Hi, I’m Alex Chen, an avid backpacker from China with a passion for independent travel. My journeys have taken me from volcanic villages in Latin America to forgotten ancient towns in Central Asia. Yet, I’ve always believed that the most precious cultural gems are right here at home. As a budget travel enthusiast, I love uncovering destinations that offer rich experiences without breaking the bank. In this guide, I’ll take you deep into a cultural hidden gem in Beijing—Chang’an Grand Theater, a place where, for less than the price of dinner, you can step into a time machine and experience the magic of a Qing Dynasty opera house.

Summary

Chang’an Grand Theater Introduction

Chang’an Grand Theater is a time-honored and renowned performance venue in Beijing. Built in 1937, it is a beautiful blend of classical Chinese aesthetics and modern architectural design. Styled with strong Ming and Qing dynasty influences, the main hall features elegant rosewood tables and comfortable soft chairs. The venue even offers “Baby Opera Garden”-themed teaware and imperial-style dim sum, allowing guests to feel as though they’ve stepped into an opera house from centuries past. The theater accommodates over 800 spectators and primarily stages traditional productions, especially Peking Opera and other classical Chinese art forms.

  • Address: 1st Floor, Bright China Chang’an Building, No.7 Jianguomen Inner Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Opening hour: Shows usually start at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Best time to visit: All seasons
  • Ticket Prices: RMB 80 to RMB 800 (depending on seat location)
  • Ticket Purchase: WeChat official account or official website
Front entrance of Chang'an Grand Theater in Beijing

Chang’an Grand Theater Seating Guide and Map

Chang’an Grand Theater’s ticket prices are determined by seat location. Generally, the seating is divided into three zones: tea seats near the stage on the first floor, standard seats on the first floor, and standard seats on the second floor. The closer to the stage, the higher the price. For tea seats, I recommend sitting in the first or second row near the center. Any further back and the flat flooring might result in your view being blocked. For regular seats on the first floor, the best options are in rows 4 to 6, center area—these offer a clear view and let you see facial expressions. On the second floor, avoid the first row as legroom is very limited. The other rows are fine.

Seating chart of Chang'an Grand Theater with floor layout

Top Things to Do in Chang’an Grand Theater

Peking Opera Performances

One of the best features of Chang’an Grand Theater is how it tailors entire Peking Opera shows for international tourists. These specially curated performances make it easier for first-timers to appreciate and understand Peking Opera. Thoughtfully selected by directors and writers, the shows cover a variety of roles and artistic styles, with simultaneous Chinese and English subtitles to ensure full comprehension. If you’re intrigued by Chinese traditional performing arts, this venue is a must-visit.

For example, in the opera Red-Maned Steed, Xue Pinggui returns home after 18 years away. He runs into his wife Wang Baochuan at Wujia Slope, but she doesn’t recognize him. Disguised, he tests her loyalty. After reuniting, they face betrayal and political danger. Princess Dai Zhan rescues Xue, who eventually defeats the villains and reunites his family in triumph.

Peking Opera Red-Maned Steed performed at Chang'an Grand Theater

Chang’an Grand Theater Ticket Guide

Ticket Prices

  • Ticket Prices: RMB 80 to RMB 800 (depending on seat location)
  • Note: No discounts are offered for children, students, or seniors. All attendees, including children, must purchase full-price tickets. Children under 1.2 meters in height are not allowed inside.

How to Buy Tickets

Mingyuan Restaurant (Beizongbu Hutong)

Local Beijing cuisine near Chang'an Grand Theater
  • Why go: Tucked in an old Beijing alley, this local favorite serves authentic Beijing dishes and draws crowds of locals. Try the glazed meatballs, sweet and sour pork, and classic Beijing-style noodles with soybean paste.
  • Address: No. 21, Beizongbu Hutong, Dongcheng District, Beijing (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Hours: Daily 10:30 AM–10:00 PM
  • Avg. cost: RMB 89 per person

How to Get to Chang’an Grand Theater from Downtown Beijing

The subway is the most convenient way to reach Chang’an Grand Theater. It’s less than a 10-minute walk from the nearest station. Since traffic can be heavy in this area, taxis and ride-hailing services are often slower.

Subway

Chang’an Grand Theater is centrally located in Beijing. Take Metro Line 1 or Line 2, get off at Jianguomen Station, exit via Exit A (Northwest), and walk for about 10 minutes.

Bus

Multiple buses stop near the theater. Take Bus 142, 120, or 126 and get off at Beijingzhan Dong station. Walk 5 minutes from there.

Taxi / Ride-hailing

From central Beijing, a taxi or ride-hailing trip takes around 20 minutes and costs about RMB 20.

FAQ

Is Chang’an Grand Theater wheelchair and stroller accessible?

Not really. Only the front tea seat area on the first floor is somewhat accessible. Other areas are not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.

Is there luggage storage at the theater?

No luggage storage is available. You can place a backpack under your seat during the performance.

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