China’s landscapes have long been the backdrop for some of cinema’s most visually stunning moments. From ancient temples to dramatic mountain ranges, these locations have inspired filmmakers and transported audiences into epic martial arts dramas, historical sagas, and futuristic adventures.
Discover 7 film locations in China that have shaped iconic movies, along with the exclusive experiences we can arrange for explorers at these remarkable sites.
Beijing: Forbidden City – The Last Emperor (1987)
Beijing’s Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vast imperial palace complex that served as the political and ceremonial heart of China for nearly 500 years. While many movies have relied on studios or CGI to replicate its grandeur, Bernardo Bertolucci’s historical epic, The Last Emperor (1987), was the first ever Western movie granted permission to film inside the Forbidden City. The crew spent about six months filming on location with unprecedented access, and the movie’s visual authenticity and compelling narrative earned it nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
With a WildChina guide, travelers can gain exclusive access to the stories behind the movie’s standout scenes in the Forbidden City, including the Hall of Supreme Harmony—where the film’s young emperor ascended his throne.
Fujian Province: Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster – Mulan (2020)
Disney’s live action Mulan (2020) showcased the remarkable architecture of the tulou (earthen buildings), found in Fujian province. Although not historically linked to Mulan’s era, the tulou’s distinct circular design made them an ideal cinematic choice for the film. During production, the team filmed on location for exterior shots and constructed a full-scale tulou replica in New Zealand for the interior scenes. These ancient dwellings of the Hakka community, now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites, date back to the 12th century, and served both as communal homes and defensive outposts.
While most visitors admire the tulou from afar, our local guides can introduce WildChina travelers to the families who still live here, offering rare insights into daily life and the enduring cultural significance of legends like Hua Mulan.
Hong Kong: Victoria Harbour – James Bond: The Man with the Golden Gun (1974)
Hong Kong’s striking skyline and bustling Victoria Harbour featured prominently in The Man with the Golden Gun (1974). With its towering skyscrapers and neon-lit waterfront, the city provided the perfect backdrop for James Bond’s thrilling escapades. Filming during peak hours added to the authenticity of the vibrant city depicted in the film. In the movie, Bond is whisked away from Peninsula Hotel in a sleek green Rolls Royce.
WildChina has curated an exclusive James Bond tour of Hong Kong in a classic Rolls Royce, departing directly from The Peninsula. This bespoke journey includes panoramic views of Victoria Harbour from a luxury vessel, with every detail of this Bond-inspired adventure designed to capture the glamour, intrigue, and sophistication of the world’s most famous spy.
Anhui Province: Hongcun Village, Huangshan – Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Hongcun Village, nestled in the foothills of Huangshan in Anhui Province, played a key role as a filming location for Ang Lee’s Academy Award-winning Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000). The title originates from the ancient Chinese poet Yu Xin, translating roughly to, “behind the rock in the dark probably hides a tiger, and the coiling giant root resembles a crouching dragon.” This phrase serves as a reminder to remain aware of one’s surroundings, as there may be unnoticed masters nearby.
WildChina travelers can explore the serene waterways, ancient architecture, and stone-paved alleys of Hongcun with our local guides, gaining fascinating insights into the village’s history and its significance as the stage for one of the most iconic martial arts films of all time. For a deeper connection to the village’s cinematic legacy, we can curate a private martial arts class in a traditional courtyard, where participants can practice the graceful movements brought to life in the film under the guidance of a skilled instructor. This memorable opportunity allows for an embodiment of the artistry and spirit of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon firsthand.
Hunan Province: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park – Avatar (2009)
The towering sandstone pillars of Hunan’s Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, inspired the floating “Hallelujah Mountains” in James Cameron’s Academy Award-winning Avatar (2009). Shrouded in mist, these surreal rock formations create a landscape that feels otherworldly. Following the film’s release, one of the park’s peaks was renamed “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain” to celebrate its connection to the movie.
WildChina travelers can immerse themselves in the world of Pandora with a private guided hike through the park’s mesmerizing trails. Led by a local WildChina guide, the journey features a stop at a scenic viewpoint with an awe-inspiring vista of the “pillar between heaven and earth,” the inspiration for the floating mountains where the ikran soar in the film. Along the way, our guide can share captivating stories about the landscape, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Shanxi Province: Qiao Family Compound – Raise the Red Lantern (1991)
Academy Award-nominated Raise the Red Lantern (1991) was filmed at the Qiao Family Compound in Qi County, Shanxi Province. Zhang Yimou traveled across the country in search of the perfect filming location and chose this beautifully preserved Qing Dynasty mansion to capture the grandeur of imperial China. With over 300 rooms, it is one of the largest and most well-preserved examples of traditional Chinese architecture in the region. Its courtyard-style layout, high stone walls, and intricate detailing provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s portrayal of the lives of concubines in the 1920s.
With a WildChina guide, guests can explore the elegant halls and courtyards of the Qiao Family Compound, uncovering stories of concubines, traditional rituals, and the symbolic red lanterns that are central to the film. To enrich the experience, we offer the chance to don Qing Dynasty attire and stroll through Pingyao’s enchanting 600-year-old streets. This immersive opportunity brings history to life, blending well-preserved architecture with the vibrant traditions of this ancient city.
Shaanxi Province: Terracotta Warriors Museum, Xi’an – The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor (2008)
Xi’an in Shaanxi, one of China’s most historically significant cities, was a key inspiration for The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor (2008), particularly in scenes featuring the famous Terracotta Warriors. The production team took great care to create a set that mirrored the look of the Terracotta Warriors Museum in Xi’an, collaborating with Chinese prop experts to design 20 distinct statue heads for added realism. One soldier and horse statue were brought from China, while most were meticulously crafted replicas. The Chinese prop experts also created the horses’ bridles and mausoleum decorations.
Beyond marveling at this UNESCO World Heritage site, WildChina guests can delve deeper into its artistic legacy by participating in a hands-on workshop to craft their own miniature warrior using traditional sculpting techniques. This experience mirrors the prop-making methods used in the film, offering a tangible connection to the artistry and craftsmanship that bring the Terracotta Warriors to life.
From mystical peaks to vibrant cities, China’s landscapes are not just the settings for epic stories: they are characters in their own right, rich with culture, history, and beauty. Following in the footsteps of martial arts legends or unraveling the intrigue of spy thrillers, travelers can embark on a cinematic journey that transforms these legendary locations into living, breathing experiences.
By Gabrielle Keepfer
