Top 10 Most Famous Film Studios in China

Suzhou Film Studios is one of the largest film studios in China, built by Beijing Radio and Television in 1987 around the vast area of Taihu Lake. Located in the city of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, with an area of nearly 100 hectares and many impressive scenes, it is a highly favored location for Chinese filmmakers. The beauty and fame of Suzhou Film Studios also attract a large number of tourists from both domestic and international locations. Annually, millions of visitors come here to experience the ancient atmosphere of the studio. Suzhou Film Studios is primarily used for filming outdoor scenes for television series set in ancient times. Due to its massive scale, unique props, and extensive scenery, the studio has become an important part of China's tourism industry.

At this location, designers have recreated grand and unique ancient scenes and architectures. Everything from small details like roads and rooftops to larger structures such as palaces, streets, and fortresses are portrayed vividly. The studio is divided into several sections representing different historical periods, such as the Han Dynasty with the Wu King’s Palace, Han Ding, Cao Ying, and Shui Chai; the Tang Dynasty with the Imperial Flower Garden, Shen Xiang Pavilion, and Qinghua Lake; and the Song Dynasty with the Imperial Palace, Great General Temple, and Liangshan Marsh. Additionally, there are architectural replicas from the Ming and Qing dynasties, as well as the traditional Beijing Siheyuan (courtyard houses) and Shanghai's ancient streets—all meticulously constructed to create a truly lifelike experience. Besides the man-made sets, Suzhou Film Studios is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, providing visitors with the opportunity to enjoy both the indoor and outdoor settings of the studio.

This studio is located in Zhejiang Province, often referred to as the 'Second Summer Palace' of China. The film studio is a replica of Beijing’s Summer Palace, which has long been considered the Summer Palace of China. Summer Palace is the largest outdoor palace in the world, with an investment of over 5 billion USD. Even while under construction, it attracted many tourists from both within China and abroad. Notably, the studio was built to replicate nearly 95% of the architectural complexes of the Summer Palace that were damaged during the wars with Britain and France. The Summer Palace in Beijing is a significant witness to various moments in Chinese history, which makes this studio highly sought after by the media, tourists, and film crews from both China and abroad.

The stunning natural scenery and exquisite palace architecture are expected to make this studio one of the most unique in the world. Many of us are familiar with the iconic Summer Palace in China. Unfortunately, the real Summer Palace does not allow filming. As a result, a replica of the Summer Palace was built in Zhejiang Province, with an investment of 5 billion USD. This studio is now the largest film studio in the world. Not only does it attract film crews, but it has also become an unmissable tourist destination for visitors to Zhejiang. If you have the opportunity to visit Zhejiang, be sure to stop by this magnificent studio!

Historically, China has always been famous for its strength in producing historical dramas. Works such as Romance of the Three Kingdoms, The Kangxi Emperor, Emperor Wu of Han, Bu Bu Jing Xin, Nirvana in Fire, and Empresses in the Palace have left a lasting impression, not only due to their compelling scripts and the remarkable performances of the actors, but also because of the breathtaking, cinematic locations that evoke deep emotions in viewers. The grand and beautiful filming locations have helped Chinese filmmakers establish a unique position in the genre of historical drama. Zhaocheng Film Studios, located in Beijing, is known for its portrayal of many famous historical landmarks. The studio has been the filming site for legendary productions like Journey to the West, The Emperor of the Tang Dynasty, The Great Ming Dynasty, and Emperor Wu of Han. Zhaocheng Film Studios replicates iconic historical sites in Beijing, such as the Summer Palace, the Forbidden City, and Xiamen.

In addition, Zhaocheng Film Studios is famous for its preserved ancient landmarks, including the Imperial Flower Garden and Wangfu District. While these locations might not be well-known to the average person, they have become iconic for Chinese film fans, especially those who are familiar with the historical drama, Journey to the West—an unforgettable show for many generations. Zhaocheng Film Studios, located in Beijing, was used for filming popular series such as Journey to the West, The Emperor of the Tang Dynasty, The Great Ming Dynasty, and Emperor Wu of Han, and also features replicas of notable Beijing landmarks like the Summer Palace, Forbidden City, and Xiamen. Additionally, the studio is home to well-preserved ancient sites like the Imperial Flower Garden and Wangfu District.

Nanhai Film Studios is considered one of the most beautiful film studios in China. Built in an ancient architectural style and situated near picturesque mountains and lakes, it has become a popular location for filmmakers. Located in Guangzhou, Nanhai Film Studios is managed by the China Central Television (CCTV). Spanning over an impressive 5,400,000m², it has been the backdrop for famous productions such as Heavenly Kingdom of Taiping, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Young Bao Zheng, and Ghost of the Evil Girl.

Initially, Nanhai Film Studios was only accessible to film crews authorized by CCTV. However, with the growing trend of international collaboration, the studio has become more open, allowing various film crews from both China and abroad to use the location. The ancient-themed Nanhai Film Studios continues to serve as a popular site for filming many renowned historical dramas and movies. Originally exclusive to CCTV-approved film productions, Nanhai Studios has since embraced more openness and now welcomes filmmakers from various backgrounds.

Mount Elephant Film Studios is a renowned film and television production facility located in Xinqiao Town, Yangshan County, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province. It is situated within the Donggang Eco-Tourism Area. In 2006, the China Film and Television Industry Summit recognized the city of Mount Elephant as one of the 'Top Ten Film and Television Studios in China.' The studio spans a vast area of 3,927,000 m² and was officially opened in 2005. It features five main filming zones, complete with grand squares and historical streets. In November 2012, it was rated a national AAAA-level tourist attraction in China.

Leveraging the natural beauty of the rich Jiangnan region, Mount Elephant has become a popular choice for filmmakers. Iconic productions like The Four Great Constables, The Romance of Zhao Zhi, The Bloody Sword, The Ming Dynasty, The Investiture of the Gods, The Young General Yang, The Flower Leads the Way, Prince Lan Ling, and the new versions of Tian Long Ba Bu were filmed here. Mount Elephant Film Studios has a distinctive style, combining ancient architecture from the Han and Tang dynasties, giving it a majestic, timeless atmosphere. The primary color scheme of red brick, typical of ancient Chinese structures, enhances its regal and historic feel.

Suzhou, a city with a long and rich history, is located along the lower reaches of the Yangtze River and by the shores of Taihu Lake in Jiangsu Province, China. Known for its beautiful stone bridges, ancient temples, and meticulously designed gardens, Suzhou has long been a major tourist destination. If you’ve ever visited Suzhou, you will certainly remember the quiet beauty of Dongli Ancient Town. Not only is it considered one of the most beautiful ancient towns in China, but it has also become a popular filming location for many directors.

The picturesque beauty of Dongli, with its numerous winding canals, has made it a backdrop for many famous films. Dongli Film Studios is often referred to as a “dream city” in China. The serene, ancient charm of this filming “sanctuary” has caught the attention of many film crews. Productions like “The Story of Yanxi Palace,” “The Eternal Love,” and “Wind and Moon” were filmed here. Choosing the right filming location plays a significant role in the success of a historical drama. These iconic filming spots in China not only contribute to the making of outstanding artistic works but also stand as major tourist attractions.

TVB Film Studios is located in Tseung Kwan O, quite far from the city center, covering an area of 110,000 m². Established in 2003, it is mainly used for producing period dramas. The studio is divided into two sections, each representing different historical eras. One is dedicated to the ancient imperial times, while the other focuses on the early 20th century during the Republic of China. The Republic of China section attracts the most visitors, featuring meticulously designed buildings that replicate the old streets of Hong Kong from previous decades, with landmarks such as the Pak Lok Mun theater, a mountain-top hospital, and shopping districts.

Every alley and main street has been carefully crafted, reflecting the colonial-era style. TVB Film Studios is open to tourists during set visiting hours. It is advisable to check the official website beforehand to avoid disappointment if you arrive while filming is in progress. Since its opening in 2003, with an investment of HKD 2.2 billion (around 4,500 billion VND), TVB Film Studios has showcased the financial power and dedication of TVB, ensuring it provides the most immersive cinematic experience for viewers. No wonder TVB became a symbol of Asian cinema in the 20th century and continues to be a giant in the industry.

Chedun Film Studios, the largest film studio in Shanghai, is located in Songjiang District, southwest of the city. Officially opened in 1998, it has since become the go-to place for filming many historical war dramas of ancient China. The studio's grand architectural structures have been designed to recreate the ambiance of China in the 1930s. Although it's quite far from downtown Shanghai, making the journey a bit challenging, especially for non-Chinese speakers, the experience is well worth the effort. Few international tourists venture here, which makes visiting this iconic filming location even more special.

A trip to Chedun Film Studios feels like stepping into the scenes of your favorite dramas, such as “New Yangtze River”, “Falling for the Heroine”, “Heroic Blossoms”, “Mulan's Story”, and “New Shanghai Bund”. You'll be amazed to find yourself standing in front of the alley where the character Yi Bing lived in “New Yangtze River” or crossing the bridge where Shu Huan tragically jumped. Walking through the set, immersed in the atmosphere of a bygone era with actors in period costumes and the sound of streetcars ringing in the air, is an unforgettable experience. Free shuttle trams are also available in Nanjing Road, though they come with long waiting times. The short ride is enough to immerse you in the nostalgic atmosphere of 1930s China, just like in the Republic-era films.

For many years, the allure of Hengdian World Studios has remained unmatched, consistently being the first choice for filmmakers. Known as the "Hollywood of China", it is a major hub for Chinese cinema, generating impressive revenues. Founded in 1996, the studio is famous for its magnificent Qin Dynasty palaces and stunning modern sets that recreate historical periods. The best scenes are those depicting ancient China, with temples, fortresses, palaces, and homes that are brought to life with incredible detail. The breathtaking landscapes, including majestic mountains and sparkling rivers, add to the studio's irresistible charm. It's no surprise that Hengdian appears in popular films such as "The Golden Armor", "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", and "Red Cliff".

One of the largest buildings in the studio is the Qin Emperor's Palace, designed in the style of the early Qin and Han Dynasties. This section is often used for films set during these periods. Director Zhang Yimou famously used this palace as the setting for the 2002 film *Hero*. The building also served as the backdrop for TVB's historical drama *The Time Machine*, which tells the story of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Hengdian has been used for many major productions, including *Kung Fu King*, a collaboration between Jackie Chan and Jet Li, and the popular Korean drama *Empress Ki*. Over 1,200 films and TV shows have been filmed here, including the Oscar-winning *Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon* and Hollywood's *The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor*, as well as Disney+'s *Mulan* (2020).

Dunhuang Film Studios, located in the western part of Gansu province, is a renowned historical film set built through collaboration between China and Japan. The studio is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, with vast grasslands and towering hills covered in vibrant flowers under a bright blue sky. Once you set foot here, it’s hard to leave. The studio also showcases daily life and traditions of the people from western Gansu. Those familiar with the famous Chinese film *The Battle of Jiaming* will be amazed to learn that it was shot on the breathtaking and ornate sets of Dunhuang Film Studios, a place that blends beauty with grandeur.

Dunhuang Film Studios stands out with its unique charm, leaving a lasting impression on all visitors. The Dunhuang area is divided into five main districts: Gaochang, Dunhuang, Gan Chou, Xingxing, and Bian Liang. The set not only replicates the grandeur of Dunhuang, a central town in northwest China during the Tang and Song dynasties, but also reflects the distinct lifestyle and customs of the people from western China. As such, Dunhuang is considered a museum of architectural art and an iconic cultural landscape. With its exceptional scenery, it has been the filming location for over 20 films and TV shows, both domestic and international, including Hollywood blockbusters like *The Battle of Jiaming*, *Dragon Sword*, and *Kung Fu King*.