Shanghai, China is experiencing a surge in tourism interest, fueled in part by the popularity of the Chinese drama Love Between Lines
. The series, adapted from Zhang Zu Le’s web novel Ga Xi
, showcases various locations throughout the city, prompting viewers to explore the settings featured in the show. This trend highlights the growing influence of Chinese dramas in driving travel decisions.
A Visual Journey Through Shanghai
Released recently, Love Between Lines
has quickly captured an audience with its compelling storyline and visually appealing depiction of Shanghai. According to reports from earlier this week, the drama has sparked a wave of interest in visiting the locations where it was filmed. The series offers a glimpse into the city’s diverse landscapes, from modern urban centers to more traditional settings.
The drama’s impact on tourism is particularly noticeable given the recent planning of tours specifically incorporating locations featured in the series. A tour operator announced plans in late October 2025 for a tour including two full days in Shanghai, catering to fans eager to experience the drama’s settings firsthand. This demonstrates a proactive response from the tourism industry to capitalize on the show’s popularity.
Shanghai Film Park: A Hub for Chinese Cinema
Shanghai’s appeal as a filming location extends beyond Love Between Lines
. The Shanghai Film Park, a well-established destination for filmmakers, has hosted productions such as Romance in the Rain
and Lust, Caution
. The park offers a unique opportunity for visitors to potentially encounter actors and film crews while on location. The park features tram services for navigating the expansive set.
The Shanghai Film Park’s history as a backdrop for numerous successful productions underscores the city’s significance within the Chinese film industry. It’s a place where cinematic history is actively being made, and where fans can connect with the worlds created on screen.
Social Media and Fan Engagement
The enthusiasm for Love Between Lines
and its filming locations is also evident on social media platforms. TikTok, in particular, has become a hub for sharing information about the drama’s shooting locations, with users posting videos and guides for fellow fans. A recent surge in content related to Love Between Lines
filming locations was observed on , indicating sustained interest in the series and its connection to Shanghai.
Online discussions, such as those found on Reddit, further illustrate the drama’s influence on travel aspirations. A post from revealed that the drama has inspired viewers to add Shanghai to their travel wish lists. This demonstrates the power of visual media in shaping perceptions and driving tourism.
Broader Implications for Chinese Tourism
The success of Love Between Lines
in attracting tourists to Shanghai is part of a larger trend of Chinese dramas influencing travel patterns. The drama’s popularity highlights the potential for cultural exports to boost tourism revenue and promote a positive image of China internationally. This represents particularly significant as China continues to develop its tourism infrastructure and seek to attract a wider range of visitors.
The focus on Shanghai as a filming location also draws attention to the city’s unique blend of historical and modern attractions. The city’s ability to seamlessly integrate traditional elements with contemporary architecture makes it an appealing destination for both domestic and international tourists. The drama’s portrayal of Shanghai likely contributes to this perception, showcasing the city’s diverse character.
The growing interest in visiting locations featured in Chinese dramas suggests a shift in tourism motivations. Increasingly, travelers are seeking immersive experiences that allow them to connect with the cultures and stories they encounter through media. This trend presents opportunities for tourism operators to develop specialized tours and experiences that cater to fans of Chinese dramas and other forms of popular culture.
While specific figures regarding the increase in tourism directly attributable to Love Between Lines
are not currently available, the anecdotal evidence and planned tour itineraries suggest a tangible impact. The drama’s success serves as a case study for the potential of cultural exports to drive tourism and promote a positive image of China on the global stage. As of today, , the trend appears to be continuing, with ongoing discussions and interest in the filming locations online.
