Xiangyang Tangcheng: A dreamy journey through the Tang Dynasty
by SoothingAdventures
May 1, 2025
Xiangyang Tang City is a national AAAA-level scenic area, built as a 1:1 replica of the Tang Dynasty Chang’an city layout, covering five major zones including palaces, markets, and temples. With its highly restored architectural complexes and immersive cultural experiences, it has become the filming location for over 50 film and TV works such as "Legend of the Demon Cat" and "The Rise of Phoenixes."
When taking a taxi, local drivers mentioned that Chen Kaige invested in building it for filming "Legend of the Demon Cat," but this remains to be verified.
For young ladies and martial arts and history enthusiasts, this is a must-visit check-in spot.
Below is a guide planned from three aspects: film and TV check-ins, scene tours, and travel routes:
1. Film and TV Check-in Guide: Must-shoot Scenes and Series
Tang City rose to fame through filming, and the following works and locations should not be missed:
1. "Legend of the Demon Cat" (Movie)
Starring: Huang Xuan, Shota Sometani, Zhang Yuqi
Filming spots:
Hua’e Xianghui Tower: The main scene of the Feast of Ultimate Bliss, a three-story pavilion with a giant stage, golden dome, and carved railings recreating the luxury of the Tang Dynasty.
Zhuque Corridor: The path where Kukai enters the palace, with a central axis red wall and symmetrical city towers, perfect for shooting a solemn palace atmosphere.
Hu Yu Tower: The "brothel" scene in the drama, a corridor by the water with gauze curtains, where nighttime lighting reflects on the water like a dream.
West Market Street: The alley where Huang Xuan and Shota Sometani investigate, with hanging cloth banners and lanterns, full of lively market atmosphere.
This West Street deserves special mention; stepping in gives a sense of familiarity, a scene often seen in historical and costume dramas, truly very photogenic.
2. "The Rise of Phoenixes" (TV Series)
Starring: Chen Kun, Ni Ni
Filming spots:
Imperial Garden: The wisteria trellis where Feng Zhiwei and Ning Yi play chess, resembling a fairyland when flowers bloom in spring.
Xuanzheng Hall: The core place for court intrigue scenes, with a black and gold dragon throne and coiled dragon pillars showing majesty.
Rainbow Bridge: Connecting the East Market water area, the scene where Ning Yi rows a boat was filmed here; sunset silhouette shots are recommended in the evening.
3. Other Popular Filming Locations:
"Mulan" (Liu Yifei): Cavalry formation scene in the palace square.
"Linglong" (Zhao Jinmai, Yuan Hong): Horse carriage chase on West Market Street, bamboo forest fight at Jiannan Villa.
"Dream of Splendor" (Liu Yifei): Viewing from the railing of Hu Yu Tower, strolling in Zhuque Corridor.
"Novoland: Eagle Flag" (Liu Haoran): Red wall steps at Qinglong Temple, with red tones matching the peony flowers.
2. Scene Tour: Core Zones and Highlights of Tang City
Tang City is laid out according to Chang’an’s “Fangshi system,” with five major areas each having unique features:
1. Palace Area*:
Que Gate: Morning city opening ceremony (9:00) with golden-armored guards lining up, like time travel.
Hua’e Xianghui Tower: A must-see night show! At 19:30, a light show projects Tang Dynasty paintings, accompanied by the "Rainbow Skirt Feathered Coat Dance."
2. Market District:
East Market: Full of shops, where you can try pitch-pot and shadow puppetry; filming location for the Hu merchants’ trading scenes in "Linglong."
West Market: Concentration of night market snacks (Xiangyang beef noodles 15 RMB/bowl), best night lighting for "Legend of the Demon Cat" alley scenes.
3. Cultural Landmarks:
Hu Yu Tower: A refined Tang Dynasty venue, panoramic shots can be taken from the second-floor railing; the 21:15 "Dream-seeking Hu Yu Tower" water curtain fireworks show at night is a must-see.
Qinglong Temple: Red wall steps plus cherry blossoms (spring only), filming location for Kukai’s ascent scene in "Legend of the Demon Cat."
3. Complete Travel Guide: Itinerary + Experience Optimization
One-day Highlight Route*
Morning (8:30 entry): Zhuque Gate city opening ceremony → Palace Area (Xuanzheng Hall, Imperial Garden) → Rainbow Bridge check-in → Qinglong Temple red wall photo shoot.
Afternoon: Rent Hanfu in East Market (about 150 RMB including makeup) → Shoot ancient style photos at Hu Yu Tower → Lunch with snacks in West Market.
A special note on renting clothes: Besides rentals inside Tang City, nearby Tangren Street also has many shops offering clothing and makeup services at slightly cheaper prices. Some hotels cooperate with shops to offer vouchers; please inquire at your hotel.
Evening (17:30 night session): Hua’e Tower light show → West Market lakeside water show (20:00) → Hu Yu Tower fireworks (21:15, best viewed from West Market lakeside).
For more program listings, follow the Tang City official WeChat account; the schedule changes with seasons and weather.
Interactive Performances:
Market Parade (10:30/16:00): NPCs recite poetry and give gifts.
- "Great Tang Flying Song" (15:30/19:30): Tickets required, but the equestrian and acrobatic acts are worth it.
In summer, the music and water splash festival is also a blast and worth joining.
Practical Tips:
Tickets: Can be purchased in advance on Trip.com, and some hotels offer tickets with stays.
Transportation: 30 minutes by taxi from Xiangyang East Station; self-driving navigation to "Tang City Parking Lot" (¥10/day).
Accommodation: Hotels near the scenic area include "Tang City Boda Kerry Hotel" and "Punos Hotel," priced around 300 RMB.
Avoid pitfalls: There are many snacks in the scenic area at reasonable prices. Stir-fry restaurants tend to be expensive; you can go out to Tangren Street for meals.
Post by amycrystal | Aug 12, 2025














