Hi everyone, I’m your travel buddy Alan!
Not long ago, I had the chance to experience firsthand the show that’s often hailed as “the pinnacle of Chinese acrobatic art” — ERA 2: Intersection of Time at Shanghai Circus World.
Honestly, it completely shattered everything I thought I knew about traditional acrobatics. This isn’t just a show; it’s a jaw-dropping journey through time and imagination!
If you’re planning a trip to Shanghai, this spectacular performance is an absolute must-see. But before you grab your seat, you’ll want to know a few important things — like how to book your Shanghai Acrobatic Show tickets and what to expect when you arrive.
That’s why I put together this ultimate Shanghai Acrobatic Show Visitor Guide — to help you easily unlock the magic of Shanghai Circus World without any stress. Let’s dive in!
1. Shanghai Circus World: The “Art Spaceship” of the Magic City
Tucked away on Gonghexin Road in Jing’an District, Shanghai Circus World (aka Shanghai ERA Acrobats Theatre ) looks like something straight out of a sci-fi movie. From the outside, it’s shaped like a giant silver flying saucer. At night, when the lights come on, it really feels like a glowing spaceship parked right in the middle of the city!
But it’s much more than just a cool building. Shanghai Circus World is home to some of the world’s top acrobatic troupes and a true playground where cutting-edge technology meets breathtaking artistry. The venue can hold nearly 2,000 spectators, and thanks to its circular stage design, every seat has an amazing, immersive view. You’ll feel like you’re right in the middle of the action, no matter where you sit!
Pro Tip: Arrive about 30 minutes before showtime! You’ll catch some fun improv performances by the acrobats in the lobby — and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even throw on a costume and snap some unforgettable photos. Definitely a great way to kickstart your evening before the main event!
2. How to Get There? Your Easy Metro Guide
As a total metro fan, I highly recommend taking Shanghai Metro Line 1 to Shanghai Circus World Station (上海马戏城站). Just hop off, head for Exit 3, and in about a 5-minute walk — following the giant silver “UFO” — you’ll be right there. Trust me, you literally can’t miss it!
If you’re starting from popular spots like The Bund or Nanjing Road, it’s super easy too. You’ll only need one transfer, and the whole journey usually takes under 40 minutes.
Tip: After the acrobatic show ends, if you miss the last metro (around 11:00 PM), no worries! Just grab a taxi to nearby Daning International Plaza (大宁国际广场) for some late-night snacks. The ride costs around 15 RMB — a small price for a midnight feast!
Shanghai Circus World Address (aka Shanghai ERA Acrobats Theatre) : No. 2266 Gonghexin Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai 上海市静安区共和新路2266号
Phone: (021) 6652 7750
(And don’t worry — in the next part of this Shanghai Acrobatic Show Visitor Guide, I’ll also share how to snag the best Shanghai Acrobatic Show tickets easily!)
3. Ticket Prices and Booking Secrets
How to Choose Your Seat:
- VIP Zone (Rows 1–5): 880 RMB. You’ll be so close you can see every smile and expression — and maybe even catch a blown kiss during the curtain call!
- A Zone (Rows 6–15): 580 RMB. The absolute sweet spot — fantastic panoramic views with no obstructions. Best value for your money!
- B Zone (Row 16 and beyond): 380 RMB. Perfect if you’re traveling on a budget but still want to soak up the thrilling atmosphere.
Where to Get Your Shanghai Acrobatic Show Tickets:
To make sure you don’t miss out, I highly recommend booking your Shanghai Acrobatic Show tickets in advance through trusted platforms like Maoyan, Damai, or the official WeChat Mini Program for ERA Intersection of Time.
For overseas travelers, Viator.com is super handy — they offer English-language booking services that make the process smooth and stress-free.
Hidden Bonus:
Here’s a cool secret — if you show your ticket from the same day, you can get free backstage museum access! (Reservation required.) It’s packed with ancient acrobatic props from the Ming Dynasty and behind-the-scenes training videos of the performers. Super fascinating!
4. ERA Intersection of Time 2: When Acrobatics Meets Time Travel
If traditional acrobatics are all about strength and beauty, then ERA 2: Intersection of Time feels like stepping right into a live sci-fi blockbuster!
The show unfolds in three breathtaking acts — Ancient Mysteries, City of the Future, and Love Across Time — packing 90 minutes of pure, edge-of-your-seat excitement. Not a single dull moment!
Must-See Highlights:
- Silk Aerial Dance: Imagine an acrobat soaring through the air, suspended only by a strip of red silk. It’s like watching the heavenly figures from the Dunhuang murals come alive right before your eyes.
- Motorcycle Death Cage: Three motorcycles, one metal cage, just five meters in diameter. They roar around at speeds of 80 km/h, weaving and flying past each other — heart-pounding doesn’t even begin to describe it!
- Holographic Water Curtain: Suddenly, the whole stage transforms into an endless ocean. Acrobats twist and tumble through “water,” combined with stunning projection effects, making you feel like you’ve been dropped into an underwater fantasy world.
- Mind-Blowing Details: Hidden under the stage are over 50 moving platforms — and even the audience seats vibrate with the action! I saw people in the front rows reach out to catch “falling” virtual snowflakes. The level of tech magic here is just insane.
Seriously, whether you’re here for a once-in-a-lifetime show or just looking for the best Shanghai Acrobatic Show Visitor Guide, ERA 2 is the experience you didn’t even know you needed!
5. Important Tips: Avoid These Common Pitfalls!
Special Needs Access: Need a wheelchair seat? Just email [email protected] at least 72 hours before the show. They also offer free storage service for personal items.
No Photography Allowed: Absolutely no photos or videos during the show. (They’ll announce this in multiple languages before the start.) Violators might actually be asked to leave, so keep that phone tucked away.
What to Wear: The theater cranks up the air conditioning, so bring a light jacket. Also, ladies — skip the high heels! You might need to stand up quickly during audience interaction moments.
Language Worries? None!: Programs are available in Chinese, English, Japanese, and Korean. Plus, the story is told through pure action and movement — no language skills needed to enjoy every second.
6. My Personal Tips: What to Do After the Show?
When the curtain falls, don’t rush off just yet! There’s still plenty of magic to soak up:
- Starlight Corridor: For an extra 50 RMB, you can snap a photo with the lead performers — and they’ll even strike one of their iconic poses from the show. Totally worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime memory!
- Cultural Gift Shop: Don’t miss the chance to pick up a limited-edition bronze acrobat figurine. They’re hand-carved, super detailed, and sell for 198 RMB. A perfect keepsake to remember your Shanghai acrobatic adventure!
- Daning Music Plaza: Just a 10-minute walk away, this lively plaza is the perfect place to wind down. I highly recommend trying the “Time-Travel Themed Cocktail” — complete with an edible LED light on the rim. It’s dreamy, sparkly, and seriously Instagram-worthy!
When the final performer conquered the “Cloud Ladder” challenge, standing 30 meters above the stage, the entire audience jumped to their feet — and the applause thundered on for a full 10 minutes.
In that moment, I realized something powerful: acrobatics aren’t just about skill. They’re a breathtaking tribute to human courage, a romantic rebellion against what we call “impossible.”
No matter where you come from, every leap, every spin, every impossible twist on that stage speaks a universal language — because bravery and beauty don’t need translation.
So what are you waiting for?
Book your Shanghai Acrobatic Show tickets now, and let ERA Intersection of Time 2 become the unforgettable highlight of your Shanghai adventure!
