Liu Xiao Ling Tong and other staff attend the launching event in Shangyu district of Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, on July 6. [Photo/Tide News]

A new documentary titled Laozi and Tao Te Ching began filming on July 6 in Shangyu district, Shaoxing, Zhejiang province. The project aims to bring the ancient wisdom of Tao Te Ching to modern audiences through visual storytelling.

The chief director is Chinese actor Zhang Jinlai — better known by his stage name Liu Xiao Ling Tong — who is internationally recognized for his portrayal of the Monkey King in Journey to the West.

The filming location, Xintunnan village in Daoxu subdistrict, was selected for its deep connection to Taoist thought. Liu said the village landscape embodies key Taoist ideas — especially the concept that "gentleness overcomes rigidity" — with its resilient, flowing waterways echoing the philosophical teachings of Laozi. The production will explore sites across Shaoxing to highlight Taoist principles such as "great virtue is like water" and "the Tao operates naturally".

During the launch ceremony, Liu Xiao Ling Tong was named Daoxu's lifelong cultural ambassador. He noted that the "Zhang family's Monkey Play" originated in the area, calling his return both a personal and cultural responsibility to help advance local tourism.

Also announced at the event were two related initiatives — the establishment of the Journey to the West Culture Research Base Organizing Committee and the launch of the "Digital Intelligent Jiangnan" Monkey King Museum project, which will incorporate VR and AI technologies to create immersive experiences. Daoxu will integrate cultural heritage with tech-driven innovation to further promote rural tourism.