Hanoi Opera House: Information, Ticket Prices, and Opening Hours
Hanoi Opera House is a premier venue for large-scale performances, including classical and academic art shows. Located in the heart of Hanoi, it is not only a cultural landmark but also a popular sightseeing spot for tourists and a favorite photography location for young visitors. In this article, let’s explore the history, architecture, and activities of Hanoi Opera House with SVietnam Travel.
Overview of Hanoi Opera House
Hanoi Opera House was constructed on June 7, 1901, and completed in 1911. It was designed by French architects Broyer and Harlay, with Travary and Savelon overseeing the construction.
The opera house spans an area of 2,600 square meters, measuring 87 meters in length, 30 meters in width, and reaching 34 meters in height from the ground to the dome. A grand central staircase leads to the second floor, flanked by side staircases and corridors that encircle the building. Behind the stage are administrative offices, 18 dressing rooms, two rehearsal rooms, a library, and a meeting room. The theater has a seating capacity of 870, arranged across three levels, designed in 19th-century French classical style. The ceiling above the auditorium is adorned with paintings created by French artists. The chandeliers are gilded using advanced techniques, while the wall-mounted lamps are crafted from bronze in a vintage style.
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The main hall is paved with Italian marble, with its colors creating the illusion of a grand carpet. Along the walls are small gilded bronze chandeliers, while the central chandelier is gold-plated. The auditorium floor is covered with high-quality tiles and fire-resistant carpets, and the walls and ceiling feature intricate hand-painted decorations.
The Mirror Room, an important ceremonial space, is often used to welcome high-ranking government officials and state leaders. It is paved with Italian marble, assembled using traditional mosaic techniques.
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The acoustic system combines high-end audio equipment with carefully selected wall, ceiling, and balcony materials to ensure uniform sound distribution and eliminate echoes for an authentic auditory experience. The lighting system is fully automated and seamlessly integrates with special effects for smoke, water, and fire, designed by Philips (Singapore). The stage machinery system, installed by AMG (France), includes movable stage lifts, backdrop control devices, and an orchestra pit. The air conditioning system, developed by Carrier (USA), ensures optimal comfort. Additionally, the opera house is equipped with safety, internal communication, and fire prevention systems.
Over the past 100 years, Hanoi Opera House has hosted numerous performances, including concerts, symphonies, operas, and ballet by renowned Vietnamese and international artists.
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Key Milestones in the History and Development of Hanoi Opera House
- 1899: A city council meeting, chaired by Hanoi’s Resident Superior Richard, proposed the construction of the opera house.
- 1901: Groundbreaking ceremony on June 7, 1901.
- 1945: The opera house served as a venue for major revolutionary events, including the first session of the National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.
- 1995: Renovation and modernization of the opera house, including the installation of air conditioning, sound and lighting systems, and improved facilities.
- Present day: Hanoi Opera House remains a prestigious cultural and artistic venue, as well as a renowned tourist attraction for both domestic and international visitors.
How to Get to Hanoi Opera House
Hanoi Opera House is located in the city center, close to Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easily accessible.
- On foot: If you’re staying in the Old Quarter, you can walk to the opera house in about 1 km.
- By bus: Several bus routes pass by Hanoi Opera House, including 02, 35A, 43, 49, 55A, and 86CT.
- By private vehicle: You can use Google Maps for directions to Hanoi Opera House if you’re traveling by personal vehicle.
- By double-decker bus: For a more scenic experience, you can take the Hanoi City Tour double-decker bus, which departs from Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square and stops at August Revolution Square, right in front of Hanoi Opera House.
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What to See at Hanoi Opera House
Explore the Unique Architecture of Hanoi Opera House
Hanoi Opera House covers an area of approximately 2,600 square meters, inspired by the design of the Opéra Garnier in Paris. Every detail, from materials to decorations, has been meticulously crafted. The interior design, stage layout, and audience seating closely resemble European theaters built in the early 20th century.
The opera house is divided into three main areas: the main hall, the Mirror Room, and the auditorium.
- Main Hall: This is the welcoming area, featuring a T-shaped staircase leading to the second floor. The floor is paved with marble, adorned with classic motifs, exuding luxury and sophistication.
- Mirror Room: Located on the second floor, this elegant space is used for official ceremonies, government events, and VIP receptions. The floor is restored using mosaic tiling techniques, while large mirrors and sparkling crystal chandeliers reflect light beautifully, adding to its grandeur.
- Auditorium: Designed with intricate details, the auditorium is supported by Corinthian columns, holding up the grand dome. The ceiling is adorned with colorful bas-relief murals, and a luxurious gold-gilded crystal chandelier adds to the lavish ambiance. With a seating capacity of 870, the three-tiered seating area features plush red velvet chairs. The opera house also boasts state-of-the-art acoustics and lighting systems, ensuring an exceptional artistic experience for the audience.
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Stroll Around Hanoi Opera House Square
The area in front of the opera house is known as August Revolution Square (Quang truong Cach Mang Thang Tam) or August 19 Square. Surrounding the square are iconic landmarks, including the Hilton Hanoi Opera Hotel, Hoan Kiem Lake, the National Museum of History, and St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
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At night, when the square and surrounding buildings light up, the area becomes even more enchanting and photogenic. This makes it a popular spot for photography, including wedding shoots. It is also a venue for cultural performances during Vietnamese festivals and national celebrations.
Enjoy World-Class Artistic Performances
Hanoi Opera House frequently hosts large-scale concerts and artistic performances. Known for its modern sound system and opulent setting, it offers an immersive and unforgettable experience for visitors. Whether it’s classical music, opera, ballet, or traditional performances, attending a show at the opera house is a must for culture and art lovers.
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Opening Hours and Ticket Prices for Visiting Hanoi Opera House
Hanoi Opera House is open for visitors during business hours, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Weekends can be quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. For a more relaxed experience, it’s best to visit in the morning or afternoon on weekdays (Monday to Friday).
Below is the ticket information for different tour options:
Hanoi Opera House Guided Tour
- Ticket price: 120,000 VND per person
- Duration: 70 minutes per tour
- Available days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday
- Tour hours: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Hanoi Opera House Tour with Artistic Performance
- Ticket price: 400,000 VND per person
- Duration: 90 minutes per tour
- Available days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
- Tour hours: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Performance-Only Tickets
If you prefer to attend a performance without a tour, ticket prices start at 300,000 VND per person (depending on the show).
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With its rich history and stunning architecture, Hanoi Opera House is not only a venue for artistic performances but also a cultural symbol of the capital’s development. If you’re visiting Hanoi, don’t miss the chance to explore this iconic landmark!
