All Aboard the Movie Train: Discover China Through Film and Travel Adventures

As part of the nationwide "China Movie Consumption Year" campaign that launched this April, audiences across the country are being encouraged to experience films in entirely new ways — not only from the comfort of theater seats, but also by embarking on movie-inspired journeys that blend the magic of cinema with the thrill of travel.

On April 19, over 100 tourists from Singapore, Malaysia, and various other countries boarded a unique train named "Yichun" at Harbin Station in northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. Their destination: an immersive, cross-cultural tour designed to bring films to life while exploring some of China's most scenic routes.

This innovative "film + tourism" initiative is a collaborative effort between the National Film Administration and the China State Railway Group. With China's expansive railway network as its backbone, the program connects travelers with well-known filming locations and cinematic landmarks, promising a unique blend of storytelling, sightseeing, and cultural immersion. By merging film culture with rail tourism, organizers aim to spark a new wave of interest in both domestic and international travel within China.

The "Yichun" train, which links cities such as Harbin and Yichun, provides a rich, multi-sensory journey for its passengers. Onboard, travelers can watch screenings of classic historical and documentary films, listen to soundtracks from celebrated movies, and browse through themed poster exhibitions. The experience is enhanced by specially curated cultural souvenirs, interactive film-themed activities, and samplings of local cuisine — all set against the ever-changing backdrop visible through the train’s windows.

What truly distinguishes this journey is its immersive approach. Passengers have the opportunity to step off the train and explore actual film locations along the route, participating in lively discussions about Chinese cinema and its cultural significance. This method appeals especially to younger generations and international visitors, who are eager to engage more deeply with the stories behind the movies and the places where they were filmed.

By combining the evocative power of cinema with the excitement of discovery, the "Traveling China through film" experience transforms a simple train ride into a profound cultural adventure. As the boundaries between fiction and reality blur, participants find themselves at the intersection of art and exploration — a testament to the growing global influence of Chinese filmmaking and the endless potential of cultural tourism.