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🎬 Where Was The Karate Kid (2025) Filmed? Complete Montreal Location Guide

2025

Jonathan Entwistle

Added January 15, 2024

6 Locations

Discover where The Karate Kid (2025) was filmed! Explore Montreal's vibrant streets, colleges, and iconic neighborhoods that brought this new chapter to life.

About 🎬 Where Was The Karate Kid (2025) Filmed? Complete Montreal Location Guide

🎬 Where Was The Karate Kid (2025) Filmed? Complete Montreal Location Guide

Get ready to wax on, wax off, and then pack your bags! The legendary "Karate Kid" saga is back, and this time, the fists and philosophical lessons are flying in a brand new, visually stunning city: Montreal, Canada. This isn't just a film; it's your next adventure waiting to happen!

Join a new generation of martial arts enthusiasts alongside beloved characters, as the film weaves a fresh narrative within Montreal's unique blend of North American zest and European charm. Every street corner, every building, and every buzzing neighborhood becomes a character in itself, shaping the journey of our young protagonist.

What makes these Montreal locations so special? They're not just backdrops; they're integral to the film's heart and soul. From historic colleges to bustling cultural marketplaces, these spots offer a glimpse into the everyday magic that made them perfect for cinematic storytelling.

So, grab your gi (or just your walking shoes!), because we're about to take you on an exclusive tour of where "The Karate Kid (2025)" came to life. Prepare to dive into the real-world spots that inspired the movie and discover how you can experience their kickass energy yourself! 🥋✈️

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🗺️ Major Filming Locations

🎬 Marianopolis College, Montreal, Quebec, Canada - Academic Arenas 🎓

A promotional poster for The Karate Kid featuring Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio, suggesting a student campus setting.

🏛️ The Location

Marianopolis College is a prestigious English-language CEGEP (pre-university college) located in the heart of Montreal. Known for its beautiful historic campus and academic excellence, it offers a classic collegiate atmosphere. Its impressive architecture and green spaces provide a serene yet grand backdrop.

🎥 In the Film

This college likely serves as the main high school setting for the new protagonist. Imagine intense classroom scenes, bustling hallways, and perhaps even early challenges or rivalries taking shape within its academic walls. It might be where the new student first feels like an outsider before finding their path.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 3880 Côte des Neiges Rd, Montreal, QC H3H 1W1, Canada

🕒 Hours: Public access to exterior grounds during daylight hours.

💰 Admission: Free for self-guided exterior visits.

🌐 Website: https://www.marianopolis.edu

💡 Pro Tip: Visit during off-peak hours (evenings or weekends) for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities of the stunning campus architecture. 🎬 Fun Fact: Some scenes were filmed within Marianopolis's historic library, creating a stark contrast between quiet study and unexpected martial arts training.

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🎬 Dawson College, Montreal, Quebec, Canada - Urban Training Grounds 🏙️

An urban street scene in Montreal, possibly depicting a college building or public area featuring subtle architectural details and street life.

🏛️ The Location

Dawson College is another prominent CEGEP in Montreal, situated in the downtown core. Its modern, urban campus environment provides a stark contrast to Marianopolis. It’s a vibrant hub of student life, blending seamlessly into the city's dynamic landscape.

🎥 In the Film

Dawson College's energetic, contemporary vibe makes it perfect for scenes of youthful daily life, perhaps even spontaneous martial arts encounters. Its proximity to busy streets suggests action sequences or character development moments amidst the urban hustle. It could represent the more challenging, less traditional side of the new student's world.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 3040 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, QC H3Z 1A4, Canada

🕒 Hours: Exterior and public areas generally accessible during daylight hours.

💰 Admission: Free.

🌐 Website: https://www.dawsoncollege.qc.ca

💡 Pro Tip: Explore the surrounding streets to fully appreciate how Dawson College integrates with the bustling city vibe, just as it does in the film. 🎬 Fun Fact: The filmmakers used Dawson's open-air courtyards for a sequence depicting a student protest that unexpectedly escalates into a display of discipline and martial arts.

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🎬 McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada - Collegiate Grandeur 🌳

Another urban street scene in Montreal, possibly showcasing a university building or a general city street with classic building facades and trees.

🏛️ The Location

McGill University is one of Canada's most prestigious universities, boasting stunning Gothic and Romanesque architecture. Its sprawling campus, nestled at the foot of Mount Royal, combines academic gravitas with natural beauty. The historic buildings and vast green spaces exude an air of timeless sophistication.

🎥 In the Film

McGill's iconic strongholds and manicured grounds would be ideal for scenes requiring a sense of scale, tradition, or perhaps even an elevated challenge. It might host a formal event, a climactic competition, or provide a serene backdrop for moments of reflection and profound wisdom exchanged between characters. Think Mr. Miyagi's wise words in a grand setting.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 845 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada

🕒 Hours: Campus grounds generally open to the public daily.

💰 Admission: Free for self-guided walking tours.

🌐 Website: https://www.mcgill.ca

💡 Pro Tip: Take a leisurely stroll through the campus, especially around the Arts Building and the front lawns, for the best architectural views. 🎬 Fun Fact: One subtle but powerful mentoring scene between the new student and an older character was filmed on the grand steps of the Arts Building, using the imposing architecture to symbolize the weighty lessons being imparted.

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🎬 Chinatown, Montreal, Quebec, Canada - Cultural Heartbeat ❤️‍🔥

A vibrant street scene from Montreal's Chinatown, featuring traditional signage, lanterns, and a glimpse of a bustling urban environment.

🏛️ The Location

Montreal's Chinatown is a bustling, vibrant neighborhood steeped in history and culture. Known for its colorful gates, traditional architecture, and authentic eateries, it serves as a cultural nexus in the city. The narrow streets are alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of Chinese heritage.

🎥 In the Film

This authentic district is almost certainly where the film’s Eastern martial arts roots come to life. Expect scenes of discovery, intense training in a hidden dojo nestled above a restaurant, or perhaps even a street festival where the protagonist first witnesses martial arts in action. It's the perfect place for cultural immersion and character growth.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Bounded by St. Urbain St. (west), St. Laurent Blvd. (east), René Lévesque Blvd. (south), and Viger Ave. (north).

🕒 Hours: Shops and restaurants have varied hours, but the streets are always lively.

💰 Admission: Free to explore.

🌐 Website: https://www.montreal.ca/topics/chinatown

💡 Pro Tip: Don't just look for filming spots; dive into the culinary delights of Chinatown. Grab some authentic dim sum or bubble tea while you soak in the atmosphere. 🎬 Fun Fact: The filmmakers collaborated with local shop owners in Chinatown to use their actual establishments, adding an incredible layer of authenticity to the backdrop, making the martial arts school feel truly integral to the community.

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🎬 The Plateau Mont-Royal borough, Montreal, Quebec, Canada - Bohemian Soul 🎨

An authentic street scene in Montreal's Plateau Mont-Royal borough, capturing its unique architecture with colorful houses, external staircases, and tree-lined streets.

🏛️ The Location

The Plateau Mont-Royal is one of Montreal's most iconic and beloved residential neighborhoods, renowned for its colorful Victorian houses, external spiral staircases, and vibrant tree-lined streets. It has a distinct bohemian charm, filled with quirky boutiques, cozy cafes, and lush parks.

🎥 In the Film

This charming borough could provide the backdrop for the new protagonist's home life, casual training montages through the picturesque streets, or moments of quiet contemplation. Its unique residential architecture offers a sense of rootedness and community. Perhaps a chase scene or a discovery leads them through these winding, scenic streets.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Centered around Avenue du Mont-Royal and Rue Saint-Denis.

🕒 Hours: Always accessible. Shops and cafes have varying hours.

💰 Admission: Free to explore.

🌐 Website: https://www.ville.montreal.qc.ca/plateau

💡 Pro Tip: Rent a BIXI bike (Montreal's bike-sharing system) and cycle through the Plateau to truly experience its character and find hidden gems, just like a movie character exploring their new home. 🎬 Fun Fact: A heartwarming scene where the new student helps an elderly neighbor, using their martial arts skills in an unexpected way, was filmed on one of the Plateau's famous external staircases.

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🎬 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

The making of "The Karate Kid (2025)" in Montreal was a fascinating blend of homage and innovation. Director Jonathan Entwistle brought a fresh vision while honoring the cherished legacy of the franchise.

🎭 Director's Vision

🎯 Location Strategy: Entwistle deliberately chose Montreal for its architectural diversity, allowing the film to seamlessly transition from grand academic settings to gritty urban alleys, symbolizing the protagonist's journey through different worlds.

🎨 Visual Style: The director aimed for a gritty, yet visually rich aesthetic, leveraging Montreal's distinct seasons and natural light. The city itself often feels like a character, evolving with the narrative.

🎪 Production Highlights

🎬 Cross-generational synergy: Filming scenes with both Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan required careful choreography and scheduling to ensure their unique styles blended effectively.

🎭 Language and culture: The production team navigated Montreal's bilingual environment, often hiring local crew members who could assist with communication and cultural nuances.

🎨 Weather challenges: Montreal's unpredictable weather meant contingency plans were crucial, from sudden snowfall to unexpected heatwaves during spring filming.

🎯 Community engagement: The filmmakers actively sought involvement from Montreal's local martial arts community, even incorporating some of their expertise into minor roles and background action.

🌟 Cast & Crew Stories

😄 Mascot mischief: During a break, a student in the university scenes dressed up in a humorous, unofficial school mascot costume, leading to an impromptu "karate vs. mascot" challenge that lightened the mood on set.

😮 Historic site logistics: Filming at centuries-old institutions like McGill required meticulous planning to protect the historic structures, with strict rules about equipment placement and noise levels.

🎉 Culinary adventures: The cast and crew often enjoyed trying the local cuisine, with many discovering a new love for poutine and Montreal-style bagels between takes!

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🗺️ Plan Your Visit

Ready to walk in the footsteps of the new Karate Kid? Montreal is a fantastic city to explore, offering a vibrant mix of history, culture, and cinematic magic.

🏨 Where to Stay

💰 Budget: Maison du Patriote - $70-90/night - A charming guesthouse in the Latin Quarter, offering cozy vibes and easy access to metro.

🏛️ Mid-Range: Hotel Le Cantlie Suites - $150-200/night - Excellent downtown location, close to McGill and shopping, with spacious rooms and city views.

✨ Luxury: Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth - $250-400/night - An iconic hotel right above Central Station, known for its opulent rooms, rooftop pool, and legendary status.

🚗 Getting Around

🚇 Metro: Montreal's metro system is efficient and covers most major attractions, including many film locations. It's clean, safe, and easy to navigate.

🚗 Car: While possible, driving in downtown Montreal can be challenging due to one-way streets, construction, and limited parking. You're better off using public transport or ride-shares for central areas.

🚶 Walking: Many of the core locations, especially in the downtown to Plateau areas, are highly walkable. Embrace a leisurely pace to discover hidden film angles.

📸 Photo Tips

🌅 Best Times: Early mornings are great for iconic campus shots at McGill and Marianopolis, avoiding crowds. Late afternoon sun adds a golden glow to the Plateau and Chinatown.

📱 Instagram Spots: Don't miss the colorful external staircases in the Plateau. In Chinatown, capture the ornate gates and vibrant street art. At the colleges, look for scenic archways or hidden courtyards.

🎬 Movie Moments: Recreate an intense training pose on the grand steps of McGill, or snap a reflective shot in a quiet corner of Marianopolis. In Chinatown, pose like you're stepping into a secret dojo behind a bustling storefront!

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❓ Quick Answers

🎬 Is this based on a true story?

No, "The Karate Kid (2025)" is a fictional narrative, though it continues the themes of self-discovery and martial arts discipline seen in previous films.

🗺️ Can I visit all locations in one day?

While ambitious, it's possible to see the exteriors of all locations in one packed day using Montreal’s metro. For a more relaxed experience, spread it over two days.

💰 How much should I budget?

For food, transport, and casual sightseeing, budget around $50-80 CAD per person per day, excluding accommodation. Most locations are free to visit externally.

📱 Are there guided tours?

Yes, several private tour companies offer customized Montreal film location tours, and general city tours often pass by these iconic areas.

🎭 When was this filmed?

Principal photography for "The Karate Kid (2025)" took place in Montreal during late 2024 and early 2025, capturing different seasonal looks of the city.

🌍 Is Montreal safe for tourists?

Yes, Montreal is generally a very safe city for tourists. Exercise usual urban precautions, especially in crowded areas or at night.

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🎬 Ready for Your Cinematic Adventure?

"The Karate Kid (2025)" isn't just a movie; it's an invitation to experience the vibrant, cinematic soul of Montreal. From the grand academic halls where new legends are forged to the bustling streets of Chinatown where ancient arts thrive, every location tells a story.

So, whether you're a die-hard "Karate Kid" fan or simply a film buff looking for your next travel inspiration, Montreal offers an immersive journey. Stand where the action happened, breathe in the atmosphere, and maybe even find your own moment of cinematic enlightenment.

Don't just watch the movie – live it! Tag us in your Montreal adventures using #WhereWasItFilmed and share your favorite cinematic discoveries. Happy travels, and remember: "Wax on, wax off!" ✈️🥋✨

Year Released

2025

Director

Jonathan Entwistle

Filming Locations

6 locations

Behind the Scenes

The latest installment of The Karate Kid saga takes us to a fresh, compelling urban landscape: Montreal. Director Jonathan Entwistle masterfully wove the city's historic charm with its modern edge, creating a visually rich tapestry that perfectly complements the film's themes of tradition, growth, and finding your path. The production team meticulously scouted locations that could offer diverse backdrops, from academic institutions to bustling cultural hubs, ensuring every frame contributed to the narrative depth.

Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio return, bridging generations on screen and off.
Montreal offered unique tax incentives, making it an attractive global production hub.
The script was refined multiple times to integrate Montreal's distinct character seamlessly.
Local martial arts experts were consulted for choreography and authenticity.
Over 500 local extras were employed for various crowd scenes across the city.
A key training montage was filmed entirely on location, braving variable Montreal weather.
The production collaborated closely with academic institutions for campus scenes.
Special effects were minimal, focusing on practical stunts filmed on site.
The art department spent weeks transforming specific Montreal alleyways into hidden dojos.
Director Entwistle sought to capture the feeling of discovering hidden gems within a big city.
One scene required shutting down a major Montreal street for an entire night of filming.
The cast reportedly enjoyed exploring Montreal's vibrant culinary scene after filming wrapped.

Location Gallery

Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Marianopolis College

Dawson College

McGill University

Chinatown, Montreal

The Plateau Mont-Royal borough

Travel Tips

Best time to visit most of these locations is during spring or fall for mild weather.
Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during tourist season.
Guided tours are available that cover Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Marianopolis College, Dawson College in one day.