Xi’an, Shaanxi’s Huaqing Palace Draws International Audiences with Groundbreaking Live Performance “The Song of Everlasting Sorrow” for Winter Tourism : A New Look at China Tourism

Published on December 6, 2024

The northwestern Chinese city of Xi’an, famous for its historical and cultural significance, has unveiled a new winter tourism attraction that is set to captivate visitors. On December 1, 2024, the much-anticipated performance of the ice-fire dance drama “The Song of Everlasting Sorrow” kicked off at the iconic Huaqing Palace, located at the foot of Lishan Mountain. This large-scale historical drama has been upgraded to offer a more immersive and visually stunning experience, combining traditional elements with modern technology.

“The Song of Everlasting Sorrow” is a retelling of the legendary love story between Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty and his consort Yang Guifei, a narrative immortalized in the famous poem by Tang poet Bai Juyi. Since its debut in 2006, the performance has been a hit with tourists, attracting millions of visitors over the years. However, the recent upgrade, rolled out in 2021, promises an even more captivating experience through innovative stage design, choreography, and the use of cutting-edge technology.

The drama, which lasts for 70 minutes, has become a hallmark of Xi’an’s winter tourism, transforming the traditionally quieter winter season into an opportunity to showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage. Through the interplay of ice and fire, light, shadow, and music, the drama transports the audience back to the Tang Dynasty era, showcasing the grandeur and opulence of one of China’s most prosperous periods.

This year, the performance has evolved even further, with a significant upgrade to its artistic elements. The production now includes Central Asian actors, aligning with the Tang Dynasty’s open and inclusive spirit. This international collaboration enhances the drama’s global appeal, reflecting the cultural exchanges that took place along the ancient Silk Road during the Tang period.

The Huaqing Palace, a major historical site that embodies the cultural essence of the Tang Dynasty, has long been a significant tourist destination. Located just outside Xi’an, the site is famous for its hot springs, once enjoyed by emperors, and its proximity to the Terracotta Army. In recent years, the Huaqing Palace has become an even more vital part of Xi’an’s tourism offering, blending culture with modern entertainment.

The upgraded live drama is not just a tourism attraction but also a testament to the growing trend of integrating culture with tourism to create immersive, experiential attractions. Gao Jie, chairman of the Shaanxi Huaqing Palace Cultural Tourism Co., Ltd., which oversees the development of the Huaqing Palace site, emphasized the importance of culture-tourism integration. “We will continue to leverage the profound artistic charm of Tang culture and deepen the integration of culture and tourism. By using performing arts, we aim to facilitate global cultural communication and attract international audiences,” he said.

This approach aligns with the broader strategy to boost the cultural tourism sector in Shaanxi Province and throughout China. With the continued popularity of historical drama and cultural performances, destinations like Xi’an are finding innovative ways to stay relevant and appealing to both domestic and international travelers. By combining rich historical narratives with contemporary technological advancements, Xi’an is transforming into a year-round tourism destination, rather than just a summer or spring hotspot.

The performance is staged outdoors, against the breathtaking backdrop of Lishan Mountain, offering an unparalleled combination of natural beauty and cultural storytelling. The setting provides a dramatic canvas for the grand choreography, which blends traditional Chinese dance with elements of modern theatrical production. This fusion of ancient art and modern performance technology has elevated “The Song of Everlasting Sorrow” to new heights, making it a must-see experience for winter travelers in China.

Since the debut of the upgraded performance in 2021, the production has received widespread acclaim, performing more than 5,300 times to date. This year’s iteration has proven especially popular, with tickets selling out quickly and attracting both new visitors and repeat tourists. The performance’s blend of history, culture, and high-tech innovation has made it a top choice for those seeking an authentic yet contemporary Chinese cultural experience.

The continued success of “The Song of Everlasting Sorrow” is a strong indication of the growing demand for high-quality cultural tourism experiences in China. It also highlights the importance of embracing technology in the tourism industry, particularly when creating large-scale performances that can appeal to a wide range of audiences. As Xi’an looks ahead, the city’s tourism industry is poised to further integrate cultural heritage with cutting-edge experiences, ensuring that the legacy of the Tang Dynasty will continue to captivate and inspire visitors for generations to come.

Xi’an’s growing appeal as a cultural tourism hub is not limited to the live performance at Huaqing Palace. The city also offers a wealth of other historical and cultural attractions, including the famous Terracotta Warriors, the ancient city wall, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. These sites, alongside the innovative performances like “The Song of Everlasting Sorrow,” position Xi’an as a leading destination for cultural tourism in China.

For travelers looking to explore the rich history of one of China’s most important ancient capitals, Xi’an offers an unforgettable blend of past and present. From its ancient temples to its modern art and cultural exhibitions, Xi’an is a place where history comes to life in new and exciting ways.