Liu Sanjie show on the Li River in Yangshuo

The now famous Liu Sanjie show in Yangshuo had its premier in 2004 and is supposed to be the biggest natural stage in the world. The Liu Sanjie show was created by Zhang Yimao, who has also created and choreographed the opening ceremony for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and directed such famous Chinese movies as Raise the Red Lantern.

Liu Sanjie is located about 2 km from West Street (4km from Yangshuo Mountain Retreat)and the show is performed on the waters of Li River and its surroundings. Twelve karst formations are lit up, utilizing the wonders of nature to form the backdrop to the stage. The performance can look different each time as mist, rain and moonlight naturally alter the set of the stage. Over 600 locals who are mainly farmers, fisherman and youngsters perform and sing to often over a 10,000 strong audience.

The Liu Sanjie show is performed every night of the week apart from during periods of heavy rains. The show starts Monday to Friday at 8 pm however in peak season and on weekends there are two performances starting at 7.30 pm and 9 pm. Tickets can be purchased at the Yangshuo Mountain Retreat reception or in travel agencies in Yangshuo town. The ticket price does not include transport, however we can arrange a taxi for drop off and pick up or you can catch an electric minibus from Yangshuo town center.

Liu Sanjie is a love story about a woman called Liu Sanjie, which means "third sister". Her voice was so beautiful that it touched everyone. Born in Liuzhuo and working as a farmer's daughter with her sister. The legend is that a warlord falls in love with Liu Sanjie but she has already fallen in love with a man from the village. The warlord does not accept this and kidnaps her but Liu Sanjie's lover and friends in the village go to free her and the couple escape living happily ever after.

For more great Liu Sanjie photos go to
http://www.flickr.com/photos/yangshuomountainretreat/sets/72157603691601779/