Travel has always been about discovering new places, but for many, it’s also a way to step into the worlds they’ve seen on screen. This trend, known as “set-jetting,” is becoming increasingly popular as fans visit real-life filming locations to bring their favorite stories to life.
While set-jetting isn’t new, shows like The White Lotus have taken it to another level. Each season has turned its filming locations into must-visit destinations—Maui in Season 1, Sicily in Season 2, and now Koh Samui, Thailand, in Season 3. These places have seen a surge in visitors, proving how much movies and TV shows can help shape travel trends.
And it’s not just The White Lotus driving the trend. From the beaches of Phuket to the temples of Cambodia and the futuristic skyline of Tokyo, Asia is becoming a top set-jetting destination, offering travelers the chance to step into the scenes from their favorite films and shows.
Related article: The White Lotus Effect: How the Hit Show is Boosting Tourism in Thailand
1. Phuket: Where Hollywood Meets Paradise
Photo: IMDb
Phuket has long been a star on the big screen, making it one of Thailand’s most iconic set-jetting destinations. With its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and luxury resorts, Phuket has attracted high-profile productions over the years. The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) helped put Phang Nga Bay on the map, earning it the nickname “James Bond Island.” Meanwhile, The Beach (2000), starring Leonardo DiCaprio, turned Maya Bay and the Phi Phi Islands into global sensations. Decades later, these breathtaking locations continue to draw travelers eager to step into their favorite film scenes.
2. Hong Kong: Asia’s Action-Packed Utopia
Hong Kong’s vibrant energy has made it a go-to backdrop for Hollywood blockbusters and Asian cinema, with popular films like Rush Hour 2 (2001) and The Dark Knight (2008) utilizing its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and rich cultural heritage to bring action-packed scenes to life. Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014) also turned the streets of Hong Kong into a battleground, with key scenes shot in the West Kowloon Cultural District and the iconic Montane Mansion, known for its tightly stacked apartments. Even historical sites have had their big-screen moments—Tsing Shan Monastery, where Bruce Lee trained in Enter the Dragon (1973), remains a peaceful retreat with stunning courtyards and pagodas.
Related article: Spotlight on Hong Kong – What to See and Do When Visiting
3. Siem Reap: Step Into the World of Tomb Raider
Photo: Original Travel
Siem Reap’s stunning Angkor Wat isn’t just a UNESCO World Heritage Site—it’s also a legendary film location. The ancient temple complex gained global fame after being featured in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001), where Angelina Jolie’s character navigated its mystical corridors and towering stone ruins. One of the most recognizable filming spots is Ta Prohm, where massive tree roots weave through centuries-old structures, creating an almost otherworldly setting. For the best experience, visit at sunrise when the temples glow in golden light. A local guide can also take you beyond the popular spots to uncover even more hidden filming locations.
4. Singapore: Explore the Glamorous World of Crazy Rich Asians
The dazzling skyline, luxury hotels, and rich culture of Singapore were showcased in Crazy Rich Asians (2018), making the city a must-visit destination for movie lovers. Relive the film’s iconic moments at CHIJMES, where the lavish wedding took place, or indulge in local flavors at Newton Food Centre, where characters savor Singapore’s famous hawker delights. The film also highlighted Singapore’s futuristic side with a feature of Gardens by the Bay, while Marina Bay Sands, one of the best luxury Hotels and Resorts in the country, stole the show with its world-famous infinity pool and panoramic city views. For a touch of old-world charm, make sure to visit the Raffles Hotel, where Nick and Rachel stayed.
5. Tokyo: Lost in Translation & Beyond
Photo: Japan National Tourism Organization
The vibrant energy and cinematic charm of Tokyo make it a must-visit for film lovers, especially fans of art films. Lost in Translation (2003) beautifully captured the city’s quieter moments, with much of the film shot at the iconic Park Hyatt Tokyo. Director Sofia Coppola, who once stayed there, chose it for its peaceful atmosphere amid Shinjuku’s bustling streets. Today, visitors flock to the hotel, especially New York Bar, where Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson’s characters first meet. For fans of Alice in Borderland, Tokyo’s neon-lit streets and futuristic landscapes set the stage for its dystopian world. Many scenes were filmed across the Greater Tokyo area, such as the Shibuya Crossing (as featured in films like The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift) with familiar spots waiting to be explored.
Related article: 10 Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Tokyo
Bringing Cinematic Masterpieces to Life Through Travel
Set-jetting allows film fans to step into the world of their favorite stories and experience the magic firsthand. It’s more than just visiting a filming location—it’s about connecting with the characters and immersing in the energy of the destination. Through travel, fans create personal memories by seeing the story through the characters’ eyes and reliving iconic scenes in the very places they were brought to life.
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Featured Image by ASEAN.org
