All aboard the movie train: Exploring China through film and travel

The "China Movie Consumption Year" campaign kicked off this April nationwide, inviting audiences not only into theaters but also onto movie-inspired journeys across the country. 

On April 19, a special train called "Yichun" departed from Harbin in China's Heilongjiang Province, carrying more than 100 tourists from Singapore, Malaysia, and other countries on an immersive tour that combined cinema and travel.

Launched by the National Film Administration in collaboration with the China State Railway Group, this innovative "film + tourism" train project aims to create new travel experiences by integrating film culture into rail tourism. With the convenience of China's vast railway network, the program connects movie scenes with real-world destinations, offering travelers a unique cultural adventure.

The "Yichun" train links iconic cities like Harbin and Yichun while immersing passengers in film culture. Once on board, travelers can enjoy screenings of classic historical and documentary films, music from popular movies, poster exhibitions, cultural souvenirs, and interactive film-themed activities – all while taking in scenic views and tasting local cuisine.

What sets this journey apart is its immersive experience: passengers can visit actual filming locations along the route and engage in discussions on movies, bringing cinema to life in an engaging way. This approach has proven to be particularly appealing to younger audiences and international visitors, enhancing the cultural value of regional tourism and showcasing the global appeal of Chinese cinema.

"Traveling China through film" is more than just a journey – it's a deep cultural encounter. When movies guide the route and the journey brings the movies to life, the fusion of film and tourism opens new chapters in cultural exploration.