking cultural insight or simply a lover of the arts, a water puppet show is a must-see experience that beautifully captures the charm and history of Vietnam.


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