EXTRAORDINARILY DETAILED: Explore the Shanghai Film Studio in China

General Overview of Shanghai Film Studio in China

• Address: Songjiang District, Southwest of Shanghai, China
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily
• Ticket Price: 80 CNY (~280,000 VND per person) for adults and 40 CNY (~140,000 VND per person) for children

The Shanghai Film Studio is one of the most famous film studios in China, attracting many visitors planning a China tour. The studio consists of two main sections: a modern area and an ancient-themed area. Each section features different architectural styles, representing various historical periods such as the Republican era, the Tang dynasty, and the Qing dynasty.

This is a highly popular tourist destination in China, located in Shanghai. Officially opened to the public in 2000, it spans a vast area of approximately 1300 hectares and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Shanghai Film Studio - A Popular Tourist Destination in China

The establishment of the studio has provided significant support for the growth of Chinese cinema as a whole:

• Before 1949, the majority of Chinese films were shot and produced in Shanghai. This laid the groundwork for the creation of the Shanghai Film Studio.
• On November 16, 1949, the Shanghai Film Studio was officially founded.
• In 1953, the Shanghai Film Studio merged with private companies to form the Shanghai United Film Studio.
• At the end of 1998, the project to build the Shanghai Film Studio was approved.
• In 1999, the studio officially began its operations.
• In 2000, the studio opened its doors to visitors for tours.

The Shanghai Film Studio officially opened its doors to visitors in 2000

The Best Time to Visit the Shanghai Film Studio

The Shanghai Film Studio is a man-made destination that is less impacted by weather compared to natural landscapes, meaning you can visit it at any time of the year. During the spring, Shanghai's warm and dry atmosphere creates a romantic backdrop for the studio. In summer, the scenery is vibrant under gentle sunlight and fresh air. By autumn, the studio becomes more serene and romantic than ever. If you'd like to experience snow falling on the streets, winter is the time to visit.

Since the studio is quite large, it is recommended to arrive early to have ample time for sightseeing and taking photos. Don't arrive too close to closing time, or you might miss out on some parts of the studio. In the evenings, the studio lights up beautifully, but this dazzling scene can only be seen in films since the Shanghai Film Studio closes at 4:30 PM daily.

Visitors can explore the Shanghai Film Studio at any time of the year

How to Get to the Shanghai Film Studio in China

To reach the film studio, please follow the travel guide below:

Getting to Shanghai

The primary mode of transport between Vietnam and Shanghai is by plane. Nowadays, several domestic and international airlines operate flights on the Vietnam-Shanghai route, including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Sichuan Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Cathay Pacific Airways.

Flight durations from Vietnam to Shanghai vary depending on the departure city. A flight from Hanoi to Shanghai takes about 7 hours and 20 minutes, while from Ho Chi Minh City, it takes only around 4 hours. The airfare to Shanghai also fluctuates based on factors like the route, time of travel, and airline chosen. Detailed information can be found in the table below:

Airfare prices for selected Vietnam - Shanghai routes

*Ticket prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the time of booking.

Airplanes are the primary mode of transport from Vietnam to Shanghai.

Traveling from the heart of Shanghai to the film studio

The distance from the center of Shanghai to the film studio is approximately 43 km. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can choose the most suitable transport option:

• Subway: First, take Line 9 from the city center to the Songjiang District station, then transfer to a bus or taxi to the film studio.
• Taxi: This is the quickest and most popular option. A taxi ride from the center to the film studio starts at 300 CNY (around 1 million VND).
• Bus: This is the most affordable method. Some bus routes with stops near the film studio include 01, 21, 23, 37, 24, and more.

The subway is favored by travelers for its fast and convenient travel.

Exciting experiences at the Shanghai film studio

Join Mytour to explore the thrilling experiences you can’t miss at the Shanghai film studio!

Capture stunning movie scenes for your photos

The first experience is checking in with the breathtaking movie sets. This is where you’ll find some of the most stunning film locations, promising a place perfect for capturing unforgettable moments and filling your photo gallery.

Nanjing Pedestrian Street

In Shanghai, there is a street known as the 'First Road of China' — Nanjing Pedestrian Street. The Shanghai Film Studio also features a miniature version of this famous street, with impressive architecture. The tightly packed buildings lining both sides of the street are steeped in vintage charm, leaving a lasting impression on visitors, including landmarks like Wing On Department Store, Sincere Department Store, and Seventh Heaven Hotel.

This location serves as the backdrop for many famous films such as 'New Rivers of Separation,' 'Mulan,' and 'New Bund of Shanghai,' among others.

The Nanjing Pedestrian Street recreated at the film studio (Photo: @maivivu_94)

Zhejiang Iron Bridge

This is a miniature version of the famous Bạch Độ Bridge. Here, you can take pictures with an antique train. While it's not as bustling with traffic as the real-life Bạch Độ Bridge, the steel design is just as impressive.

European Villa Complex

For travelers who love Europe, this is a must-see stop. The European villa area features high-rise buildings with a blend of modern and nostalgic European architecture. Just raise your camera, and you'll capture some gorgeous photos.

Visitors check in at the film studio as if they are in Europe (Photo: @ting_asuka)

Shikumen Area

The Shikumen area transports you back in time to old Shanghai. It faithfully recreates the architecture of Shikumen (a traditional Shanghai style), complete with restaurants, souvenir shops, and clothing stores, preserving the beauty of history and culture, attracting many tourists.

Explore the culture at Shikumen (Photo: @Tô Đi Đâu)

Trải nghiệm chuyến tàu trở về quá khứ

Đến với phim trường Thượng Hải, du khách sẽ có cơ hội đặt chân lên chuyến tàu điện Nam Kinh nổi tiếng. Trong thực tế, tàu Nam Kinh đã bị phá bỏ khi tiến hành đô thị hóa, nhưng tại phim trường, bạn hoàn toàn có thể chứng kiến tuyến tàu này một cách chân thực nhất.

Cứ vào khung giờ cố định, đoàn tàu sẽ lăn bánh chạy dọc các con phố, du khách đứng trên tàu ngắm nhìn khung cảnh phim trường, nhìn dòng người tham quan hối hả… sẽ khiến lòng dâng lên những cảm giác bâng khuâng khó tả.

Cùng xuyên không với chuyến tàu điện Nam Kinh nổi tiếng (Ảnh: @ting_asuka)

Transform into an 'actor' at the Shanghai film studio

When you think of a film studio, actors are a must. During film shoots, certain areas of the studio may be restricted or even closed off to visitors.

However, you can still rent costumes from historical eras, like ancient or republican China, and have your photos taken at the Shanghai film studio as if you're a real actor. This is an experience that visitors truly enjoy.

Become an actor at the film studio (Photo: @Tô Đi Đâu)

Explore the modern areas

In addition, the film studio features a modern section with iconic buildings, streets, and architectural landmarks. This area brings a vibrant, bustling atmosphere and offers visitors a glimpse into the culture and daily life of Shanghai's residents.

Enjoy Chinese cuisine while visiting the film studio

According to travel tips for China, the film studio itself doesn't have dining areas. Therefore, visitors can enjoy Shanghai's local cuisine at nearby restaurants or eateries. Here are some must-try Shanghai delicacies you shouldn't miss.

Xiao Long Bao

Xiao Long Bao will leave you with unforgettable memories, with its delicate dough and savory pork filling. The special soy sauce dip is crafted to elevate the flavors, offering a treat for the senses.

• Suggested dining spot: Mao Shi Coffee - Just 4.5 meters from the film studio

The famous Shanghai Xiao Long Bao

Egg Tea

When booking a Beijing - Shanghai tour, don't forget to try Egg Tea. This dish is known for its health benefits, such as promoting relaxation, improving lung function, and soothing the voice for a clearer tone. This unique combination of tea and egg is rare in other countries.

The eggs used in this dish are fresh chicken eggs, simmered with ingredients like tea leaves, cinnamon bark, and star anise, creating a delicious and aromatic flavor.

• Suggested dining spot: ChuanLiuBuXi - Only 3.4 meters from the film studio

Scallion Noodles

Made from noodles and green onions, two common ingredients, this dish is incredibly tasty. Travelers love scallion noodles because it's not fried or loaded with oil, making it a healthier option.

• Gợi ý địa chỉ ăn uống: MaoJia Xiang Wei Lou - Cách phim trường 3,4m

Mì hành lá thu hút đông đảo thực khách

Thịt lợn om

Nếu đến Thượng Hải mà chưa một lần thưởng thức thịt lợn om thì quả là đáng tiếc. Thịt lợn sau khi được làm sạch cẩn thận sẽ được tẩm ướp gia vị sau đó được hầm trong nhiều giờ liền. Do đó khi thưởng thức, du khách như cảm thấy thịt lợn tan trong miệng mình, dậy vị nước sốt thơm ngon.

• Suggested dining spot: FeiMao Restaurant - Just 5.2 meters from the film studio

Eight-Treasure Stewed Duck

The Eight-Treasure Stewed Duck is a complex dish. After cleaning and removing the internal organs, the duck is stuffed with eight ingredients, including duck gizzards, bamboo shoots, glutinous rice, dried scallops, minced pork, mixed seeds, chestnuts, and Quan Huo mushrooms.

The chef then sews up the duck and fries it to a golden crisp. The duck is then stewed for 90 minutes until tender, allowing the flavors to infuse. The dish is named 'Eight-Treasure' due to the eight different ingredients used in its preparation.

• Suggested dining spot: FengShou Ri - Only 5.3 meters from the film studio

The visually appealing appearance of the Eight-Treasure Stewed Duck

Essential travel tips for visiting the Shanghai Film Studio

Here are some detailed tips for your visit to the Shanghai Film Studio:

• Appropriate attire: No matter the season, make sure to wear clothing that suits the weather. If you plan to take some great photos, you might want to bring or rent outfits that match the specific settings of each area in the studio.
• Limited ticket sales time: While the film studio closes at 4:30 PM, they stop selling tickets by 3:30 PM, so make sure to plan accordingly.
• Book services early: It’s advisable to book flights, hotels, etc., 1-2 months in advance when planning a trip to Shanghai to avoid high prices or fully booked rooms.
• Bring necessary items: Don't forget to pack an umbrella, wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, or raincoat, just in case they’re needed.
• Check the studio’s activity schedule: To avoid visiting during maintenance periods, make sure to check the studio’s schedule to ensure it’s open for visitors.

Tips for visiting the film studio (Photo: @hana.pham13)

If you have the chance to travel to Shanghai, you absolutely must visit the Shanghai Film Studio! Be sure to save the helpful information shared here for the most complete experience. Don’t forget to book your China tour with Mytour Travel to explore even more exciting things when you’re in Shanghai!

Author: Phuong Thao

Image source: Collected