Shanghai: Royal Banquet with Chinese Cultural Performance

Imagine stepping into an ancient palace without leaving the city — that’s exactly what this Royal Banquet experience promises. Located in Shanghai, this tour offers a blend of authentic Chinese cuisine, traditional music and dance performances, and a chance to dress in classic Chinese attire. Priced at around $160 per person for roughly 2 to 2.5 hours of immersive cultural fun, it’s a unique way to connect with China’s imperial past.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines gourmet food with live entertainment. The royal banquet features dishes that are not just delicious but carry deep cultural significance, prepared with top-quality ingredients and superb culinary skills. Plus, the chance to dress up in traditional costumes adds a memorable, personal touch. It’s a perfect outing if you’re looking for a rich cultural experience that’s also visually stunning.

That said, there are a few considerations. The performance is entirely in Chinese, which might be a challenge for non-Mandarin speakers, and the clothing experience costs an extra 200 RMB. Also, children under 3 years are not recommended, and there are specific ticket requirements based on height. This tour suits travelers eager to see and taste the essence of Chinese history and culture firsthand, especially those who appreciate good food and lively performances.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Combines food, music, dance, and traditional dress.
• High-Quality Cuisine: Dishes rooted in history, with fresh ingredients and superb craftsmanship.
• Visual & Interactive: Opportunities to dress in traditional clothing and enjoy elaborate performances.
• In-Depth Cultural Insight: An immersive glimpse into China’s imperial past, especially through food and decor.
• Consider Language Barriers: Shows are primarily in Chinese, which may limit understanding.
• Value for Money: For the cost, you get a full multi-sensory experience that goes beyond just a meal.

Location and Atmosphere
From the moment you walk into the hall, you’re transported to a different era. The hall’s décor is elegant and exquisite, evoking the grandeur of ancient Chinese palaces. The ambiance is designed to make you feel like a noble of old — intricate decorations, traditional furniture, and soft lighting set the stage for an immersive journey.

Timing and Structure
The experience kicks off with check-in at 11:30 am for lunch or 6:00 pm for dinner, with performances starting shortly after at 12:08 pm and 6:28 pm, respectively. The tour lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, which is just enough time to savor a luxurious meal and enjoy the show without feeling rushed.

The Culinary Journey
Each dish on the menu is a tribute to Chinese culinary history. Dishes like Red-Cooked Pork with Abalone, Lychee Shrimp Balls, and Steamed Yellow Croaker showcase the flavors and techniques that reflect centuries of tradition. The ingredients are fresh, and the presentation is refined, making the meal a feast for both the eyes and palate.

The meal includes a range of offerings, from Dahongpao tea and Osmanthus green plum wine to Sweet Macaroons and Moringa oleifera seedlings — highlighting regional ingredients and taste profiles. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, with one reviewer mentioning, “the food was wonderful,” while others appreciated the attention to detail in each dish.

Cultural Performances
The highlight is the live traditional Chinese music and dance. The performances, often in Chinese, evoke the elegance of imperial court entertainment. While the shows are not translated into English, many guests find the visual spectacle compelling enough to enjoy without language. However, some mention that English translations on the stage or in programs would improve understanding.

Dress-up and Makeup
For an extra 200 RMB, you can don traditional Chinese clothing and have your makeup done authentically. Reviewers loved this aspect, with comments like “Loved that we got to dress up,” and “it added a special touch to the experience.” It’s a fun, memorable way to feel part of the scene, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family.

Family-Friendly?
Children under 3 years old are not recommended, and those between 130cm and 150cm need a child ticket. Kids over 130cm can enjoy the experience as adults, but be mindful of the seating arrangements and the show’s language barrier.

Practicalities and Tips
– Booking in advance is essential — at least one day ahead — especially if you want the clothing experience.
– The tour offers skip-the-line access, which is useful in busy seasons.
– The cost includes the meal, cultural performances, and some drinks, making it a good value for a cultural splurge.
– Keep in mind the performance is mainly in Chinese, so non-Mandarin speakers might miss some nuances unless they follow the visuals closely.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Authenticity and Cultural Depth

This isn’t just a dinner show; it’s a celebration of Chinese heritage. Every dish tells a story, and the hall’s decor echoes the opulence of old imperial courts. For many guests, it’s a step back in time and a taste of China’s culinary and artistic traditions.

The performance plays a key role — with traditional music, dance, and costumes — giving an authentic flavor of what court entertainment might have felt like. One reviewer noted, “The music and dance performances were mesmerizing,” emphasizing the entertainment’s visual appeal.

Who Will Benefit Most?

Travelers who enjoy history, culture, and cuisine will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a theatrical, interactive experience that combines dining with performance. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that offers a taste of imperial China and some fun dressing-up, this experience hits the spot.

However, if you prefer English-guided shows or detailed historical narration, you might find the language barrier a bit frustrating. It’s best suited for adventurous diners eager to see and taste China’s royal past rather than those seeking a fully guided historical lesson.

This Royal Banquet with Chinese Cultural Performance is a delightful way to combine good food, vibrant entertainment, and culture. For around $160, you get a multi-sensory journey through China’s imperial history in an elegant setting. The quality of food, combined with the visual spectacle of the performances and costumes, makes for a memorable outing.

It’s especially ideal for those who want a hands-on cultural experience — from dressing in traditional clothes to tasting dishes that echo the past. The immersive environment, detailed decor, and lively performances create a sense of stepping into another time and place.

While it may not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer English narration, it offers authenticity and fun in abundance. For travelers eager to experience China’s rich heritage in one evening, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable, and visually stunning introduction.

Is the Royal Banquet experience suitable for children?
Children under 3 years old are not recommended, and kids between 130cm and 150cm require a child ticket. Over 130cm, children can enjoy the show, but be aware of the seating and language barriers.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs about 2 to 2.5 hours, with check-in times around 11:30 am or 6:00 pm, and performances shortly after.

Can I dress in traditional Chinese clothing?
Yes, for an additional 200 RMB, you can enjoy dressing up and having your makeup done authentically, which many guests find adds to the fun.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the meal, cultural performances, Dahongpao tea, wines, sweets, and snacks. The clothing and makeup are extra.

Are the performances in English?
No, most performances are in Chinese. Without translation, you’ll enjoy the visual aspects, but some nuances or storylines may be missed.

What dishes are served?
The menu features Chinese dishes like Red-Cooked Pork with Abalone, Lychee Shrimp Balls, Steamed Yellow Croaker, and others, highlighting regional flavors and historical recipes.

Is there a dress code or special attire required?
No strict dress code, but dressing in traditional costumes is encouraged if you opt for the extra fee.

What should I consider before booking?
Book at least 24 hours in advance, especially if you want the dress-up option. Be prepared for a show primarily in Chinese, and consider your comfort with language barriers.

What’s the best way to get the most out of this experience?
Arrive early, dress up in traditional clothes if possible, and try to follow the visual storytelling. Bringing a sense of curiosity and openness will make it more enjoyable.

For those who delight in Chinese culture, history, and cuisine, this Royal Banquet tour offers a wonderful blend of all three. It’s a chance to step into the grandeur of imperial China, taste authentic dishes, and enjoy traditional performances — all in a beautifully decorated setting. While not perfect for everyone, especially language learners, it’s a unique, fun, and educational outing worth considering for your Shanghai itinerary. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a cultural group, the memories made here will likely linger long after the last dish is cleared.

You can check availability for your dates here: