Wang Hong Yi (left photo) and Meng Zi Yi, were in Siem Reap earlier this month to film a Chinese drama series. FB
Thanks to an incredible blend of Chinese legends and Cambodia’s breathtaking landscapes, the upcoming Chinese drama San Xian Mi Hui (Three Lines of Reincarnation) is set to showcase the kingdom’s most iconic landmarks.
Officially selected for distribution by Chinese mega-media company Tencent, the series intertwines reincarnation and mystery while serving as a promotional tool for Cambodian tourism.
It follows Zong Hang (played by Wang Hong Yi), an ordinary man whose journey unravels ancient legends, hidden sects and the mysteries of the Mekong River.
Alongside him is Yi Sa (played by Meng Zi Yi), a woman deeply connected to the river’s secrets and Cambodia’s cultural heritage.
With key scenes filmed on location, the drama highlights Cambodia’s stunning temples, ancient ruins and lush jungles, immersing viewers in its serene yet enigmatic atmosphere.
Meng Zi Yi, who plays Yi Sa in Three Lines of Reincarnation, posted on her Instagram from Kampong Plouk village. Instagram
“The series, titled Three Lines of Reincarnation, features several scenes shot in Siem Reap province between February 6 and mid-February,” said Pok Borak, director of the Department of Film and Cultural Diffusion (DFCD) at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts.
The story unfolds as Zong Hang’s father sends him abroad for a break, directing him to the Angkor Grand Hotel.
There, he encounters Mr. Ma, an eccentric man searching for his missing daughter. What starts as a simple getaway spirals into a web of supernatural intrigue, betrayal and ancient prophecies.
Along the Mekong River, forces unseen begins to stir, trapping Zong Hang in a battle between fate and free will.
Cambodian Fans Celebrate Their Idols with Local Identity
Cambodian fans warmly welcomed San Xian Mi Hui stars Wang Hong Yi and Meng Zi Yi by gifting them traditional Krama scarves, a symbol of Cambodian heritage and hospitality.
“This heartfelt gesture highlights the deep cultural pride of Cambodian fans, who see the drama as a bridge between their nation and the global audience,” said a social media post by the producers.
Meng Zi Yi posted at Cambodian landmarks on her social media. Instagram
The actors expressed their appreciation for the meaningful gifts, acknowledging the warmth and enthusiasm of their Cambodian supporters.
Behind the scenes: A connection between China and Cambodia
The collaboration between Cambodia and the Chinese film industry extends beyond storytelling – it is a strategic move to promote Cambodia as a travel destination.
By featuring its landmarks in a widely anticipated Chinese drama, the production introduces viewers to Cambodia’s majestic heritage, from the sacred ruins of Angkor Wat to the tranquil beauty of the Tonle Sap Lake.
Borak emphasised the impact of international productions in showcasing Cambodia’s unique locations.
“Filming in a particular region contributes to promoting that destination to viewers,” he said.
“With this drama airing on Chinese digital platforms, Cambodia’s landscapes will reach a vast audience,” he added.
He emphasised that this serves as an important promotional tool to attract Chinese tourists, as many travelers choose their destinations based on what they have seen on their screens.
However, he acknowledged that films depicting insecurity or societal issues could influence viewers’ perceptions.
Meng Zi Yi at the Siem Reap’s Kampong Plouk village earned 40k likes and hundreds of comments. Instagram
“I want to highlight that film scenes are a form of artistic expression, not documentaries or direct reflections of reality. Films feature both positive and negative scenes rather than focusing solely on one aspect,” Borak explained.
He added that if a movie includes a murder or suicide scene, the storyline should clarify whether authorities, such as the police or other relevant professionals, intervened.
Regarding Cambodia’s tourism potential, Borak noted that the government is committed to encouraging international filmmakers to choose Cambodia as a filming destination.
“We are working to streamline internal procedures to facilitate international productions, and we are also focusing on strengthening human resources to better support foreign filmmakers,” he told The Post.
Beyond tourism promotion, international film productions also create job opportunities and generate income for local communities by employing various technical professionals.
The temples speak: Spirituality in San Xian Mi Hui’s plot
A key aspect of the drama is its integration of Cambodian spirituality into the storyline. Scenes set at Angkor Wat serve as a metaphor for the mysteries of reincarnation and the connections between past and present.
The protagonist’s journey also touches on Cambodia’s growing regional ties, as depicted in a scene where Zong Hang learns about the "Greater Mekong Subregion," highlighting the shared heritage of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam.
This scene underscores the close cultural and geographical ties between Cambodia and China, making Cambodia feel like a neighboring destination that’s easy to visit.
Zong Hang’s journey to Cambodia reinforces this idea. A short, two-and-a-half-hour flight from Kunming to Siem Reap highlights how accessible Cambodia is for Chinese travelers.
After arriving, Zong Hang is surprised to see the local sights: “If not for the text on signboards, he might have thought he’d traveled back to 1980s China.” This nostalgic connection fosters a sense of familiarity and comfort for viewers.
His mentor reassures him: “Cambodia has many Chinese visitors and investors now. Tourism has brought new opportunities.”
This reflects the increasing presence of Chinese culture and investment in Siem Reap, making it a welcoming destination for Chinese travelers.
Through vivid cinematography and a compelling narrative, San Xian Mi Hui serves as both entertainment and an invitation to explore Cambodia’s hidden gems.
