Xi’an, the ancient capital of China, is renowned for its rich history, and one of the best ways to experience this cultural treasure is through its captivating performances. From grand historical dramas to immersive theatrical experiences, Xi’an offers a variety of shows that bring its vibrant history to life. Here’s your ultimate guide to the must-see performances in Xi’an, each offering a unique glimpse into Chinese culture and history.
1. “Song of Everlasting Sorrow” (长恨歌)
- Time: 20:30 onwards
- Location: Huaqing Palace, No. 38 Huaqing Road, Lintong District, Xi’an
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 9 to Huaqingchi Station (华清池站)
- Ticket Price: ¥238/268/358/388
Overview: “Song of Everlasting Sorrow” is a mesmerizing performance inspired by Bai Juyi’s famous poem, which recounts the tragic love story of Emperor Xuanzong and his beloved consort, Yang Guifei. The performance is a blend of music, dance, and dramatic storytelling, set against the backdrop of the luxurious Huaqing Palace hot springs, where the couple once spent time. The show is on hold in November and will resume with an updated version titled “Ice and Fire Song of Everlasting Sorrow” in December.
2. “Brave Qin Dynasty” (赳赳大秦)
- Time: 19:45 onwards
- Location: Daqin Theatre, Intersection of Fengdong Avenue and Tiantai Road, Weiyang District, Xi’an
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 5 to Afang Palace South Station (阿房宫站)
- Ticket Price: ¥288/338/388/458
Overview: “Brave Qin Dynasty” is an epic show that takes you back to the grandeur of the Qin Dynasty, known for its innovative stage design and jaw-dropping effects. Featuring the world’s longest and fastest track-based mobile seating, the show takes the audience through the splendor of ancient China with breathtaking stage visuals, dynamic sound effects, and powerful performances.
3. “The Camel Bell Legend” (驼铃传奇)
- Time: 11:30-22:30, with performances every hour
- Location: Huaxia Cultural Tourism Theatre, Xi’an
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 3 to Wuzhuang Station (务庄站) and transfer to Changba 10 Line
- Ticket Price: ¥298/348/398/468
Overview: “The Camel Bell Legend” tells the story of a daring camel caravan journeying along the ancient Silk Road, braving natural dangers like volcanoes, avalanches, and desert storms, as well as wild animal attacks, to reach Rome. This performance blends stunning visuals, sound effects, and live-action performances to create a thrilling adventure that immerses you in the challenges faced by ancient travelers on the Silk Road.
4. “Eternal Charm” (千古情)
- Time: 13:00, 15:30, 17:30, 19:00
- Location: Expo Park, Baqiao District, Xi’an
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 3 to Xianghu Bay Station (香湖湾站), then transfer to Changba 3 Line
- Ticket Price: ¥298/348
Overview: “Eternal Charm” is a grand historical and cultural performance focusing on the journey of a young Chinese girl who returns to her ancestral homeland. The show uses romanticism to present epic scenes such as “The Light of Banpo” and “Zhou Rhyme and Qin Wind.” Through stunning stage effects, it showcases the deep connection to China’s history and culture, particularly from the perspective of a multicultural experience.
5. “The Xi’an Incident” (西安事变)
- Time: 19:45 onwards
- Location: Yao Guang Pavilion, Huaqing Palace, Lintong District, Xi’an
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 9 to Huaqingchi Station (华清池站)
- Ticket Price: ¥260
Overview: “The Xi’an Incident” is a poignant performance set in the very location where the historical event took place. This immersive show uses 360-degree images and elaborate stage design to bring the dramatic confrontation between Chiang Kai-shek and generals Zhang Xueliang and Yang Hucheng to life. Through stunning visuals and historical reenactments, the audience is transported to the past, offering a deeper understanding of the crucial event that shaped modern Chinese history.
6. “Resurrected Legions” (复活的兵团)
- Time: 13:20 and later shows
- Location: Daqin Theatre, Xi’an
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 9 to Yin Bridge Avenue Station (银桥大道站)
- Ticket Price: ¥260
Overview: This performance brings the grandeur of the Qin Empire to the stage with a captivating four-act show that showcases the glory and ambition of one of China’s most powerful dynasties. Using moving stage elements and an immersive walking experience, “Resurrected Legions” vividly depicts the empire’s culture, history, and military prowess in a stunning theatrical experience.
7. “Dream of Chang’an” (梦长安)
- Time: 20:30
- Location: South Gate of Yongning Gate, Xi’an
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 to Yongning Gate Station (永宁门站)
- Ticket Price: ¥280/380/880
Overview: “Dream of Chang’an” is a spectacular cultural performance that showcases the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty through the lens of the imperial capital, Chang’an. The show features the highest ceremonial rites of the Tang Dynasty, bringing the history of this prosperous era to life with lighting effects, historical reenactments, and performances. The unique storytelling style, blending history and fantasy, allows the audience to immerse themselves in the wonders of ancient Chang’an, one of the world’s greatest cities.
8. “Chasing Dreams of the Tang Dynasty” (大唐追梦)
- Time: 20:30-21:30
- Location: North Dock of the Tang Paradise, Xi’an
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 4 to Tang Paradise Station (大唐芙蓉园)
- Ticket Price: ¥318/418/518/618
Overview: “Chasing Dreams of the Tang Dynasty” takes you on a vibrant, dazzling journey through the glory of the Tang Empire with its colorful lighting effects and innovative multimedia techniques. The show uses water screens, fountains, and various special effects to enhance the sensory experience, creating a visually stunning atmosphere that brings the stories of the Tang Dynasty to life in a spectacular fashion.
9. “The Feast of Bliss” (极乐之宴)
- Time: 15:00, 20:00
- Location: Chang’an Twelve Hours (长安十二时辰), Xi’an
- Transportation: Take Metro Line 4 to Tang Paradise Station (大唐芙蓉园)
- Ticket Price: ¥128
Overview: Set against the backdrop of the famous love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei, “The Feast of Bliss” immerses the audience in the romance, poetry, and grandeur of Tang China. This performance features an interactive dining experience with NPCs (non-playable characters) and an immersive banquet setting, giving visitors the chance to savor the splendor of Tang culture while enjoying a feast fit for royalty.