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| Where Legend of the Female General Was Filmed — From Hengdian Palaces to Southwest Lake Romance |
The 2025 hit C-drama Legend of the Female General, starring Zhou Ye and Ryan Cheng Lei, took viewers through sweeping battlefields, misty lakes, and imperial courts — but where exactly was it filmed?
Turns out, most of its breathtaking visuals were captured right in China, across some of the country’s most cinematic landscapes.
A Cinematic Home: Hengdian World Studios (Zhejiang)
Let’s start with the obvious one — Hengdian World Studios, the backbone of countless historical and fantasy dramas.
This massive film complex in Dongyang, Zhejiang is affectionately known as “Chinawood” — and for good reason.
It’s the largest film studio in the world, complete with full-scale palace replicas, ancient streets, and riverside fortresses.
Almost all the grand palace interiors and court scenes in Legend of the Female General were shot here.
From sunrise call times to late-night wrap-ups, the cast and crew spent long days bringing Lin’s legendary journey to life.
Behind each polished frame stood a small army of lighting techs, costume stylists, and set designers working tirelessly to capture the magic.
As one crew member once said, “Every frame here beats with the heart of filmmaking itself.”
Tanqi Town: Natural Landscapes and River Romance
For more scenic sequences, the production moved to Tanqi Town, famed for its lush forests and winding rivers.
The boat date between Zhou Ye’s Lin and Ryan Cheng Lei’s character was reportedly filmed here — surrounded by glistening water, gentle mist, and unfiltered beauty.
It’s the kind of scene that feels almost painterly, like a live-action ink scroll.
SouthWest Lake: Where Love Meets Legend
Then there’s West Lake, perhaps China’s most romantic backdrop.
Known for its poetic calm and timeless charm, it’s home to iconic landmarks such as Baochu Pagoda, Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda, and Yanggong Dike.
The show’s dreamy sequences between Lin and her mysterious counterpart under the fading sunset were filmed right here — a moment that fans still call “one of the most romantic scenes in Chinese drama this year.”
Every reflection on the water, every glimmer of light feels straight out of a love poem.
Xianghu Xiaoyao: Serene and Sophisticated
Some supporting character scenes were filmed at Xianghu Xiaoyao Manor, a lakeside retreat that blends traditional Jiangnan architecture with tranquil views.
Its delicate bridges, willow-lined walkways, and calm water surfaces made it the perfect spot for more introspective moments, especially those featuring Ming Yi’s private story arc.
Xiangshan Film and Television Town: Battle and Strategy
To capture the series’ war scenes and political sequences, the team also set up camp at Xiangshan Film and Television Town.
With its towering gates, stone courtyards, and time-accurate architecture, it served as the perfect stage for Legend of the Female General’s military confrontations and imperial council scenes.
About the Drama
Legend of the Female General follows Lin, a brilliant and brave young woman who disguises herself as a man to join the military after her family’s tragic downfall.
Determined to avenge injustice and protect her people, Lin climbs the ranks with her intelligence, combat skill, and strategic insight.
Along the way, she encounters a prince-turned-general who unknowingly fights alongside her, sparking a complex and emotional bond that unfolds amid war, betrayal, and palace intrigue.
Beyond its romance, the drama explores loyalty, justice, and the unbreakable spirit of women who defy history’s limits.
Production Timeline
Filming wrapped up in March 2024, and after more than a year of post-production and polishing, the drama finally premiered in August 2025 — instantly becoming one of the top-rated Chinese dramas of the year.
With its mix of stunning visuals, heartfelt performances, and historical richness, Legend of the Female General proves that great storytelling doesn’t just happen — it’s built, frame by frame, in places where history still breathes.