Hanoi Opera House: A timeless icon of art and architecture

The facade of Hanoi Opera House. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Huy

History and significance

The Hanoi Opera House was designed by French architects Harlay and Broyer, who drew inspiration from classical Greek Corinthian architecture and elements of the Palais Garnier Opera House in Paris. Construction began in 1901, under the supervision of architect Harlay, and required significant effort, including the installation of 35,000 bamboo piles and the use of over 12,000 cubic meters of materials.

Spanning 2,600 square meters with a 34-meter-high facade, the building featured opulent interiors, including a 24x24-meter auditorium with seating for 870 guests. Its luxurious design included leather and velvet seats, grand T-shaped staircases, and a glittering mirror room for ceremonial events and official receptions.

Originally intended as a venue for classical European performances such as opera, chamber music, and spoken theater, it catered to the French colonial elite and a small number of wealthy Vietnamese. The opera house also holds immense historical significance. It was the site of key events during the August Revolution of 1945 and the early years of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. From political gatherings to cultural milestones, the venue has witnessed pivotal moments in the nation's history.

Location and accessibility

Situated at No.1 Trang Tien Street in Hoan Kiem District, the Hanoi Opera House is easily accessible:

- By foot: A short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and other major attractions in central Hanoi.

- By public transport: Bus routes like 02, 35A, 43, and 86CT stop near the Hanoi Opera House. Visitors can also explore the area using the Hanoi City Tour double-decker bus, which departs from Hoan Kiem Lake.

- By private vehicle: Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are widely available, or visitors can drive and park nearby.

Events and programs

The Hanoi Opera House offers guided tours and cultural performances for visitors:

Opera House Tour:

- Ticket price: VND120,000 (US$4.72) per person

- Duration: 70 minutes

- Schedule: Monday to Sunday (except Fridays)

Tour with performance:

- Ticket price: VND400,000 per person

- Duration: 90 minutes

- Schedule: Mondays and Thursdays

For standalone performances, ticket prices start at VND300,000 per person. These include classical music, traditional Vietnamese art, and international productions, catering to diverse cultural interests.

Visitor guidelines

To ensure a pleasant experience, visitors are advised to adhere to the following:

- Dress formally, especially when attending performances.

- Children under six years old are not permitted.

- Refrain from bringing food, beverages, or chewing gum into the venue.

- Switch mobile devices to silent mode during performances.

- Arrive on time, as latecomers may not be allowed entry after the performance begins.

The Hanoi Opera House is more than just a building—it is a testament to Vietnam's rich cultural history and artistic achievements. Whether attending a performance or exploring its architectural splendor, the opera house remains an essential destination for anyone visiting Hanoi.