An aerial view of an island in Zhoushan. [Photo/WeChat account: zjzsqdxq]

The film industry in Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province, is making a splash.

As of July, 16 film and television productions have selected the city as a filming location, underscoring its growing appeal as a cinematic hub.

This momentum builds on a long tradition. From early hits like The Legend of the Condor Heroes filmed on Taohua Island to The Continent capturing the rugged beauty of Dongji Island, Zhoushan's 2,085 islands offer a unique visual palette, ranging from seaside temples and fishing villages to pristine beaches and ancient towns.

The upcoming August release of Dongji Rescue is expected to further boost the city's exposure.

To support the film industry, Zhoushan is rapidly building out its infrastructure. Mini-drama filming zones in Dinghai district and a new film-tourism fusion base on Huaniao Island are under development.

Local government has introduced a policy framework covering site development, company support, talent attraction, and content creation. More than 100 productions have been filmed in Zhoushan since 2022, with over 20 film companies now based in the city.

From establishing script incubation centers and virtual production studios to offering one-stop permitting services, Zhoushan is becoming a new cultural and creative landmark for China.