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| SHINE ON ME Filming Locations Explained: From West Lake Romance to Modern Cityscapes (Photo: WeTV) |
As one of the most talked-about Chinese dramas to land in December 2025, SHINE ON ME has already pulled fans in with its cast and visual promise. Starring Song Weilong and Zhao Jinmai, the drama blends romance, emotional growth, and modern storytelling — and its filming locations play a massive role in shaping that mood.
While not every exact spot was publicly revealed during production (largely to avoid filming disruptions), enough has now surfaced to paint a clear picture.
SHINE ON ME was filmed entirely in China, with a strong focus on Zhejiang Province and Ningbo, two regions widely loved by drama crews for their flexibility, scenery, and cinematic charm.
When Was SHINE ON ME Filmed?
Filming officially wrapped in April 2025, meaning the production spent well over a year in post-production before its December 2025 release.
That long gap has only added to the anticipation, especially among fans who consider it one of the most visually promising dramas of the year.
Main Filming Locations in SHINE ON ME
Foshan City – Spring & Autumn Warring States City
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Despite the modern tone of the drama, some scenes were filmed at the Spring & Autumn Warring States City set, located east of Xiangshan Film Studio. This large-scale set is known for its intricate city walls, towers, mansions, military camps, and traditional streets.
250403 #骄阳似我官微 (#ShineOnMe Drama) weibo update as filming wraps #SongWeilong #ZhaoJinmai #LinYilun #LaiWeiming #宋威龙 #赵今麦 #林依轮 #赖伟明 #骄阳似我 #ดั่งตะวันฉายฉาน pic.twitter.com/NLeFujRnjS
— CNent (@cdrama_update) April 3, 2025
Even when used for non-historical scenes, the space offers depth, scale, and atmosphere.
The carefully designed environment adds weight to dramatic moments and helps the story breathe visually without feeling artificial.
Tanqi Town – Nature-Driven Romance
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Tanqi Town was reportedly used for outdoor scenes involving rivers, forests, and mountain backdrops. These locations are often chosen for emotional or reflective moments, and here they became the backdrop for several romantic scenes between Song Weilong and Zhao Jinmai.
The natural lighting, flowing water, and open landscapes soften the drama’s tone, giving those scenes a quiet, almost poetic feeling that fans have already latched onto.
West Lake – Romance at Its Peak
No scenic drama tour feels complete without West Lake, and SHINE ON ME made full use of it. Key landmarks such as Baochu Pagoda, Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda, and Yanggong Dike appear throughout the series.
The romance scenes filmed here are already being described by fans as some of the most unforgettable moments of the drama.
SOM filming days were so fun you never know what kind of reuters you were gonna see for the day… And it was always cute! 😂 #ShineOnMe #SongWeilong #ZhaoJinmai pic.twitter.com/iIPE1hoXiR
— 琳♡屿森 | Shine on Me! (@marezora_rin) November 12, 2025
With gentle water ripples, glowing skies, and warm reflections, every frame feels intentionally composed — like watching a love story unfold inside a moving painting.
Xianghu Xiaoyao Manor – Quiet Elegance
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Xianghu Xiaoyao Manor serves as one of the drama’s core filming locations, featuring scenes involving both supporting characters and the main leads. Surrounded by calm lake views and classic Jiangnan-style architecture, the manor perfectly captures the drama’s refined yet emotional tone.
It’s the kind of place where conversations feel heavier, silences feel meaningful, and character development quietly takes centre stage.
Xiangshan Film and Television Town – Grand Visual Scale
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Certain scenes were shot at Xiangshan Film and Television Town, a long-time favourite for productions needing large-scale sets.
Known for its ancient city layouts and structured architecture, the location works well for intense sequences, public gatherings, or scenes requiring a sense of authority and scale.
Even brief moments filmed here help widen the drama’s visual scope.
2025.12.02
— 殷果 ❄️🌾 (@randmpersonjk) December 2, 2025
CCTV Network Entertainment | Weibo#ShineOnMe ☀️ One Year Anniversary of Filming
Lin Yusen harbors an untold story; Nie Xiguang grows steadily in the workplace.
From initial hesitation to mutual support, the two embark on a mutually healing journey, a setting that… pic.twitter.com/jLeKbOlX6m
Xiangyang Studio – Architectural Impact
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Located north of Xiangshan, Xiangyang Studio features a massive cityscape stretching hundreds of metres, complete with tall walls, drawbridges, and dual gateways. The design combines visual strength with cinematic depth, making it ideal for scenes that need tension or formality.
Its Song-dynasty-inspired architecture adds texture without overpowering the story.
Olympic Sports Impression City – Modern Emotions
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A heartfelt conversation between Zhao Jinmai and her on-screen best friend was filmed at Olympic Sports Impression City. Known for its modern architecture and vibrant night lighting, the location contrasts beautifully with the emotional honesty of the scene.
The glowing city lights highlight the characters’ vulnerability, making the moment feel both stylish and deeply human.
White Horse Apartments – Everyday Realism
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The exterior shots of Nie Xiguang/Zhao Jinmai’s character’s apartment were filmed at White Horse Apartments near Wulin Square. Balcony scenes in particular add an intimate, relatable layer to the drama, showing moments of quiet reflection away from the bigger story arcs.
It’s a small detail, but one that grounds the character emotionally.
Can Fans Visit These Filming Locations?
Lin Yusen's confession hit me hard. Where on earth do you find a man like that?! 😭
— biee🎐*:.⋆° (@scenerybie) December 26, 2025
“My pursuit of you should be a perk for u, not ur burden. You said u still like someone else. No problem. I'II let u choose”
He didn't pressure her and the final choice was hers 🥺#ShineOnMe pic.twitter.com/DAq2uEAYDu
Yes — most of these locations are public and tourist-friendly, meaning fans can visit them freely. From lakeside walks to urban landmarks, many spots are easy to access and still carry the atmosphere seen on screen.
SHINE ON ME doesn’t just tell a story — it lets its locations speak alongside the characters.
Now the real question is: which place would you visit first if you were walking through the drama yourself? And if you’ve already been to any of these spots, did seeing them on screen hit differently for you? Let’s talk.