The fairy tale begins when the Emperor of China hears of a wonderful nightingale that sings the most beautiful melodies. His court sets out to find the nightingale and brings this living jewel to the imperial palace. The nightingale enchants everyone with her breathtaking song, but when a mechanical nightingale, adorned with gold and precious stones, is presented, the emperor is seduced by its looks and sparkle. The real nightingale is forgotten and banished.