Xi’an: Chang’an Twelve Hours Tang Dynasty Banquet

If you’re heading to Xi’an and want to step back into a time when empires flourished and court life was opulent, the Chang’an Twelve Hours Tang Dynasty Banquet offers an engaging mix of history, performance, and food. For about $98, you get a well-rounded experience that blends the flavors of ancient China with dazzling performances that evoke the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty. It’s a perfect choice for history buffs, families, or anyone eager to get a taste of China’s imperial past without leaving the city.

What we particularly like are the authentic performances, which are not just staged showpieces but seem to truly reflect the spirit of the Tang court, and the varied menu that covers everything from savory hot dishes to delicate desserts. The immersive setting makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a palace banquet, and the fact that it’s accessible and flexible makes it even more appealing.

One possible consideration is that the experience is quite structured, with set timings and a specific schedule, so it’s not ideal if you prefer spontaneous dining or want a more casual meal. But for those who enjoy a planned, theatrical cultural evening, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic cultural performances, historical atmospheres, and hearty Chinese cuisine. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with family, a partner, or a group eager to taste and see the splendors of ancient China in a lively, celebratory setting.

Key Points

• Authentic atmosphere: The venue is designed to reflect the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty, adding to the overall immersion.
• Cultural performances: Traditional dance, music, and ceremonial acts bring history vividly to life.
• Hearty menu: The banquet features a wide variety of dishes, from appetizers to seasonal fruits, providing good value.
• Flexible booking: Reservations are required but allow for flexibility with a “reserve now, pay later” option.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for visitors of all ages who want an engaging cultural experience.
• Limited beverages included: Additional drinks or premium dishes are extra, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Venue and Setting

The Chang’an Twelve Hours theme area in Xi’an is crafted to evoke the splendor of the Tang Dynasty. As soon as you arrive at the location, located on the second floor of the Chang’an Twelve Hours Theme Street near Datang Everbright City, you’ll notice a space that balances historical authenticity with theatrical flair. The architecture and decor are designed to make you feel like you’re dining in an imperial hall, with ornate details and traditional motifs that set the mood for a memorable night.

Travelers have praised the venue for its attention to detail—the lighting, costumes, and stage setups all contribute to creating an immersive environment. The environment feels lively but intimate enough to appreciate each performance.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The experience generally lasts around 12 hours, but the core dining and performances occur within a set timeframe, with dinner or lunch options depending on your reservation. For example, the lunch experience (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM) or dinner (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM) are available, so you should choose your time slot carefully.

Once seated, you’re treated to a lavish banquet, which is themed around the grandeur of the Tang court. The menus differ slightly based on the package—either for four or two people—but both include a mix of appetizers, hot dishes, snacks, and fresh fruit. For a four-person table, dishes include BBQ meats, roasted duck, chive oat noodles, and a variety of seasonal greens. The two-person menu features Qin-style beef slices, rice noodles, and flavorful hot dishes like vinegar soup and lamb.

The Food

The food stands out as a highlight, especially for those who enjoy Chinese cuisine. The dishes are prepared to reflect traditional flavors, with some menu items such as seven-treasure sour soup and Changan-style chicken providing a taste of regional spice and seasoning. The appetizers, like fragrant glutinous rice dumplings and mini meat buns, are flavorful but not overwhelming, making them perfect starters.

Desserts and fruits round out the meal, emphasizing freshness and seasonal availability. While some reviews note that “the menu items may vary depending on the season or ingredient availability,” the overall quality remains consistent. The dishes are substantial enough to satisfy the hearty appetites typically enjoyed in Chinese feasts.

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Cultural Performances

What sets this experience apart from a simple banquet is the live cultural entertainment. As you dine, traditional dance and music performances unfold on stage, capturing the elegance and energy of the Tang Dynasty. The performers often wear authentic costumes and execute intricate dance routines that enchant both adults and children alike.

Guests have commented on the professionalism of the performers—not just staged acts but performances that convey a real sense of historical ambiance. The ceremonial acts, which might include traditional music and dance, contribute significantly to the authenticity and festive atmosphere.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility challenges to enjoy the experience. Meeting points are conveniently located on the second floor of the venue, and arriving at least 30 minutes early is recommended to ensure smooth entry, especially during busy periods.

Reservations are essential, especially during peak seasons or holidays. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change. Remember to bring your passport for check-in, and note that additional dishes, drinks, or premium items are available at extra cost.

Authenticity and Value

For $98 per person, this banquet offers a well-rounded cultural experience—combining live performances, historical ambiance, and a generous meal. Many visitors find it to be an excellent value, as it provides more than just a meal; it’s a glimpse into the luxurious social life of the Tang Dynasty.

While some may expect a more casual dining experience, the structured schedule and theatrical setting mean you get a full theatrical performance along with your food, making it a memorable highlight of your visit. The inclusion of tickets to the entire theme area ensures you can explore further if desired.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, families looking for an educational yet entertaining outing, or couples wanting a romantic, culturally rich dinner. It’s also a good choice if you want to avoid large crowds but still enjoy an immersive cultural activity. However, if you prefer spontaneous dining or are on a very tight schedule, this might feel a bit rigid.

The Sum Up

The Chang’an Twelve Hours Tang Dynasty Banquet delivers a compelling mix of authentic performances, hearty Chinese cuisine, and a beautifully themed setting. It’s a chance to feel like you’re dining in the court of an ancient empire, with plenty of visual and sensory stimulation along the way. The experience’s strength lies in its combination of historical ambiance and engaging entertainment, making it ideal for visitors who want more than just a meal—they want a story, a spectacle, and a taste of China’s imperial past.

The cost is reasonable considering the quality and scale of the performance, and the venue’s attention to detail ensures you’re getting a genuine, memorable experience. It’s especially suited for those interested in cultural authenticity and lively performances. If you’re traveling with family, your partner, or friends, this banquet offers a fun, educational evening that’s sure to inspire stories long after the meal.

This tour is a well-executed plan to enjoy Xi’an’s history in a lively, engaging manner. It combines the best aspects of cultural performance and delicious food—an experience that can make your trip truly special.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, many families enjoy the performances and the lively atmosphere, making it a fun and educational outing for kids.

How long does the banquet last?
The core experience lasts around 12 hours, but the main dining and performances occur within a specific scheduled timeframe, typically 4 hours.

Can I book for a large group?
Yes, reservations are required, and the experience is adaptable for groups, but check availability in advance.

Are drinks included?
No, additional dishes, drinks, or premium items are extra and will incur additional costs.

What should I bring?
Your passport is needed for check-in. Away from the venue, no pets, weapons, or large luggage are allowed.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it convenient for travelers with mobility challenges.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility for changes.

How do I confirm the timing?
Check your reservation details beforehand and arrive at least 30 minutes early for a smooth start.

Can I just attend the performances without dining?
The experience is designed as a combined banquet and performance; separate entry options are not provided.

How authentic are the performances?
Guests have noted the professionalism of the performers and the authentic costumes, which help evoke the Tang Dynasty’s grandeur.

You can check availability for your dates here: