Impression Liu Sanjie Light Show

Highlights:

• Admire the magnificence of Yangshuo by night
• Learn about the enchanting story of Liusanjie
• Enjoy the stunning combination of light, music, dance and song

Set against the emerald waters of the Li River and the dramatic backdrop of towering karst mountains, the Impression Liu Sanjie light show is a spectacle that transforms Yangshuo’s natural beauty into an unforgettable evening experience. If you’re seeking a mesmerising nighttime activity during your tour of China, this dazzling outdoor performance is not to be missed.

After a short transfer from Yangshuo town, you will arrive at the theatre, an enormous open-air stage built directly on the river itself. As you take your seat, prepare to be swept away by a visually stunning show. Created in 2004 by the acclaimed director Zhang Yimou—famed for choreographing Beijing’s 2008 Olympic opening ceremony—the performance uses the Li River, the surrounding karst peaks and the natural landscape as a stage.

The show tells the story of Liu Sanjie, or “Third Sister Liu,” a legendary young woman renowned for her extraordinary singing voice. In the tale, Liu Sanjie falls in love with a humble farmer’s boy, only to be abducted by a wealthy warlord. The boy and her friends embark on a courageous quest to rescue her, with the drama unfolding across seven vibrant scenes.

More than 600 local performers bring the story to life through song, dance and intricate choreography. In the grand Red Impression scene, the performers sing in antiphony as glowing fishing lights ripple across the river, illuminating the karst mountains in a magical spectacle. In Silver Impression, 200 female performers from ethnic minority communities don traditional costumes and sing folk songs, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. The show concludes with a poignant epilogue: lights dim, fishing rafts drift apart, and Liu Sanjie’s angelic voice echoes over the valley.

Lasting around one hour, it runs twice nightly (except in January and February) and offers a truly unforgettable sensory experience that celebrates both the artistry and the landscapes of southern China.

What's included

• Return transfers
• Entrance tickets