Jingzhou, Hubei—the cradle of Chu civilization—has unveiled a one-of-a-kind cultural tourism experience that brings ancient royal wedding ceremonies to life. Titled The Royal Chu Banquet, the immersive performance artfully intertwines traditional marriage customs, ritual music, and the region's rich culinary heritage within a grand historical narrative.

Set against a striking crimson backdrop and adorned with iconic Chu motifs such as phoenixes and auspicious clouds, the banquet recreates the opulent atmosphere of an ancient Chu palace. The spectacle unfolds through nine ceremonial acts—from bell-and-chime performances and sacrificial rites to Chu-style dances, drum ensembles, and the time-honored wedding cup ritual—faithfully reviving the splendor of a royal Chu wedding. Guests are transported back in time, experiencing the refined elegance of Chu culture amid the rhythm of music, ritual, and graceful choreography.

Guest:

"This is more than a show—it's a cultural feast that fills us with immense pride in our hometown's profound heritage."

The culinary journey is equally evocative, featuring regional delicacies such as Biji fish maw, Honghu gorgon fruit, Gong'an beef, fish cakes, and eel noodles—each course meticulously timed to align with the ceremonial narrative. Every dish tells a story, offering guests a multisensory experience of Jing-Chu heritage.

Organizer representative, Zhao Jinyong:

"As the ancient capital of the Chu State, Jingzhou is endowed with a wealth of cultural heritage. The Royal Chu Banquet—a participatory, multisensory experience that guests can taste, watch, and engage with—represents an innovative model for the living transmission of Chu culture."

Developed over seven months of intensive planning and production, the project delivers a fully immersive historical experience, reinterpreting the region's rich cultural heritage through a contemporary, scenographic lens. The result has drawn widespread acclaim from visitors and cultural enthusiasts alike, establishing a new benchmark for heritage-driven tourism in the region.