Khaizuran RashidIf you’re a fan of Genshin Impact and love exploring the world, you might be fascinated to learn that many of the game’s breathtaking landscapes and mystical architecture are inspired by real-life places.
From surreal islands to ancient shrines, the creative team behind the hit game drew from diverse cultural and natural wonders to build the world of Teyvat. Join us on this fun, globe-trotting guide as we explore five real-life locations that sparked the magic behind Genshin Impact!
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1. Socotra Island, Yemen
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Imagine stepping into a world that looks almost extraterrestrial: welcome to Socotra Island. Located in the Indian Ocean, this isolated island is famed for its otherworldly flora, including the enigmatic dragon’s blood trees and the Socotra Desert Rose, which resemble living sculptures against a backdrop of rugged cliffs.
Some of the bizarre plant life on Socotra mirrors the fantastical vegetation you encounter in Genshin Impact’s Sumeru region. As you wander through its surreal landscapes and mysterious caves, you’ll understand why the island’s alien charm has inspired game designers to incorporate its unique elements into their art.
2. Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, China
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Next, journey to the stunning Honghe Hani Rice Terraces in Yunnan Province, China. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stretches over a million acres, with elaborate terraces carved into the mountains over a thousand years. The vibrant, layered fields not only showcase human ingenuity in agriculture but also create a kaleidoscope of colors, especially during planting and harvest seasons.
The sweeping views and dynamic landscapes of Honghe have inspired the lush, verdant settings in Genshin Impact, offering players a glimpse into a world where nature and culture intertwine in a masterpiece of design.
3. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kyoto, Japan
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For a taste of Japan’s spiritual and historical heritage, the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto is a must-visit. Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that create seemingly endless pathways up the sacred Mount Inari, this shrine exudes a mystical atmosphere that is both serene and enchanting.
The unique blend of tradition and natural beauty at Fushimi Inari Taisha resonates with the cultural depth found in Genshin Impact’s regions, where ancient traditions and natural wonders meet to create a world rich in lore and legend.
4. Mont Saint-Michel, France
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Set atop a rocky tidal island off the coast of Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most magical and awe-inspiring destinations. This 1,300-year-old abbey and its surrounding medieval village seem to float between land and sea, with the tides dramatically transforming its accessibility.
The picturesque, fortified town of Mont Saint-Michel shares a striking resemblance to the walled city of Mondstadt in Genshin Impact. Its timeless beauty and historical mystique have undoubtedly provided creative inspiration for the game’s ethereal landscapes.
5. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
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Finally, no list would be complete without a nod to the towering peaks of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China’s Hunan Province. Renowned for its 3,000 vertical pillars covered in lush greenery, this natural wonder served as the blueprint for some of Genshin Impact’s most iconic features, such as the mysterious Huagang Stone Forest.
The awe-inspiring formations of Zhangjiajie evoke a sense of ancient mystery and grandeur, perfectly capturing the spirit of adventure and discovery that defines the game’s world.
Welcome to the World of Teyvat!
From the surreal landscapes of Socotra Island and the vibrant terraces of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces to the spiritual pathways of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the mystical charm of Mont Saint-Michel, and the towering peaks of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, these five real-life locations offer a window into the inspirations behind Genshin Impact’s enchanting world.
Whether you’re a dedicated Traveller in the game or simply love exploring stunning, offbeat destinations, these spots are sure to spark your wanderlust. So pack your bags, fire up your adventure spirit, and set out to discover the real places that inspired the magic of Teyvat! Happy travels!
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