Tongan Film and Television City

Introducing Tongan Film and Television City

Tongan Film and Television City, located on the west bank of the Dongxi River in Wuxian Town, Tongan District, Xiamen, is a large-scale integrated tourist destination integrating film and television, tourism, leisure, and entertainment. Built like a palace modeled after Beijing's Forbidden City, the city features a complex of ancient buildings centered around Tiananmen Square, the Hall of Supreme Harmony, and the Hall of Mental Cultivation. The residential architecture is primarily based on the civilian architecture of old Beijing, and 38 time-honored shops line the streets.

TV series such as "Palace Baby", "General Shi Lang", "Prince Dalang", and the movie "Ip Man Shan" were filmed here.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical maritime monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tiananmen Square

Located at the entrance to the scenic area, this replica of Beijing's Tiananmen Square features a large wooden frame, flying eaves and brackets, and carved beams and painted buildings. Inscribed on it are the words "Long Live the People's Republic of China, Long Live the Great Unity of the People of the World," and a portrait of Mao Zedong hangs in the center. It is 1/4 smaller than Beijing's Tiananmen Square.

Hall of Supreme Harmony

Located directly behind Tiananmen Square, its decorations and furnishings are modeled after the Hall of Supreme Harmony in Beijing's Forbidden City. A sundial, a measuring scale, a bronze tripod, a bronze tortoise, and a bronze crane are displayed in front of the hall. Inside, the emperor's dragon throne is wider than it is high. Behind the throne is a gilded folding screen carved with a golden dragon. It is one-quarter smaller than the Hall of Supreme Harmony in Beijing's Forbidden City.

Hall of Mental Cultivation

The Hall of Mental Cultivation, located off to the side of the Hall of Supreme Harmony, is modeled after the Hall of Mental Cultivation in the Forbidden City in Beijing and is the only building in Tongan Film and Television City built to the same dimensions. The main hall, where the emperor governed and met with ministers, spanned three rooms: the east room housed the emperor's bedroom, and the west room was where he reviewed memorials and discussed state affairs with ministers.

It is recommended to spend one day

Tickets

40 yuan (20 yuan per person for students and senior citizens with vouchers)

Attraction opening hours

08:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Tongan Film and Television City

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Tongan Film and Television City is a film studio and theme park that showcases China's rich cinematic heritage. It features sets and replicas of various historical periods and regions, making it an important site for film production and tourism. It plays a key role in the development of film culture in Xiamen and Fujian province.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Tongan Film and Television City is located in the Tongan district of Xiamen. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from downtown Xiamen. Public buses may also be available, though it's recommended to check local routes for direct access. Walking is not advisable as it's quite far from the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Tongan Film and Television City is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays, especially in the morning to avoid large crowds. Weekends and holidays tend to be more crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 100-150 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through the official website or third-party platforms like Ctrip and Trip.com. It's recommended to buy tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not strictly necessary to book tickets in advance, but doing so is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Tickets can be booked a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 3-4 hours to fully explore the Tongan Film and Television City, depending on your interest in the sets and performances.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the ancient Chinese palace replicas, historical townscapes, and the interactive film studio areas. Don't miss the live performances and the opportunity to explore film-making technology exhibitions.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are offered in both Mandarin and English. It's a good idea to check the availability of English-speaking guides in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the grand historical sets, such as the replica of ancient Chinese palaces and streets. The wide-angle shots of the film city provide excellent panoramic views.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main film sets, then head to the special effects and behind-the-scenes area. Finish with a visit to the live performance stages for a truly immersive experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not commonly available, but special tours may be offered during festivals or peak seasons. It's best to check for specific events on the official website or inquire at the entrance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can be crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are typically on weekdays, especially early in the morning.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The film city offers basic facilities such as toilets, food courts, rest areas, and souvenir shops. There are also cafes and restaurants offering local snacks and beverages.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is generally accessible, with some areas having ramps for disabled visitors. However, certain parts of the attraction may have uneven terrain, so elderly or disabled visitors should plan their visit accordingly.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted throughout the attraction. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in most shops and restaurants. It's still a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the film city, there are a few restaurants offering traditional Chinese dishes. Nearby, there are more dining options in the Tongan district, ranging from local food stalls to upscale restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and some vegan options are available inside the film city, though halal food options are limited. It's best to inquire at the restaurants for specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few hotels in the Tongan district, offering a range of options from budget to mid-range. For more luxurious stays, visitors can opt for accommodations in central Xiamen, which is a short drive away.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Xiamen’s Zhongshan Road, Nanputuo Temple, and Gulangyu Island. These can easily be combined for a full day trip around Xiamen.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops inside the film city selling film-related memorabilia, traditional Chinese crafts, and other local goods. Popular souvenirs include postcards, mini movie replicas, and cultural trinkets.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Public taxis, buses, and private car services are available to continue your trip. The nearest metro station is a bit further away, so taxis or rideshare services are the most convenient for onward travel.