There are few cultural experiences that can entertain and enthrall the entire family in a way the world famous ERA acrobatic shows can. China is renowned for many things – craftsmanship, tradition, extraordinary feats – and ERA, perhaps the most famous of all acrobatic shows China offers – brings together all the elements. On offer as a family friendly option, families visiting Shanghai would be hard pressed to find a competitor for the excitement, fun, and energy that makes the ERA acrobatic show a perfect all rounder. Regardless of whether you’re traveling with high maintenance teens, energetic ten year olds, parents who want a break, or you just want to create a truly memorable experience, ERA delivers.

Curious as to why this is such a great experience? Let’s take you through it.

ERA – Time Journey 2 is next level entertainment

If this is your first visit to China, then you won’t have experienced the original ERA show. Combining stunning acrobatics, incredible lighting, gorgeous costumes, and dynamic vocal and acting performances, it is easy to see how ERA quickly rose to become a must-see item on the list of travelers to Shanghai. 

Originally premiering in 2005, ERA Intersection of Time was a groundbreaking fusion of Chinese tradition and futuristic performance art, running successfully for 15 years and becoming a symbol of modern Shanghai entertainment.

In 2021, it was reborn as ERA 2 – Journey Through Time and Space, expanding its original vision into a new narrative emphasizing human connection, cultural pride, and Shanghai’s global spirit. Recognized by China’s Ministry of Culture with multiple national awards, this show now stands as the flagship performance of China’s stage art innovation.

Seamlessly blending traditional cultural themes with the latest in lighting, acrobatics, and daring moves, the original ERA captivated audiences like no other show. The unique domed theater with its 360 degree views that seats over 1,600 guests set the bar high, so, it’s fair to say expectations of the legendary ERA – Time Journey 2 were very high.

We’re pleased to report, the new and improved ERA definitely delivers.

What to expect from ERA – Time Journey 2

This multimillion-dollar production represents the pinnacle of Chinese acrobatics. Building on the legacy of its predecessor, it brings together modern dance, aerial acts, martial arts, and multimedia projections to create a narrative of love and destiny across time and space. Every leap, spin, and flip reflects the essence of Shanghai. The themes of the show move between romanticism, innovation, power, and creativity.

Retaining all the original show’s highlights, guests can still expect to experience the adrenaline-pumping ‘Big Ball Flying Car’ – an unrivalled feat of motorcycle handling skills. It’s an act that makes watching it edge-of-your-seat exciting. Equally remarkable but with a softer energy are the elegant aerial silk dancers, who are breathtaking heights perform artistic moves that are reminiscent of ballet – performed meters from the ground. 

Unlike conventional acrobatic performances, ERA 2 uses 3D mapping, holographic imagery, and live instrumental music to enhance traditional craftsmanship. The distinctive soundtrack harmonizes Chinese guzheng, erhu, and drums with the Western harp, piano, and violin, creating a blended symphony of East and West that encapsulates contemporary Shanghai.

The theater’s design offers an unobstructed view of every aspect of the show, which means you can’t go wrong when buying tickets. 

What makes ERA – Time Journey 2 worth the investment?

There are many aspects of the show to love, but here are our reasons for adding this to your Shanghai to do list:

#1 – The ‘Sphere Motorcycle Stunt’ (you’ll know what we mean when you see it) is next level exciting and scary at the same time. Motorbike riders racing through a metal globe at dizzying speeds, creating a spectacle of human precision and courage.

#2 – The unique combination of media and performance to create something truly distinctive. The acts involving aerial performance with water, such as Chasing the Moonlit Clouds, combine underwater grace with airborne artistry and wonderful music.

#3 – Enjoy the edginess of the Extreme Youth sequence, which brings together skating and BMX stunts into the acrobatic fold, merges street culture with performance art, bringing a completely different dynamic to the show’s other acts.

#4 – In a truly memorable act – Messengers of Peace, performers share the ‘stage’ with live pigeons. Dancers intertwine with the birds in an incredible blend of stunning movement, symbolism, and peace.

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#5 – It wouldn’t be ERA without a brilliant finale, so of course, we must mention it here. The final acts envelop the audience in immersive multimedia landscapes, turning the stage into a dreamscape of light and color.

Each act in the show resonates with the same universal themes: love, courage, innovation, and the human drive to reach beyond limits. And while it all sounds very artistic and creative (and it most certainly is), there’s so much action, ERA will captivate even the toughest critic.

Bookings, performance details & more

Whether it’s your first visit to China or your fifth, ERA – Time Journey 2 is worth the effort to work into your schedule. More than a stage show, it really is unlike any other acrobatic performance. Its appeal for western travelers is the way it blends traditional cultural storytelling into a modern media delivery that helps you appreciate China’s rich history, creativity and innovation. Ready to book? We hear you! Check out the details below for what you need to know.

Beyond Shanghai: Acrobatic shows across China

Shanghai might set the stage for breathtaking acrobatic innovation, but China’s love for the spectacular is not limited to this eclectic city. Heading north in China, Beijing fronts up with two legendary venues for acrobatics and stage artistry, and both vie for top spot in the remarkable stakes. 

Chaoyang Theatre

With a performance designed to capture the imagination of both children and adults, the Beijing Acrobatic Spectacular combines comedic moments, incredible physical feats, and the drama of not knowing what’s going to happen next. You will definitely find yourself watching with one eye open as the performers seem to break the laws of gravity and artistic skills. Shows are held daily, which makes it an easy option for those on a flexible tour and looking for a one hour escape into China’s living circus tradition.

Red Theatre

The Beijing Red Theatre has gained a well earned reputation for mesmerising audiences with spectacular Chinese acrobatics and modern performance skills. The signature show, the Heroes of Shu, blends dramatic storytelling, traditional Chinese music, and the latest in stage effects. 

Both Chayang Theater and Red Theater are centrally located in Beijing and easily accessible by metro. Online booking services are available in English, which makes booking easy. Both shows are well-loved by international audiences for their inclusivity, production value, and the sheer joy of watching China’s world-class acrobatic artistry up close.

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While a visitor to China is more likely to associate travel with ancient history, exquisite traditional art and crafts, centuries old temples, and history defining innovation, there is a hidden aspect of Chinese culture that is more on the fun side of life. In recent years, China has emerged as a global powerhouse in the theme park industry. Now home to theme parks owned by Universal Studios, Disney, and other entertainment icons, travelers can add a dash of modern day entertainment and advanced tech to their otherwise tradition inspired tour.  

The comprehensive table below features China’s most celebrated theme parks, carefully curated based on attendance figures, visitor reviews, and industry recognition. Each destination offers unique attractions and experiences, from the technological marvels of Universal Studios Beijing to the marine wonders of Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, providing families and thrillseekers with unforgettable adventures that rival the world’s best entertainment destinations. 

For best visitor experience, however, we recommend checking official websites for detailed information, noting some sites may not offer English versions, so translation tools are suggested for ease of reading.

Chimelong Ocean Kingdom – Marine Wonder Paradise

Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in Zhuhai is the world’s largest marine park. Blending marine conservation with thrilling entertainment through record breaking attractions and immersive experiences, this is truly an attraction the whole family can enjoy. Featuring the world’s largest aquarium dome, massive whale shark exhibits, and eight themed zones that showcase diverse marine ecosystems, the park offers close encounters with over 20,000 animals including belugas, polar bears, and penguins. With multiple Guinness World Records, interactive shows, educational tours, and conservation programs, it inspires visitors of all ages. And if it’s more of a thrill you’re after, Chimelong also delivers high adrenaline rides like the Parrot Coaster and spectacular marine performances.

Beijing & Shenzhen Happy Valley – Urban Adventure Playground

Beijing and Shenzhen Happy Valley theme parks offer world class entertainment by combining international thrill rides with Chinese cultural elements and immersive storytelling. Beijing Happy Valley features seven themed zones across 560,000 square meters, boasting over 40 attractions, including Asia’s only flying coaster, Crystal Wings, the high speed Extreme Speed launch coaster, and dramatic Twin Tower Heroes free-fall ride – definitely not one for the faint hearted. For those not prepared to scare themselves witless, there are also spectacular shows on offer featuring family friendly characters like Mr. Cookie. Meanwhile, Shenzhen Happy Valley, China’s first and most innovative park since 1998, is enormous at 350,000 square meters. It blends tropical charm with high tech attractions. Consistently ranked as one of the country’s top amusement destinations with over 30 million visitors to date, it’s hard to beat this for modern, commercial entertainment.

Guangzhou Chimelong Paradise

Guangzhou Chimelong Paradise, China’s most technologically advanced theme park, is a thrill seeker’s dream, boasting eight attractions that have earned world records. In short Guangzhou Chimelong Paradise has redefined amusement park engineering since its 2006 debut. Highlights include the Vertical Drop Coaster, known as the Global King of Rollercoasters; the Ten Inversion rollercoaster (world record holder); the Eastern Hemisphere’s first Motorbike coaster; the world’s largest U-shaped skateboard ride; and the powerful Super Pendulum. The park features diverse themed zones like Jungle Adventure, Scream Zone, Whirlwind Island, Happy Water World, and Rainbow Bay, offering everything from family friendly fun to heart stopping thrills. With immersive 4D cinemas, live performances, and European-inspired architecture enhanced by premium ride technology from around the world, Chimelong Paradise blends excitement with natural beauty for a truly memorable experience.

Universal Studios Beijing

Designed for domestic and international audiences, Universal Studios Beijing is distinctively fantastic and fun, and caters to movie lovers from all over the world. Universal Studios Beijing isn’t just a theme park. It’s an immersive cinematic and cultural experience where beloved characters from Harry Potter, Transformers, Kung Fu Panda, and Jurassic World come alive through the most advanced technology and authentic storytelling experiences. What’s unique about this theme park? It blends Universal’s iconic movie franchises with Chinese cultural elements. Love Kung Fu panda and keen to learn some Hogwart’s magic? Then  a beeline to Universal Studios Beijing, where you’ll discover uniquely designed attractions that celebrate both Eastern and Western entertainment. As with all China’s theme parks, big is, well, it’s just better. And so is technology in all its myriad forms. Using the latest and greatest advanced lighting, animation and rides, Universal Studios Beijing delivers. Want to learn more? Discover it here.

Shanghai Disneyland

A Disney resort in every way, this Shanghai theme park is an entertainment destination that brings beloved Disney characters to life using the latest tech and creative genius. You’ll recognise the Disney formula immediately, but perhaps with a few twists: the integration of Chinese cultural elements and the very latest entertainment, lighting, and ride technology. With visiting made easy thanks to flexible passes catering to families and the Disney Resort located right next door, a stopover here to indulge in the magic world of animation, famous characters, and entertainment is well worth it.

Want to learn more? Explore Shanghai Disneyland in detail before booking your tickets

The ultimate China theme park list

With so many theme parks to choose from it can be hard to know where to start, so the ChinaTours.com team have simplified things with this summary list. No need to go searching into the internet ether because we’ve done the hard yards for you. Between addresses and links to the official website, our ultimate China theme park list is all you need to plan your holiday fun in China.

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Experience the magic of giant pandas with your family on an unforgettable panda volunteer tour designed to educate, inspire, and create lasting memories together. An immersive family friendly program, spending time with this gorgeous natural wonder offers a fun and practical way to learn about one of China’s most treasured animals. And the bonus? Every visit makes a valuable contribution to conserving these precious creatures.

What to expect on this tour

Let’s face it. There are very few who have found themselves up close with pandas, so it’s hard to know what to expect. Don’t be concerned. We have you covered with these top tips:

• Deep dive panda learning: Visitors have the opportunity to explore the biology, habits, and fascinating history of giant pandas through guided lessons and educational documentaries designed for all ages.

• Hands on volunteering: Whether you’re a big kid or traveling with kids, this experience offers the chance to join in activities. From preparing a seeming mountain of that trusty and much loved panda staple – bamboo, to crafting specially designed panda enrichment toys, observing panda behavior, and helping with cleaning out panda habitats, there is plenty to do for any willing traveler. And you’re never alone. All activities are supervised by local trained keepers.

• Exclusive access: For something a little special, arrangements can be made for exclusive access to panda research centers. It’s here you can see professional keepers in action and learn about panda health and conservation research.

• Creative family fun: If you’ve more of a creative bent, you can take part in panda themed crafts. Fancy a bamboo headpiece? Or maybe a handmade souvenir. We all love a travel memento and this is certainly one kids will treasure.

• Outdoor exploration and teamwork: While pandas enjoy their indoor spaces, they love the outdoors. Why not get active and outdoors too? Not only does this experience foster physical activity through chopping bamboo and collecting food samples, it also brings the family closer together.

• Recognition and memories: Celebrate the family’s achievements with certifications and commemorative gift packs. Yes, there’s one for every family member so mom and dad don’t miss out!

Spending time around and learning about pandas is really about creating genuinely special memories and making learning fun for the whole family.

Panda program highlights: What’s in it for families

Still wondering if this is the right activity for your crew? Check out these other highlights that make a panda visit worthwhile:

• Panda education is fun – Even if biology was not your thing at school, nobody can resist pandas. This tailored program offers eight specially designed topics designed to be fun, interesting, and expand your understanding of why pandas are so important. Learn the how and why of all things panda, from diet to habitat to their many endearing (and even some annoying!) habits, including.

• All inclusive – The program is all inclusive. That means everything from materials to uniforms and tools are provided. Your job? Simply bring your curiosity and enthusiasm!

• Meals included – Panda care can work up an appetite, which is why the program includes nutritious meals and snacks to keep volunteers of all ages energized for the duration.

Where can you find pandas?

There is no shortage of options for enjoying a panda experience, which is why we’ve curated our ‘best of’ list and thrown in our tips and recommendations for experiences you can add on while in the region.

For families choosing Bifengxia Panda Base, we highly recommend planning a two day, one night adventure. With plenty of welcoming guesthouses nearby, you can enjoy both the giant pandas and explore Southwest China’s largest Bifengxia Wild Animal Park at a relaxed pace. It’s the perfect family getaway that combines two amazing attractions into one unforgettable adventure.

Essential tips for your family panda visit

Age Requirements and booking

Despite their universal appeal, pandas are big, which is why program participants must be between 8 and 70 years old, and children 8 to 15 years  must be accompanied by a paying adult. To avoid disappointment all bookings should be made at least five days in advance. During activities, participants are required to wear the provided work uniform, badge, and gloves, keep attire neat, and wear suitable closed toe shoes. Keep in mind too that neither perfume nor strong scented cosmetics are permitted.

Start early for the best views

It’s an understatement to say that pandas are hugely popular. For this reason we highly recommend arriving bright and early because the early bed gets the very best panda views.  During hot weather, pandas are much more active in the cool morning hours. By afternoon, these clever creatures prefer to relax indoors with air conditioning. An early start means you’ll catch the pandas at their most playful and engaging.

Come prepared for nature

The panda bases are home to lots of beautiful bamboo, which naturally attracts mosquitoes and other insects. Pack insect repellent to keep your family comfortable throughout their visit. A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring everyone enjoys the experience.

Travel light with peace of mind 

Facilities at the panda centres are well set up for comfort. That means there is no need to worry about carrying your family’s gear around all day. The park offers convenient luggage storage facilities, so you can explore comfortably with just the essentials while keeping your belongings safe and secure.

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