What is Hai Phong Opera House and can I visit?
Hai Phong Opera House (Nhà hát Lớn) is a 1904 French colonial building in downtown Hai Phong. Smaller than Hanoi's but well-preserved. Performances scheduled monthly; tourists can attend shows or photograph exterior. Located at Tran Hung Dao Square. Free to view outside; tickets 100,000-300,000 VND for performances. Best visited morning for photos or evening for shows.
Hai Phong Opera House is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1904 during French colonial rule, it predates Hanoi’s Opera House by a few years and remains in active use today.
Architecture and history
The Opera House was designed in French neoclassical style with Gothic influences. Key features:
- Facade: Symmetrical design with arched windows, decorative columns, and ornate balconies.
- Auditorium: 300-seat capacity (much smaller than Hanoi’s 600 seats).
- Location: Tran Hung Dao Square — the city’s central plaza.
The building survived World War II and the Vietnam War with minimal damage. Restoration work in the 1990s and 2000s preserved original architectural details.
Visiting options
Exterior viewing (free)
The Opera House is best experienced from outside. The building’s facade is fully visible from Tran Hung Dao Square.
- Best time: Morning light (7-9am) or golden hour (4-6pm).
- Photo spots: Center of the square, or from the steps leading up to the building.
- Duration: 10-15 minutes for photos.
Attending a performance
Performances are scheduled monthly. Tickets are affordable and provide access to the historic interior.
- Ticket price: 100,000-300,000 VND depending on seat location.
- Performance types: Classical music, traditional theater (cheo, tuong), dance, occasional concerts.
- Schedule: Varies — check box office or Hai Phong Department of Culture website.
- Booking: Box office opens 1-2 hours before shows; no online booking.
Guided tours
Occasionally available for groups through Hai Phong Tourism Center.
- Cost: 50,000-100,000 VND per person (group rates apply).
- Duration: 20-30 minutes interior tour.
- Availability: Advance booking required; not guaranteed for solo travelers.
What to expect inside
The auditorium retains original French colonial decor:
- Ceiling: Painted murals and chandeliers.
- Seating: Velvet seats in red and gold.
- Stage: Proscenium arch with ornate framing.
Note: Interior photography is prohibited during performances.
Nearby attractions
The Opera House is within walking distance of other French colonial buildings:
- Hoang Van Thu Street: Colonial villas (5-minute walk).
- Hai Phong Museum: 10-minute walk.
- Dinh Hang Kenh: 15-minute walk or short motorbike taxi.
The short version
What: 1904 French colonial Opera House, smaller than Hanoi’s but well-preserved. Visit: Free exterior viewing; performances 100,000-300,000 VND for interior access. Time: Morning for photos, evening for shows. Honest take: Worth 15 minutes for photos; performances are hit-or-miss for tourists.