For a unique cultural performance found nowhere else in the world quite like this, don't miss a traditional Vietnamese Water Puppet Show in Hanoi. This ancient art form originated centuries ago in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta and involves skilled puppeteers, hidden behind a screen, manipulating colourful wooden puppets that appear to dance and glide effortlessly across a pool of water.

The shows typically depict Vietnamese folklore, legends, and scenes of rural life, often accompanied by live traditional music featuring singing and instruments like bamboo flutes and drums. It's a visually captivating and often humorous experience suitable for all ages, offering a fascinating insight into Vietnamese culture and artistry. Several theatres around Hanoi, like the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre near Hoan Kiem Lake, offer regular performances.