Inside China’s Hollywood: Where tourists pay R530 to become movie stars for a day
China’s Hengdian World Studios has transformed traditional tourism by allowing visitors to pay as little as R535 to star in their own professionally produced short dramas, tapping into a broader global demand for immersive and emotionally resonant travel experiences.
Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province - Hengdian World Studios, dubbed "China's Hollywood," has become a popular attraction for tourists seeking an immersive cultural experience. During the National Day holiday, visitors pay to star in short dramas, playing the roles of historical figures or fantasy characters in a replica palace.
Retired teacher Wang from Shanghai expressed her delight at finally getting to act, having rehearsed her lines multiple times and impressed the director with her "air of authority." Tours to Hengdian have surged, with over 9 million visitors in the first half of the year, a 21.2% increase from the previous year. At peak times, more than 100 people sign up daily to participate in ten to forty-five minute short-drama shoots.
Hengdian offers upgraded short-drama shoots and film-themed activities, with admission tickets granting access to over 10 productions. Directors provide scripts and on-the-spot coaching, while visitors can complete a scene quickly. For a more professional experience, visitors can access full production resources, including costumes, makeup, lighting, and set design, alongside opportunities to work alongside seasoned actors.
The experience is designed to evoke emotional resonance and cultural immersion, signaling a broader shift in tourism preferences. Visitors are seeking more than just moving from one place to another; they desire an experience that connects them with a culture and allows them to express their individuality. Hengdian's model leverages filmmaking expertise, creating replicable modules for tourists to star in their own short dramas. With staff on hand to assist, visitors feel comfortable and confident on set.
Industry experts predict that this trend will continue, with Hengdian planning to offer serialized short-drama experiences, integrate AI-generated short dramas into cultural tourism, and provide public training sessions and merchandise. A visitor from Suzhou expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity to step into the shoes of a lead character, eager to experience the thrill of acting, even if it is for just a short while.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
