Located in Dongyang, Jinhua, Zhejiang Province, Hengdian World Studios is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and the world's largest film and television production base. Covering over 30 sq km with 13 large-scale filming locations and 2 mega modern studios, it has hosted more than 3,000 productions, earning the title "Pioneer of China's Film and Television Culture Industry".
History and Culture
Established in 1996 initially for the film "The Opium War", Hengdian has evolved from a single filming location into a comprehensive cultural industry zone integrating production, filming and tourism over two decades.
The studios accurately recreate architectural styles from Qin-Han to Republic periods. The Ming-Qing Palace is a 1:1 replica of Beijing's Forbidden City, while the Qin Dynasty Palace showcases the grandeur of Xianyang Palace. Guangzhou Street·Hong Kong Street reproduces 19th-century Lingnan culture.
Main Attractions
Ming-Qing Palace
A 1500-mu (100-hectare) 1:1 replica of the Forbidden City, featuring Meridian Gate, Hall of Supreme Harmony and Palace of Heavenly Purity. Daily live shows like "The Grand Ceremony" allow visitors to "time travel" in period costumes.
Qin Dynasty Palace
Built for films like "Hero" and "The Emperor's Shadow", its 44.8m-high main hall with 99 steps symbolizes imperial supremacy, making it the prime location for historical epics.
Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival
Recreating Northern Song Dynasty's Bianjing capital based on Zhang Zeduan's famous painting. With canals and shops, immersive performances like "Bianliang Dream" transport visitors back a millennium.
Dream Valley
A nighttime theme park featuring high-tech shows like "Dream Taichi" and "Mountain Torrent". Its water park opens in summer, perfect for family fun and beating the heat.
Cuisine
Dongyang Womian Noodles
Traditional handmade noodles in broth with pork liver, shrimp and vegetables. "Old Hengdian Noodle House" inside the studios is most authentic, frequented by celebrities during shoots.
Jinhua Ham Pastry
Flaky pastry filled with famous Jinhua ham. Available vacuum-packed at souvenir shops, ideal as gifts.
Studio Box Meal
Replica crew meals in retro metal boxes with braised pork, vegetables and eggs. Experience "extras' dining" at Ming-Qing Palace and other sets.
Ticket Information
Single site: 180 yuan; 3-site combo: 480 yuan; 5-site combo: 680 yuan. Free for children under 1.2m and seniors over 70; student discounts available. Some shows require separate tickets.
Recommended Itinerary
Two-day ideal route: Day1 - Qin Palace morning, Riverside Scene afternoon; Day2 - Ming-Qing Palace morning, Dream Valley evening. Add Guangzhou Street·Hong Kong Street and Dream Beach if time allows.
Transportation
- High-speed rail: To Yiwu Station, then transfer by shuttle (~40min)
- Driving: Exit at Hengdian on Zhuyong Expressway, follow Provincial Road S218
- Bus: Direct coaches from Hangzhou/Shanghai
- Flight: Yiwu Airport ~60km away
Must-Visit Attractions
- Ming-Qing Palace - 1:1 Forbidden City replica
- Qin Dynasty Palace - Majestic ancient palace
- Dream Valley - Nighttime film-themed park
- Riverside Scene - Vibrant Song Dynasty recreation
- Guangzhou Street·Hong Kong Street - 19th-century Lingnan streetscape
Travel Tips
- Check show schedules in advance for planning
- Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking
- Book professional costume photography ahead
- Prepare sun protection in summer, warm layers in winter
- Choose clearly-priced restaurants for local food
- Avoid holidays for better experience
Precautions
- Respect filming crews and don't interrupt shoots
- Observe no-photography signs in certain areas
- No smoking in performance venues
- Secure belongings in crowded areas
- Follow safety instructions for interactive activities
- Comply with staff guidance for civilized tourism