At Hengdian World Studios in Zhejiang province, visitors are increasingly engaging in immersive role-playing experiences that allow them to star in their own short dramas. Known as the country’s largest film and television production hub, Hengdian has expanded beyond traditional sightseeing to offer tourists the opportunity to act, dress in period costumes, and film personalized scenes on authentic sets.
University student Sun Kemin, from Hangzhou, recently took part in the experience after discovering it on social media. She and a friend chose a script centered around a rivalry involving the traditional craft of ronghua, or velvet flowers, and spent about an hour filming their story on a historical street set. The package, which included costumes, makeup, filming, and a completed video, cost 388 yuan (approximately $54) per person.
Sun described the process as both challenging and enjoyable. “The hardest part was not laughing,” she said, recalling moments when she and her friend broke character due to nervousness or spontaneous laughter. Despite having no professional acting background, Sun found the opportunity to participate in a drama more memorable than conventional tourist activities, noting the unique experience of becoming part of a narrative on a real film set.
The recent surge in popularity for these short drama experiences took even industry professionals by surprise. Wu Yizhuo, a director who coaches tourists during filming, noted a marked increase in demand over the current summer season. On busy days, he said, he may direct up to 20 groups, each shooting scenes lasting one to two minutes. Wu emphasized the need for patience and adaptability, as many participants are inexperienced and may forget lines or become nervous.
While Hengdian has offered filmmaking experiences since at least 2007, earlier programs typically catered to larger tour groups. The current model allows even individuals or pairs to step into acting roles, making the experience more accessible and personalized. Wu, who previously worked as an actor, often demonstrates emotional scenes himself to assist participants, and he acknowledged that some tourists perform better than expected.
The majority of customers are young women in their 20s, though families and children also participate. The experience has attracted international visitors as well, including Yuliia, a half Russian and half Georgian resident of Sanya, Hainan province. In April 2025, she filmed a short drama at Hengdian inspired by the popular TV series *Empresses in the Palace*. Yuliia praised the atmosphere, noting the camaraderie and immersive quality of the experience even for foreigners, often shared with her followers on social media.
As the trend continues to grow, visitors like Sun are already planning to return to Hengdian to explore different roles. The film studio’s evolving offerings reflect a broader shift in tourism, where active participation and experiential storytelling are becoming key draws for travelers seeking more than traditional sightseeing.