Xian Qin Opera & Shadow Play Tour
Tour Overview
The night tour in Xian will start with Qin Opera, a local opera in northwestern China. It is popular in Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia, Qinghai, and Xinjiang. Till today, Qin Opera is the favorite thing for elder people. It can be vigorous and deep, and also soft and sentimental. After enjoying Qin Opera, you will watch vivid and interesting Shadow Play. Shadow Play can be called the oldest movie. You will be surprised by the ability of performers who need to operate puppets, play instruments, sing, and talk at the same time. Adults and children both like it. The last part is Huayin Laoqiang, a kind of opera from Huayin County of Shaanxi Province. From a less-known opera to a unique art form even played on the world stage, the old artists never gave up and made a lot of effort. Pick this tour to have an unforgettable night in Xian!
Tour Code: XT-033
Highlights of this tour:
1. Enjoy an evening of ancient storytelling and great music at China’s oldest opera.2. Watch a traditional shadow play performance and the Huayin Laoqiang, a kind of opera from Huayin County of Shaanxi Province compared to rock and roll.
3. Learn about the long history of the Qin Opera and how it gradually developed and matured during the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC).
18:00 – Hotel Pickup:
Meet your friendly Xian tour guide and driver in the lobby of your downtown hotel. Your adventure into the colorful cultural landscape of Xi’an begins as you hop into a comfortable vehicle.
18:30 – Arrival at the Theater:
Arrive at the traditional theater venue that holds the essence of Xian’s performing arts. The venue is not just a stage; it’s a portal into the ancient world of Qin Opera, Shadow Play, and Huayin Laoqiang.
Qin Opera Performance:
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Qin Opera, one of the oldest operas of the Han People. Dating back to the Western Zhou Dynasty, this art form matured during the Qin Dynasty. Originating from the Fengxiang area of Baoji to the northwest of Xian City, Qin Opera was rightfully listed as a national non-material cultural heritage in 2006. Enjoy the vivid storytelling, traditional music, and elaborate costumes that bring this ancient opera to life.

Shadow Play Delight:
Step into the enchanting realm of Shadow Play, a form of entertainment once popular throughout China. Figures intricately cut from animal skin or pressboard come alive against a white curtain, illuminated by carefully controlled light. Sit back and witness the skillful manipulation of these leather figures as they dance to local opera melodies and tell captivating stories. Experience a traditional art form that has stood the test of time.

Huayin Laoqiang – China’s Oldest Rock-and-Roll:
Feel the rhythm of Huayin Laoqiang, honored as the oldest rock-and-roll in China. Designated as a national non-material cultural heritage in 2006, this unique musical form has inspired generations of musicians. Explore the fusion of traditional Chinese melodies with a modern twist, gaining insights into how Huayin Laoqiang has become a source of inspiration for contemporary music creation.
Return to Hotel:
As the night of cultural immersion comes to an end, your guide and driver will escort you back to your downtown hotel. Your unforgettable Xian night tour of Qin Opera & Shadow Play concludes here, leaving you with lasting memories of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
