Admire Hanoi Opera House

Hanoi Opera House is an extraordinary monument containing worthwhile elements of history, culture, architecture, and art. From the initial marshy ground, a magnificent architectural structure has emerged. Despite the lapse of more than a century the Opera House continues to stand tall at the center of Hanoi and forms part of the fascinating attractions of the capital city. Join Deluxe Group Tours to explore the place that preserves these artistic values.

History of establishment and development

Hanoi Opera House was built by the French colonial government in 1901 and officially opened for public in 1911. This project became the most extensive cultural and artistic center at that time. The design of the Opera House is modeled after the Paris Opera House. Therefore, the architecture here has a powerful European impression, classic beauty, elegance, and academic art.

After 1945, when the capital was liberated, Hanoi Opera House became the meeting place of the National Assembly and the Government, organizing military parades… Vietnam’s drama troupes at that time also rented theaters for performances. During this period, the Opera House became a symbol of artistic activities in the Capital, the cradle that nurtured many famous artists performing.

By the end of the 20th century, this work was seriously degraded. At that time, the Vietnamese government decided to restore the project. The restoration lasted from 1995 to 1997, retaining almost the original design. Up to now, this is the only time the Opera House has been restored.

In 2011, the Opera House was ranked a National Monument by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

Hanoi Opera House functions

Originally, the theater was a venue primarily for organizing cultural and artistic events for the French community.

From 1940, the Vietnamese people were able to rent the theater for performances.

Following 1945, the theater transformed into a hub for orchestrating cultural and artistic events, discussions, workshops, and media briefings that fulfilled crucial political and societal duties for the Party and the State. Additionally, at the direction of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the venue also hosted receptions for both domestic and foreign guests. However, amid these responsibilities, the Hanoi Opera House remained dedicated to upholding its role by delivering top-notch cultural and artistic experiences and amenities.

The Hanoi Opera House is an ideal venue for artistic performances. In 2000, the number of performances here was only 17. Nonetheless, between the years 2010 and today, there are 400 shows annually. In addition to Vietnamese artistic groups, the Hanoi Opera House also welcomes hundreds of international artistic groups to perform. To this day, the Opera House remains one of the leading theaters in Vietnam in terms of scale and architectural beauty.

Highlight activities

1. Explore architecture

The Opera House has a construction area of about 2,600 square meters. The architecture is modeled after the Opéra Garnier, with meticulous attention to materials, precision, and detail. The interior decoration, stage design, and seating inside resemble European theaters built in the early 20th century.

The Hanoi Opera House premises are divided into three main areas: the lobby, the mirror room, and the auditorium.

• Lobby: This is the reception area with a T-shaped staircase leading to the second floor. The floor is paved with marble adorned with classical patterns, creating a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance.

• Mirror Room: Located on the second floor, this is where significant ceremonies and events of the government or high-profile receptions are organized. The floor’s base is crafted using the mosaic tile technique, complemented by large mirrors and dazzling crystal chandeliers that reflect brilliance, creating a glamorous atmosphere.

• Auditorium: The auditorium of the Hanoi Opera House is intricately designed, using Corinthian columns to support the entire vaulted roof. The roof features raised and colorful frescoes and opulent golden crystal chandeliers, adding to the grandeur. The auditorium’s seating capacity is 870, with three tiers of luxurious red velvet seats. Additionally, sound and lighting systems are detailed and invested to provide the audience with a quality artistic experience.

2. Enjoy artistic performances

The Hanoi Opera House is a venue that regularly hosts crucial cultural and artistic performances. Therefore, if you have a passion for academic arts or folk music, the Hanoi Opera House is a place you can’t miss. You can stay updated on the schedule and performances at the opera house via two channels:

• Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/NhahatlonHN/
• Website: https://hanoioperahouse.org.vn/

3. Visit Hanoi Opera House Square

The square in front of the Hanoi Opera House, since 1994, is commonly referred to as the Cach Mang Thang Tam Square (August Revolution Square) or 19/8 Square. Surrounding the square are famous architectural structures, including the Hanoi Hilton and the National Museum of History. In the evening, when the square and buildings are shined, the space becomes even more sparkling and enchanting.

It is an ideal spot to hang out for relaxation, drink iced tea, and chat at dusk.

Hanoi Opera House Travel Tips

1. Location

Hanoi Opera House is located in the city center, which is at Cach Mang Thang Tam Square, No. 1 Trang Tien Old Quater, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District. Around the Opera House are famous Hanoi tourist attractions such as Hoan Kiem Lake, the National History Museum, Trang Tien Plaza, etc., so it is very convenient for tourists to visit.

2. Entrance fee

• Hanoi Opera House tour:
  • Reference ticket price: 120,000 VND/person
  • Visiting time: 70 minutes/turn
  • Tour time: From 10.30 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday)
• Tour to visit the Opera House combined with watching art performances:
  • Reference ticket price: 400,000 VND/person
  • Visiting time: 90 minutes/turn
  • Tour time: From 10.30 a.m to 12.00 p.m. (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday)

3. Moving instructions

You can visit The Opera House using any means of transport, including taxis, cars, motorbikes, etc., as it lies within the central area of the city. The most convenient route to reach the Opera House is to follow the path from Le Thai to Hang Trong – Hang Khay – Trang Tien – the roundabout of August Revolution Square – and arrive at the Opera House.

If you are traveling by bus, you can choose from routes number 02, number 35A, number 43, number 49, number 55A, and 86CT. All of these routes have stops near the Hanoi Opera House, allowing you to easily walk to the destination.

4.Eating Spots Near Hanoi Opera House

Situated in the most prime area of the capital, around Hanoi Opera House, there are numerous dining options for you to choose from. After a day of exploration, travelers can stop by to savor renowned dishes such as bun dau, salty sticky rice, mixed Haiphong-style noodle soup,  and crab noodle soup.

Some recommended eateries near Hanoi Opera House for your consideration are:

1. Quan Bun Dau Met (Small Bun Dau Restaurant) near Hanoi Opera House
   • Location: 1 Trang Tien Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District.
   • Price range: from 40,000 VND/dish.
2. Quan Vit Hai Lan – Vit Co Van Dinh (Hai Lan Duck Restaurant – Van Dinh Wild Duck)
   • Location: Alley 49A Tran Quoc Toan, Tran Hung Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem District.
   • Price range: from 20,000 VND/dish.
3. Quan Banh Canh Ghe 6 (Crab Noodle Soup 6 Restaurant)
   • Location: 5 Pham Su Manh Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District.
   • Price range: from 20,000 VND/dish.
4. Quan Xoi Yen (Yen’s Sticky Rice Restaurant)
   • Location: 35B Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem District.

4. Travel Tips

• Dress appropriately when entering the large theater.
• Children’s tickets are not included, and this particular program is unsuitable for children below 6 years of age.
• No smoking, and do not bring gifts of pastries or chewing gum into the large theater.
• Do not use your phone to record audio, take pictures, or film without the consent of the management.
• Switch your phone to silent or vibrate mode when the performance begins.
• After the 15-minute opening performance, the theater doors will be closed.
• Please maintain silence during the performance.

The Hanoi Opera House is a unique cultural icon, where I always sense the harmonious blend of history and art. With its refined neoclassical architecture, it is not merely an artistic structure but also a vivid portrait of the fusion between French colonial influences and Vietnamese culture. Each time I step inside, I not only experience outstanding works of art but also immerse myself in the dignified and solemn atmosphere of a gathering of the arts community. The Opera House is an architectural and artistic marvel, a place that I take pride in when speaking of the cultural beauty of the capital city, Hanoi.