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Thang Long Water Puppet Show: The Worlds Most Boring Tourist Attraction in SEA?

Thang Long Water Puppet Show: The World's Most Boring Tourist Attraction in SEA?

Based on Solitaired, an online gaming platform, recently unveiled a study titled "100 Most Boring Tourist Attractions in the World for 2024." The analysis incorporated 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 tourist destinations across 384 cities in 71 countries, which serving as a guide for tourists planning their next tourist attractions.

According to the list, two Southeast Asian boring tourist attractions made the cut. These are Hanoi's Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and Penang's Fort Cornwallis.

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Written by Oliver PHUNG (Tour guide)Updated on 23-07-2024
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1. Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, Hanoi (Vietnam)

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi was singled out as notably unengaging, ranking as the No. 1 most boring activity in Southeast Asia with a score of 2.20, and 31st in the world based on 13,452 total reviews.

Located in Hanoi's iconic Old Quarter, right by the historic Sword Lake, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater is a unique venue that brings historical stories to life with traditional water puppet performances. Water puppetry is a long-standing art form in Vietnam and was recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage in 2003.

While some reviewers praised the puppeteers' skills and the captivating storylines, others were frustrated by obstructive tourists.

Water puppetry is a long-standing art form in Vietnam, and was recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage in 2003.
Water puppetry is a long-standing art form in Vietnam, and was recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage in 2003
The storyline of each performance has depth - Image source: Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
The storyline of each performance has depth - Image source: Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
Thang Long Water Puppet Show is highly appreciated by tourists for the skillful puppetry abilities of the artisans
Thang Long Water Puppet Show is highly appreciated by tourists for the skillful puppetry abilities of the artisans

Common complaints included loud conversations, excessive filming, and intrusive photography, which marred the experience for many, leading some to exit the show prematurely. 

The fact that many tourists filmed and talked made many people have an unpleasant experience when watching water puppetry
The fact that many tourists filmed and talked made many people have an unpleasant experience when watching water puppetry

Consequently, the venue's reviews were mixed, scoring 1/10 for seating comfort and space, but 10/10 for the puppetry performance.
 

Is the Thang Long Water Puppet Show worth truly experiencing?

Despite its cultural significance, the Thang Long Water Puppet Show in Hanoi receives mixed reviews. While many come to appreciate this traditional Vietnamese art form, others find it boring. This negative perception often stems from disruptions caused by visitors using their phones for photos and talking loudly, which diminishes the overall experience. 

If these issues are addressed, the Thang Long Water Puppet Show could become a must-visit for those seeking authentic Vietnamese culture. Besides, Hanoi has plenty of other attractions to explore. For more information on what to see and do, check out "Things to Do in Hanoi".

2. Fort Cornwallis, Penang (Malaysia)

Fort Cornwallis in Penang, Malaysia, ranks as the second "Most Boring Tourist Attraction in Southeast Asia," placing 63rd overall with a score of 2 points from 3,310 reviews. Built in the late 18th century, this bastion fort has not impressed many visitors.

As a historical site, it seems that Fort Cornwallis is highly appreciated, but it is not
As a historical site, it seems that Fort Cornwallis is highly appreciated, but it is not

As a historical site, Fort Cornwallis seems to be highly appreciated by some, but not by all. Many TripAdvisor reviewers agreed with the sentiment "Move along, not much to see here." It felt like paying an entry fee for a typical city park. Aside from a legendary cannon and a few ramparts, there's little of historical interest—just green lawns and a central plaza.

Most people agree that it is no different than a local park
Most people agree that it is no different than a local park

In contrast, some visitors from Google reviews gave it five stars, with one person praising it as an "awesome attraction for nature lovers." With an environment full of trees, this place is quite suitable for those who enjoy nature.

With an environment full of trees, this place is quite suitable for nature lovers
With an environment full of trees, this place is quite suitable for nature lovers

These locations were among the "100 Most Boring Tourist Attractions in the World for 2024" according to Solitaired's analysis.

Additionally, Seasia Stats, a site that tracks tourism data in Southeast Asia, used similar methods to Solitaired to identify the region's dullest destinations. Out of 11 countries, eight made the list.

Boring Tourist Attractions in Southeast Asia, 2024

  1. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre (Vietnam): 2.20
  2. Fort Cornwallis (Malaysia): 2.00 
  3. National Museum of Cambodia (Cambodia): 1.60
  4. Upside Down World Bal (Indonesia): 1.50
  5. Manila Zoo (Philipines): 1.50
  6. Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall (Thailand): 1.50
  7. Wat Xieng Khouane Luang (Laos): 1.20
  8. People’s Park (Myanmar): 1.10

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