The 5 Shows and Performances in Shanghai That Earn Their Price

1.Circus World ERA Theatre Acrobatics Ticket

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 283 reviews · 1 hour · from $55Our pick

Spend one fast-paced hour at Shanghai ERA Theatre watching Chinese acrobats perform plate spinning, partner stunts, high-chair balancing, ball tricks, shoulder ballet, and a motorcycle cage finale. Your QR theatre ticket arrives by WhatsApp, iMessage, or WeChat on the day. English support comes from Li and the Authentic China Tours team, but there is no standard guide service.

“Yes, yes, yes, yes, 1000% recommended! It was one of the best exepriences in my life! You MUST go!”

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2.Shanghai Circus World: ERA2 Intersection of Time Acrobatics Show

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 235 reviews · from $54Best value

At Shanghai Circus World, ERA2: Intersection of Time combines Chinese acrobatics, martial arts, music, costumes, lights, and special effects. The 60-minute and 100-minute versions cost the same, so check the time carefully. Expect porcelain, silk, modern Chinese achievements, and the famous motorcycle sphere, with five seating categories to choose from.

“I visited with my son. It was awesome. Absolutely stunning performances. Online ticket purchase through VIATOR was a breez.”

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3.Royal Banquet with Chinese Cultural Performance

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 124 reviews · 2 - 2.5 hours · from $117

Spend 2 to 2.5 hours at Shanghai’s Royal Banquet, where a palace-style meal arrives alongside traditional music, dance, and historical scenes. The menu includes abalone, yellow croaker, shrimp balls, soup, noodles, sweets, and tea. Add Ming Dynasty clothing, hair, and makeup for 200 RMB, and confirm your exact check-in and show time before booking.

“Absolutely unforgettable experience! The music and dance performances were mesmerising and the food was delicious.”

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4.Shanghai Circus World ERA Theatre Acrobatics Ticket

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 95 reviews · from $55Top rated

Spend one hour at Shanghai Circus World’s ERA Theatre, where acrobats combine high-speed stunts, music, dance, visual effects, and cultural performance. Book ahead for a recommended Section A seat, then receive the actual theater QR code by WhatsApp or iMessage. Optional hotel transfer is available within Shanghai’s 2nd Ring Road.

“It was a fantastic show, definitely worth it! And our guide Mary even awaited us with bottled water and a map of Shanghai with famous touristic spots!! We were so happy and thankful. As for the show: it was thrilling, romantical, funny, beautiful and overall pleasing! We highly recommend it!”

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5.China Acrobatics Show and Shanghai Evening Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 64 reviews · from $119

You’ll spend about 90 minutes watching Shanghai acrobats perform feats of balance, speed, and nerve, then tour the city after dark by air-conditioned vehicle and on foot. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with stops around People’s Square, the Bund, French Concession, and Xintiandi. Guides have included Jennifer and Alena, though the sightseeing portion can vary.

“The performances were spectacular! This is a must see for anyone in shanghai but I have to say our guide was not so good for the tour after the show. Maybe just book the show and forget the guided tour after the show.”

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