15 Best Chinese Dramas You Should Watch Now

Author:
Diana
Updated:
Mar 9, 2024

Ni Ni as Feng Zhi Wei in "The Rise of Phoenixes," the #6 C-drama on our list

Greatest C-Dramas to Dive Into Right Now

Even if you are already addicted to Chinese dramas, you may discover something new on this list. Here you will find the 15 best, most popular Chinese TV dramas of all time. Where possible, I've included series trailers or even first episodes—just don’t forget to turn on the English subtitles! And make sure you vote in the poll for your favorite C-drama, too.

What Are Wuxia and Xianxia?

You'll note below that I list the genre for each series (e.g., romance, adventure, fantasy, etc.). You'll also find a couple of mentions of wuxia and xianxia, which are terms you may not be familiar with.

Wuxia: Genre of Chinese fiction regarding martial artists and their adventures.
Xianxia: Genre of Chinese fantasy that is based on Chinese mythology, Taoism, Buddhism, martial arts, and other traditional Chinese cultural elements.

15. Secret of the Three Kingdoms (2018)

Starring: Ma Tianyu as Yang Ping/Liu Xie; Elvis Han as Sima Yi; Wan Qian as Empress Fu Shou; Dong Jie as Tang Ying
Episodes: 54
Genre: Historical fiction

Based on the 14th-century historical novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms, this Chinese drama takes place in the late Han dynasty, when they had already ruled for 400 years. While the novel describes events that span more than a century, the TV drama covers only 20 years—from 200 CE until the very end of the Han Dynasty in 220 CE.

The Secret of the Three Kingdoms (三国机密之潜龙在渊) accurately depicts major historical events, though with some liberties. Even if you know the history, however, the drama will surprise you at every turn. If you are looking for a great story, give this series a try. However, if you prefer very emotional dramas, this one may not be the best choice for you.

14. The King's Woman (2017)

Starring: Dilraba Dilmurat as Gongsun Li/Li'er; Vin Zhang as Ying Zheng; Li Tai as Han Shen
Episodes: 48
Genres: Historical fiction, romance, wuxia

Betrayal, love, revenge, intrigue, struggle . . . does this sound interesting to you? The King's Woman (秦时丽人明月心) contains all of these elements! The story revolves around Gongsun Li, the disciple and granddaughter of a military commander.

When chaos descends upon her home, she has no choice but to leave. She departs with her fellow disciple whom she has known since childhood. They become dependent on each other and eventually fall in love. One day he is injured, and Gongsun Li enters the palace and marries Ying Zheng in order to procure medicine.

Here the story takes an even more interesting turn, because Gongsun Li must fight to live in a harem and gain respect among the others. In essence, this is a love-triangle romance drama, but the background story is really about the first emperor of China.

If you are looking for an engrossing historical drama with beautiful cinematography, well-developed and multidimensional characters, The King's Woman should be on your must-watch list. Even if you're not a big fan of palace politics, this drama is easy to follow since it focuses more on romance.

13. The Endless Love (2017)

Starring: An Yue Xi as Lu You Yan; Chen Ruo Xuan as Gu Ye Bai
Episodes: 32
Genres: Romance, Teen

The story of The Endless Love (路从今夜白之遇见青春) centers on a young man who is a talented painter. He suffers, however, from trauma-induced color blindness. At this difficult time in his life, he meets a cute girl who helps him heal his emotional wounds and fight for his dreams.

This drama isn't particularly serious, but if you are in the mood for a good, light watch with likeable characters, The Endless Love is just the ticket!

12. Lost in 1949 (2018)

Starring: Chen Kun as Qiao Zhicai/Qiao Lijie; Wan Qian as Huang Liwen
Episodes: 46
Genres: Action, suspense, thriller, romance

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8-reasons-why-from-should-be-your-next-binge-watch

If you like spy dramas, here's an interesting one for you. Lost in 1949 (脱身) takes place in Communist China. It tells the story of two people who meet by chance but fall in love. They both are ready to devote their lives to serve the country.

The plot revolves around a man who is suddenly freed from prison, and a woman, a Communist agent, who is ordered to get valuable information for the Party. Returning home to visit her husband's grave, she bumps into the newly freed prisoner and they mistakenly take each other's briefcases.

While searching for her briefcase, which contains an important transmitter, the agent gets to know an intelligent, kind person.

11. Legend of Fuyao (2018)

Starring: Yang Mi as Fuyao/Feng Wuming; Ethan Juan as Zhangsun Wuji/Yuan Zhaoxu
Episodes: 66
Genres: Fantasy, adventure, romance

If you're looking for a memorable and exciting Chinese drama to watch again and again, Legend of Fuyao (扶摇) is made for you! It contains many political plotlines, but it features engrossing relationships and emotional stories, too. The main character, Fu Yao, evolves from a young and stubborn slave girl to a powerful woman who finds her true strength and courage to make things right in the world.

Based on the 2011 novel Empress Fuyao, by Tianxia Guiyuan, Legend of Fuyao takes place in the universe of five kingdoms that are led by the Imperial City of Wuji. After some tragic events, Fu Yao, a slave girl in the Taiyuan Kingdom, embarks on a journey across all of the kingdoms to find a way to lift the curse that blights her life.

On this quest, she gets to know the crown prince of Wuji, and she develops feelings for him. Expect a lot of action, court intrigue, adventures, and of course, an epic love story!

10. Here to Heart (2018)

Starring: Hans Zhang as Zhan Nanxian; Janine Chang as Wen Nuan; Jing Chao as Zhu Linlu; Jenny Zhang as Bo Yixin
Episodes: 48
Genres: Romance, melodrama

Here to Heart (温暖的弦) is based on An Ning's novel The Warm Chord. If you want to dive into a world full of love, hate, and revenge, give this drama a shot! This is a story about a young love that is profound and eternal. A young couple has been separated due to a tragic accident. Even after a decade passes, their wounds haven't healed. They have each found new companions, but deep in their hearts they still feel lonely.

Will one of them make the first move to rekindle their true love? Their love is like a war in which no side wants to surrender. The man announces he is marrying another woman. Is it because he wants revenge? Ten years ago his beloved suddenly disappeared saying a word, causing him deep pain.

9. Bloody Romance (2018)

Starring: Li Yitong as Wan Mei/Su Qixue; Qu Chuxiao as Chang An/Xie Huan
Episodes: 36
Genres: Fantasy, adventure, romance

Based on the novel of the same name, Bloody Romance (媚者无疆) follows a beautiful woman thrown into a chaotically cruel world—and who has no choice but learn how to survive.

The poor daughter of an herbalist, the woman was fooled and sold into a brothel. What's more, she learns that the person responsible for this arrangement is someone who was close to her. After escaping death, she becomes a cold-blooded assassin. In her new life, she encounters dangerous psychopaths and sociopaths, and she must summon great courage and intelligence to prevail.

If you like the fantasy/adventure/romance genre (e.g., Legend of Fuyao), then this series is a perfect choice for you. It's a beautiful tale of a female lead who struggles to overcome the obstacles in her path—and becomes stronger as a result.

8. A Love So Beautiful (2017)

Starring: Hu Yitian as Jiang Chen; Shen Yue as Chen Xiaoxi
Episodes: 23
Genres: Romance, comedy, coming of age

The storyline of A Love So Beautiful (致我们单纯的小美好) centers on school classmates. A cheerful (but not so book-smart) girl likes the "perfect" guy, who is known for his good looks and high grades. The show focuses on their life in high school: adventures with their classmates, etc.

If sweet, simple stories are your cup of tea, don't miss this series! A Love So Beautiful is an innocent and light drama that takes place mainly during the high school life, though it moves on to adult life later. Cute and heartwarming!

7. Rush to the Dead Summer (2017)

Starring: Chen Xuedong as Fu Xiaosi; Zheng Shuang as Li Xia; Bai Jingting as Lu Zhiang
Episodes: 46
Genres: Romance, teen, coming of age

Rush to the Dead Summer (夏至未至) is another Chinese drama that is based on a novel; it is adapted from Guo Jingming's 2006 novel of the same name. Spanning a period of 10 years, this series is about a set of young and ambitious school friends whose paths diverge after graduation.

Everyone is pursuing their dreams, but each faces challenges: struggles, departures, imprisonments, betrayals or deaths of loved ones. Each friend is changing, and they begin to doubt the friendship of the others.

This drama shows us what we know to be true: that life is not a bed of roses. It's not always smooth, and it's not always as easy as we would hope. Despite this, true friendships play an important role in our lives, as this series demonstrates.

6. The Rise of Phoenixes (2018)

Starring: Chen Kun as Ning Yi; Ni Ni as Feng Zhiwei/Wei Zhi
Episodes: 70
Genres: Historical fiction, political, romance

Do you love seeing magnificent thrones, peacock feathers, and stunningly sumptuous costumes on screen? Well, The Rise of Phoenixes (天盛长歌) is a real feast for the eyes. Not only does it have beautiful cinematography, but its characters will immediately draw you in.

This historical romance is loosely based on Tianxia Guiyuan's 2017 novel, Huang Quan (Phoenix Rise). Not all of its historical facts are perfectly accurate, but the story is still inspired by history. Here you will find everything a history buff enjoys: rebellion, corruption, assassinations, and much more.

The main story is about the illegitimate daughter of the Qiu family, who is falsely accused of a crime. Consequently, she is banished from her household. In order to survive, she pretends to be a man in order to attend a prestigious academy. She succeeds at the academy, and soon she enters the court as a royal scholar and politician. There, she is loyal and honest until she is manipulated into thinking that the current dynasty is built upon the corpses of her loved ones, those of a fallen kingdom. Will she seek revenge?

5. Nirvana in Fire (2015)

Starring: Hu Ge as Mei Changsu/Su Zhe/Lin Shu; Liu Tao as Princess Mu Nihuang; Wang Kai as Xiao Jingyan/Prince Jing
Episodes: 54
Genres: Wuxia, historical, politics

Based on Hai Yan's novel of the same name, Nirvana in Fire (琅琊榜) tells the story of a betrayal that caused the deaths of 70,000 loyal army soldiers—and how one survivor returns to ensure that the traitors pay the price. The action takes place in one of the most chaotic periods in China's history, the era when the country was divided into Northern and Southern dynasties.

Don't be fooled into thinking this is just another typical revenge drama; it's much more than that. These characters seek revenge for something greater than themselves—they are trying to find out the truth.

If you are looking for an intense drama with a complicated, mind-blowing screenplay, beautiful cinematography, top-notch action, incredible characters, and much intrigue, look no further. This drama is often compared to Game of Thrones. You won't want to miss this magnificent series.

4. Ashes of Love (2018)

Starring: Yang Zi as Jin Mi; Deng Lun as Xu Feng; Luo Yunxi as Run Yu; Wang Yi Fei as Sui He
Episodes: 63
Genres: Xianxia, fantasy, romance

The next C-drama on the list is quite a lengthy ride—but never fear, you won't be bored for a single second. Based on the novel Heavy Sweetness, Ash-like Frost, by Dian Xian, Ashes of Love (香蜜沉沉烬如霜) is set in ancient times and tells the love story of two prisoners: Flower Goddess's daughter and Heavenly Emperor’s son.

This series shows us how true love can be so strong that it can go against faith and overcome every obstacle, though sometimes a heavy price must be paid. Packed with epic battles, power struggles, friendship, family bonds, and loyalty, this show has everything you could wish for.

3. Love Me If You Dare (2015–16)

Starring: Wallace Huo as Simon/Bo Jinyan; Ma Sichun as Jenny/Jian Yao; Zhang Luyi as Jabber/Xie Han
Episodes: 24
Genres: Crime, suspense, romance

Adapted from Close Your Eyes, Stay Close to Me, by Ding Mo, Love Me If You Dare (他来了，请闭眼) will take you inside the heads of violent criminals. The male lead is a brilliant criminal psychologist. After working in America on a serial killer case, he returns to China to work in the police department as an analyst and advisor on the most problematic cases. With the help of his assistant, they delve into the criminal mind.

If you are interested in mystery/crime, Sherlock Holmes–type dramas, definitely watch this series. It also has a touch of romance and humor, so you won't be bored. However, if your main interest is romance, you likely won't be satisfied. There is some romance, but it's not what the series focuses on.

2. Love O2O (2016)

Starring: Zheng Shuang as Bei Weiwei; Yang Yang as Xiao Nai
Episodes: 30
Genres: Romance, comedy

If you are in the mood for a refreshing and light love story, Love O2O (微微一笑很倾城) is a breath of fresh air. This sweet story focuses on university life and online games. With a smile-inducing and unique plot, you will want to binge-watch the whole series!

The story centers on the most popular boy on campus, who happens to be a gaming expert, and a beautiful computer science major. He desperately falls in love with this gorgeous girl the first time he meets her at an internet cafe (where she was playing with another gamer). Soon she will learn that he is attracted to her not for her beauty, but for her gaming skills!

1. Eternal Love (2017)

Starring: Yang Mi as Bai Qian/Si Yin/Su Su; Mark Chao as Mo Yuan/Jin Lian/Ye Hua/Zhao Ge
Episodes: 58
Genres: Romance, fantasy, xianxia

With over 50 billion views, Eternal Love (三生三世十里桃花), also known as Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms, is considered the most-watched television drama in China. The series is based on the xianxia novel written by Tang Qi. If you love stories about gods, goddesses, immortals, and demons, dive into this drama!

Chances are, you'll be blown away—even if you think the fantasy/historical genre is not your cup of tea. The romance in this story is something everyone can enjoy. The story is about a romance that lives for thousands of years, across several lifetimes. Once upon a time, a Fox spirit and the Crown Prince of the Heavens fall in love.

However, bad luck befalls them, so they face many challenges before they find each other again in another lifetime, in another world. Are they destined to find each other again in three different lives, in three different worlds?

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11 Most Romantic Chinese Dramas
Do you like romantic Chinese dramas? This list of the top 11 C-dramas includes some of the most captivating and heart-wrenching shows of the last several years!
12 Best Chinese School Romantic Dramas
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Comments

homira on September 17, 2020:

sweet revwnge

Nasir on September 14, 2020:

Also add the untamed & Princess agent.

Fatty on September 13, 2020:

A Love So Beautiful

Go Go Squid

Go Ahead

Little Thing Called First Love

Put Your Head on my Shoulder

A on September 08, 2020:

PLEASE ADD GO GO SQUID, it’s so far my most favorite c-drama ever! If no one has watched it, you’re missing out! Love is a prominent theme but more importantly, love of friends and family, support and following your dreams. I wish I could erase my memory and watch it over and over again! I love the cast and the plot. 41 episodes WASNT enought for me!

Pokemon ruby on August 31, 2020:

Plz add untamed.

Cherry on August 21, 2020:

Yeah! Untammed, the storyline is so good I wish it can go on forever

Cherry on August 21, 2020:

Oh yeah! I forgot about princes agents, the beginning just made me so attracted

Hopey on August 20, 2020:

Princess agents isn't added even though it reached 230 million views making it the most-watched Chinese drama internationally

Cherry on August 20, 2020:

Oh Ashes of Love, you can't stop watching it until the end. the end was the best how they got together again.

Cherry on August 20, 2020:

Did you know that Whirlwind Girl is really good too!

How about Princess Sliver

The Untamed

the Dance of the Phoenix

Border Town Prodigal

To be with you

My Sunshine

My daughter

Super god dramas to watch totally in it

Can't stop chasing them

ashley williams on August 18, 2020:

I'd recommend:

Wait, My Youth

Put Your Head On My Shoulder

Unrequited Love

Meteor Garden

Accidentally in Love

A love So Beautiful

and Here to Heart (I did not like it much but someone may)

Pya on August 14, 2020:

Where is the untamed?? It's so good

Aarushi on August 14, 2020:

If you don't have "A little sweet thing called first love a" And "All I want for love is you " I don't believe you.

Deborah on August 13, 2020:

The untamed is good too.I loved it I guess I will try ashes of love.

Brie on August 06, 2020:

everyone suggesting Untamed is sooo right.Try it

Yizhan additict on August 06, 2020:

The untamed is top one

Yizhan on August 05, 2020:

What the hell! Where is untamed? The untamed is the best yrr. I really feel bad. It must be included. The China's best drama is untamed. How can anyone forget it?

shamshair3075 on July 31, 2020:

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Sukeerthi Shetty india on July 28, 2020:

I like ashes of love. I cried like a child

Light Fairy on July 27, 2020:

1-My Girlfriend is an Alien

2-Arsenal Military Academy

3-Skate into Love

4-The Romance of Tiger and Rose

5-The Brightest Star in the sky

Those Chinese Dramas which i recommend

Rummy on July 27, 2020:

I like ashes of love most

Mohan on July 26, 2020:

Ashes of Love

Monar2020 on July 25, 2020:

Why is “well intended love” not included ?

xyz on July 21, 2020:

THE UNTAMED?!!!

Pasha on July 14, 2020:

i love the "A Little Reunion" most..!!!

malak on July 14, 2020:

guys you really need to watch BLOODY ROMANCE

it is an intense love story

Mayaa on July 05, 2020:

Ashes of love "the best feeling and heart throabing love" ,love 020 "cheesy love without misunderstanding " ,eternal love "my forever the best love" , the romance of tiger and rose "every woman should be man like tiger " these are my favourite dramas

Maisha on July 02, 2020:

Where is THE UNTAMED ?

Antonio moquera on July 02, 2020:

I like ashes of love

Peachy on June 29, 2020:

Ashes of Love the best for me watched it 3x

unknown on June 25, 2020:

the untamed should be here.

banana milk on June 22, 2020:

Why isn't the Untamed on this list?

scarlet on June 17, 2020:

i like love so beautiful and love 020

bts on June 16, 2020:

you should add the untamed

Sophea on June 15, 2020:

List isn’t complete without The Untamed.

Ara on June 15, 2020:

The King's Avatar, not about love but still good e-sport drama.

sravika on June 08, 2020:

i like my girlfriend is an alien.It is so soothing n i want a second season of it.Please reply me

Ana on June 07, 2020:

The untamed is the best.

Lily on June 02, 2020:

The Romance of a Tiger and Rose is really good.

Maxine on June 01, 2020:

I am not a newbie for C-dramas. I would say that I have watched quite a lot. But, surprisingly I haven't heard about most of these dramas. And I am disappointed that they did not mention the latest dramas. The latest dramas are all worth watching. Some of them are:

1. Skate into love

2. The love equations

And what I am currently watching is "Intense Love"

I hope all the newbies and others watch these dramas. They are very enjoyable and while watching you develop different feeling for the characters and actors

Peach on June 01, 2020:

Yeah, they are all very good dramas

Jade on May 30, 2020:

I love Ashes of love, Princess Wei Young, The destiny of the white snake, The Endless love and Legend of Fuyao

All very good Chinese Dramas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jade on May 28, 2020:

By the way, Jin Mi is another character for the Legend of the White snake.

Cherry on May 28, 2020:

Oh! I forgot that I am watching The Legend Of Fuyao

Cherry on May 28, 2020:

The drama's I've watched are

Princess Weiyoung

Ash of love

King's Women

The Destiny Of The White Snake

The Road Meets South from white tonight that mean (The endless love)

And they are all very fantastic dramas

Cherry on May 27, 2020:

Yeah! Why isn't Princess Weiyoung on the list. It is such a good drama.