Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater?
What makes it 90% Kids-Friendly: Bright puppets, clear folk stories, free booster cushions, and a 45-minute run time keep children engaged, and under-3s sit free. Park behind theater offers post-show play space.
Positives:
- Immersive live performance: Live drums, gongs, and bamboo flutes keep kids engaged.
- Booster cushions: Free seats ensure children get an unobstructed view.
Challenges:
- Steep seating rows: Rows are on a slope with limited legroom.
- Loud sound levels: Live percussion may startle sensitive younger children.
What is Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater?
- A purpose-built theater presenting Vietnam’s centuries-old water puppet art form
- A performance space centered on a pool-stage where concealed puppeteers manipulate lacquered wooden figures with bamboo rods
- A cultural venue supported by a live ensemble of traditional Vietnamese instruments, staging 45-minute folktale productions
What is so special about Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater for with kids?
- Traditional 45-minute water puppet show with live folk music
- Flat ticket price of 200,000 VND per person
- Free booster cushions for clear views
- Small park and Temple of the Kings of Kung behind the venue
- Street-food stalls nearby for quick snacks
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for the 45-minute show, booster cushions, and a quick visit to the park behind the theater.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
Watch the water puppet show:
See colorful puppets move on a water stage to live Vietnamese folk music.
Tip: Arrive 10–15 minutes early to pick center seats and request booster cushions.
Borrow booster cushions:
Free cushions let kids see over the stepped seating.
Tip: Ask an usher at the entrance for booster seats upon arrival.
Explore the park & temple:
Small park and Temple of the Kings of Kung sit behind the theater.
Tip: Let kids run and take photos after the show.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
- Book tickets early: Reserve seats online or at the box office to secure your preferred showtime.
- Combine with local snacks: Grab a bánh mì or iced coffee on Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street before the show.
Reviews of Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
Summah Longley
Fabulous show, a must do when in Saigon! The show was unique, entertaining and fun. Great to see a unique part of Vietnamese culture. I would recommend booking in advance so you get closer to the stage but we still had a great view even third row from the back having bought the tickets as we arrived! Mostly, the artists who play the instruments are incredible. Particularly the woman singer has a b...
Precin Salvan
Was amazing. A must go. I dont think you can get this experience anywhere else in the world. Not even in Disneyland. It's a mix of culture, art and some wizardry.. how do they actually synchronise and perform flawlessly. I bought my ticket on Klook. Went there at 5.30. she asked me to come back at 6. So went to highland coffee right opposite. Thn went back at 6. Got a perfect seat. And enjoyed the...
Kathy Amaru
This is a must-do activity in Ho Chi Minh city. Absolutely delightful. The introduction to the show is in Vietnamese followed by English, but after that it is all Vietnamese talking and singing. However, that doesn't matter! You can get the gist of the stories from the action and even it you don't, watching the skills is worth the visit. Try and get seats closer to the front if possible. Fr...
Penny Gaffney
The show was very interesting and full of different little short stories! The music and singing is not in the language we can understand but the movement of the puppets really give off great feel and telling the story! A lot of character and actions don't actually supposed to be in the water though. I love the fish dance the best! Look absolutely like a real fish splashing around. Definitely one o...
Austin Tang
Really unique experience! I wasn’t sure what to expect at first, but the water puppet show turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip to Vietnam. The music, the traditional storytelling, and the skill of the puppeteers were all amazing. Even though the narration was in Vietnamese, it was still very easy to follow and enjoy. It’s a great way to experience Vietnamese culture in a fun and memo...
When is the best time to visit Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)?
During rainy or hot months, carry a compact umbrella for the short walk from the street; the show is fully covered and air-conditioned.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Show tickets (4 at 200,000 VND each) | VND 800,000 |
| Street snacks | VND 100,000 |
| Total Estimated | VND 900,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
Address: 55B Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
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About Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+84 28 3930 2196Explore Popular Things to Do
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