Shanghai Guided Royal Banquet Photo (Incl) with Massage Opt

Introduction: A Night of Imperial China in Shanghai

Imagine stepping back in time to dine as an emperor might have in ancient China. For just around $20, you can join a Shanghai-guided Royal Banquet, where you’ll feast on royal cuisine, enjoy traditional Chinese dance and musical performances, and have the chance to dress in historical Chinese costumes. Hosted at a well-organized venue in Shanghai’s Jing’an District, this experience blends culture with a dash of fun and elegance.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the attention to detail — from the authentic menu designed to mimic imperial dishes to the live performances that bring history to life. Plus, having a knowledgeable guide who explains everything and takes excellent photos makes the night even more memorable.

However, a key consideration is the advance reservation requirement. To secure the best seats or special options, you’ll need to book at least 2 days ahead, preferably more. This is not a last-minute spontaneous activity but a carefully curated experience that calls for planning.

This tour suits travelers who love Chinese culture, history enthusiasts, and those wanting a unique, immersive dinner that’s more than just a meal. If you’re curious about China’s imperial past or just want a fun night out in Shanghai, this tour is a fantastic choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Combines food, performances, costumes, and optional massage for a full immersion.
• Guided Tour: Local guides explain every detail and help with photos, making the night stress-free.
• Royal Cuisine: Offers a carefully prepared menu with traditional Chinese dishes, including vegan options.
• Interactive Elements: Dress in traditional costumes and participate in tea ceremonies and dance performances.
• Optional Add-Ons: Traditional Chinese massages help you unwind after the festivities.
• Advance Booking Required: Reserve at least 2 days ahead to secure your spot, especially if you want VIP seating or costumes.

The Experience Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Do

Meeting and Setting the Scene

Your evening begins at a centrally located venue in Shanghai’s Jing’an District, where the staff sets the tone for a night of elegance. The tour is guided by a friendly local who offers explanations in English, ensuring you understand the significance of each performance and dish. It’s helpful to reach out via WhatsApp after booking if you want VIP seats, special diets, or additional services like costume dressing or massages.

The Royal Dinner: A Culinary Journey

The meal itself is a highlight. The menu features a selection of Chinese delicacies designed to evoke the imperial courts:

• Starters include royal pastries and cold dishes that set the tone for a luxurious feast.
• The main courses range from Ham and Tofu Soup to Crispy Black Pepper Beef, Braised Dongpo Pork, and Crab with Pickled Radish and Bean Noodles. Vegetarian and special diet options are available if requested.
• For drinks, Tea and Chinese fruit wine are served, the latter with a modest 3-degree alcohol content, perfect for sipping throughout the meal.
• To finish, there’s a Red Jujube Yogurt dessert, offering something sweet and healthy.

This menu offers a taste of what Chinese emperors might have enjoyed, served in a setting that reflects the grandeur of the past. Many reviews, like Michela’s, praise the delicious food and beautiful presentation, which elevates the dining experience well beyond typical tourist fare.

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Performances and Cultural Rituals

Throughout the night, you’ll see a series of traditional performances:

• The Sacrificial Rite offers a historical glimpse into ancient ceremonies honoring the Five Cereals.
• The Welcome Rite sets a festive tone with grand gestures.
• The Musical Rite showcases Chinese instruments like the guzheng (a type of zither), pipa, bamboo flute, and drums.
• The Dance Rite features elegant movements, often with women wearing floral hairpins.
• The Tea Ritual introduces you to traditional Chinese tea-making, highlighting subtle flavors in a tranquil setting.
• The Celebratory Rite concludes with a Royal Court Dance, which many reviewers found both beautiful and lively.

These performances are not only entertaining but also educational, revealing facets of Chinese cultural rites that date back centuries.

Dress Up and Photograph the Moment

One of the most Instagram-worthy aspects is the traditional Chinese costume and makeup experience. For a small additional fee, you’ll get to dress as an aristocrat from a chosen dynasty, complete with authentic costumes and makeup. Hundreds of options mean you can find a style that suits your taste—be it the elegant robes of the Tang Dynasty or the ornate dress of the Ming.

Many reviewers, including Khadija and Simone, found this part particularly fun and memorable, with excellent photos as keepsakes. It’s a chance to fully step into the role of an ancient noble and take some stunning shots.

Relaxation with Optional Chinese Massage

After the evening’s festivities, you can opt for a traditional Chinese massage—a perfect way to unwind. Choices include a 60-minute meridian massage, with or without oil, or a foot massage, all designed to relax muscles and clear your mind. It’s an optional but highly recommended add-on, especially after a night of sitting and enjoying performances.

Practical Details and Tips

• Advance booking is a must, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
• The dining officially starts at 12:10 for lunch and 19:00 for dinner, but arriving early allows time for costume dressing and makeup.
• The price of the meal is paid on-site, with adult prices around 1000 CNY (approximately $139). Children under 1.3 meters in height pay a reduced rate.
• You can pay extra for costume and makeup services, each costing about 100 CNY.
• The guides are very helpful, often taking photos and offering explanations, which enhances the overall experience.

Authenticity and Value: What You’re Really Getting

This experience offers a well-rounded look into Chinese history and culture in a way that’s engaging and accessible. The menu is thoughtfully curated to reflect imperial tastes, with a good mix of traditional flavors and presentation. The performances are lively and informative, giving you context and entertainment in one package.

The costs—roughly $20 for the reservation fee plus on-site dining charges—provide good value, considering the comprehensive nature of the experience. While the actual meal costs around 1000 CNY, the overall package includes a guide, photos, and cultural activities, which makes it a worthwhile investment for those interested in China’s history and traditions.

The cost of optional extras like costumes and massages is reasonable and adds a fun, personalized touch, especially if you want memorable photos or need to relax after the event.

What We Love

We especially appreciated the knowledgeable guides, like Bonnie, who brought the experience alive with explanations and great photos, and the beautiful performances that captured traditional Chinese elegance. The chance to dress in authentic costumes and have professional makeup done adds a layer of immersion that makes this more than just a dinner.

A Consideration

The main thing to keep in mind is advance reservation. Without booking at least 2 days in advance, you risk missing out on limited spots or the best seating options. Also, the experience can feel a bit rushed if you don’t plan to arrive early for costume and makeup.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for culture enthusiasts, history buffs, or travelers wanting a unique cultural souvenir. It’s perfect if you enjoy interactive activities, like dressing up or learning about ancient Chinese rituals. It also works well for those who appreciate good food and want to combine that with a cultural show.

Families with children over 3 years old will find it engaging, especially if they enjoy dressing up and watching performances. It’s not ideal for very young kids or travelers on a tight schedule, given the need for advance planning and the duration of the event.

FAQs

Is advance reservation necessary?
Yes, it’s strongly recommended to reserve at least 2 days ahead, and preferably more, to secure your spot and the best seating options.

What is included in the price?
The reservation fee covers your booking, a personal guide, and photo services. The meal and optional extras, like costumes and massages, are paid on-site.

Can I request special diets?
Yes, you should contact the guide via WhatsApp after booking if you need vegan or other special dietary options.

How long does the experience last?
The event typically runs for a few hours, starting around 12:10 for lunch or 19:00 for dinner, with the option to arrive early for costume and makeup.

Is the dress-up experience worth it?
Absolutely. Many reviewers found it added a memorable layer to the evening, allowing for fabulous photos and a true sense of stepping into history.

Are massages included?
No, massages are optional and paid separately. They are highly recommended for relaxation after the banquet.

Final Thoughts

This Shanghai-guided Royal Banquet offers an engaging glimpse into China’s imperial past combined with a delicious meal and lively performances. It’s a well-priced, thoughtfully organized experience that turns a dinner into a cultural event. Whether you’re a history lover, a photo enthusiast, or simply curious about traditional Chinese ceremonies, this tour delivers.

The combination of authentic cuisine, colorful performances, costume dressing, and helpful guides makes it stand out as a fun, educational evening. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to deepen their understanding of Chinese culture and enjoy some photo-worthy moments. Just remember to book early, plan your extra expenses, and get ready for a night that’s both fun and educational.

If you’re looking for an authentic, lively, and beautifully presented dinner that captures the spirit of ancient China, this tour in Shanghai is worth considering. It’s a rare chance to enjoy the past in a way that’s both immersive and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: