Lotus Water Puppet Theater – A Glimpse of Vietnamese Folk Art in the Heart of Hanoi

Arrive 10–15 minutes early to soak in the traditional ambiance of the lobby, and don’t forget your camera – the reflections of light on the water create stunning photo opportunities. A visit to the Lotus Water Puppet Theater is more than just a performance; it’s a journey into the soul of Vietnam – rustic, graceful, and full of creativity.

In the bustling center of Hanoi, the Lotus Water Puppet Theater offers visitors a perfect opportunity to explore Vietnam’s traditional folk culture in a vivid and captivating way. Water puppetry – an art form that dates back more than 1,000 years – is performed on the surface of water, skillfully combining traditional music, stage lighting, and masterful puppet control techniques.

At Lotus Theater, visitors can enjoy classic performances such as “Buffalo Herding and Flute Playing,” “Fox Catching Ducks,” and “Teu’s Greeting”, as well as scenes inspired by ancient legends and Vietnamese folktales. The brightly painted wooden puppets are brought to life by the deft hands of artists hidden behind a water curtain. Traditional musical instruments like the two-string fiddle (dan nhi), bamboo flute (sao truc), drum, and wooden clappers are played live, creating an authentic and deeply Vietnamese atmosphere.

The theater is located at 16 Le Thai To Street, Hoan Kiem District, just a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to combine with a stroll around the Old Quarter. There are several daily shows, typically at 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:30 PM, and 8:00 PM. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance (about 150,000–200,000 VND per person) to secure good seats.