Heng Dian World Studios

Subtitle: A Visitor's Guide to China's "Hollywood of the East"

Nestled along the golden tourist route of central Zhejiang province, the town of Hengdian is celebrated as the "First Town in Jiangnan." Its true global claim to fame, however, is as the world's largest film and television production base, a sprawling complex of sets and theme parks so extensive it has earned the moniker "Hollywood of the East." For any visitor, from cinephiles to families, Hengdian World Studios offers a unique opportunity to step directly into the meticulously crafted worlds of Chinese historical epics, modern dramas, and fantasy adventures.

The Heart of Chinese Cinema: Exploring the Eight Major Scenic Areas

The vastness of Hengdian is organized into eight distinct scenic zones, each a self-contained universe representing a different era or locale. Exploring them is akin to walking through a living, breathing anthology of Chinese history and cinema.

2.1 The Imperial Grandeur: Qin Dynasty Palace & Mingqing Palace * The Qin Dynasty Palace Scenic Area: This colossal set, replicating the majestic palace of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, is one of Hengdian's most iconic landmarks. Its towering walls, sweeping plazas, and imposing main hall, the "Hall of Supreme Harmony," have served as the backdrop for countless historical dramas and wuxia films like Hero and The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor. Visitors can witness live stunt shows, admire the architectural might, and feel the weight of ancient imperial power. * The Mingqing Palace Scenic Area: A breathtaking 1:1 replica of Beijing's Forbidden City, this area offers a journey through the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its intricate palace complexes, royal gardens, and bustling "street of old Beijing" provide an immersive historical experience. The scale is staggering, allowing for deep exploration of throne rooms, concubines' quarters, and the iconic Meridian Gate.

2.2 Historical Tableaus: Riverside Scene & Guangzhou-Hong Kong Street * The Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival Scenic Area: Inspired by the famous Northern Song dynasty painting, this area recreates the vibrant life of Bianjing (modern-day Kaifeng), the bustling capital of that era. Cobblestone streets are lined with shops, taverns, and residences, with canals crossed by arched stone bridges. It's a colorful, lively snapshot of ancient urban life, often filled with actors in period costume performing street scenes. * The Guangzhou Street • Hong Kong Street Scenic Area: This zone transports visitors to the colonial-era port cities of Southern China from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. European-style buildings, old-fashioned trams, and junks docked at a wharf create a starkly different atmosphere. It's a favorite setting for spy thrillers, romance stories set in the Republican era, and tales of maritime adventure.

2.3 Entertainment & Leisure: Fantasy Valley, Dream Spring Valley & Dreamwater Bay * Fantasy Valley Scenic Area: As Hengdian's premier nighttime entertainment park, this area shifts focus from history to fantasy and thrill. It features exciting roller coasters, water rides, a massive volcanic-themed performance spectacle, and a vibrant "Dream Culture Village." It's the perfect place to unwind after a day of touring historical sets. * Dream Spring Valley (Mengquangu) Hot Spring Resort: A zone dedicated to relaxation, it offers a variety of outdoor and indoor geothermal pools set in a scenic landscape. It operates seasonally (best from October to May) and provides a soothing contrast to the busy studio tours. * Dreamwater Bay (Mengwaitang) Film & Television Theme Park: This newer addition recreates the cosmopolitan waterfront of old Shanghai in the 1930s. With its art deco architecture, rickshaws, and a replica of a classic steamship, it focuses on interactive experiences, film technology exhibits, and immersive shows.

2.4 The Natural Backdrop: Pinyan Cave Mansion * Pinyan Cave Mansion Scenic Area: Offering a break from the man-made wonders, this area showcases Hengdian's natural scenery. It features strange rock formations, tranquil temples perched on cliffs, and cave systems. Visitors can take a cable car up the mountain for panoramic views of the entire Hengdian complex nestled in the valley below.

A Production Powerhouse: Behind the Scenes

Beyond the tourist-facing theme parks, Hengdian is a fully functional, working studio. Its indoor shooting bases are a critical part of its infrastructure, with a total area exceeding 8,000 square meters. The two largest soundstages, one measuring 1,944 square meters with a height of 23 meters and another at 1,080 square meters with a 21-meter clearance, are among the largest and most technologically advanced in China. This capacity solidifies Hengdian's status not just as a tourist attraction, but as the most comprehensive and capable film production center in the country.

Practical Information for Your Visit

3.1 Tickets and Discounts Hengdian operates on a per-zone ticket system, allowing visitors to choose their areas of interest. * Standard Ticket Prices: Qin Dynasty Palace (RMB 190), Riverside Scene (RMB 190), Mingqing Palace (RMB 190), Dreamwater Bay (RMB 190), Guangzhou-Hong Kong Street (RMB 190). Pinyan Cave Mansion (RMB 100). Dream Spring Valley Hot Spring Resort (RMB 198, operational from Oct. 1 to May 31). * Important Discounts: Active military personnel (with ID) and children under 1.3 meters receive free admission. Discounts are available for persons with disabilities (50% off), senior citizens (men 60+, women 55+; 30% off), teachers with valid certification (20% off), and full-time students with ID (20% off). Note: Discounts do not apply to the Dream Spring Valley Hot Spring area. All discounted tickets require valid original documentation for both purchase and entry inspection.

3.2 Getting There and Getting Around The most common access point is via the city of Dongyang. Visitors can take Dongyang Public Bus K310 and alight at the "Defusi (德福寺)" bus stop. From there, it is approximately a 170-meter walk to the entrance of the complex. Given the vast size of the studios, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Trams and shuttle services often operate inside to connect the major scenic areas.

3.3 Opening Hours and Planning * Operating Hours: The Hengdian complex is open year-round. The grounds are accessible daily, but individual attractions and shows within each scenic area have their own specific opening times. It is highly recommended to check the latest schedule on the official Hengdian website or at information booths upon arrival to plan your day effectively. * Suggested Duration: A full day is recommended to explore at least two or three of the major scenic areas at a comfortable pace. To experience more zones or enjoy the nighttime shows at Fantasy Valley, consider a stay of 1-2 nights in Hengdian town.

Information last updated: September 29, 2023.