The Saigon Opera House, a cultural icon, sits at the core of Ho Chi Minh City's lively District 1. This architectural masterpiece reflects Vietnam's French colonial era while functioning as a dynamic hub for the performing arts. As a key attraction, it offers visitors a window into the city's diverse cultural legacy. Vietravel, Vietnam's Largest Aviation and Tourism Corporation, presents the ultimate guide to help you uncover the elegance and history of this must-visit landmark.
Learn more about Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon.
I. Where is the Saigon Opera House?
The Saigon Opera House, also known as the Municipal Theatre, occupies a prime location on Dong Khoi Street, one of the most famous and vibrant streets in Ho Chi Minh City. The building’s central position makes it easily accessible by various forms of transportation.
- Address: 7 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe, District 1 (Saigon Opera House on Google Maps)
- Open time: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM daily
Tip: Visits are available only on event days, so check the schedule in advance
II. The best time to visit in a day - Saigon Opera House travel guide
1. Morning for serene exploration
Visit the Opera House in the morning to enjoy a peaceful experience. From 9 to 11 AM, the area around the Opera House is relatively quiet, allowing you to admire the intricate architecture and take in the ambiance of one of Saigon’s most iconic landmarks. The morning light enhances the beauty of the building’s detailed facades, making it an ideal time for photography enthusiasts.
2. Evening for performance lovers
The Saigon Opera House comes alive in the evening, especially when there are performances scheduled. From 7 PM onwards, the area buzzes with excitement as locals and tourists gather to attend shows. The exterior of the Opera House, illuminated by soft lights, creates a magical atmosphere. If you’re interested in watching a performance, make sure to check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early.
III. The history of the Saigon Opera House - Saigon Opera House travel guide
After the French conquest of Cochinchina, the French government invited a theatre company to perform for the French legion in Saigon in 1863. Initially, performances took place in a wooden building at the foreman’s palace at Clock Square. Shortly after, a temporary theatre was set up on the current site of the Caravelle Hotel. Construction of a new theatre began in 1898 at the same location and was inaugurated on January 1, 1900. Between World War I and World War II, the municipal government covered all operational costs. Although the theatre was intended as an entertainment venue for the emerging middle class, the rise of nightclubs, music bars, and dance halls gradually diminished its audience. Consequently, performances during this period were infrequent, consisting mainly of concerts and Cai Luong programs.
In 1943, some of the theatre's decorations, engravings, and statues were removed to give the façade a more modern appearance. The following year, the venue suffered significant damage from Allied aerial bombings and was subsequently closed. In 1955, the Saigon Opera House was renovated and repurposed as the Congress House, later known as the Lower House of the State of Vietnam under the Republic of Vietnam. After 1975, the theatre was restored to its original function as a venue for performing arts. In 1998, the city authorities undertook a major renovation to preserve the opera house's French architectural style in celebration of Saigon's 300th anniversary.
In 2005, exterior lighting was added to enhance the theatre's nighttime appearance. A small park with fountains once existed in front of the building, but it was removed in 2008 to make way for the construction of Ho Chi Minh City's first metro project, which was also the first in Vietnam. Designated as a national relic in 2012, the Saigon Opera House is now a renowned venue for significant events and cultural activities in the city.
IV. Architecture Wonders
1. Interior
The Opera House accommodates approximately 500 spectators across three tiers. Its interior showcases the ornate aesthetic typical of France's Third Republic era, with traditional architectural features such as coffered ceilings and pendentives. Flanking the stage are two-tiered box seats, probably designated for VIP attendees seeking prime views, reminiscent of other Western opera venues. These boxes are embellished externally with composite columns on each side, linked by an arched structure featuring a central decorative element.
2. The Colonial Past
The French built opera houses in Saigon, Haiphong, and Hanoi between 1889 and 1910 as part of their colonial "civilizing mission" in Indochina. These structures aimed to bring French cultural traditions to Vietnam, transforming major cities into miniature versions of Paris. Opera houses were foreign to the region, as local performances typically involved traveling troupes.
The Saigon Opera House, part of urban development, symbolized French colonial presence and supposed superiority. However, the project faced challenges. Its high construction and operational costs sparked debates about economic versus cultural benefits, especially given local infrastructure needs like water sanitation.
Moreover, operas were largely disconnected from Vietnamese context and culture. They catered to the elite who spoke French or other Western languages and had the time and money for such entertainment. This created social and cultural barriers, as most locals needed to familiarize themselves with Western operatic traditions and languages.
The Saigon Opera House's architecture reflects the French approach to protecting and controlling access to their arts and culture, which was tied to their "civilizing mission" ideology. The building's exterior appears unwelcoming and exclusive. This impression is created by two large caryatids - sculptured female figures serving as columns - that seem to guard the main entrance. The entrance is positioned high above ground level, reached by a series of narrowing steps. This design reinforces the idea of the opera house as a restricted, elite space, mirroring the French colonial attitude towards cultural dissemination.
V. Top 3 most excellent Saigon Opera House shows - Saigon Opera House travel guide
Visitors to the Saigon Opera House can experience a variety of performances, including classical concerts, opera galas, and both traditional and modern Vietnamese dances. Among the most popular shows are A O, The Mist, and Teh Dar.
1. A O Show
A O Show blends visual theater, contemporary dance, traditional Vietnamese music, acrobatics, and bamboo circus acts. Its name, derived from "A" (village) and "O" (city), reflects the show's exploration of rural-urban contrasts in Vietnamese life.
2. Mist Show
The Mist Show offers insight into Vietnamese farmers' daily lives, highlighting their efforts in rice cultivation. Through neoclassical and modern dance, performers depict the farmers' routines from morning to night.
3. Teh Dar Show
Teh Dar Show, a Vietnamese bamboo circus performance, showcases the culture of Vietnamese highland communities. Performers wear distinctive red and black costumes, with men in loincloths and women in embroidered short skirts, telling previously untold stories of highland life.
VI. How to get to Saigon Opera House? - What to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Want to get to Saigon Opera House easily? Vietravel has picked the best ways to go. We'll help you find a way that fits your style and budget. Let's make your trip fun with our local tips!
1. By Bus
Want to travel like a local? Take a bus! You'll see daily life in Saigon as you ride. Buses 3, 19, and 45 all go to Saigon Opera House.
Tip: Try the Hop-on-Hop-off bus if you want to stop at other places too!
2. By Taxi
Need a quick ride? Get a taxi or use a ride app. You can use Mai Linh, Vina Sun, Grab, Be, Xanh SM, or GoJek! With apps, you'll know the price before you ride.
3. By Walking
Like to explore? Try walking! You'll feel the city's buzz and see cool sights. But watch out for hot sun and rain. New to the city? A guide can show you hidden spots.
4. By Cyclo
Want an old-school ride? Try a cyclo – it's like a big bike with a seat. It costs more, but it's a special way to see the city. You can take photos as you ride to Independence Palace.
VII. Conclusion
Discover the elegance and history of Ho Chi Minh City with Vietravel’s Saigon Opera House travel guide. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply a curious traveler, this iconic landmark offers something for everyone. Ready to explore more of Ho Chi Minh City? Dive into our comprehensive travel guide for detailed itineraries, tips, and recommendations to ensure a memorable trip. Let Vietravel, Asia’s Leading Tour Operator, guide you through the vibrant and historical heart of Vietnam.
As the Largest Aviation - Tourism corporation in the country, Vietravel consistently provides high-standard services at the most competitive prices so that you can discover the beauty of not only Vietnam but all of Southeast Asia.
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