A hit show gives tourism a starring role

Whispers of Fate, a hit costume drama starring actor Luo Yunxi, is bringing international fans to its filming locations, offering an example of how popular screen productions can boost cultural tourism, according to its producers.

Premiering in October last year, the 40-episode drama follows a sharp-witted, enigmatic recluse who is drawn back into the martial arts world. It has been streamed on 23 overseas platforms, including Netflix and Rakuten Viki, reaching audiences in more than 110 countries and regions.

Recently, more than 20 foreign fans joined a tour of locations featured in the drama, including Longyin Tiancheng (Dragon's Roar Heavenly City) in Wufengxi Ancient Town in Chengdu, Southwest China's Sichuan province. The visit offered them a chance to step into the drama's fantastical world and imagine themselves as martial arts masters.

The series was also named one of the top 10 outstanding cases of overseas expansion at CPOPwave 2026, an annual series of events launched by China Media Group to promote Chinese original pop culture. The name "CPOP" combines "Create Pop", reflecting creators' passion, and "Connect People", highlighting bonds forged among audiences from different cultural backgrounds.

The latest developments illustrate how Whispers of Fate has sought to connect screen content with audiences at home and abroad, while drawing visitors to filming locations. Its producers see this approach as an effective way to bring Chinese stories to a wider global audience.