Hello everyone, I’m Michael Zhang, a seasoned Chinese traveler who has explored countries across the globe. Over the years, I’ve learned that travel is not just about scenery—it’s about the stories and cultures behind every destination. From classical theaters in Europe to modern masterpieces in Asia, I’ve always believed that a city’s artistic landmarks reveal the soul of its people. Today, let me take you to one of Zhuhai’s most iconic landmarks—the Zhuhai Opera House, an architectural marvel that rises gracefully from the sea.

Summary

Zhuhai Opera House Introduction

The Zhuhai Opera House consists of two theaters—a large and a small one—designed in the form of “shells,” with one slightly larger than the other. During the day, the structure appears semi-transparent; at night, it glows softly like moonlight. Facing Lovers’ Road and overlooking Xianglu Bay, the Opera House sits opposite Yeli Island. Built on reclaimed land, it covers about 170,000 square meters and is the only opera house in China located on an island. The tallest point reaches 90 meters. The main theater accommodates 1,600 people, while the smaller one holds 550.

  • Address: No. 3 Huandao Road, Xiangzhou District, Zhuhai (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Opening hours: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM (no performance) / 9:30 AM until the end of the show (with performance)
  • Light show: 7:30 PM – 8:00 PM and 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Suggested visiting time: about 30 minutes (2–3 hours if exploring nearby)
  • Best season: All year
  • Ticket prices: Entry is free; tickets are required for performances.
Zhuhai Opera House on Yeli Island, iconic shell-shaped landmark by the sea

Why You Should Visit Zhuhai Opera House

Unique Architectural Design

Inspired by the image of the “Sun and Moon Shell,” the twin-shell design blends oceanic elements with modern artistry. At night, its brilliant lighting transforms the Opera House into a glowing symbol of romance. The architecture integrates cutting-edge sound, lighting, and projection technologies, embodying both artistic beauty and the coastal spirit of the Greater Bay Area.

Diverse Performances

In recent years, the Opera House has hosted world-class troupes and productions, including music, dance, and theater. Notable performances have featured the National Theatre of China’s “The Grand Mansion Gate”, the Paris Opera Chamber Orchestra’s “Carmen” concert, and DeYun She’s cross-talk comedy shows, bringing both classical and contemporary art to Zhuhai’s cultural stage.

Top Things to Do in Zhuhai Opera House

A Breathtaking Photography Experience

The Zhuhai Opera House is a dream come true for photography lovers. Whether under the bright sunlight or the shimmering evening glow, every moment reveals its charm as a “pearl on the sea.” During the day, sunlight reflects gently off the white “shell” façade; at night, the illuminated structure mirrors beautifully on the water, creating a dynamic watercolor-like scene. To capture its most stunning look, arrive around sunset and take advantage of the golden light for a magical composition.

  • Recommended photo spots:
    • Bus stop north of Lovers’ Road Xianglu Bay Beach, facing the Sun and Moon Shells
    • Second-floor curved terrace at the Starbucks in Haiyun City Mall
    • Viewing platform outside the Deyue Boat Restaurant on Yeli Island
Tourists taking photos at Zhuhai Opera House with traditional pavilion in view

Performances Rich in Chinese Culture

The Zhuhai Opera House is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a vibrant stage for the performing arts. Each month brings a fresh lineup of shows—from traditional Chinese opera and symphony concerts to avant-garde stage plays. Whether you love classic elegance or modern creativity, there’s always something to spark your cultural curiosity.

  • There are no fixed programs; schedules change monthly, so be sure to buy tickets in advance!
  • Most performances begin after 5:00 PM.
Stage performance inside Zhuhai Opera House with colorful costumes

Zhuhai Opera House Ticket Guide

Tickets for all performances at the Zhuhai Opera House must be purchased through its official WeChat account “珠海大剧院.”

  • Children under 1.1 meters are not allowed to attend shows.
  • Ticket prices are the same for adults and children.
  • It’s not recommended to choose second-floor seats; although the view is central, the distance makes it less immersive. Front-row seats on the first floor offer the best experience.
Zhuhai Opera House official WeChat page showing performance booking and tickets

If you’re not planning to attend a show, the best time to visit the Zhuhai Opera House area is around sunset. Here’s a suggested route: 2:00 PM – cycle around Yeli Island → 4:00 PM – take photos outside the Sun and Moon Shells → 5:30 PM – enjoy Cantonese seafood at Deyue Boat Restaurant → 7:00 PM – watch the light show at the Opera House Plaza → 8:30 PM – stroll along Lovers’ Road and feel the sea breeze.

  • Lovers’ Road Coastal Walkway: Framed by the Sun and Moon Shells and lined with palm trees and sea breezes, perfect for capturing cinematic shots.
  • Yeli Island Greenway: Walk or cycle here for panoramic views of the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge and the vast sea horizon.
  • Opera House Plaza Night View: During the “Dance of Light and Shadow” show, lasers and music transform the shells into a breathtaking canvas.
  • Deyue Boat Restaurant: This traditional-style building shares a frame with the shells, creating a unique contrast between ancient and modern design.

There are plenty of restaurants near the Zhuhai Opera House, most offering Western-style cuisine with an average cost of about 100 CNY per person. A highly recommended spot is the Starbucks near the theater—from its second-floor terrace, you can capture some of the best angles of the Sun and Moon Shells while enjoying a relaxing coffee break.

Starbucks terrace with a view of the Zhuhai Opera House shells

It’s best to stay near Gongbei Port, the downtown area of Zhuhai with excellent transportation. There are direct buses from Zhuhai Jinwan Airport, and Zhuhai Railway Station is also located here. Travelers coming from Hong Kong or Macau must pass through this area. It offers convenient access to Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue, Lovers’ Post Office, Yeli Island Park, Zhuhai Opera House, Tangjia Old Town, and Huitong Village, all much closer than from Chimelong Ocean Kingdom. Buses also run directly between this district and Chimelong Ocean Kingdom. The food scene is vibrant, and the famous Xiayuan Food Street is nearby.

Zhuhai L Hotel （Gongbei Port High-speed Railway Station）

L Hotel Zhuhai
  • Location: 5-minute walk from Zhuhai Railway Station
  • Price Range: 343 RMB
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: 4.7 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room, robot delivery service, family rooms, quadruple rooms

The hotel is conveniently located across from the Gongbei and Qingmao ports, Zhuhai Station, airport bus parking, the main bus terminal, and the sightseeing bus. A short walk to the beach and surrounded by numerous dining options.

The hotel features modern facilities, clean and tidy rooms with fresh-smelling bed linens and towels, complete toiletries. Complimentary earplugs, makeup removal wipes, and compressed towels are also provided.

Qingmai S Seaview Hotel, Gongbei Lovers Road, Zhuhai

S Hotel on Lovers Road Sea View Zhuhai
  • Location: On Lovers South Road, Zhuhai
  • Price Range: 390 RMB
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: 4.8 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room, family rooms, quadruple rooms

The hotel is situated right on the beachfront, with immediate access to Lovers South Road for biking and walking along the beach. Rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of the beautiful seascape and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, with Gongbei Port just a short 10 RMB taxi ride away.

The rooms are spacious and hygienically maintained, featuring large bathrooms and well-reviewed smart home facilities. The bedding is also noted for its comfort.

Similan Hotel Zhuhai（Gongbei Port High speed Railway Station）

Zhuhai Wan Yue Hotel (Gongbei Port High-Speed Rail Station)
  • Location: 8-minute walk to Gongbei Port
  • Price Range: 520 RMB
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: 4.7 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Gym, outdoor pool, children’s playground, family rooms

Situated on Lovers Road by the sea, the hotel is just a short walk from Gongbei Port. It’s close to the Zhuhai seaside, ideal for strolling and enjoying the sea breeze.

Rooms are clean and tidy with comfortable and soft bedding. All rooms are well-equipped, and double beds measure 1.35 meters.

How to Get from Downtown Zhuhai to Zhuhai Opera House

If you prefer public transportation, take bus Z11 and get off at the “Sun and Moon Shells” station. However, taxis are more convenient and affordable—a ride from downtown Zhuhai to the Zhuhai Opera House takes about 20 to 30 minutes and costs around 15 CNY.

FAQ

Is Zhuhai Opera House suitable for strollers and wheelchairs?

Absolutely. Most surrounding walkways are flat, making it easy and comfortable for visitors using strollers or wheelchairs.

Essential Zhuhai Travel Resources