Songcheng Romantic Show

What it is

Songcheng Romantic Show, known in Chinese as 宋城千古情, opened in 1996 as China's first large-scale Song-culture theme park. It recreates the bustling streets, guilds, and entertainments of 12th-century Hangzhou, then the world's largest city. The park's core is the eponymous show, a 60-minute production that has been performed over 20,000 times since its debut, drawing millions of spectators. It is widely regarded as a benchmark for Chinese tourism performances, combining high-tech stagecraft with traditional folklore.

The show unfolds in five acts, moving from the legendary Liangzhu culture through the Song dynasty's prosperity, the love story of White Snake, the Mongol invasion, and finally a grand celebration of Hangzhou's enduring spirit. Audiences witness acrobats flying overhead, a real rainstorm on stage, and a cast of hundreds. The park itself offers interactive experiences like ancient coin games and costume photo shoots. For a deeper look at Hangzhou's history, pair this with our West Lake tour.

Highlights

• Five-act spectacle — From Liangzhu to the Song dynasty, each act uses different staging: water, fire, aerial silk, and a moving stage that keeps you guessing.
• Rain on stage — A realistic downpour drenches the stage during the war act, with water effects that reach the front rows (ponchos provided).
• Acrobatic feats — Performers soar above the audience on wires and perform jaw-dropping contortions, all set to a live orchestral score.
• Song-dynasty street — Before the show, wander a reconstructed Song street with artisans, snack stalls, and costumed characters who interact with visitors.
• VIP seating comfort — Our guide secures premium seats with the best views, so you avoid craning your neck or missing key moments.

How to get there

Songcheng is in the Zhijiang area, about 8 km southwest of West Lake. The easiest way is a taxi or DiDi (¥30–50 from West Lake, 20–30 minutes). Alternatively, take Metro Line 4 to Shuichengqiao Station and transfer to bus 39 or 308; the whole trip takes about 50 minutes. We usually arrange a private transfer so you arrive relaxed before the show. Pair it with a morning at West Lake or Lingyin Temple for a full day.

Tickets & practical info

Park admission plus the show ranges from ¥320 to ¥480 depending on seat class (regular, deluxe, VIP). Opening hours are typically 10:00–21:00, with multiple showtimes; the last show ends around 21:30. Book at least 3 days ahead, especially for weekends and holidays. Foreign cards are accepted on the official website, but WeChat Pay or Alipay is more reliable; our guide can book on your behalf.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is during spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November), when Hangzhou's weather is mild and the park's outdoor areas are pleasant. For the show, choose the 19:00 or 20:00 performance to see the stage lighting at its most dramatic. Avoid Chinese public holidays like Golden Week (Oct 1–7) when crowds are intense.

Tips from our guides

• Book the 19:00 show and arrive by 17:00 to explore the park before the crowds thicken; the Song street is most atmospheric at dusk.
• Sit in the middle rows of the central section for the best balance of view and special effects—front rows may get splashed during the rain scene.
• Bring a light jacket; the theater is air-conditioned and can feel chilly after sunset, especially in shoulder seasons.
• Use the free lockers at the entrance if you carry shopping bags; large bags are not allowed in the theater.
• Photography is allowed but no flash; for the best shots, use a fast lens and steady hands during the acrobatic acts.

FAQ