Hengdian World Studios in Zhejiang draws more tourists with thriving travel photography business

Hengdian World Studios, China’s largest studio backlot in Zhejiang Province, is seeing a surge in visitors as its travel photography business thrives, supported by local efforts to upgrade services and refine industry standards.

Dubbed "China's Hollywood", Hengdian is one of the largest real-life film and television shooting bases in the world, and is the filming location for popular films such as war blockbuster "The Battle at Lake Changjin."

In a scenic corner of the studio, skilled makeup artists applied makeup and styled clients' hair, attentively considering their preferences and making timely adjustments.

They also introduced products to walk-in customers and recommended suitable outfits and styles.

"I feel it has an ancient charm with a distinctly Chinese flavor. My child saw many young girls in traditional costumes at the scenic area and became curious, saying she was very interested. So, we let her experience it as well," a tourist Huang Jingxuan said.

In February, Hengdian completed a unified renovation of five travel photography stores. The newly upgraded shops now feature neatly displayed Hanfu collections, while walls adorned with the latest makeup styles showcase a wide range of options.

Hanfu is the traditional clothing of the Han ethnic group and was formed in the main residential areas of the Han ethnic group in ancient times.

Visitors Liang Manting and Liu Longlong from Yiwu City, Zhejiang Province, opted for a martial arts-themed couple's travel shoot, carefully selecting a set that matched their vision.

"We stumbled upon this idea on the Internet and had always wanted to try this kind of photo shoot. I brought her here to experience it. At first, we were a bit stiff in front of the camera, but the photographer was very patient," said Liu.

Ahead of Labor Day, photography stores will nearly double their makeup artists and sales staff while unveiling new spring outfits for seasonal tours, ensuring a seamless experience for tourists to capture lasting memories.

Hengdian World Studios in Zhejiang draws more tourists with thriving travel photography business

Thailand will release detained Cambodian soldiers once peace is restored, a Thai official said on Saturday, after the two countries agreed to a ceasefire following days of heavy clashes.

The ceasefire was agreed following intense discussions at General Border Committee (GBC) meetings between Cambodia and Thailand in Thailand’s Chanthaburi province.

Under the agreement, the truce took effect at noon local time and will be monitored by both sides for 72 hours. The Thai government said it reached the agreement after considering the impact of the crisis on the country's economy and international standing.

"Once peace has been restored, civilians can return to their homes safely. Thailand will then release 18 detained Cambodian soldiers," said Thai Defense Minister Gen. Nattaphon Narkphanit at a press conference after the meeting.

Thailand, in turn, expressed hope that Cambodian authorities will allow Thai citizens remaining in Cambodia to return safely.

The coming hours will be a key test of mutual trust. The two countries have agreed to keep communication channels open and work together to combat disinformation, which has complicated negotiations. Thailand also expects Cambodia to assist in clearing landmines in disputed areas.

Thailand said it is watching closely to see whether the ceasefire will be fully implemented, while remaining prepared to defend itself if hostilities resume.

"The ceasefire must be sincerely conducted and maintained. We are going to wait. That is why we have the 72-hour monitoring period in place. If things are not settled within the 72 hours, we will fall back to our protocol of using our right to defend our country," said Thai Air Chief Marshal Prapas Sonjaidee.

Prior to the ceasefire, the situation along the border was tense. During the General Border Committee talks, airstrikes and clashes occurred almost daily, with frontline control shifting frequently, taking a heavy toll on civilians.

Thailand to release detained Cambodian soldiers once peace is restored: official