Shanghai’s food scene is getting a cultural upgrade as Trip.com Group introduces “Taste of China,” an immersive dining show launching on August 27, 2025, inside the newly renovated Bund City Hall Plaza. Blending seven signature regional dishes with dynamic digital storytelling and live performance, this 90-minute experience promises to redefine culinary tourism in the city.
A Multi-Sensory Journey Across China
Guided by the animated panda chef Cheng BaoBao, diners embark on a culinary journey through seven regions of China. Each course represents a distinctive flavor profile, starting with crispy Peking Duck and fragrant jasmine tea from northern China, moving to the tangy Sour Soup Fish from the south, and progressing to a nourishing herbal hot pot from central China featuring marbled beef, abalone, and exotic mushrooms. Western China’s influence shines through a modern twist on Mapo Tofu, paired with wagyu beef cubes and fresh lobster.
More than just a meal, the show integrates cultural narratives into each course, offering guests insights into the values and traditions that define each region — from the emphasis on integrity and respect in the north to the innovation and boldness of Sichuan’s culinary heritage. By weaving these cultural philosophies into the storyline, guests gain a deeper appreciation of China’s regional diversity.
Live Performance Meets Interactive Storytelling
Taste of China takes the dining experience far beyond a traditional meal by merging high-tech visuals and live performances. Guests are immersed in a dynamic environment where hanfu-clad dancers float gracefully through digitally recreated Suzhou gardens, while a Shaolin martial artist showcases precision and strength during the Guilin segment of the journey.
An interactive tabletop fishing game invites diners to “catch” fish during one of the chapters, adding a playful, hands-on element that heightens the immersive feel. The evening concludes with a dramatic Sichuan opera face-changing performance, set to an upbeat rock soundtrack, leaving audiences amazed by the blend of tradition and modern creativity.
Cultural Dressing and Photo Opportunities
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to enhance their experience. Before the show begins, guests can don traditional Chinese attire, including elegant hanfu, modern cheongsam, or garments inspired by ethnic Miao and Tibetan cultures. Professionally styled photography areas are available, featuring digital and 3D backgrounds that allow guests to capture stunning moments perfect for sharing on social media.
Culinary Tourism: A Growing Trend
Culinary tourism has been booming worldwide, and Shanghai is no exception. Recent travel data indicates a 30% year-on-year increase in culinary travel bookings in 2025. Globally, destinations like Paris, London, New York, Madrid, and Milan remain popular for gourmet travelers, while within China, Shanghai and Beijing are at the forefront of the trend.
Taste of China caters to this growing demand by offering a multi-sensory, story-driven experience that not only entertains but also educates visitors about China’s culinary diversity. Diners receive digital guides linked to each course, providing information about the featured regions and suggestions for travel itineraries. This integration of food and tourism gives visitors the chance to explore beyond the dinner table and plan future trips based on their culinary interests.
Visitor Information
- Location: Bund City Hall Plaza, No. 215 Jiangxi Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
- Show Timings: Lunch seating from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM; dinner seating from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Pricing: Starting at approximately RMB 1,000 per person
- Nearby Attractions: Guests can explore The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and the Shanghai Museum before or after their dining experience
- Dress Code: Guests are encouraged to wear traditional attire for an enhanced cultural experience
A New Chapter in Shanghai’s Tourism
Taste of China adds a fresh layer to Shanghai’s vibrant tourism landscape. It blends food, technology, and performance art into a single, cohesive narrative that resonates with both domestic and international visitors. For travelers seeking experiences that go beyond sightseeing, this immersive show delivers a deeper connection to China’s heritage and regional stories.
Shanghai, already celebrated for its fusion of history and modernity, is poised to become an even greater hub for experiential tourism through concepts like Taste of China. By integrating digital storytelling with high-quality gastronomy, the city is offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with Chinese culture in innovative ways.
A Pre-Dinner Cultural Gateway
Located in one of the city’s most picturesque districts, the Bund City Hall Plaza provides the perfect backdrop for an evening of cultural exploration. Before stepping into the show, guests can enjoy nearby riverfront walks or explore Shanghai’s iconic shopping and cultural districts. The experience is thoughtfully priced to balance accessibility and exclusivity, ensuring that visitors feel both pampered and welcomed.
Setting the Stage for Culinary Innovation
Taste of China doesn’t just celebrate Chinese cuisine; it redefines how culinary heritage is shared with the world. Through its combination of live performance, interactive elements, and high-tech production, the show sets a new benchmark for immersive dining. It represents the future of culinary tourism — where storytelling, technology, and gastronomy converge to create memorable experiences.
Conclusion
Taste of China is more than a dining event; it’s an immersive cultural journey through the heart of China’s culinary traditions. By pairing exquisite dishes with cutting-edge digital storytelling and live performances, this experience delivers an unforgettable adventure that appeals to food enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and tech-savvy travelers alike.
As the global appetite for culinary tourism continues to grow, Shanghai positions itself at the forefront, offering a gateway where taste, culture, and technology come together in perfect harmony.
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