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If you’re seeking an authentic Vietnamese cultural experience during your Northern Vietnam journey, The Quintessence of Tonkin is an absolute must-see. More than just a performance, it is a poetic blend of history, folklore, spirituality, and traditional village life – brought to life in a mesmerizing outdoor setting at the foot of Thay Mountain, just outside Hanoi.

What makes The Quintessence of Tonkin truly unique is its one-of-a-kind stage – a 4,300-square-meter water surface that merges seamlessly with the surrounding mountains, rivers, and night sky. Enhanced by cutting-edge lighting and projection technology, the entire setting becomes an enchanting canvas where nature and performance intertwine. You don’t just watch the show – you become part of it.

Nearly 200 Farmers as “Storytellers”

Unlike traditional performances, this show features over 150 local farmers from the Sai Son area, where the show is staged. These “barefoot artists” bring authenticity and raw emotion to the performance, re-enacting scenes from daily rural life – plowing the fields, flying kites, water puppetry, and village festivals – in a way that feels both nostalgic and deeply moving.

Six Acts – Six Cultural Portraits

The Quintessence of Tonkin unfolds in six chapters, from the legendary tale of Zen Master Tu Dao Hanh to vivid snapshots of Vietnamese village life, rituals, spiritual practices, and folk art such as Ca Trù, Quan Họ, and traditional dances with lotus flowers and conical hats. Each act captures a different facet of the Red River Delta’s soul – rich, layered, and poetic.

Visitor Information

– Show Schedule: Every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday evening

– Location: Thay Pagoda area – Sai Son, Quoc Oai District, Hanoi (Approx. 25km from central Hanoi)

– Transportation: Accessible via private car, taxi, or show-arranged shuttle services

– Languages: Audio guides available in multiple languages for international guests