Timeless Traditions: Water Puppetry & Village Life – 8 hours

Experience deeply and authentically the cultural charm of Northern Vietnam’s countryside through this inspiring Hanoi day tours to Dao Thuc Water Puppet Village. Nestled peacefully among lush rice fields, Dao Thuc offers travelers a rare opportunity to connect with traditional Vietnamese village life and the centuries-old art of water puppetry.

General Information

Dao Thuc Village is a peaceful countryside village located just 45 minutes from Hanoi. With a history spanning over 300 years, it is renowned as one of the few places in Vietnam that have preserved the traditional art of water puppetry. The village is home to a charming communal house, ancient pagoda, and a unique outdoor water puppet stage set beside a lotus pond—creating a picturesque and cultural atmosphere. You can have opportunity to learn about the stories behind each wooden figure, and take part in the “Puppet Making Heritage” activity—an interactive experience where you’ll shape and paint your very own puppet under expert guidance.

Dao Thuc deserves a visit in every Hanoi tour packages for its rich folk traditions, skilled artisan community, and the rare opportunity to experience Vietnam’s intangible cultural heritage in its most authentic form.

Full Itinerary

Morning:
Your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel.
Transfer to Dao Thuc Water Puppet Village (approximately 45 minutes).
Arrive at Dao Thuc Village, where you will experience the tranquil and serene atmosphere of the countryside. Explore the village’s architectural complex, including the Community House, the Dao Thuc communal house and pagoda, and the traditional water puppet stage.
10:45 AM – 12:00 PM: Visit the workshop, and learn about the intricate craftsmanship behind the puppets, their symbolic meanings, and the stories they bring to life. Participate in the “Puppet Making Heritage” activity, where you will become the next apprentice by shaping and finishing your own water puppet under the artisan’s guidance.
Lunch:
Enjoy lunch at the local eatery.
After lunch, take some time to relax, explore, or capture memorable moments through photography.
Afternoon:
Visit the backstage area of the Dao Thuc Water Puppet Theater. Gain exclusive insight into the behind-the-scenes preparations and stories behind the performances. Take part in a unique challenge—”One Hour as a Water Puppet Artisan“—where you will learn and practice basic water puppet manipulation techniques under the guidance of skilled artisans.
Enjoy a captivating performance featuring approximately ten traditional water puppet acts. Engage in discussions with the artisans, share your thoughts on the experience, and capture group photos to commemorate this unforgettable journey.
Depart from the village and return to Hanoi, concluding a memorable cultural adventure with Hanoi Local Tour. 

Note:

• The offer and payment link will close once we reach the maximum capacity of 10 participants. If the minimum requirement is not fulfilled, all payments received will be fully refunded.
• In case the number of participants does not meet the minimum requirement, please consider opting for a private tour.
• Pick up and transfer just for the centrally located hotel/accommodation inside Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
• If your hotel is not inside Hanoi’s Old Quarter, we will pick you up at the Hanoi Opera House – 01 Trang Tien Street.
• Special requests (strict diet or vegetarian) should be sent before your departure date.
• We are not responsible for your lateness.