Shan Jixiang (center), former director of the Palace Museum, actress Han Xue and actor Huang Jue learn how to make a jade item in the reality show The Shape of Culture. CHINA DAILY

Shan predicts that the next production of The Shape of Culture might feature large-scale sites, with a wide geographic distribution for a whole season like the Silk Road, the Great Wall and the Grand Canal.

The Shape of Culture is also the first Chinese reality show that is officially supported by UNESCO. According to Shan, Marielza Oliveira, director of the UNESCO office in Beijing, will be seen in the program in the episode on West Lake.

"The show explores a new way for culture-themed shows that heavily rely on indoor studios," says Leng Song, a media researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, adding it is a common ground for reality shows, documentaries and the promotion of fine, traditional culture.

"Such crossover shows bring knowledge about World Heritage down to earth."

Contact the writer at wangkaihao@chinadaily.com.cn