Michelle Topham 
Chinese Title: 足迹 (Zú Jì)
English Title: Footprints of Change
Also Known As: Zu Ji
Genre: Historical, Family, Drama, Period
Episodes: 30
Director: Zhang Silin
Screenwriters: TBA
Original Work: Original screenplay
Production Companies: iQIYI, Linmon Pictures
Plot Synopsis
Footprints of Change is a historical family drama that chronicles the emotional journeys of three generations of women whose lives are deeply connected to a single Shanghai residence, reflecting China’s social transformation across decades.
The story begins in the 1930s, when Lin Siyun, a determined and educated woman, returns to Shanghai with aspirations of contributing to society through medicine. However, her ambitions are challenged by war, political instability, and personal sacrifices. As her life unfolds, the home becomes a silent witness to changing times and shifting destinies.
In the following generation, Yi Yi grows up facing her own challenges in post-war China, striving to pursue independence and personal dreams while navigating family responsibilities and societal expectations. Her journey highlights the emotional struggles and resilience required to adapt to rapid modernization.
By the 1990s, Ye Xining represents a new era, embracing opportunity and change in a rapidly evolving society. As each generation leaves its mark, the residence becomes a symbol of legacy, perseverance, and the enduring strength of women across time.
Through interconnected lives, Footprints of Change explores themes of family, sacrifice, identity, and the emotional impact of historical transformation.
Main Cast & Characters
LEAD CAST
- Tong Yao as Yi Yi
- Cheng Lei as Cheng Ao
- Liu Yi Jun as Wen Pu
- Jelly Lin as Lin Si Yun
- Wang He Run as Ye Xi Ning
SUPPORTING CAST
- Zhang Rui Han as Yang Xue An
- Zhang Ye Zi as Zhou Yun Qing
- Liu Qiu Shi as Yan Jun
- Jia Jin Jin as Jiang Jiu Ling
- Bai Yi Hong as Lin Jing Han
- Tang Zeng as Gu Wei Min
- Zheng Zhong Yu as Shen Yi Qun
- Wu Man Si as Shen Ying Ying
- Yang Yu Ting as Shan Hua Jing
- Xiang Xia as Fu Zi He
- Shawn Zhang as A Yin
- Lei Hao Xiang as Zhou Zhao Yuan
Production Details
Original Work: Footprints of Change is an original historical drama that focuses on generational storytelling and female-centered narratives across major periods of modern Chinese history.
Production Companies: Produced by iQIYI and Linmon Pictures, both known for delivering high-quality character-driven dramas with strong production values.
Filming Locations: Filmed primarily in Shanghai and Hengdian, with detailed period sets designed to accurately reflect different historical eras.
Episodes & Airing
Total Episodes: 30
Episode Length: 45 minutes
First Aired / Premiere: September 4th, 2025
Final Episode: September 14th, 2025
Original Platforms: iQIYI
Where to Watch
China: iQIYI — Official domestic streaming platform where the series premiered.
International Platforms: iQIYI International — Available in select regions with multilingual subtitles.
Why It’s Worth Watching
Multi-Generational Storytelling: The drama presents a sweeping narrative across multiple decades, offering a powerful look at social and personal transformation.
Strong Female-Centered Narrative: Each generation highlights women overcoming adversity and shaping their own destinies.
Historical Authenticity: Detailed production design and realistic settings bring China’s evolving historical periods to life.
Emotional Depth and Character Development: The series emphasizes personal growth, family bonds, and emotional resilience across generations.
Articles about Footprints of Change
Cheng Lei and Tong Yao’s ‘Footprints of Change’ gets character posters and premiere date this week
Ryan Cheng and Tong Yao’s Footprints of Change debuts with 7.1 on Douban – a very solid start
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