Zhenbeipu Western Studios (镇北堡西部影城), located in Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, was founded by writer Zhang Xianliang on September 21, 1993. This film studio is characterized by its rustic, primitive, rugged, desolate, and folk-inspired design, making it one of China’s top ten film bases. The name “Zhenbeipu” is derived from a border fortress from the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
The studios have been the filming location for popular movies such as A Chinese Odyssey, New Dragon Gate Inn, and Red Sorghum. Key attractions include the Ming City, Qing City, and Old Yinchuan Street, showcasing various scenic spots for film shoots.
Visitors can explore Old Yinchuan Street by following its “8-shaped” route, where they can experience the architecture and atmosphere of Yinchuan in the early to mid-20th century. The street is also known for local traditional snacks, including lamb offal soup. Within the studio, many areas offer costume and prop rentals, allowing guests to dress in costumes from the films and interact with props, providing a fun opportunity to walk through iconic movie sets and indulge in a star-like experience.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Zhenbeipu Western Studios
- Vlog about Zhenbeipu Western Studios
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 80 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 18.00 (16th April – 15th October) 9.00 – 17.00 (16th October – 15th April) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0951-2136088 0086-0951-2136068 |
Location and Transportation
Zhenbeipu Western Studios is located in the Xixia District of Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. The studios are situated at the eastern junction of National Highway 115, specifically in the area known as Guangzhen Beibu. To get there, you can take bus 725, 731, Tourist Line 3, or Tourist Line 8 and get off at Zhenbeipu Western Studios Stop (镇北堡西部影城站).
Highlights of Zhenbeipu Western Studios
Qing City
Qing City is located at the northern end of Zhenbeipu Western Studios, right at the main entrance of the scenic area. Built in the fifth year of the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty (1740 AD), it was constructed as a military camp upon the orders of Qianlong after the original Ming City was destroyed by an earthquake. The two military camps are situated close to each other, highlighting the military significance of the eastern Helan Mountains. Qing City has a turtle-like shape and focuses on showcasing various folk and traditional craft performances. Notable attractions include the Wengcheng (Moat City), Lucky Gate, Mysterious Cave, Hundred Flowers Hall, Film Street, Ancient Turtle Pagoda, Governor’s Office, Cow Demon King’s Palace, Guanyin Pavilion, Exhibition Hall, Star Doghouse, and Gaozi Pavilion. The second city gate, known as the Lucky Gate, gained its name because several successful films, such as Zhu Yuanzhang, Flying Sky, and A Chinese Odyssey, were filmed here.
Ming City
Ming City is situated at the southwestern end of Zhenbeipu Western Studios, adjacent to Qing City. It was constructed during the Hongzhi era of the Ming Dynasty (around 1500 AD) and was one of the many military fortifications built along the northwest line of the Great Wall. Originally named “Zhenbeipu,” the camp was destroyed by an earthquake during the Qianlong reign in the Qing Dynasty (1738 AD). After the collapse of the Ming-era Zhenbeipu, the Qing government rebuilt the camp, forming a harmonious balance with Qing City, akin to a “Tai Chi diagram.” Ming City showcases a primitive, rugged, and desolate natural appearance, serving as the main filming location within the studios. Key attractions include the Treasure Bowl, Horseman, Cultural Revolution Courtyard, Moon Gate, Guanzhong City Gate, Firewood Shop, Pan Si Cave, Dingzhou Governor’s Office, Winery, Jiu’er’s Residence, Blacksmith Camp, Ruins Corridor, Marriage Proposal Platform, and the Dragon Gate Inn.
Old Yinchuan Street
Old Yinchuan Street is located at the southeastern end of Zhenbeipu Western Studios, adjacent to Ming City. Constructed in 2012 over 97 days, this scenic area replicates the architecture of the original “Ningxia Provincial National Government” (also known as “Ma Hongkui’s Official Residence”) as its central axis, drawing inspiration from the bustling “Willow Alley” of pre-liberation Yinchuan. It recreates the old shops and alleyways of that era. The street is 120 meters long and features six shops on either side, each spanning 400 to 500 square meters. Attractions include a historical exhibition of Yinchuan, a fire safety education exhibition, a specialty market for small goods and food from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, and Korea, as well as the Chengtian Temple Theater.
