In the foothills of Mount Li, at the edge of a lake inside the ancient Huaqing Palace, one of China's most ambitious outdoor performances brings a thousand-year-old love story back to life. The Song of Everlasting Sorrow in Xi'an is not just a show — it is a 70-minute journey through the golden age of the Tang Dynasty, told through dance, fire, water, light, and the natural landscape itself.
Key Facts About Song of Everlasting Sorrow in Xi'an
Item | Information |
|---|---|
Location | Huaqing Palace, Lintong District, Xi'an |
Recommended Time | 2–3 hours |
Performance Type | Large-scale outdoor live historical dance drama |
Historical Theme | Emperor Xuanzong & Yang Guifei |
Literary Source | Bai Juyi's Song of Everlasting Sorrow |
Historical Period | Tang Dynasty |
Performance Season | Classic Version: March–late October; Ice & Fire Version: December–late February |
Performance Time | Evening; showtimes vary by date |
Performance Duration | 70 minutes |
Recommended Experience | Huaqing Palace in the afternoon + Song of Everlasting Sorrow at night |
Suitable For | First-time Xi'an visitors, Tang culture enthusiasts, couples, families |
Advance Booking | Strongly recommended |
Why Is Song of Everlasting Sorrow Special?
Song of Everlasting Sorrow vs. an Ordinary Tang Dynasty Show
Dimension | Song of Everlasting Sorrow | Ordinary Tang Shows |
|---|---|---|
Venue | Huaqing Palace, Mount Li, Jiulong Lake | Built indoor stage |
Cultural Source | Bai Juyi's poem; Xuanzong & Yang Guifei | General Tang themes |
Stage Effects | Water, lights, projection, fire | Lights, screens, sets |
Storyline | Romance → War → Separation → Reunion | Shorter story or dance scenes |
Setting | Real historic site + natural scenery | Stage setting |
Experience | History + poetry + scenery + performance | Dance + music + visuals |
What Is the Song of Everlasting Sorrow Performance Like?
Song of Everlasting Sorrow is a large-scale outdoor performance at Huaqing Palace in Xi'an. It tells the tragic love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei, combining history, poetry, music, dance, lighting, and the surrounding landscape.
The Story Behind the Show
The story begins with Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei during the prosperous Tang Dynasty, portraying their romance through palace life, music, and dance.
The An Lushan Rebellion changes everything. Xuanzong leaves Chang'an, and their love ends tragically with Yang Guifei's death at Mawei.
The final scenes enter an imagined celestial realm, where the two reunite beyond life and death, blending a tragic love story with the rise and fall of the Tang Dynasty.
From Bai Juyi's Poem to a Modern Performance
Bai Juyi wrote Song of Everlasting Sorrow in the Tang Dynasty, telling the tragic love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei. The performance turns Bai Juyi's poem into a visual story through dance, music, lighting, projection, and water effects.
Why Is the Show Performed at Huaqing Palace?
Huaqing Palace was a Tang imperial retreat at the foot of Mount Li, known for its hot springs and scenic gardens. Its historical connection with Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei makes it a natural setting for Song of Everlasting Sorrow.
Hot springs: Archaeologists later uncovered several Tang-era pools, including Lotus Pool, associated with Emperor Xuanzong, and Begonia Pool, traditionally associated with Yang Guifei. Today, visitors can see the excavated Tang imperial bathing-pool ruins at Huaqing Palace.
Mount Li: Mount Li rises directly behind Huaqing Palace. This close setting gives Song of Everlasting Sorrow its distinctive natural backdrop.
Why Does the Setting Matter for US Visitors?
The setting makes Song of Everlasting Sorrow feel different from a historical show in an indoor theater. Instead of watching a recreated palace on a screen or stage, you see the story against Mount Li, water, gardens, and the historic surroundings of Huaqing Palace.
At night: the landscape becomes part of the visual experience
On the water: reflections and lighting add depth to the scenes
Against Mount Li: the mountain creates a dramatic Tang Dynasty backdrop
How Does Song of Everlasting Sorrow Bring the Story to Life?
Mount Li and Jiulong Lake Become the Stage
Jiulong Lake is part of the stage. A hidden underwater platform rises and sinks, allowing performers to appear from the water or disappear beneath it. Lights, palace structures, and their reflections overlap on the water. Hidden LED screens can also change the background into palaces, battlefields, or the celestial world.
Light, Mist and Fire Change the Mood
The visual effects follow the story. Warm gold and red tones create the luxurious atmosphere of the Tang court, while darker lighting and fire effects accompany the scenes of war and tragedy.
Tang Costumes and Large-Scale Dance
The performers wear richly colored Tang-style costumes with flowing sleeves and fabrics. Large groups of dancers move across the wide stage in carefully arranged formations.
Who Are the Characters in the Song of Everlasting Sorrow Show?
Emperor Xuanzong: He is the central male character and Yang Guifei's lover. The performance shows him first as a powerful emperor enjoying music, banquets, and palace life, then as a ruler caught in the turmoil of war.
Yang Guifei: She is the female lead and the emotional center of the performance. Her story moves from entering the imperial court and enjoying Xuanzong's favor to war, separation, and death.
An Lushan: He represents the turning point of the story. His rebellion ends the peaceful palace life and brings war, escape, and tragedy.
Yang Guozhong: He is an important court figure during the political crisis. His conflict with An Lushan helps set the stage for the rebellion.
Soldiers and Palace Figures: Palace attendants, dancers, musicians, officials, and soldiers fill the world around the main characters.
Ordinary People: They appear as the story moves beyond the imperial court, showing how war affected the wider society.
What Happens During the Song of Everlasting Sorrow Show?
Scene | Title | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
Prologue | Yang Guifei Comes of Age | Lotus flowers slowly rise from Jiulong Lake, and Yang Yuhuan appears from the center. |
Scene 1 | Chosen to Stand Beside the Emperor | Yang Yuhuan enters the imperial court and wins Emperor Xuanzong's favor. |
Scene 2 | Secret Words at Midnight | On the Qixi Festival, Xuanzong and Yang Guifei meet beneath the moon and promise to remain together for life. |
Scene 3 | Bathing at Huaqing Palace | Yang Guifei bathes in the hot spring, recreating the famous scene from Bai Juyi's poem. |
Scene 4 | Music and Dance in the Palace | A grand palace banquet begins. An Lushan performs the lively Hu Xuan dance. |
Scene 5 | A Drunken Palace Banquet | A feast fills the palace with wine, music, and dancing as Yang Guifei dances after drinking. |
Scene 6 | Music Fills the Palace | Yang Guifei performs the Rainbow Feathered Dress Dance, rising into the air with flowing sleeves. |
Scene 7 | All His Favors Were Centered on Her | The emperor became increasingly absorbed in his love, while state affairs were gradually neglected. |
Scene 8 | The Rebellion Breaks the Dream | An Lushan's rebellion erupts, war reaches the Tang capital, and the peaceful world collapses. |
Scene 9 | Yang Guifei's Tragic Death | At Mawei, the imperial guards demand Yang Guifei's death, forcing Xuanzong to choose between love and empire. |
Scene 10 | A Reunion Beyond This World | Xuanzong is consumed by grief. A Taoist searches for her spirit, and the lovers reunite in a celestial realm. |
What Should You Know Before Watching Song of Everlasting Sorrow?
Note: All performance times and related information below reflect the adjustments effective from September 14 onward. Showtimes and availability may vary by date.
Can You Visit Huaqing Palace Before the Show?
Yes. Huaqing Palace and Song of Everlasting Sorrow are closely connected. The performance takes place at Huaqing Palace's Jiulong Lake area. The daytime scenic area and evening performance venue are very close.
Recommended Itinerary:
Start with Huaqing Palace in the afternoon. Explore the gardens and historical sites.
Have dinner nearby.
Return to the performance area for Song of Everlasting Sorrow in the evening.
How to Buy Song of Everlasting Sorrow Tickets
Option 1: Official Channels
Buy tickets through the official Huaqing Palace website: https://www.hqpalaceglobal.com/en/tickets#tickets
Option 2: Buy Tickets On Site
The Central Gate does not sell performance tickets. Seats can sell out quickly, and offline counters only sell remaining tickets. On-site ticket purchase is not recommended.
Option 3: Book Through a Travel Agency
For a popular show like Song of Everlasting Sorrow, booking through a travel agency offers a convenient way to secure tickets.
Choose the Right Seats: Get help navigating different seating areas and ticket prices
Easy Booking: Enjoy convenient booking support with less hassle
Tailored Options: Choose tickets that fit your schedule, budget, and viewing preferences
How Much Are Song of Everlasting Sorrow Tickets?
Ticket Price (CNY) | VIP A | VIP B | VIP C | Central | East/West A | East/West B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1st · 19:10 | 988 | 888 | 588 | 409 | 339 | 299 |
2nd · 20:35 | 988 | 888 | 588 | 379 | 309 | 269 |
3rd · 22:00 | 988 | 888 | 588 | 359 | 309 | 269 |
4th · 23:25 | 988 | 888 | 588 | 339 | 289 | 249 |
Note: The 3rd and 4th shows are not available every day. Please inquire when booking.
Which Seats Are Best for the Show?
Seating Area | Viewing Experience | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
VIP A | Front rows of the VIP section; the best overall position | Premium choice |
VIP B | Middle rows with a direct view of the stage | Premium choice |
VIP C | Rear VIP rows; still central | Best-value VIP |
Central A | Directly in front of the stage. Front rows may be affected by flame and water effects | First choice |
Central B | Slightly to the left or right, with a very good viewing angle | Good value |
East/West A | 45° side view; most scenes visible | Budget-friendly |
East/West B | The farthest side positions with a more angled view | Atmosphere over angle |
Best Time to Watch Song of Everlasting Sorrow
Classic Version (March–late October)
Visual Style: Warm gold, pink, and red tones create a romantic Tang Dynasty night atmosphere
Showtime: Later evening starts are possible because sunset is later
Viewing Conditions: Regular outdoor seating; evenings can feel cool
Weather: Heavy rain may affect performances
Ice & Fire Version (December–late February)
Stage Effects: Adds artificial snowfall, ice decorations, and large numbers of real torches
Visual Style: Cool blue and white tones contrast with fire, creating a colder and more dramatic atmosphere
Showtime: Performances generally start earlier because it gets dark sooner
Viewing Conditions: Seats are equipped with warming cushions
Which Song of Everlasting Sorrow Showtime Is Best?
Show | Time | Best For | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
1st Show | 7:10–8:20 PM | Families & seniors | Ends earlier; easier return |
2nd Show | 8:35–9:45 PM | First-time visitors | Best balance of night views and atmosphere |
3rd Show | 10:00–11:10 PM | Night-view lovers | Deeper night atmosphere |
4th Show | 11:25 PM–00:35 AM | Night owls & nearby stays | Full night atmosphere |
Best Days and Weather Conditions to Attend
Day / Weather | Rating | Why |
|---|---|---|
Mon–Thu | ★★★★★ | Fewer crowds, easier ticket and seat selection |
Friday | ★★★★☆ | Usually less crowded than Saturday |
Saturday | ★★☆☆☆ | Higher demand, harder to secure tickets |
Sunday | ★★★★☆ | Generally quieter than Saturday |
Moderate–Heavy Rain | ★☆☆☆☆ | The performance may be canceled |
Light Rain | ★★★☆☆ | The show may continue, but raincoats and mist can affect the experience |
How to Get to Song of Everlasting Sorrow from Xi'an
Option 1: Public Transportation
Take Metro Line 9 to Huaqingchi Station, then walk to Huaqing Palace. A taxi or ride-hailing car is more direct, but finding one after the show can be difficult.
Option 2: Private Tour
Enjoy a safe, comfortable, and efficient door-to-door transfer from your hotel. Return to your hotel by private vehicle after the show, avoiding the difficulty of finding a taxi at night.
Song of Everlasting Sorrow Entrance & Exit Gates
Show | Entrance Gate | Exit Gate |
|---|---|---|
1st Show | Wangjing Gate (West Gate) | Wangjing Gate (West Gate) |
2nd Show | Jinyang Gate (East Gate) | Jinyang Gate (East Gate) |
3rd Show | Jinyang Gate (East Gate) | Jinyang Gate (East Gate) |
4th Show | Jinyang Gate (East Gate) | Jinyang Gate (East Gate) |
What Should You Wear to Song of Everlasting Sorrow?
Season | Months | Temperature | What to Wear |
|---|---|---|---|
Spring | Mar–May | 15–25°C | Light jacket or cardigan; comfortable layers |
Summer | Jun–Aug | 25–35°C | Light, breathable clothes + a light jacket for the evening |
Autumn | Sep–Nov | 10–20°C | Sweater or light down jacket; dress in layers |
Winter | Dec–Feb | -5–5°C | Thick sweater, down coat, warm layers, and comfortable shoes |
Key Tip: It is an outdoor performance, so dress for the evening rather than Xi'an's daytime temperature.
Song of Everlasting Sorrow Photography Guide: Tips & Rules
Moment | Approx. Time | What to Capture | Photography Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
Mount Li Stars | Around 8 min | Stars lighting up across Mount Li | Prepare your phone in advance and use night mode |
Fire & Fireworks | Around 30 min | Fire effects, Mount Li, and lake reflections | Use a wider angle to capture the full scene |
Moon Scene | Around 48 min | Moon appearing after Yang Guifei's death | Lower exposure to keep the night atmosphere |
Magpie Bridge & Doves | Final 8 min | Yang Guifei on the Magpie Bridge and real doves flying out | Keep your phone ready before the scene begins |
Finale | End of show | Full cast and stage | Best time for photos and videos |
Where to Sit for Better Photos
Central Seats: The middle of the central section offers the best balance of performers, water, and Mount Li in one frame
East Section: Better for capturing Mount Li and its lighting effects
West Section: Better for water reflections and the lake surface
The First 3 Rows: Water mist and splashes can reach the audience
What to Bring to Song of Everlasting Sorrow?
Passport: Foreign visitors should bring the original passport used for booking
Phone & Power Bank: For digital tickets, navigation, and photos
Light Jacket or Shawl: Evenings at the foot of Mount Li can feel cool after sunset
Comfortable Shoes: You may walk through Huaqing Palace before reaching the performance area
Rain Protection: Bring a light raincoat or check the venue's arrangements
Small Bag: Easier to carry while walking and finding your seat
Water: Bring a bottle of water, especially in summer
Suggested Xi'an Itineraries Including Song of Everlasting Sorrow
Route | Estimated Time | Intensity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Terracotta Warriors → Huaqing Palace → Song of Everlasting Sorrow | 8–10 hours | ★★★★★ High | First-time visitors and history lovers |
Mount Li → Huaqing Palace → Song of Everlasting Sorrow | 6–8 hours | ★★★★☆ Moderate–High | Nature and culture lovers |
How to Choose a Night Show in Xi'an:
Show | Cultural Theme | Venue | Performance Type |
|---|---|---|---|
Song of Everlasting Sorrow | Tang Culture | Huaqing Palace | Large-scale outdoor historical dance drama |
Dream of Tang Dynasty | Tang Culture | Tang Paradise | Water and light show |
Jiu Jiu Da Qin | Qin Culture | Fengdong New City | Immersive Moving-Seat Fantasy Dance Drama |
Resurrected Legion | Qin Culture | East of Qin Mausoleum | Traditional Large-Theater Drama |
Xi'an Eternal Love | Xi'an History | Expo Boulevard, Baqiao | Multi-era historical spectacle |
The Legend of the Camel Bell | Silk Road Culture | Huawen Road, Baqiao | 360° Rotating Audience Seating |
Why Choose a Private Guide for Song of Everlasting Sorrow
A private guide explains the key characters, historical background, and hidden details of the show before it begins
The guide can arrange Huaqing Palace, dinner, and the performance in a logical order without rushing
A private car takes you directly to the venue and back to your hotel after the late-night show
The narration is in Chinese, with no English dubbing. An English-speaking guide can explain the story beforehand
Who Is Song of Everlasting Sorrow Best For?
First-time visitors to Xi'an
Tang Dynasty and history enthusiasts
Couples looking for a romantic evening
Families with children
Photography lovers
Travelers looking for an immersive outdoor night show
Fans of large-scale outdoor shows and visual effects
Traveler Discussions
Questions from travelers