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| Where Was Fox Spirit Matchmaker 3 Filmed? Sword and Beloved’s Stunning Locations Revealed (Photo: Sohu) |
If you’ve been obsessed with Fox Spirit Matchmaker 3: Sword and Beloved, starring the ever-charming Cheng Yi and Li Yitong, you might’ve wondered where all them stunning palace shots and misty lake scenes were filmed.
Turns out, the crew didn’t cut corners—this fantasy-romance was filmed all over China, wrapping up production back in May 2024.
Fast forward to its October 2025 premiere, and it’s already being hyped as one of the best Chinese dramas of the year.
Now, the exact filming spots weren’t all public back then—mainly to stop overly-eager fans turning up mid-scene (fair enough, really).
But here’s what’s been confirmed so far.
Hengdian World Studios – The Beating Heart of Chinese Filmmaking
Most of Sword and Beloved came to life at the legendary Hengdian World Studios in Zhejiang, aka Chinawood.
It’s the biggest film studio in the world—literally massive—and it’s where nearly every top historical or xianxia drama gets its wings.
From grand palaces to Tang-style streets, Hengdian’s got it all.
The crew spent countless days under blazing sunrises 🌅 and quiet moonlit nights 🌙 capturing the perfect frame—lights, costumes, stunts, and all. It’s a place powered by pure graft and passion; every robe swirl, every stare down, crafted to perfection.
The Tang & Song Palatial District, in particular, set the tone for Sword and Beloved’s royal drama—ornate mansions, poetic gardens, and silk-draped halls where love, betrayal, and destiny unfold.
(Fun fact: Hengdian was built on farmland by Xu Wenrong and grew into Asia’s biggest studio. Not bad, eh?)
https://t.co/8XpcAo7lFK pic.twitter.com/hscxh8743u
Tanqi Town – Rivers, Forests, and a Bit of Romance
For the outdoor scenes—the ones with dreamy backdrops, rivers, and misty mountains—the crew headed to Tanqi Town.
It’s said that the unforgettable boat date scenes between Cheng Yi and Li Yitong were filmed here.
The natural lighting and calm waters gave those scenes a proper fairytale touch.
Locals who caught a glimpse said the vibe on set was serene yet electric—you could tell something magical was being created.
West Lake – The Heart of Eternal Romance
If you thought the lake scenes looked too perfect to be real, you’re spot on—they filmed right at West Lake in Hangzhou, one of China’s most iconic romantic spots.
Under the Baochu Pagoda, and along the Broken Bridge and Leifeng Pagoda, the pair shared what fans now call “the most romantic moment in Chinese dramas this year.”
Each frame glowed like a poem—ripples, reflections, and that hazy sunset lighting that’d make anyone swoon.
Xianghu Xiaoyao Manor – Tranquil Beauty with a Touch of Drama
Some supporting scenes and Cheng Yi’s solo moments were filmed at Xianghu Xiaoyao Manor, surrounded by traditional Jiangnan-style architecture and peaceful lake views.
It’s got this understated elegance—perfect for the series’ quieter, emotional beats.
Xiangshan Film and Television Town – Battles and Court Politics
Lastly, Xiangshan Film and Television Town handled the heavy stuff—battle sequences, court debates, and the imperial chaos.
Its ancient city sets brought the grandeur and grit needed for Sword and Beloved’s more intense arcs.
A Tale of Destiny, Duty, and Forbidden Love
As for the story—Sword and Beloved continues the Fox Spirit Matchmaker trilogy, tying into Love in Pavilion.
Cheng Yi plays Wangquan Fu Gui, the son of Dongfang Huai Zhu (Liu Shishi) and Wangquan Hong Ye (Leon Zhang).
Born into a powerful clan, he’s bound by duty and tradition, trained as a Taoist soldier since childhood—never free to live as he wants.
Then comes Qing Tong (Li Yitong), a spy sent to infiltrate the Wangquan family.
She’s clever, cautious, and has her own secret mission—but she ends up seeing the human side of Fu Gui.
Together, they strike a deal of reincarnation beneath the Tree of Bitterness, binding their fates through lifetimes.
It’s a lush mix of love, loyalty, and destiny—made even more breathtaking thanks to these incredible filming spots that make ancient China feel alive again.
TL;DR – Quick Look
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🎬 Main Studio: Hengdian World Studios (Zhejiang)
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🌊 Outdoor Scenes: Tanqi Town, West Lake, Xianghu Xiaoyao Manor
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🏯 Battle & Court Scenes: Xiangshan Film and Television Town
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💑 Romantic Hotspot: West Lake (Baochu Pagoda, Broken Bridge)
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🗓️ Filming Finished: May 2024
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📺 Premiere: October 2025