Xiangshan Film and Television City

Historical Overview
Construction began in 1999 under the Zhejiang Xiangshan Film and Television City Development Co., Ltd., with initial investment of ¥120 million. The first phase focused on Tang Dynasty (618–907) and Song Dynasty (960–1279) architectural sets. In 2005, the site expanded to include Republican-era (1912–1949) districts and modern studios. A ¥350 million upgrade in 2018 added virtual production studios and 5G film technology. Over 350 films, TV dramas, and reality shows have been filmed here, including The Wandering Earth (2019) and Story of Yanxi Palace (2018).

Structural Layout
The city is divided into six core zones:

1. Ancient China Zone: Features Tang Dynasty palaces, Song Dynasty markets, and Ming/Qing Dynasty residences.
2. Republican-Era Zone: Recreates 1920s–1940s Shanghai streets, complete with tram lines and vintage shops.
3. Modern Studio Zone: Includes 12 soundstages (up to 4,500㎡) and a 360° virtual production studio.
4. Cultural Experience Zone: Offers film stunt shows, costume rentals, and prop exhibits.
5. Ecological Reserve: A 200-acre forest for outdoor shooting.
6. Service Zone: Hotels, restaurants, and equipment rental facilities.

Major Attractions

1. Tang Dynasty Palace: A 1:1 replica of Chang’an City’s imperial court, used in The Return of the Condor Heroes.
2. Republican-Era Street: Features art deco buildings, a vintage train station, and a jazz-era nightclub.
3. Stunt Arena: Daily live shows featuring martial arts, horseback combat, and explosion special effects.
4. Film Prop Museum: Displays over 2,000 items, including armor from Nirvana in Fire and futuristic gadgets from The Wandering Earth.
5. Actor’s Village: A residential area where visitors can stay in period-themed rooms.

Recommended Itineraries

1. Classic Film Tour (2–3 hours):
   Main Entrance → Tang Dynasty Palace → Republican Street → Stunt Arena → Film Prop Museum → Exit
   Highlights: Iconic film sets and live performances.

2. Deep Dive Tour (4–5 hours):
   Main Entrance → Actor’s Village → Ecological Reserve → Modern Studio Zone (guided tour) → Stunt Arena → Sunset at Tang Dynasty Palace
   Includes: Behind-the-scenes access and nature trails.

3. Family Fun Tour (Full Day):
   Main Entrance → Children’s Film Academy (animation studio visit) → Stunt Arena → Republic Street (costume photo shoot) → Camping at Ecological Reserve
   Best for: Families; includes hands-on activities.

Ticket Purchase

• Standard Ticket: ¥150 (adults), ¥75 (children/seniors). Includes all zones except guided tours.
• VIP Ticket: ¥300 (priority entry, guided studio tour, and exclusive photo sessions).
• Annual Pass: ¥500 (unlimited entry for 1 year).
• Online Booking: Available via WeChat mini-program "Xiangshan Film City" up to 7 days in advance.

Transportation

• Self-Drive: Shanghai/Hangzhou → Hangzhou Bay Bridge → Xiangshan (3hr).
• High-Speed Rail: Shanghai Hongqiao → Ningbo Station (2hr), then taxi (1hr).
• Bus: Ningbo South Bus Station → Xiangshan Film City Direct Bus (1.5hr, ¥45).
• Tours: Daily group tours from Shanghai (¥298/person, includes transport and tickets).

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: April–June and September–November (avoid July–August monsoons).
• Avoid Crowds: Arrive before 9 AM; weekends see 80% more visitors.
• Essentials:
  • Comfortable shoes for walking (10,000+ steps possible).
  • External battery for photography.
  • Cash for street food vendors.
• Prohibitions: No tripods without permits; drones banned in shooting zones.