Manchu Han Imperial Feast is regarded as the greatest achievement of Imperial Court Food. It is also one of the most luxurious feasts in the Chinese food history. Not counting fruits and desserts, it contains at least 108 courses, including 134 hot dishes and 48 cold ones.

It appeared during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and became prevalent in Guangxu reign period (1871-1908). It is said that in order to further integrate the Manchu and Han Nationality, emperors of the Qing Dynasty promoted the combination of the Manchu Banquet and Han Banquet.

The feast was designed only for emperors. In ancient times, only the imperial family and meritorious officials had the chance to enjoy the feast. It was so great that it was always divided into six meals which could last three days. As one of the most luxurious feasts, it contained all kinds of delicacies, including camel’s hump, bear’s paws, monkey’s brains, ape’s lips, etc.