Have you ever watched a TV show and thought, “Wow, I need to go there!”? Well, you’re not alone. Some of the most visually stunning shows, like The White Lotus, Yellowstone, and Shōgun, were filmed in breathtaking locations you can actually visit. Whether you’re dreaming of tropical beaches, rugged mountains, or historical landscapes, we’ve got you covered.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down exactly where these shows were filmed and how you can visit them yourself. Get ready to turn your screen dreams into real-life adventures!
The White Lotus Filming Locations: Paradise Found
HBO’s The White Lotus took the world by storm with its satirical drama and jaw-dropping scenery. Each season featured a different exotic location, and you can visit them all!
Season 1: Four Seasons Resort Maui, Hawaii
- Where? Wailea, Maui, Hawaii
- Why Visit? This luxury resort is the epitome of paradise, with turquoise waters, lush gardens, and world-class amenities.
- How to Visit? You can book a stay at the resort (if your budget allows) or visit nearby beaches like Wailea Beach for free.
Season 2: San Domenico Palace, Sicily, Italy
- Where? Taormina, Sicily
- Why Visit? Perched on a cliffside overlooking the Ionian Sea, this historic hotel combines Old World charm with stunning ocean views.
- How to Visit? Stay at the San Domenico Palace or explore Taormina’s picturesque streets and nearby beaches.
Season 3: Thailand (Upcoming)
- Where? Koh Samui, Phuket, and Bangkok (rumored locations)
- Why Visit? Expect pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and rich Thai culture.
- How to Visit? Flights to Thailand are affordable, and there are plenty of budget-friendly stays near the rumored filming spots.
Yellowstone Filming Locations: The Wild West Awaits
If you’re obsessed with Yellowstone and its cowboy lifestyle, you’ll love visiting the real-life locations where the show was filmed.
Chief Joseph Ranch, Montana (Dutton Ranch)
- Where? Darby, Montana
- Why Visit? This is the real-life ranch used as the Dutton family’s home in the show.
- How to Visit? The ranch operates as a guest lodge, and you can rent a cabin to experience authentic ranch life.
Bitterroot Valley, Montana
- Where? Western Montana
- Why Visit? The sweeping landscapes, towering mountains, and winding rivers make this a paradise for outdoor lovers.
- How to Visit? Road trip through the valley or book a guided horseback tour.
Utah & Texas Locations
- Where? Park City, Utah & Fort Worth, Texas
- Why Visit? These locations were used for flashback scenes and rodeo settings.
- How to Visit? Explore Park City’s ski resorts or experience Texas’s cowboy culture firsthand.
Shōgun Filming Locations: Step Back in Time
FX’s Shōgun is set in feudal Japan, and the stunning cinematography transports viewers to a world of samurai and shoguns. But where was it filmed?
Kyoto, Japan
- Where? Historic temples and castles across Kyoto
- Why Visit? Kyoto is home to centuries-old shrines, traditional tea houses, and picturesque bamboo forests.
- How to Visit? Walk through the Fushimi Inari Shrine’s iconic torii gates or visit Nijo Castle, which resembles the show’s samurai settings.
Mount Fuji & Hakone
- Where? Central Japan
- Why Visit? Mount Fuji’s breathtaking backdrop is often used in historical dramas.
- How to Visit? Take a bullet train from Tokyo to Hakone for the best views of Mount Fuji.
Nagasaki & Kanazawa
- Where? Coastal and mountain regions of Japan
- Why Visit? These areas preserve samurai districts, castles, and traditional gardens.
- How to Visit? Visit Nagasaki’s Glover Garden or Kanazawa’s Kenroku-en Garden for a true historical experience.
How to Plan Your Filming Location Trip Like a Pro
Book Flights in Advance
- Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to find the best deals.
- Consider traveling during the off-season for cheaper rates.
Choose the Right Accommodation
- Want luxury? Stay at the exact resorts used in The White Lotus.
- On a budget? Book nearby hotels or Airbnb stays.
Rent a Car for Easy Access
- Many of these locations are remote, so having your own car is the best way to explore freely.
Capture the Moment!
- Bring a high-quality camera to snap those breathtaking views.
- Follow in the footsteps of your favorite characters and recreate iconic scenes.
Final Thoughts: Live Your Cinematic Dream
TV shows have the power to transport us to incredible places, but why just watch when you can experience them yourself? Whether you want to sip cocktails in Maui like The White Lotus crew, ride horses through Montana like in Yellowstone, or walk through ancient temples like in Shōgun, these destinations are waiting for you.
Pack your bags, book your trip, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
