In Pictures: The art of water puppetry in Nguyen Xa Village

The Nguyen Xa water puppetry tradition in Hung Yen Province has been officially recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage. In recent years, this unique art form has been introduced into school curricula, enabling pupils to study and experience the craft first-hand.

Monday, December 15, 2025 12:02

A water puppetry performance captivates audiences at a local festival.

Meritorious Artist Nguyen Chat Luan carefully inspects the puppets.

An artist guides pupils as they paint their own puppets.

People’s Artist Nguyen Xuan Thu teaches students the intricate skills of puppet handling.

Pupils enthusiastically try their hands at controlling the puppets.

People’s Artist Nguyen Dinh Bay is Head of the Nguyen Xa Water Puppetry Troupe

Pupils showcase their newly acquired skills during a practical session.

A glimpse behind the scenes reveals the backstage area of the 'thuy dinh' (water pavilion).

Students from Nguyen Xa Secondary School stage a lively water puppetry performance at the village’s pavilion.

NDO/Photos: LE HUU DUNG

water puppetry Nguyen Xa Village

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