Top 11 Movie Tours in China: Explore Iconic Film Locations Beyond the Screen

China’s cinematic landscapes have captivated audiences worldwide, from breathtaking natural wonders to stunning urban architecture. If you’re a movie buff or simply love exploring iconic destinations, an unforgettable movie-themed tour in China is a must. At Travel China With Me, we specialize in crafting immersive experiences that bring these film locations to life. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 11 movie tours in China, blending natural scenery and urban marvels like Central Hong Kong, Chongqing’s Wulong, and more. Let’s dive into the magic of China’s cinematic heritage and how you can experience it firsthand.

Why Choose a Movie Tour in China?

China’s diverse geography and rich history have served as backdrops for countless blockbuster films. From Hollywood hits to local masterpieces, this country offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. A movie tour not only lets you visit these iconic locations but also immerses you in the culture and history behind them.

At Travel China With Me, we believe in creating authentic, expert-led tours that go beyond the typical tourist experience. Our guides are film enthusiasts and local experts who share insider knowledge, ensuring you see China through a cinematic lens. Whether you’re drawn to the Great Wall or the serene valleys of Jiuzhaigou, our tours are designed to inspire and amaze.

What Makes This Guide Trustworthy?

Our team at Travel China With Me has years of experience in China’s tourism industry, and we’ve consulted film experts, local guides, and recent traveler reviews to ensure accuracy. We’ve also cross-referenced information with reputable sources like the China National Tourism Administration and film databases such as IMDb. Our goal is to provide you with a reliable, in-depth resource that enhances your travel planning.

Top 11 Movie Tours in China

1. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: The Floating Mountains of Avatar

Location: Hunan Province
Featured in: Avatar (2009)

Zhangjiajie‘s towering sandstone pillars inspired the floating mountains of Pandora in James Cameron’s Avatar. These otherworldly formations, shrouded in mist, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for any movie lover.

Why Visit?
Walking through the park feels like stepping onto another planet. The Bailong Elevator offers panoramic views of the peaks, while the Tianzi Mountain cable car provides a bird’s-eye perspective.

Travel China With Me Experience:
Our guides share behind-the-scenes stories about how Zhangjiajie inspired the film’s CGI landscapes. We also arrange sunrise tours to capture the park’s ethereal beauty without the crowds.

Pro Tip: Visit in spring or autumn for cooler weather and fewer tourists.

2. Hong Kong Central: The Urban Jungle of Skyfall and The Dark Knight

Location: Hong Kong Island
Featured in: Skyfall (2012), The Dark Knight (2008)

Hong Kong’s Central district is a cinematic icon, with its futuristic skyline and bustling streets. Films like Skyfall and The Dark Knight showcase its blend of modern architecture and traditional culture.

Why Visit?
Explore the neon-lit streets of Lan Kwai Fong, the towering Hong Kong International Commerce Centre (ICC), and the historic Man Mo Temple. The city’s dynamic energy is palpable, making it a perfect spot for urban movie tours.

Travel With Me Experience:
Our night tours include stops at filming locations like the ICC, where Batman made his daring escape. We also offer photography workshops to capture Hong Kong’s cinematic glow.

Pro Tip: Take the Star Ferry at night for stunning skyline views, just like in the movies.

3. Chongqing Wulong: The Natural Marvels of Curse of the Golden Flower and Transformers: Age of Extinction

Location: Wulong District, Chongqing
Featured in: Curse of the Golden Flower (2006), Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014)

Wulong is home to breathtaking natural landscapes that have been featured in several films. The Three Natural Bridges, Furong Cave, and the Longshuixia Fissure Gorge are among the cinematic jewels of this region.

Why Visit?
The Three Natural Bridges are massive karst rock formations that are not only visually stunning but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Furong Cave, known for its vibrant stalactites and stalagmites, feels like a natural wonderland. The Longshuixia Fissure Gorge, with its clear waters and dramatic cliffs, adds to the scenic beauty.

Travel China With Me Experience:
Our tours in Wulong include guided treks to these natural wonders, with detailed explanations of their cinematic use. We offer opportunities for photography and insights into how these natural formations were showcased in movies.

Pro Tip: Plan for a full day to explore Wulong’s sites. The early morning light is perfect for photography at the Three Natural Bridges, offering a serene and less crowded experience.

4. Beijing: A Cinematic Journey Through History

The Forbidden City: The Imperial Grandeur of The Last Emperor

Location: Beijing
Featured in: The Last Emperor (1987), The Great Wall (2016), Lost in Beijing (2007)

The Forbidden City, with its sprawling palaces and intricate details, was the primary filming location for The Last Emperor. This UNESCO site is a testament to China’s imperial history.

Why Visit?
Walk through the same courtyards where Emperor Puyi once lived. The Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Imperial Garden are highlights.

Travel China With Me Experience:
Our expert guides share historical insights and film trivia, bringing the Forbidden City’s cinematic past to life. We also offer exclusive access to less-visited areas.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.

The Great Wall: The Epic Backdrop of The Great Wall

Featured in: The Great Wall (2016), Skyfall (2012), Mulan (2020)

Especially sections like Mutianyu and Badaling, were prominently featured in The Great Wall, showcasing its grandeur.

Why Visit?
Walking along the Great Wall offers a sense of history and adventure. The views from the top are spectacular, making it a perfect location for epic movie scenes.

Travel China With Me Experience:
Our guided tours include hiking less crowded sections of the Wall, learning about its history, and exploring the defenses used in films.

Pro Tip: Visit in early morning to enjoy the Wall with fewer tourists and a chance to see the sunrise.

Extended Reading：What Is the Best Part of the Great Wall to Visit? A Travel Expert’s Guide

5. Pingyao Ancient City: The Timeless Setting of Raise the Red Lantern

Location: Shanxi Province
Featured in: Raise the Red Lantern (1991)

Pingyao’s well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture made it a perfect setting for the film Raise the Red Lantern, capturing the essence of traditional Chinese life.

Why Visit?
Wander through the city’s ancient streets, visit the Confucius Temple, and see the Rishengchang Exchange Shop, the first bank in China.

Travel China With Me Experience:
Our tours delve into the history and culture of Pingyao, highlighting filming locations and offering cultural performances.

Pro Tip: Visit during the quieter times of the year to fully immerse in the historical ambiance.

6. Jiuzhaigou: The Fairyland of Hero

Location: Sichuan Province
Featured in: Hero (2002)

Jiuzhaigou‘s vibrant lakes, waterfalls, and forests provided a magical setting for scenes in Hero, especially the famous forest chase.

Why Visit?
The natural beauty here is unmatched, with multi-colored lakes and stunning landscapes that feel like a scene from a fantasy movie.

Travel China With Me Experience:
We organize walks around the lakes, photography tours to capture the scenery, and explain how the natural elements were used in the film.

Pro Tip: Autumn is ideal for visiting, as the foliage adds to the park’s already breathtaking scenery.

7. Guilin and Yangshuo: The Serene Beauty of The Painted Veil

Location: Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region
Featured in: The Painted Veil (2006)

Guilin‘s karst mountains and the Li River’s tranquil waters provided a stunning backdrop for The Painted Veil. This region’s natural beauty is a cinematic gem.

Why Visit?
Cruise the Li River to see the same landscapes that inspired the film’s romantic scenes. Yangshuo’s countryside, with its rice paddies and bamboo groves, adds a rustic charm.

Travel China With Me Experience:
Our tours include a private bamboo raft ride, allowing you to soak in the scenery at your own pace. We also arrange visits to local villages for a deeper cultural connection.

Pro Tip: Book a sunrise cruise for a magical, mist-covered experience.

8. Huangshan (Yellow Mountain): The Mystical Scenery of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

Location: Anhui Province
Featured in: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

Huangshan’s misty peaks and ancient pines inspired the breathtaking fight scenes in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

Why Visit?
Hike the mountain’s trails to see the same vistas that captivated audiences. The Sea of Clouds and the Bright Summit are highlights.

Travel China With Me Experience:
Our guided hikes include photography stops and cultural insights. We also arrange stays in traditional guesthouses for an authentic experience.

Pro Tip: Visit in autumn for vibrant foliage and clear skies.

9. Kashgar Old Town: The Exotic Backdrop of The Kite Runner

Location: Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
Featured in: The Kite Runner (2007)

Kashgar’s ancient streets and vibrant markets were featured in The Kite Runner, showcasing the region’s Silk Road heritage.

Why Visit?
Explore the Id Kah Mosque and the bustling Sunday Bazaar. Kashgar’s unique blend of cultures is cinematic gold.

Travel China With Me Experience:
Our tours include guided walks through the Old Town, with stories about the film’s production. We also arrange visits to local Uyghur homes.

Pro Tip: Visit in spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.

10. Xitang Ancient Town: The Timeless Charm of Mission: Impossible III

Location: Zhejiang Province
Featured in: Mission: Impossible III (2006)

Xitang’s ancient streets and canals were featured in the high-octane scenes of Mission: Impossible III. This water town is a hidden gem for movie lovers.

Why Visit?
Stroll along stone-paved alleys and take a boat ride through the canals. The town’s traditional architecture and serene atmosphere are enchanting.

Travel China With Me Experience:
Our tours include a guided walk through the exact filming locations, with stories about Tom Cruise’s time in Xitang. We also arrange traditional tea tastings.

Pro Tip: Visit during the off-season (November to March) for a quieter experience.

11. Xi’an: The Historical Majesty of The Emperor’s Shadow and Hero

Location: Xi’an, Shaanxi Province
Featured in: The Emperor’s Shadow (1996), Hero (2002)

Terracotta Army: The Majestic Army of The Emperor’s Shadow and Hero

The Terracotta Army, part of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, is not only a historical marvel but also a cinematic one, featured in films like The Emperor’s Shadow where it represents the might and ambition of ancient China, and in Hero where it serves as a backdrop for pivotal scenes.

Why Visit?
This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots, each uniquely crafted, providing a direct connection to China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The site’s scale and detail are awe-inspiring, offering a tangible link to history and the films that have immortalized it.

Travel China With Me Experience:
Our tours include a guided exploration of the Terracotta Army with insights into its historical significance and its portrayal in cinema. We offer exclusive access to areas where scenes were shot, along with expert commentary on how these films used the site to enhance their storytelling.

Pro Tip: Visit early or late in the day to avoid peak tourist times, allowing for a more intimate experience with the warriors. Also, consider visiting the nearby Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum for a comprehensive historical journey.

How to Plan Movie Tours in China with Us

Planning a movie tour in China can be overwhelming, but Travel China With Me makes it easy. Here’s how we ensure a seamless experience:

Expert-Led Itineraries

Our team designs custom itineraries based on your favorite films and interests. We combine movie locations with cultural experiences for a well-rounded journey.

Local Insights

Our guides are locals with deep knowledge of both the film industry and their regions. They share unique stories and trivia that you won’t find in guidebooks.

Sustainable Travel

We prioritize eco-friendly practices, such as using public transportation and supporting local businesses. Our tours are designed to minimize environmental impact.

Safety and Comfort

Your safety is our priority. We provide 24/7 support, comfortable accommodations, and reliable transportation to ensure a stress-free trip.

Case Study: A Traveler’s Journey Through China’s Cinematic Landscapes

In 2024, we hosted a group of film enthusiasts from the U.S. on a 12-day movie tour. They visited Zhangjiajie, Hong Kong, Beijing, and Jiuzhaigou, with highlights including a sunrise hike in Zhangjiajie and a night cruise in Hong Kong. One traveler, Christoph, shared:

“I’ve always loved Avatar, and seeing Zhangjiajie in person was surreal. The guides were amazing, sharing stories about the film’s production and local culture. It was the trip of a lifetime.”

This feedback underscores our commitment to creating memorable, expert-led experiences.

Why Travel China With Me Stands Out

Unlike generic tour operators, Travel China With Me focuses on niche, themed tours like movie locations. Our expertise in China’s film industry, combined with our passion for travel, sets us apart. We’re not just guides; we’re storytellers who bring China’s cinematic heritage to life.

Final Thoughts: Embark on Your Cinematic Adventure

China’s movie locations offer a unique way to explore the country’s beauty and culture. From the floating mountains of Zhangjiajie to the historic charm of Beijing’s landmarks, these destinations are more than just film sets—they’re windows into China’s soul.

At Travel China With Me, we’re here to make your cinematic journey unforgettable. Contact us today to plan your top 11 movie tours in China and discover the magic of the movies in real life.