The Chinese film Dear You has become a box office sensation, attracting international attention and visitors to the Chaoshan area. This influx of tourists is reshaping the local landscape, as filming locations are now being promoted as heritage sites.
As these sites gain popularity, local villages are experiencing both opportunities and challenges. While tourism can boost the economy, it also raises concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage and the privacy of residents.
Community leaders are now faced with the task of balancing the benefits of increased tourism with the need to protect their cultural identity and environment. The situation in Chaoshan serves as a case study for other regions experiencing similar transformations due to popular media.