Filming Locations of The First Frost: Where Was It Shot?

The 2025 romantic drama The First Frost, featuring the talents of Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruonan, is an adaptation of Zhu Yi’s renowned novel. The series has quickly become a sensation among drama enthusiasts, achieving impressive viewership numbers with over 48 million live viewers per episode on Youku.

Primarily filmed in Chongqing, a city renowned for its stunning scenery in southwestern China, The First Frost has not only garnered widespread acclaim but also sparked a surge of interest in local attractions. Key filming locations include Central Park, C97 Cultural and Creative Park, and several delightful eateries.

According to the media outlet Tonboriday, the filming process spanned four months, commencing in February 2024 and wrapping up in June 2024, ahead of the show’s premiere on February 18, 2025. The characters’ stories were intricately intertwined with Chongqing’s vibrant urban landscape, enriching the viewing experience for both the cast and the audience.

Local residents expressed their excitement at seeing familiar surroundings portrayed on screen. Many hope the drama’s popularity will boost tourism to their city, though some express concerns regarding the impact on their daily lives.

The Captivating Filming Locations of The First Frost

From iconic landmarks to hidden treasures, The First Frost beautifully captures the essence of Chongqing. Below is a rundown of some filming locations that enhanced the drama’s charm:

1) Central Park

The breakup scene (Image via Netflix)
The emotional breakup scene (Image via Netflix)

The pivotal breakup scene between Wen Yifan and Sang Yan was shot at Central Park. The dramatic setting, with its pouring rain, serves to amplify the emotional depth of their relationship, leaving a profound impact on viewers.

2) C97 Cultural and Creative Park

In episode one, the restaurant bar scene featuring Wen Yifan and Sang Yan was filmed at C97 Cultural and Creative Park. This scene is pivotal as it heralds the beginning of their intricate relationship, bolstered by the park’s creative ambiance.

3) Sipai Fang Primary School

San Yan and Wen Yifan in front of the school (Image via Netflix)
San Yan and Wen Yifan in front of the school (Image via Netflix)

Sipai Fang Primary School stands as a symbolic backdrop, showcasing the growing connection between Wen Yifan and Sang Yan as they stroll home after school, emphasizing their shared routines and memories.

4) Nanbin Park

The New Year’s Eve fireworks spectacle was filmed at Nanbin Park, where Wen Yifan covers the celebration and unexpectedly reconnects with Sang Yan amidst the stunning pyrotechnics, capturing an array of emotions against a vibrant backdrop.

5) Jingzhong Restaurant

In episode two, a heartwarming dinner scene unfolds at Jingzhong Restaurant, showcasing an intimate gathering of six characters, including Wen Yifan and four friends, highlighting the significance of shared moments and dialogue.

6) Beiyu Memory Noodles

Sang Yan and Wen Yifan at the noodle shop (Image via Netflix)
Sang Yan and Wen Yifan at the noodle shop (Image via Netflix)

Beiyu Memory Noodles features prominently in emotionally charged scenes, portraying Wen Yifan and Sang Yan bonding over traditional Chongqing noodles during their formative high school years. The shop also serves as a site for Sang Yan’s thoughtful excursion to see Wen Yifan.

7) Shuangbei Street

Sang Yan and Wen Yifan on the street (Image via Netflix)
Sang Yan and Wen Yifan on the street (Image via Netflix)

A tender moment occurs on Shuangbei Street, where Wen Yifan follows Sang Yan after school, illustrating their early, unspoken feelings and the subtle tensions building between them.

8) Xuanhua Middle School

Sang Yan and Wen Yifan at the school (Image via Netflix)
Sang Yan and Wen Yifan at the school (Image via Netflix)

The vibrant scenes set in Xuanhua Middle School encapsulate youthful exuberance, highlighting friendships and the pangs of young love within a lively school context.

9) Jiangjin Government Building Rooftop

The rooftop dance scene at Jiangjin Government Building features Sang Yan observing Wen Yifan as he dances, framed perfectly by the city skyline, adding a visual flourish to their romantic connection.

10) Yuchai Hot Pot

In episode nine, a lively gathering at Yuchai Hot Pot showcases the four friends coming together over a spicy hot pot, illustrating the significance of camaraderie and deep conversations in their lives.

11) Xiaozuo Courtyard Coffee Shop

The cafe scene from episode eleven was filmed at Xiaozuo Courtyard Coffee Shop, where Wen Yifan conducts an interview for a news story, tapping into the drama’s intertwining of personal and professional lives.

12) Bing Kee Cha Dong

This eatery marks the start of Sang Yan’s journey as she takes a job after returning from Hong Kong. Interestingly, Sang Yan visits this location, but they miss each other, adding a touch of fate to the narrative.

13) Yangtze River Cableway

The Yangtze River Cableway features prominently, appearing in the end credits of each episode, representing the intertwining journeys of the main characters framed in a breathtaking setting.

The First Frost: A Catalyst for Chongqing Tourism

The picturesque visuals and romantic narrative of The First Frost have inspired many fans to explore the charms of Chongqing. The carefully selected filming locations play a crucial role in the drama’s enduring appeal.

In response to the show’s success, Chongqing’s tourism board has launched a special initiative titled Being Coaxed by Chongqing’s Unique Romance, inviting fans to experience the drama’s shooting locales firsthand, transforming them into sought-after tourist destinations.

While the influx of tourists is welcomed by many locals, there are concerns about potential disruptions to daily life. Nevertheless, The First Frost has undoubtedly established Chongqing as an ideal romantic getaway, perfect for tales of love and passion.

Focusing on the character Sang Yan—known to fans from Hidden Love—the series delves into his enduring bond with Wen Yifan, depicting years fraught with missed opportunities and emotional journeys towards rekindling their affection.

With its captivating storyline, The First Frost streams on platforms including Youku and Netflix, continuing to engage audiences and fostering interest in both the narrative and stunning settings.

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