Shanghai: Royal Banquet with Chinese Cultural Performance

Travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and cuisine might find the Royal Banquet with Chinese Cultural Performance in Shanghai an intriguing choice. This experience promises a taste of imperial elegance paired with traditional music and dance, all set within a setting designed to evoke China’s ancient palaces. We haven’t personally attended, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it offers a unique glimpse into Han cultural traditions, with a dash of theatrical flair and culinary delight.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are the authentic dishes served in a regal setting and the chance to dress up in traditional clothing. These add layers of immersion that go beyond typical sightseeing. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the language barrier during the performance, which could hinder full understanding for non-Chinese speakers. Nonetheless, this tour best suits those interested in cultural history, traditional arts, and a memorable dining experience that transports you to another era.

Key Points

• Authentic royal-style Chinese banquet with dishes inspired by history and prepared with high-quality ingredients
• Captivating cultural performances featuring traditional music and dance, enhancing the sense of stepping into an imperial setting
• Option to dress up in traditional Chinese attire and get makeup done, adding to the fun and immersive nature of the experience
• Ideal for culture lovers, foodies, and those seeking a memorable, photo-ready experience
• A good value considering the detailed menu and cultural entertainment included
• Limited English support during performances may be a challenge, but the visual spectacle and food make up for it

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Royal Banquet Experience

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be stepping into what feels like an ancient Chinese palace. The décor is meticulously designed to evoke the grandeur of imperial China—ornate furnishings, elegant lighting, and a majestic atmosphere that makes you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a visual and sensory journey into a different era.

Check-In and Timing

You can choose between lunch and dinner options. For lunch, check-in begins at 11:30, with the performance starting around 12:08. For those opting for dinner, check-in is at 18:00, with the show kicking off at 18:28. The entire experience lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day without feeling rushed. It’s wise to arrive early enough to settle in comfortably and perhaps take some photos of the stunning setting.

The Culinary Journey

The food served here isn’t just about filling a plate—it’s a tribute to centuries of culinary tradition. Every dish is crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients, and many have historical significance. For example, you’ll find Red-Cooked Pork with Abalone, Lychee Shrimp Balls, and Steamed Wild Yellow Croaker in the East China Sea—each offering a taste of genuine Han cuisine. Other items like Hawthorn Foie Gras, Pig Ears, and Fish Maw and Abalone Soup reflect regional flavors and local ingredients.

Several reviewers have commented positively on the meal’s quality, noting that it’s more than just a feast—it’s an experience. One reviewer said, “the food was wonderful and the entertainment was incredible,” emphasizing the memorable combination of presentation and flavor. The dishes are presented elegantly on traditional-style ware, adding to the feeling of dining in a palace.

Cultural Performances

The heart of the event is the traditional Chinese music and dance show. The performances likely include a mix of lively dances, classical music, and possibly theatrical acts, all aimed at showcasing China’s cultural riches. Some reviews mention that the shows are visually stunning and emotionally captivating. However, keep in mind that the show is entirely in Chinese, so those who don’t understand the language might miss some nuances unless translations are provided or you focus on the visual spectacle.

Interestingly, some guests appreciated the opportunity to observe the performances regardless of language, with one noting that “the music and dance performances were mesmerising.” Others suggested that having English explanations would enhance understanding, but the overall atmosphere compensated for this language barrier.

More Great Tours Nearby

Dress-up & Makeup Experience

Adding a fun twist, you can choose to dress in traditional Chinese clothing and get makeup applied for an extra 200 RMB. Many guests find this adds an element of playfulness and helps create memorable photos. Several reviews mention how much they enjoyed dressing up, with one noting, “Loved that we got to dress up and had the opportunity to have our hair and makeup done authentically.”

Menu Highlights & Value

The menu is extensive, covering a broad spectrum of flavors and textures: from nuts and sweets to savory pork and seafood. Highlights like Dahongpao Tea, Waxperry Sweets, Macaroons, and Osmanthus Green Plum Wine accompany the meal, adding a touch of elegance and refreshment. The inclusion of fruit yogurt offers a light, cooling finish.

Compared to typical dining options in Shanghai, this experience offers considerable value—not just in the food but in the culture. For $160 per person, guests receive a well-curated set meal, entertainment, and the chance to participate in cultural activities, making it a compelling package.

Accessibility & Practicalities

The tour is suitable for most adults but not recommended for children under 3. Kids under 130 centimeters require a child ticket, while those over 130 centimeters need an adult ticket. The experience is designed to be family-friendly, especially for kids interested in Chinese culture, though very young children might find the performances less engaging or tiring.

It’s worth noting that the experience can be booked with a “reserve & pay later” option, providing flexibility if your plans are still uncertain. Also, you’ll skip lines using a separate entrance, which is a small but appreciated convenience in busy Shanghai.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is perfect for culture enthusiasts who want to experience China’s imperial past in a lively, immersive setting. It appeals to those curious about traditional Chinese music, dance, and cuisine, especially if you enjoy dressing up and taking photos. Food lovers will appreciate the carefully prepared dishes, which go beyond typical restaurant fare to offer a taste of history.

However, travelers who don’t speak Chinese might find the show’s language barrier a slight obstacle unless they enjoy visual performances without needing full translations. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with a 2-2.5 hour experience that blends dining and entertainment.

Final Thoughts

The Royal Banquet with Chinese Cultural Performance in Shanghai provides a well-balanced mix of spectacle, cuisine, and cultural authenticity. The setting alone makes it worth considering, especially for those interested in experiencing a palace-like environment. The food, with its rich flavors and historical significance, complements the performances and adds depth to the experience.

While the language barrier might limit full understanding of the show, the visual appeal and atmosphere make up for it. The opportunity to dress in traditional attire and enjoy a carefully curated menu elevates this experience from a simple dinner to a memorable cultural event.

For travelers seeking a unique, immersive taste of China’s imperial history, this activity offers genuine value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy cultural shows, traditional food, and a bit of dress-up fun. Just remember to book in advance, arrive early, and prepare for a delightful evening that transports you into China’s glorious past.

FAQ

• Is the performance in English? No, the show is entirely in Chinese, but the visual elements are captivating and may still be enjoyable without translations.
• How long does the experience last? About 2 to 2.5 hours, including check-in, dining, and the performance.
• Can children participate? Children under 3 are not recommended. Kids under 130cm need a child ticket; those over 130cm require an adult ticket.
• What is included in the price? The meal, traditional Chinese performance, Dahongpao tea, sweets, wine, and various dishes listed in the menu.
• How much is the dress-up experience? 200 RMB extra, which includes traditional clothing and makeup.
• Is there a refund policy? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Are there options for lunch and dinner? Yes, with check-in times at 11:30 (lunch) and 18:00 (dinner), with performances starting shortly after.
• Where does the tour start and end? The meeting point varies depending on your booking, but the experience ends back at the original location.
• Is the experience suitable for big groups? Yes, but check with the provider about group size if planning for many people.
• Can I book for the same day? It’s best to book at least one day in advance, preferably 24 hours before, to secure your spot.

This experience offers a wonderful chance to enjoy Chinese culture in an elegant, vivid setting—ideal for those eager to add a touch of imperial history to their Shanghai visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: