The Tang Palace Dance Show and 18 types of dumplings!

OK, we were told that going to this was a great experience and that people typically reserve months ahead and amazingly we were able to get tickets and enjoy this special event. This place is apparently the most famous dumpling restaurant in Xian - where dumplings originated. Each course of dumplings came out and we were told what was inside. If there was fish inside, the dumplings were cut and shaped as a fish - cabbage dumplings came out shaped as cabbage and pork dumplings came out as little pigs - they were amazing - the last ones were walnut dumplings and really looked like walnuts and were very rich - really dessert and they were the last ones served. the scallop ones were shaped as scallops, and duck dumplings as ducks. Unfortunately Ben only liked one kind of all the dumplings so that was a bit of a disappointment - but everyone else enjoyed them all.

After dumpling was what we would describe as a Chinese variety show - with the most spectacular costumes. There were 10 "acts" with song and dance with each - alternating between women and men either musicians or dancers. It was quite entertaining, but we were all so tired ( remember, this is still the same day we arrived from the train) that we all took turns falling asleep during the show! We all actually totally forgot it was July 4th in the states - so a belated happy 4th of July! We all collapsed that night to sleep...with full dumpling bellies.