Hanoi Opera House - A Must-See in central Hanoi

Among must-dos in the capital of Vietnam, visiting the Hanoi Opera House is one of those. Being the most symbolic and ancient architectural structure in Hanoi, Opera House promises to leave you an instantaneous strong impression.

A brief introduction about the historical symbol of Hanoi

Referring to the capital of Vietnam named Hanoi, people will immediately think of the Opera House. It is famous for its spectacular architecture and incredible history. Nowadays, it has become one of the most important cultural centers of Hanoi.

The location of the Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House was built in the middle of August Revolution Square. To be more specific, the House address is number 1A Trang Tien Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District. It is near several famous tourist destinations in Hanoi, so it is convenient to explore those while you are on an Opera House tour.

 

Opening hours of Hanoi Theater

Since 2017, the Opera House has officially opened for visitors. Tourists can also watch the art performances of talented actors. 

Tourists can visit the theater on Monday and Friday every week, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. The board of management of the House may add extra tours if needed. Tourists will need to buy tickets for visiting.

Ticket Price of the Opera House in Hanoi

The official ticket price of the Opera House is 400.000 VND / touring tickets, while students and people who have priority (children, old people,...) can buy tickets for only half the price. On special occasions, tourists can buy tickets at different price ranges.

Various types of performing shows at the theater also have numerous prices as well. The price for each show is updated on the website regularly. 

Best time to travel to the Opera House

As mentioned above, the place is mostly open on Monday and Friday morning, so it’s best if you can explore the Opera House on those days. Other visiting schedules are usually updated on the House’s official website for tourists to check.

Read more: Weather & Best time to travel to Hanoi, Vietnam - Journey On Air

Types of shows available here

At the Opera House, you can watch various types of shows. From traditional dance performance, drama, play to music concert. Sometimes, the management of the House also holds charity shows for fundraising and upbeat events such as music festivals for youngsters.

The actors are capable of performing different music styles, such as Vietnamese traditional music, Western music, or other genres like jazz and opera. You can find the information and schedules of the shows on the Opera House’s website.

How to get to the concert hall?

Using public transportations

The Opera House lies at the center of Hanoi, so it is very easy to get there. Most people in Hanoi know about it so you can ask anyone for direction if needed.

There is a two-level bus service that serves travelers. You can join a tour with it, which usually lasts for two hours. The bus ticket has a different price range, based on your need, you can choose the ticket that is suitable for you. Traveling by the two-level bus is not only safe, convenient but also gives you the chance to sightsee many stunning sceneries of Hanoi.

The most common public transportation in Hanoi is the bus. Buses number 08, 09, 14, 31, 36 go through Hoan Kiem Lake. With only 7.000 - 9.000 VND / bus tickets, you can easily head to the Opera House. 

About Hanoi Transportation: Click here

Going on your own

The fastest and easiest way to go there is to use a taxi. However, this means of transport is quite expensive.

In case you hire a motorbike, you can go to Hoan Kiem lake, then go along Dinh Tien Hoang street then head towards Le Lai street. From then, you turn right to Ly Thai To street to reach the Opera House.

The History of Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House has 10 years of building and more than 100 years of operating. Therefore, it is safe to say that the place has become representative of the history and culture of Vietnam.

During the beginning of the 20th century, the French colonial government decided to build the Opera House in Hanoi, Vietnam. Its purpose was to hold art, opera, and drama performances for French and Vietnamese top-notch. Two architects, Harlay and Broyer, designed the Opera House and started building it in 1901. They finished in 1911. From 1995 to 1997, the Vietnamese government repaired the House to ensure safety for visitors.

The Hanoi Opera House had witnessed certain milestones of Vietnamese history. In 1945, many significant events had taken place in front of it, including the opening meeting Viet Minh national independence coalition. In 1946, Uncle Ho first stepped in the Opera House, as well as holding the first-anniversary meeting of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. It was also where the first Vietnamese play was performed.

Hanoi Opera House’s Architecture

The House consists of 3 floors. The outside has Roman columns that divide the front into 5 spaces. The roofs and balconies have curve patterns and skillful sculptures. You can see all the characteristics of French and Renaissance culture in the architecture of the Hanoi Opera House.

The first area you will see inside is the main hall, with a yellow T-shaped staircase and fancy red carpet. The shining chandelier also makes it feel like a royal palace.

Next is the performing room, with a wide stage and seats for the audiences. Being a place for rich people in the past, the chairs are red and yellow, creating a royal vibe. Behind the stage, there are nearly twenty rooms for actors. There are huge chandeliers and French paintings on the ceiling, which will surely interest the art lovers.

Last but not least is the Mirror Room, where important negotiations and signing documents ceremonies are held. The floor stones are from Italia, on the walls hang giant shining mirrors. 

How to watch a show at the theater?

Check the performing schedule on the official website

The managers of the Opera House update performing schedules on the official website, in both Vietnamese and English. You can find information about seat plans, price tickets, and the stage’s diagram there.

Official website of the Opera House: http://hanoioperahouse.org.vn/

Buy a ticket for the show

Once you have decided which play to watch, scroll down to the bottom of the website. There are hotlines to book the tickets. You should buy your tickets in advance of the show, and make sure to check the Opera House’s rules before going.

Things To Do Around Hanoi Opera House

Enjoy a cup of coffee near the theater

Right next to the Opera House is a coffee shop named ‘Highlands Coffee’, which is a popular brand for the Vietnamese. You can stop by and by yourself a cup of delicious coffee.

Read more: Hanoi Street Food Tours - 23 Must-try Food in Hanoi

Visit the walking street around Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a famous tourist destination in Hanoi. Aside from the peaceful scenery, international travelers also love to visit the Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge - both are symbols of Hanoi. The Turtle Tower is quite a sight to see as well. 

During weekends from Friday evening to midnight Sunday, the Dinh Tien Hoang street around Hoan Kiem Lake will be blocked for all means of transport, so that people can only go on foot. It is called ‘the walking street’ and there will be lots of entertainment and street food. It is an exciting experience that you should try in Hanoi.

Read more: https://journeyonair.com/hanoi-vietnam/things-to-do-in-hanoi