Dinner and Show of Tang Dynasty Palace in Xian

A Closer Look at the Dinner and Show of Tang Dynasty Palace in Xi’an

If you’re in Xi’an and craving a taste of China’s imperial past blended with entertainment, the Dinner and Show at the Tang Dynasty Palace offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Tang era. This experience combines a lively performance inspired by Empress Wu Zetian’s reign with hearty Chinese cuisine, either as a simple dumpling feast or an elegant imperial court dinner.

What we particularly like about this offering is how it seeks to immerse visitors into the cultural atmosphere of the Tang Dynasty, providing both visual spectacle and delicious food. The highlight is undoubtedly the music and dance show, re-enacting historical stories with vibrant costumes and skilled performers.

However, some travelers have noted that the quality of the show can be hit or miss, with a few describing it as mediocre or even disappointing — which underscores the importance of setting expectations. This experience would suit those interested in Chinese history, traditional arts, and an active, engaging night out. If your goal is an authentic cultural experience that balances entertainment with local cuisine, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion: Enjoy a performance based on the life of Empress Wu Zetian, bringing history to life.
• Dining options: Choose between a flavorful dumpling dinner or a refined Imperial Court Meal.
• Timing and scheduling: Dinner starts at 18:00, with the show at 19:30; in peak seasons, multiple sessions may be available.
• Location: Set along the north-south axis of Xi’an at the Tang Dynasty Palace, a site steeped in history.
• Group size: The experience caters to up to about 100 travelers, so expect a lively, shared atmosphere.
• Value for money: At $40 per person, it combines entertainment and dining, but reviews suggest the show may not always meet high expectations.

Breaking Down the Experience

The Venue: Tang Dynasty Palace (Tang Le Gong)

Located at No.75, North Chang’an Road, the theatre is a striking spot that was built in alignment with Xi’an’s historic layout. It’s easily accessible, and arriving about 10 minutes early is recommended for voucher verification. The setting itself hints at the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty, making it a fitting backdrop for the evening.

Timing and Logistics

Your evening begins with dinner at 18:00, giving you some time to settle in. Note that during busy seasons, the venue might operate two sessions – one with dinner at 17:00 and show at 17:45, and a second at 19:10 with the performance starting around 20:10. The local operator will inform you of your specific schedule on the day, so flexibility is key.

The Show: “The Empress of the Great Tang”

The performance is rooted in the life of Empress Wu Zetian, China’s only female emperor, which gives it a historical narrative focus. The production features traditional Chinese music and dance, and the costumes are colorful and elaborate, transporting viewers back to the Tang Dynasty’s opulence.

From reviews, it appears that the live performance can be a mixed bag. One traveler said it was “possibly the worst live show ever,” indicating that expectations should be tempered. On the other hand, some noted that guides and local performers bring a certain charm and authenticity, making it a worthwhile cultural snapshot—even if the execution isn’t flawless.

Dining Options:

• Dumpling Dinner: The favored choice among many, with reviewers praising the varieties, flavors, and visual appeal of the dumplings. The experience of sampling different shapes and colors can be as much fun as the performance.
• Imperial Court Dinner: Offers a more traditional, multi-course Chinese meal. Travelers have described it as exquisite, with traditional music complementing the dining experience. However, one reviewer expressed disappointment over some of the food choices, noting salads with mayonnaise and fries alongside more refined dishes.

Inclusions and Extras

The ticket price covers the entrance fee to the dance show and your food choice, either dumplings or an imperial dinner. Transportation to and from the venue is not included, so plan accordingly. Vegetarian options are available if requested when booking.

The Authenticity Factor

This experience aims to blend entertainment with cultural insight, but some travelers found the show to be mediocre or underwhelming. The reviews suggest that the guides and staff are knowledgeable and friendly, adding some value amid the mixed entertainment quality.

Pricing and Value

At around $40, this is a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking an affordable night of cultural entertainment paired with dinner. The real value hinges on your expectations: if you’re after a high-quality show, you might be disappointed. But if you’re curious about Tang Dynasty aesthetics and want a lively, inclusive atmosphere, it can be quite enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate cultural history combined with casual dining. It’s suited for those who don’t mind a possibly uneven live performance and want to enjoy a cost-effective evening immersed in Chinese heritage. It’s a good pick for families, groups, or solo travelers looking for a lively night out that offers both food and entertainment.

However, if you’re seeking a highly polished show or a gourmet dining experience, you may want to allocate your time elsewhere or consider alternative performances that might better suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

The Dinner and Show of Tang Dynasty Palace in Xi’an offers a glimpse into China’s glorious past through music, dance, and traditional cuisine. While the quality of the performance can vary, the experience is enriched by the chance to enjoy authentic costumes, learn about Empress Wu Zetian, and sample a variety of dumplings or refined dishes.

For travelers on a budget or those with a keen interest in Chinese history and culture, this experience provides a fun, accessible way to spend an evening. Just keep your expectations realistic—the show’s entertainment value may not blow you away, but the vibrant atmosphere and cultural storytelling are worth experiencing.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to and from the theatre is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there and back.

What time should I arrive?
It’s recommended to arrive about 10 minutes early to verify your voucher and settle in before dinner begins at 18:00.

Can I choose the vegetarian option?
Yes, vegetarian options are available. Be sure to advise at the time of booking if you require this.

Will I know my seat in advance?
Seats are assigned by the theatre on the day of the show, so you won’t know your exact seat beforehand.

What if the show is not to my taste?
Reviews indicate the show can be hit or miss, so if you’re seeking top-tier entertainment, consider this a cultural snapshot rather than a polished performance.

What is the typical duration of this experience?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including dinner and the show.

Balancing history, entertainment, and cuisine, the Tang Dynasty Palace experience offers a fun, if occasionally uneven, night out in Xi’an. It’s a chance to connect with China’s imperial roots—just go in with open expectations and enjoy the vibrant spectacle.