Chinese Drama

In the 20th century, the western entertainment industry started flourishing all across the globe and in this century the Asian entertainment industry is gaining fans all over.

China is one of the front runners in this race. More and more people are liking Chinese Dramas and enjoying their cultural beauty.

In this post, I’ll be mentioning the 40 All-time best Chinese Dramas that have made a fan following of their own across the world. 

1. The Untamed

  • Logline: An inter-clan rivalry running through years reveals some dark truths from the past.
  • Year: 2019
  • Genre: Mystery, Drama
  • Cast: Xiao Zhan, Wang Yibo, Liu Haikuan

Based on a historic novel Mo Dao Zu Shi (Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation)by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, The Untamed is one of the most highly rated Chinese Drama that tracks the adventure of two intrepid men on a mission to banish the evil enduring in the kingdom.

Wei Wuxian who once decided to fight against the ruling Wen sect goes missing and returns after 16 years and joined hands with the righteous Lan Wangji to unveil the real culprits behind prolonged murder mysteries.

From Bromance to Comedy this CDrama exhibits a complete set of genre. I highly recommend you watch this if you have just started exploring Chinese Dramas.

Where to watch The Untamed?

Full-fledged 50 episode season one is available on Netflix. 

2. Nirvana in Fire

  • Logline: Lin Shu returns to the capital city of Jinling as Mei Changsu to condemn the twelve-year-old conspiracy that labeled his family as a traitor.
  • Year: 2015
  • Genre: History, Drama
  • Cast: Hu Ge, Wang Kai, Liu Tao, Leo Wu

A total of 3.3 Billion internet views on iQiyi. Yes, the numbers are enough to highlight the exquisite of this Chinese Drama.

The consequences of the war between the Northern Wei dynasty and Southern Liang dynasties left 19-year-old Lin Shu incapacitated and his father General Lin Xie marked as a traitor. 12 Years later Lin Shu returns as the chief of the pugilistic world intending to restore his family’s innocence.

If you are someone you like to watch strategical mind games TV series over intense war and action, Nirvana in Fire will be a perfect watch for you.

A compelling storyline, charming characters, a strong protagonist and brilliant cinematography will keep you hooked through this 50 episode CDrama.

Where to watch Nirvana in Fire?

All English dubbed episodes are available on Viki, DVD copies are also available on amazon.

3. Joy of Life

  • Logline: A surprise visit by a poison master drastically transforms the ordinary life of Fan Xian to a man of political delegacy.
  • Year: 2019
  • Genre:  Historical Drama
  • Cast: Chen Daoming and Wu Gang, Li Xiaoran, Xin Zhilei, Li Chun, Song Yi

Adapted from the first part of the novel by the same name, this Historical Chinese Drama orbits around the life of Fan Xian, the only royal survivor left after the fall of the Eastern Jin dynasty 18 years ago.

Adopted by the imperial minister Fan Jian, Fan Xian is not destined to be a commoner but an honorable man who will grow big and hold a strong position in the empire.  

With an intense political intrigue, the show is backed with pleasant humor, martial arts, and melodious theme songs.

Where to watch The Joy of Life?

The first season contains a total of 46 episodes and the English dubbed version can be streamed online on Viki.

4. Love O2O

  • Logline: A story of two popular college students who fell in love while playing an online game together.
  • Year: 2016
  • Genre: Romance, Drama
  • Cast: Yang Yang, Shuang Zheng, Denny Huang 

Love O2O was the first Chinese drama that I watched and that’s why it is really dear to me. But that’s not the only reason it’s on this list. This drama is a true gem and deserves a spot here.

Xiao Nai is a smart, handsome and most popular gay in the college. On top of that, he is the leader of a game developing company.

One day while playing an online game he comes across a strong female player. They soon form a team together and decides to meet. The female gamer is no other that Bei Wei Wei who is also a student at Xiao’s college and thus a romantic story begins.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch all the 30 episodes of ‘Love O2O’ on Netflix and Viki.

5. Put Your Head on My Shoulder

  • Logline: Si Tu Mo is an ordinary girl who accidentally becomes the roommate of the smartest guy in the school.
  • Year: 2019
  • Genre: Rom-com
  • Cast: Fair Xing, Lin Yi, Jingjing Chen
https://youtu.be/cEvI3Cc3ZAA

Regarded as one of the most popular romantic drama of 2019, ‘Put your head on my Shoulder’ is a show that you didn’t know you needed in your life.

Si Tu Mo is a cheerful girl who is nearing her graduation and has no clue about what to do next. At the same time, Gu Wei Yi enters her life who is a pretty famous and smart guy in the school.

Both of their paths cross sometimes creating a little spark between them but thing changes completely when they accidentally become each other’s roommates.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch ‘Put Your Head on My Shoulder’ and all of its 24 episodes on Netflix, Viki, and YouTube.

6. Eternal Love 

  • Logline: A romantic love story that ran through three lives of two deitiesYe Hua and Bai Qian
  • Year: 2017
  • Genre: Romance
  • Cast: Yang Mi, Mark Chao, Ken Chang, Dilraba Dilmurat

Eternal Love is a Romantic Chinese Drama better justified by its alternate English title Three Lives, Three Worlds, Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms and is based on the novelTo The Sky KingdombyTang Qi Gong Zi.

From the blossoming heavenly world of the immortals to the regular world of mortals this show traces the saga of two love birds who play different roles in different lives yet manages to meet each other and sustain the Eternal love.

If you haven’t already had a taste of mystical Chinese Drama, this show will be an exciting watch for you. 

Where to watch Eternal Love?

Recently Netflix purchased the rights of Eternal Love and all seasons are available there. A low-quality English dubbed version is also available on Viki for free but you can also opt for a high-quality subscription.

7. The King’s Avatar

  • Logline: Ye Xiu is a famous top tier online gaming player. He was betrayed by his team and thus has to leave professional gaming. But he is not ready to give up just yet.
  • Year: 2019
  • Genre: Action, Adventure
  • Cast: Yang Yang, Shuying Jiang, Li Mu Chen Daisy

Inspired by a famous Japanese Light Novel of the same name, ‘The King’s Avatar’ is a Live action drama focused on gaming, friendship, and glory. It got 100 million views just after 4 hours of its release, so you can imagine its popularity.

The story revolves around Ye Xiu, who is the all-time best player of an online game called ‘Glory’. Due to some circumstances, he has to give up his gaming account and leave professional gaming.

He then starts working as a manager in an internet cafe. But when he hears that ‘Glory’ is starting a new server, he decides to jump in and start playing again. With 10 years of gaming experience, he is ready to claim what was taken away from him.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch ‘The King’s Avatar’ and all of its 41 episodes on Netflix.

8. You Are My Glory

  • Logline: Two very different people get together because of online gaming.
  • Year: 2021
  • Genre: Romance, Comedy
  • Cast: Yang Yang, Dilraba Dilmurat, Pan Yue Ming
You Are My Glory

The idea of a celebrity falling in love with an ordinary person is not common and we’ve seen many Asian dramas made around the same plotline. But this Chinese drama is a breath of fresh air among all the shows following the same trope. It’s beautiful, sweet, and gives you butterflies while you’re watching it.

Qiao Jing Jing is a famous celebrity and the brand ambassador of a very popular online game. But she is bad at gaming herself and this secret gets out to the public.

To save her sponsorship deal, she decides to learn to game and take part in an online gaming contest to show her skill. She requests the help of her very intelligent school crush, Yu Tu. He agrees, and the two form an unusual partnership.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

Available on WeTV.

9. Guardian

  • Logline: A detective and a professor are on a mission to maintain peace among humans and mutated creatures living on the planet.
  • Year: 2018
  • Genre: Mystery, Fantasy, Drama
  • Cast:  Yu Bai, Yilong Zhu, Peng Xin
https://youtu.be/I_2qpjhNtR4

Based on a novel Guardian by Priest, this Mystery Chinese drama will introduce you to a completely new world where humans co-exist with 2 other mysterious species.

The peaceful coexistence between Humans Yashou and Dixing that existed for 10000 long years faces a threat as the Dixings who are known to live underground have started causing troubles on the surface. 

Zhao Yunlan and Shen We are tasked to investigate the situation and in the process, they form a strong bond of friendship to transcend both past and present lifetimes.

Stay away if you aren’t fond of watching bromance but still a different approach from mainstream Chinese Drama makes it a great show on its own.

Where to watch Guardians?

Standard Quality episodes with subtitles available in 6 plus languages are available for free on Viki. You can upgrade to premium membership to watch in HD.

10. Eternal Love of Dream

  • Logline: A thrilling story of adventures of the Emperor of Heaven and a nine-tailed fox.
  • Year: 2020
  • Genre: Romance, Historical
  • Cast: Vengo Gao, Dilraba Dilmurat, James Li
Eternal Love of Dream

It is often the case when show makers try to milk on the already popular movie/drama franchise, the end product turns out bad. But thankfully it didn’t happen with this Chinese drama. A spin-off series of very popular ‘Eternal Love’ series, this drama is just as good as its parent story.

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Bai Feng Jiu, is a nine-tailed fox. One day, she is attacked by a savage beast in the mountains and is saved by the first emperor of Heaven, Dong Hua. 

To repay the gratitude she decides to fight alongside Dong Hua against the Demon Lord. Over time she falls in love with him but Dong Hua is cold-hearted and Feng Jiu is not ready to give up.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

Watch it on WeTV.

11. Heavy Sweetness

  • Logline: After clashing with one another for a 100 years Xu Feng, God of Fire falls in love with Jin Mi but she can not respond to any feelings.
  • Year: 2018
  • Genre: Rom-com, Fantasy
  • Cast: Kathy Chow, Zhonghua He, Wang Yifei

Also popularly known as the ‘Ashes of Love‘, it is one of the most loved Chinese Drama around the world and the best part is that it will have a second season this year.

So the story basically revolves around two heavenly beings Xu Feng and Jin Mi. Xu Feng rescued Jin Mi and they stayed together for hundred years after which Xu Feng finally fell in love with her.

But the problem is that Jin Mi was given an unfeeling pill when she was a child, that’s why she didn’t have any feelings towards Xu Feng. On top of that, Xu Feng’s rival brother also starts having feelings for Jin Mi.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch ‘Heavy Sweetness’ and all of its 63 episodes on Viki and Netflix.

12. The Oath of Love

  • Logline: A budding cellist faces challenges, finds love with a doctor in a heartwarming Chinese drama.
  • Year: 2019
  • Genre: Mystery, Drama
  • Cast: Xiao Zhan, Wang Yibo, Liu Haikuan

If you’re looking for a heartwarming and emotional love story, “The Oath of Love” is a must-watch. This Chinese drama follows the story of Lin Zhi Xiao, a talented cellist whose life takes a sudden turn when her father falls ill. Despite the challenges she faces, she finds comfort in the charming and kind-hearted doctor, Gu Wei. The chemistry between Yang Zi and Xiao Zhan is palpable, and the storyline will keep you on the edge of your seat. This series is based on a popular novel and was expertly directed by Lu Ying. Don’t miss out on this touching tale of love and perseverance.

Where to watch The Oath of Love?

Watch it on Viki

13. Arsenal military academy

  • Logline: What happened when female aspired to join the military during the WWI and joins men training center pretending to be a man.
  • Year: 2018
  • Genre: Army, Drama
  • Cast: Bai Lu, Xu Kai, Toby Lee, Wu Jiayi

Written by Xiao Xiang Dong (author of Princess Agents) Arsenal military academy is a unique Chinese drama set in the historic plot of WWI. 

The story revolves around the life of an enthusiastic sister who pledges to fulfill the last wish of her dead brother. Xie Xiang disguises herself as a man and joins the Arsenal Military Academy in her brother’s stead. This TV series is an account of the hurdles she faces in a men training center and her connection with her mates there.

Besides the story, the chemistry between the male characters and the main leads makes this show an interesting watch.

Where to watch Arsenal Military Academy?

The full playlist of the show is available on iQIYI’ Youtube Channel.


14. Reset

  • Logline: A thrilling time-loop story follows a college student and a fellow passenger trying to change their fate.
  • Year: 2022
  • Genre: Mystery, Thriller
  • Cast: Bai Jingting, Zhao Jin Mai, Lui Yi Jun

“Reset” is a thrilling and captivating Chinese drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The storyline follows Li Shi Qing, a college student who finds herself trapped in a never-ending time loop on a public service bus that is destined to explode. 

Desperate to escape the loop and change her fate, she enlists the help of fellow passenger Xiao He Yun. The chemistry between the two leads is electric, and the plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable tale of fate, time, and love.

Where to watch Reset?

Watch it on Viki.


15. Falling Into Your Smile

  • Logline: A love story between two gamers.
  • Year: 2021
  • Genre: Romance, Comedy
  • Cast: Cheng Xiao, Xu Kai, Rachel Wang
Falling Into Your Smile

Falling into your smile is a Chinese drama that doesn’t have a unique to offer in terms of story but the execution is where it takes all the points. Everything from the screenplay, story progression, character arcs are done perfectly which makes the overall experience of watching this drama enjoyable. Plus, it’s quite funny.

ZGDX is the most loved all-male online gaming team in the country with a great fan following. One of its members gets injured and the Lu Si Cheng, the Capitan of the team is forced to look for a replacement. 

Tong Yao, is a funky, cheerful girl who is exceptional at gaming. Upon pressure from the management, Si Cheng is forced to allow Tong Yao in ZGDX and thus begins a new chapter in their life.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

The full series is available on Viki.

16. Accidentally in Love

  • Logline: A popular singer falls for an ordinary girl at his school but in reality, she not ordinary at all.
  • Year: 2018
  • Genre: Rom-com
  • Cast: Guo Jun Chen, Yi Ning Sun

One of my most favorite Chinese drama that I’ve watched. I’d recommend anyone who’s looking for a sweet, short and funny drama to watch ‘Accidentally in Love’.

Chen Qing Qing is a rich girl who is tired of her lifestyle. So she runs away from her home and enrolls in school with fake identity to live her life on her terms. There she meets a student who is a very popular singer, Si Tu Fang. After a series of conflicts between them, they eventually start having feelings for each other.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch ‘Accidentally in Love’ and all of its 30 episodes on Netflix.

17. Love Between Fairy and Devil

  • Logline: In a world of magic and danger, a flower fairy and the Moon Supreme’s fate intertwine.
  • Year: 2022
  • Genre: Mystery, Drama
  • Cast: Yu Shu XIn, Dylan Wang, Zhang Ling He, Xu Hai Qiao, Cristy Guo

“Love Between Fairy and Devil” is a gripping BL drama that invites viewers to immerse themselves in a thrilling and enchanting fantasy world. The show’s intricate plot features a battle between the Moon Tribe and the immortal fairy realm, with the fate of the world hanging in the balance. 

The first God of War’s sacrifice saved the world, but the emergence of a new God of War and a chance encounter between a low-ranking flower fairy and the feared Moon Supreme threatened to upend everything. The show’s lush visuals and compelling characters will keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss out on this thrilling adventure!

Where to watch Love Between Fairy and Devil?

Watch this amazing bl show on Viki

18. Love Like the Galaxy

  • Logline: A talented general falls in love with a neglected girl in a mesmerizing Chinese drama full of romance and action.
  • Year: 2022
  • Genre: Mystery, Historical
  • Cast: Leo Wu, Zhao Lu Si, Guo Tao, Zeng Li, Bao Jian Feng

“Love Like the Galaxy” is a mesmerizing Chinese drama that beautifully weaves together romance and action. Ling Bu Yi, a general of the Black Armour Army, meets Cheng Shao Shang during a mission to capture a fugitive. Shao Shang, who was left behind by her parents and neglected, captures the hearts of many with her lively personality and quick thinking. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, and the storyline is full of suspense, intrigue, and heartwarming moments. You won’t be able to resist getting swept away by the sweeping romance and epic battles in this captivating series.

Where to watch Love Like the Galaxy?

Watch all episodes of Love Like the galaxy on Viki



19. Love me if you dare

  • Logline: A combination of crime, psychology and love story. 
  • Year: 2016
  • Genre: Suspense, Thriller
  • Cast: Wallace Huo, Sandra Ma, Edward Zhang

A Criminal Psychothriller Chinese Drama, based on the novel “love me if you dare”. Simon, Bo Jinyan is a Police advisor and works on special criminal cases. 

He has a special ability to understand the mindset of violent and dangerous criminals. Though he is very brilliant in his work he lacks emotional clarity. His assistant, daughter of a Police inspector develops emotional attachment towards him. 

The drama continues as she tries to bring some emotional clarity in his mind. There is always a huge expectation for a crime drama and this drama series will definitely not disappoint you at all. 

Where to watch Love Me If you Dare?

English-subtitled versions are available on Viki.

20. Go Ahead

  • Logline: Three youths discover life and its reality the hard way. 
  • Year: 2020
  • Genre: Family, Drama
  • Cast: Seven tan, Song Wei Long, Steven Zhang, Tu Song Yan
Go Ahead

Humans can be hard to comprehend. Our likings, beliefs, and relationships are based on our limited sense of judgment. Go Ahead Cdrama dives deep into protagonists’ lives to explore the exquisite human nature and bring forth a heartwarming story that reflects the delicacy of human lives. 

Story of three young brats who confront back-to-back tragedies in life. Ling Xiao is the eldest, followed by He Zi Qiu and sister Li Jian

Surrounded by constant grief, their only source of comfort is living by each other and becoming the best family together. 

They might be unrelated biologically, but their bond surpasses any biological relationship ever existed. 

After high school, they are forced to live back with their original families. Now, after a decade, the three get a chance to meet again, but things aren’t the same anymore. Will they be able to break through loads of their complicated family issues and reform a bond that they once shared?

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

Streaming on Viki.

21. Meteor Garden 

  • Logline: A girl from a poor background who gets a scholarship in a rich school becomes a pray of bullying by the notorious boy group called F4.
  • Year: 2018
  • Genre: Youth, Romance, Friendship
  • Cast: Dylan Wang, Yue Shen, Xize Wu
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Inspired by a Japanese Manga series Hana Yori Dango, this story has already been made into drama 5-6 times and Meteor Garden is one of them. 

Shan Cai is a hard-working girl and comes from a poor family. She gets a scholarship at a prestigious school for the wealthy.

There she finds that the whole school is feared by four notorious rich boys called F4, who like to bully other kids in the school. Shan Cai’s days at school were bad as she couldn’t get well with other students of higher status but later becomes worse when she becomes the new bullying target of the F4.

‘Meteor Garden’ is one of the classic Chinese dramas with a big fan following. The drama shows everything, it has comedy, it has friendship, romance, drama, and youthful energy. 

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch Meteor Garden and all of its 50 episodes on Netflix and Viu.

22. Battle of Changsha

  • Logline: TheJapenese are about to invade China and the only option left with Gu Quing Ming to safely leave the city is to marry a senior Intelligence officer.
  • Year: 2014
  • Genre: Romantic
  • Cast: Junfeng Niu, Wallace Huo, Zuo Xiaoqing, Kong Sheng, Gaon Xin
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3tszvh3gBE&list=PLvf4fZgfbz554wKUffK2qqKc4IX3CGKln&index=1

A Chinese drama based on the Battle of Changsha that took place in 1939 during the Second Sino-Japanese War. 

The story depicts an ordinary family that lives in Changsha, China. It shows the struggle and difficulties that people had to face due to the Anti-Japanese war. 

A romantic relationship between Xiangxiang and Gu Qingming survives the chaos that surrounds them. Though there were bloodshed all-around little moments of happiness gave the people strength to bear the hardship. 

The acting, storyline, and characters make the drama feel so real. It also shows the rich Chinese heritage and culture that makes it a treat for eyes. 

Where to watch the Battle of Changsha?

Need not go far. Easily watch the full season on YouTube

23. My Little Happiness

  • Logline: Cong tries her best to suppress the truth, but how far will she be able to hide the inevitable. 
  • Year: 2021
  • Genre: Comedy
  • Cast: Fair Xing, Daddi Tang, Huang Yi Lin, Leon Li, Fu Wei Lun
My Little Happiness

Are you looking for some sweet, short, and light-hearted romance to put you in a good mood? My Little Happiness is the show for you. It offers exactly what the title says.

The show follows a realistic approach and advances through the unpredictable lives of the main heroes. It is a fun-to-watch-show and doesn’t take much stress on your brain; therefore, I suggest you must give this one a try. 

Cong Rong is an ambitious girl in her early twenties. Her dreams of becoming a law practitioner are burned to ashes when her mother insists she studies business abroad. 

Cong accepts her mother’s proposal but secretly returns back to her hometown to practice law. 

It doesn’t take her long to realize the sharp turn her life is about to go through when she takes her first case of her childhood friend Wen Shao Qing.  

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

Viki is the place to go for to watch My Little Happiness.

24. A Love So Beautiful

  • Logline: A story of high school couples and how their love faces the challenges of growing older.
  • Year: 2017
  • Genre: Youth, Romance, Friendship
  • Cast: Hu Yi Tian, Yue Shen, Yaodong Zhao

‘A love so beautiful’ is a story based on a Novel called ‘Our Pure Little Beauty’. A sweet romantic comedy with tonnes of cute moments filled in it.

The story starts with Xiao Xi, a cheerful girl who has a major crush on Jiang Chen, who is the popular guy in the school.

She proposes to him but he rejects. Xiao Xi remains committed to making Jiang Chen hers, which she ultimately succeeds in doing. As they get older, the couple along with their friends tries to find happiness in every situation.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch all the 24 episodes of ‘A love so beautiful’ on Netflix and Viki.

25. Princess Agent

  • Logline: A story of the rise of an ancient Chinese female warrior.
  • Year: 2017
  • Genre: Action, Drama
  • Cast: Zanilia Zhao, Kenny Lin, Shawn Dou

Princess Agent is a story based on a novel called ‘Chu Te Gong Huang Fei’. It is a unique drama where we see the rise of a woman coming from nothing to becoming a great warrior.

The story starts in the Northern Wei Province which is devastated by conflicts. In the middle of all of this is Chu Qiao, a slave girl who is saved by the Prince of Northern Yan, Yan Xun. They both form a strong bond together.

But later as her life takes a different turn, she meets Yu Wen Yue who decides to teach her to be a warrior. As the story progresses Chu Qiao has to decide where her loyalties lie, as both the men mean so much in her life.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch all the 58 episodes of ‘Princess Agent’ on Viki.

26. Perfect and Casual

  • Logline: A marriage contract with a twist. 
  • Year: 2020
  • Genre: Romance, Marriage Contract
  • Cast: Fair Xing, Daddi Tang, Huang Yi Lin, Leon Li, Fu Wei Lun
Perfect and Casual

The drama consists of 24 episodes, and I completed this in just two days. If romance and comedy are all that you seek to enjoy, Perfect and casual is the drama for you because it definitely worked for me.

The story centers around an accidental couple who ends up in a marriage contract. Zhang Si Nian is a cold and strict personality who works as a professor. On the other hand, Yun Shu is a cheerful girl who is a student at the same University where Zhang Si teaches.

After their first cold encounter, they get caught up in a series of mishappenings that leads them to live as a couple. The drama then explores their struggles of living together while hiding their relationship from the world and their feelings from each other. 

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

The full series is available on WeTV.

27. Le Coup de Foudre

  • Logline: Real-life story of two lovers who meet after 4 long years of separation.
  • Year: 2019
  • Genre: Romance
  • Cast: Janice Wu, Zhang Yujian, Zhao Zhiwei

Adapted from the novel based on real-life stories,‘Don’t Like This World, I Only Like You’  Lo Coup de Foudre(Love at First Sight) is a heartwarming story of two love birds who struggled to keep up with the promises. 

Zhao Qiao Yi and Yan Mo once shared a strong bond and talked about going to new places after high school but fate had decided an entirely different route to unite them as lovers. 

This Romantic Drama will make you laugh, cry and learn about relationships. I recommend you binge-watch this with the love of your life.

Where to watch Le Coup de Foudre?

You can watch each and every episode of this drama on Hotpot TV and Viki 

28. Boss and Me

  • Logline: A cute love story between a Boss and his young employee.
  • Year: 2014
  • Genre: Romance
  • Cast: Hans Zhang, Zanilia Zhao, Youming Huang

Not every drama needs to have complicated storylines, people do love simple stories and ‘Boss and Me’ is that light-hearted drama we all need to watch.

Xue Shan Shan, a young office lady works for a guy called Feng Teng. One day, Shan Shan is asked to give a blood transfusion to Feng Teng’s sister. To thank her, Feng Teng decides to buy her lunch every day.

This small gesture brings both of them closer and ultimately they fall in love. 

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch all the 33 episodes of ‘Boss and Me’ on YouTube.

29. Moon Lovers Scarlet Heart 

  • Logline: An unexpected time travel to the historic period brings out new adventures for Zhang Xiao.
  • Year: 2011
  • Genre: History, Drama
  • Cast: Cecilia Liu, Nicky Wu, Kevin Cheng, Damian Lau
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMiPkUgy7R0

Shot in two time frames Scarlet heart is possibly the oldest Chinese Drama in this list. The drama was once commercial hit all over Asia on TV screens and even today it receives great appreciation from the west.

It is a depiction of the novel Bu Bu Jing Xin by Tong Hua in which a girl named Zhang Xiao travels back in time to her previous life form as nobility in the Qing Dynasty.

Where to watch Scarlet Heart?

Season one and two both are available on Viki with multilingual Subtitles.

30. Word of Honor

  • Logline:  Two men finding their purpose join hands to achieve a common objective.   
  • Year: 2021
  • Genre: Action, Fantasy
  • Cast: Zhehan Zhang, jun Gong, Ye Zhou
Word of Honor

If shows like Untamed weren’t enough to feed your love for Chinese BL dramas, you might need to watch this BL masterpiece.

At first, I was skeptical about the show, but it exceeded the limits of my expectations. Realistic same-sex relationships, intriguing political scenarios, hardcore sword fighting, and mesmerizing chemistry between the main leads bring this show to life on screen.  

Zhou Zhu, a prominent assassin, decides to quit his organization and live his life in peace. Quitting is never easy when you hold a top position in an organization, and therefore, Zhou had to endure drastic methods to leave.

After leaving, he roams around like a homeless drunk until he meets Wen Kexing, who is on a pursuit to avenge the death of his parents. Both hunt for their redemption and, in the process, become soulmates.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

Available on Netflix.

31. Legend of Fu Yao

  • Logline: The story revolves around Fu Yao, a woman cursed by birth on a journey to change her destiny.
  • Year: 2018
  • Genre: Action, Fantasy
  • Cast: Mi Yang, Ethan Juan, Leon Lai Yi 

Inspired by a novel called ‘Empress Fu Yao’, the story is filled with fantasy and adventure which as we all know is a deadly combo.

The story starts with Fu Yao who is a slave girl in the Taiyuan Kingdom. After suffering through a lot of tragedies, she is saved by the Prince Zhang Sun Wu Ji. 

Together they decide to go a journey to find the origin of Fu Yao birth and to dispel the curse that is imposed on her.

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Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch all the 66 episodes of ‘Legend of Fu Yao’ on Viki.

32. Skate Into Love

  • Logline: A surprising event brings back flashbacks from a hidden resentment. 
  • Year: 2020
  • Genre: Sports, Romance
  • Cast: Steven Zhang, Janice Wu, Zhou Zhan, Vincent Wei
Skate Into Love

While most college dramas focus on the same melodramatic fluff, Skate into Love beautifully incorporates the sports genre into the scene to present a unique concept for drama viewers.

I was fascinated to see how this show manages to keep the romantic chemistry intact while bringing out an inspirational story of the athletes. 

During their elementary school, Tang Xue used to bully her teammate Li Yu. Little did she know that her naive and timid teammate would rise to become a prominent ice hockey player in University.

When both meet after years in University, Tang Xue decides to avenge his school days by making Li Yu his assistant. 

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

Watch on Youtube.

33. The Story of MingLan 

  • Logline: Rise of a concubine-born from being rejected and mistreated to gaining a prominent place in the kingdom.
  • Year: 2014
  • Genre: Romantic
  • Cast: Junfeng Niu, Wallace Huo, Zuo Xiaoqing, Kong Sheng, Gaon Xin

Adapted from the novel Do you know? Do you know? If the green is still plump and the red still lean? by Guanxin Zeluan this Chinese Drama sets its plot in the Northern Song Dynasty.

A journey of a concubine born, Ming Lan, a talented and capable girl who is deprived and mistreated in the kingdom.

She seeks revenge for the death of her biological mother by hiding her skills and joining hands with Gu Ting Ye, the 2nd son of the Gu Family who is treated the same in his family.

If you are impressed by the ‘rise from the ashes’ type of stories then you’ll definitely have a great time in this 73 episodes long watch.

Where to watch The Story of MingLan?

Initially, the show aired on Hunan TV and now can be streamed online on Viki.

34. Fighter of the Destiny

  • Logline: Abandoned by his own family due to a mortal disease in his childhood, Chen Chang Sheng set out to find a cure for himself.
  • Year: 2017
  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Cast: Han Lu, Gao Han Yu, Zejinxi Wu

When this Chinese Drama aired in 2017, it became the most-watched Chinese series ever at that time with over 27 Billion views across all platforms.

Chen Chang Sheng was abandoned when he was a child. He is suffering from a deadly disease that won’t let him live for more than 20 years. In reality, he is the fourth Prince of a Kingdom and there lies a great mystery of his abandonment.

To find a cure he decides to move in the main capital where a lot of surprises wait for him.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch ‘Fighter of the Destiny’ and all of its 52 episodes on Viki and Amazon Prime Videos.

35. The Prince of Tennis

  • Logline: A extraordinary tennis player deprived of belongingness and care finds the true meaning of life after joining a High school in China.
  • Year: 2019
  • Genre: Sports, Bromance
  • Cast: Peng Yu Chang, Ireine Song, Zhang Yi Jie, 

Story of a tennis prodigy Lu Xia who has inherited some serious talents and strengths from his father.

Living abroad, he was trapped by his father’s guidance and was merely used as a tool to win tournaments and prizes. In the process, Lu Xia lost all his interest in the game and his life too. 

Lately, he joined a high school tennis team in China and came across people who made him realize his identity as a player and the need for attachment and love in life.

The show is surely not a typical C Drama it does have a taste of western cinema but all in all, it is filled with exciting tennis matches with numerous life lessons about finding one’s identity in the real world and the value of friendship.

Where to watch The Prince of Tennis?

The animated version is available on Hulu and you can buy the original version from amazon.

36. The Romance of Tiger and Rose

  • Logline: Trapped inside her own script, Chen Xiao is at the mercy of her writings. 
  • Year: 2020
  • Genre: Fantasy
  • Cast: Rosy Zhao, Ryan Ding, Zhou Zi Xin
The Romance of Tiger and Rose

Chinese drama fandom is well aware that only a few dramas have been able to perform internationally. It clearly doesn’t mean that these dramas lack quality but factors like a repetitive story, overly stretched plot, and substandard romantic scenes have curbed the Cdrama audience.

It is only because of shows like The Romance of Tiger and Rose that Chinese content can sustain viewers like us.

It is a tragic story of a TV series scriptwriter named Chen Xiao Qian who gets trapped inside her own script. Inside her own story, she becomes the Third princess Chen Qian Qian, a side character who is penned to die in just the third episode.

Knowing the story, Chen Xiao tries her best to survive as princess Chen Qian. As the story unfolds, many other episodes require her to use this knowledge to stay and find a way back to the real world.   

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch it on Viki.

37. Love is Sweet

  • Logline: Jian Jun is surprised to see the drastic change in her childhood friend.
  • Year: 2020
  • Genre: Comedy, Romance
  • Cast: Leo Luo, Bai Lu, Kido Gao
Love is Sweet

For the lovers of romance, a romantic Chinese Drama can’t get better than this. On the surface, this may look like any other childhood friend turned into a love story, but deep inside, it is a show filled with passionate emotions, heartwarming chemistry, and sensitive matters that will melt you down like a candle. 

Jiang Jun is an intelligent, independent woman who belongs to a high-class family. After the sudden demise of her father, she had no option left but to fulfill her father’s last wish of working in an investment firm.

This unfortunate incident changed her life forever. She discovers that her childhood friend Yuan Shuai is now a big investment tycoon and has a reputation as a bully. 

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

Available on Amazon Prime.

38. Who Rules the World

  • Logline: A budding cellist faces challenges, and finds love with a doctor in a heartwarming Chinese drama.
  • Year: 2022
  • Genre: Romance, Fantasy
  • Cast: Xiao Zhan, Wang Yibo, Liu Haikuan

“Who Rules the World” is an exhilarating drama that transports viewers to a world of martial arts, politics, and forbidden love. The show’s stunning visuals and dynamic characters draw you in from the very first episode. 

As the story unfolds, we see the fierce Hei Feng Xi and majestic Bai Feng Xi navigate a treacherous landscape of betrayal, infighting, and political unrest. Their love blossoms amidst the chaos, but can it ultimately bring peace to a world in turmoil? This gripping tale of passion and power will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Where to watch Rules of the World?

Watch it on wetv.



39. Go Go Squid

  • Logline: Tong Nian fell in love with Han Shang Yan at first sight, but it is not easy to win his heart because he’s cold and super unfriendly.
  • Year: 2019
  • Genre: Rom-com
  • Cast: Xian Li, Zi Yang, Mingde Li 

Inspired by a novel called ‘ Stewed Squid with Honey’, Go Go Squid has been a massive hit in the year 2019. A cute love story between a cold guy and a sweet girl.

Tong Nian is a sweet and confident girl but when she’s in front of Han Shang Yan, she becomes totally numb. She met Han Shang Yan in an internet cafe and instantly fell in love with him.

Shang Yan is a cold and unfriendly type of a guy who’s only focused on his career of professional gaming. But Tong Nian is committed to making a place for herself in his heart.

Where to watch this Chinese Drama?

You can watch ‘Go Go Squid’ and all of its 41 episodes on Viki.

40. Ever Night

  • Logline:  A story of a common boy who is surrounded by mysterious miracles.
  • Year: 2019
  • Genre: Action, Adventure
  • Cast: Arthur Chen, Ireine SOng, Crystal Yuan, Zoey Meng

A Mystery Chinese drama adapted from the famous novel Jiang Ye by Mao Ni, which first aired in October 2018.

The story revolves around a young boy who somehow managed to escape the deadly massacre by an evil general. His abilities and intelligence helped him to survive the hardship of life. 

Later he joined the military, which was followed by many adventurous missions. The story follows some of the mysterious miracles that you will enjoy only when you will watch it.

The characters are at it best, the fight scenes are a treat for eyes and most importantly if you like twists and turns, this is the show for you.

Where to watch Ever Night?

Like most of the shows on this list, Ever Night is also available on Viki.

How are Chinese Dramas compared to other Asian Drama?

In true honesty, I’d say Chinese dramas are really good and some of them are definitely among the best in whole of Asia. But generally speaking, I find them predictable most of the time. I’ll suggest that they should explore other genre too and not just romance and ancient fantasy.

What is the legal way to watch Chinese Dramas for free?

As you might read above, most of the dramas featured in this list are available on Viki. It is by far the best site to watch Chinese dramas for free and legally. Also, it has a huge library of dramas not only Chinese but other Asian dramas too. And most important of all, they add new dramas to their database constantly.

Written by

Rajat Mehta

Meet Rajat, the coolest cat at The Serial Binger! This writer is all about that Manga/Manhwa and Book life. With an unbreakable love for the lovely stories, Rajat hooks readers up with the freshest and mind-blowing updates. Get ready to groove and geek out with Rajat's funky articles!