China's animated blockbuster "Ne Zha 2" is making waves globally, breaking box office records while also boosting tourism in China, with attractions offering discounts to moviegoers.
As Chinese cinema continues to gain global recognition, "Ne Zha 2" has sparked an international viewing frenzy, drawing tourists eager to experience China's unique culture and breathtaking landscapes.
The film's success is resonating particularly with overseas audiences, many of whom are now visiting iconic filming locations in person.
For many foreign viewers, the rich cultural elements of Chinese films have proven to be a major draw.
In eastern Jiangsu Province, international students, who feel a deeper connection with the cultural themes explored in these movies, are increasingly eager to visit the places they've seen on the big screen, hoping to share these experiences with family and friends abroad.
"I watched the new movie. It's [about] Chinese in America, I guess. Detective Chinatown [1900]. And actually I like Chinese culture, so I watched a lot of historical movies," said Ilona, a Russian student.
When asked about the destinations they'd most like to visit, many international visitors mentioned China's most cinematic cities and scenic spots.
"I like Chinese movies, actually. If I go to some Chinese movies' [filming] places, I would choose Chongqing," said Blazej, a Polish student.
"It's Zhangjiajie. I have no idea how it looks like in real life, but it looks like haven [on the screen], like the whole water, the mountains. Everything is fantastic, beautiful," said another international student, referring to the city in central Hunan province.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Zhangjiajie is famous for its towering sandstone pillars and stunning landscapes, which famously inspired the floating mountains in Avatar.
Capitalizing on Ne Zha 2's popularity, tourist destinations across China are offering enticing deals for moviegoers.
In northeastern Jilin Province, for example, several attractions are providing special promotions for visitors who present a ticket to the film.
At Changying Century City, a movie-themed park in Changchun, movie ticket holders can enjoy a 50 percent discount on adult tickets through March 31. Visitors to the park are treated to thrilling rides and immersive experiences inspired by China's most iconic films, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the movie-making process.
"I only spent 60 yuan for the ticket. This is truly a win-win approach, a great benefit for locals like us," said a visitor.
"I think this approach is really innovative. You get to watch a movie, enjoy the attractions, and save money," said another visitor.
Beyond Changchun, other locations across Jilin are also offering movie-related discounts.
At the Ji'an Goguryeo Cultural Relics Scenic Area, visitors can enter for free as many times as they wish throughout the year after purchasing a single ticket. Meanwhile, the Lushuihe Changbai Mountain Hunting Resort is offering free admission for Ne Zha 2 ticket holders until April 3. For travelers seeking a more immersive cultural experience, the Liuding Mountain Cultural Tourism Area, Jiguan Mountain Scenic Area, and Millennium Cliff City Scenic Area are also offering similar promotions.
This wave of tourism promotions underscores the growing influence of Chinese films, not just in entertainment but also in fostering deeper cultural exchanges and boosting local economies.
Movie mania fuels tourism boom across China
