85 Best Chinese Dramas to watch

If you’re looking for a guide to the best Chinese dramas then you’re at the right place. Discover the most anticipated Chinese dramas of 2020 you can already watch on Netlfix and Viki or will be able to watch online soon after their release. You’ll also find here classic Chinese dramas from 2019, 2018, and beyond.

We have a lot to be excited about this year too since there are plenty of thrilling action Chinese dramas, romantic comedy dramas, as well as fantasy and myth-inspired dramas coming our way.

If you’re new to the world of Chinese drama this list will help you find some of the greatest shows coming from Mainland China. And if you’re already a fan of these creative and engaging dramas you’ll be happy to see the wide variety of stories that are being released this year.

Guide to The Best Chinese Dramas You can stream in the USA, Canada, & UK

When did Chinese television drama begin?

The first Chinese television dramas started to air in the 70s with Legend of Chu Liuxiang in 1979 being one of the first popular shows.

While there were a few successful shows made in the 80s The history of Modern Chinese dramas really started in the 90s. Chinese dramas got popular in the 1990s and reached their popularity height in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Since then Chinese series or dramas got more and more international acclaim and now millions of people are watching these shows online in the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia as well. The proof to these shows’ international success is that it’s easier to stream them on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or on Hulu with every day no matter where you’re located on our planet.

However, Chinese drama dates back as late as the 16th century way back to the Shang dynasty and the Earliest Chinese theatres. While there are increasingly more modern dramas that provide slice of life stories and deal with modern social issues there are still plenty of historical dramas. Most of the shows still have folklore, myths, and historical elements.

The Types of Chinese Television Dramas

There are various Chinese drama types such as action, horror, and historical fiction, sport, comedy, high school, or college dramas, but the most popular genre of all dramas in China is fantasy romance.

Best Chinese Dramas in 2020

21| Great Ruler (AKA The Great Lord) | 2020

Mu Chen is one of the brightest young boys in the Mu region. He has such great potentials, everyone is convinced he will once become a great warrior.

His father is the Mu Chief, however, his mother had to leave them. During his training, Chen swears to find his mother and become a whole family again.

As the boy with extraordinary capabilities becomes stronger and stronger, his departure is due soon. Chen saves the life of Luo Li, a beautiful girl, whom he grows to love more than anything instantly.

When his training ends, he sets out to find his mother to finally see his family as a whole again.

The Great Ruler is going to be one of the most exciting adventure Chinese dramas you’ll see in 2020.

20| Ashes of Love: Season 2 | 2020

The love story of the Flower Goddess’ daughter Jing Mi (Yang Zi) and the Heavenly Emperor’s second son Xu Feng (Deng Lun) continues in 2020.

It has been announced to be aired this year, let’s hope to be able to watch sooner than later.

To catch you up, one of the most popular new Chinese dramas (2018) story begins with the Flower goddess giving birth to a girl. The goddess dies, but before that she feeds her daughter with a pill that numbs all her feelings.

The girl, Jing Mi is imprisoned in Shui Jing for ten thousand years. 4000 years later the Emperor’s son enters Shui Jing and Jing Mi saves him, to then slowly fall in love with each other.

Ashes of Love is one of the most beautiful romantic Chinese Fantasy Dramas with stunning visuals.

19| Detective Chinatown | 2020

The twelve-episode short series is set mostly in Thailand, but the story takes us to Japan and Taiwan as well. We follow a dedicated investigator, Lin Mo (Roy Chiu), the student of Chinatown’s best detective and the victim’s widow, Ivy (Janine Chang).

There are references to the movies, for instance, Yetian Hao’er is Yetian Hao’s younger brother, whom we have seen in the movies.

The story is very exciting, with multiple cases going on, beautiful places on the screen, plenty of twists and loads of action.

Detective Chinatown is one of the best Chinese crime dramas to watch on VIKI in 2020.

18| Love Me Don’t Think Too Much | 2020

It is a story of how differences can be worked out, especially when there is an age gap that may make things very difficult.

The actors are doing a remarkable job making this romantic drama a memorable piece. Starred by Chen Jian Bin, the professor of the Central Academy of Drama for over 20 years and acclaimed actress Li Yi Tong, the Love Me Don’t Think Too Much cast is very strong.

It is the story of a middle-aged CEO falling in love with a young fashion designer and the two have plenty of burdens to overcome fulfilling their love.

Love Me Don’t Think Too Much is one of the most interesting new romantic Chinese dramas to watch in 2020.

17| Find Yourself

Find Yourself is one of the most interesting new Chinese dramas about a love triangle that is available on both Netflix and VIKI.

He Fan Xing is an accomplished businesswoman, who is under pressure by a larger firm that wants to purchase her company. There is pressure in her love life as well; she is in a relationship with a younger man, and society prefers to maintain traditions.

To make things even more complicated, He Fan’s new life coach, the somewhat older and confident Ye Lu Ming soon proves to be difficult to resist. She has to make a decision keeping all that is important in mind.

This is one of the Most Popular New Chinese Dramas you can watch on Netflix in 2020.

16| Haunted House Handbook | 2020

Haunted House Handbook is one of the most anticipated upcoming Chinese dramas in 2020. It is going to offer extraordinary visuals with a puzzling story and spooky moments.

This investigative Chinese drama is about a couple of friends trying to resell haunted houses. Businessman Jiang Shuo and the strange doctor Yi Heng think they are on top of everything.

But things seem to escalate to rather dangerous heights and without help they are unable to sustain.

Here comes police woman Yuan Mu Qing to help get to the end of the otherwordly mystery.

Haunted House Handbook is going to be one of the spookiest Chinese fantasy dramas to watch in 2020. It is announced to air in October.

15| Handsome Siblings | 2020

Handsome Siblings is a martial arts Chinese drama based on the South Korean movie released in 1992.

Twin brothers are separated at birth and are raised to hate each other. As time passes, nothing else is in their mind, but finding and killing the other.

One day, they get to meet and fight, but shortly they realize there is no need to be against each other. The two become friends and set out to uncover the secrets of their past.

The story has been adapted in Taiwan and Hong Kong, therefore we are certain it is going to quickly become one of the most popular Chinese dramas in 2020.

Twin Brothers is a beautiful comedy fantasy Chinese drama to watch on Netflix in 2020.

14| Spirit Realm | 2020

It is based on the remarkable novel by Ni Cang Tian with the same title.

A descendant of gods begins his adventure to become a hero the world needs. He has lost all his memories, but not his values.

This Chinese drama is going to be set in beautiful locations and for the first glimpse, it will certainly be an exciting fantasy with fight scenes.

Spirit Realm cast includes Cheng Xiao, Adam Fan, and Ma Yue. The stunning costumes and visuals guarantee that we will get another pretty exciting and entertaining Chinese fantasy drama in 2020.

13| Fairyland Lovers | 2020

You are in for a magical treat by this soon to be the most popular new Chinese drama that takes us on an incredible journey.

It was based on the successful Chinese novel by Lu Han and it is definitely a series that will enchant you instantly.

Join spirit doctor Bai Qi on his journey around the country to help spirits get rid of their pains, courses, and troubles. During his travels, he meets a human girl, Lin Xia, whom he has already met before.

Their meeting changes both of their lives along with the spirit world.

Fairyland Lovers is one of the magnificent spiritual new romance Chinese dramas you can watch in 2020.

12| Airbenders | 2020

Airbenders is one of the most beautiful upcoming Chinese dramas in 2020 about friendship and music.

We follow a passionate aspiring musician, who has trouble attending a renowned music school as his family cannot afford it anymore.

To be able to pursue his dreams, he joins a music agency to be trained there.

Difficulties arise as he has to come to the realization; with current needs, he has very little chance to make a living out of his music.

Thanks to his new friends though, he is able to make the necessary changes and things become much brighter for him.

It is certainly going to be a beautiful and entertaining series, especially because Airbenders cast is looking promising. There are talented actors in the cast such as Wu Jia Cheng, Yang Hao Ming, Swan Xin, and Cai Zheng Jie.

Airbenders will be a heartwarming drama about friendship, determination, and music. It is certainly going to be one of the best Chinese drama to watch in 2020.

11| We Are Young | 2020

We Are Young is surely among the most anticipated Chinese dramas of 2020. It seems to be a very entertaining series with delightful humor and unlikely situations.

The story is about two newbie soldiers Xu Xiao Bin and Xu Xiao Bing who are often confused due to the similarity in their names.

Xu Xiao Bing decides to change her name after a while to make things easier.

As time passes, the two become very good friends and fall in love, even get married. Xu Xiao Bin wants to find a suitable life partner for his friend, but things become much more complicated than expected.

We look forward to the airing of this fun series around the end of 2020.

The lovely romantic comedy Chinese drama We Are Young is going to warm your heart and bring some smiles onto your face.

10| Forward Forever | 2020

This new favorite Chinese drama is quickly going to sweep the world with its rather dark pictures and eventful episodes. There are quite a lot of twists and struggles, that will make you want to binge-watch this series.

It is set in the quite messy Qing Dynasty, around the forming of the Chinese Republic.

We are following two enthusiastic patriots, who are willing to do anything for the country.

Ah Yi and Chong Li Ming form an unlikely friendship. Li Ming is part of the imperial family, sort of a royal.

Their friendship is put to the test in a time of struggles, where corruption is shadowing the development of the country. The two friends slowly drift apart as their values seem to differ.

Forward Forever is one of the best historical action Chinese dramas you can watch on VIKI in 2020.

9| The Killing of Three Thousand Crows | 2020

Shi Si Lang’s captivating Chinese novel has been brought to screen with perfection. This historical new Chinese drama is going to be so many viewers’ favorite straight away.

The Killing of Three Thousand Crows is a beautiful romance fantasy Chinese drama with plenty of love. The cinema photography is outstanding, the costumes are stunning, and the story is heartbreaking.

Great Yan is invaded amid the terrible mistake of an official. After saving the princess, Qin Chuan, Fu Jiuyun accompanies her on the quest of finding the spiritual lamp that could free Yan’s enslaved people.

The two fall in love, but a painful revelation faces them with a difficult decision.

This fantastic show is certainly going to be one of the most popular new Chinese dramas. The Killing of Three Thousand Crows’ gifted cast makes this melancholic drama even more touching and exciting.

8| Wait in Beijing | 2020

Wait in Beijing is surely going to be one of the most popular new Chines dramas.

Xu Tian (Li Yi Feng) and Sheng Xia (Maggie Jiang) are living their lives in New York, not even knowing the other exists. Xu Tian wants to be a successful lawyer and he is doing his best to make his dream a reality. He is strong and seems to have what it takes to make it as a lawyer.

Sheng Xia owns a small clothing store in Manhattan, but she is determined to once run her own designer store on Fifth Avenue. Her boyfriend wants to marry her, but she refuses him every time with the excuse of wanting to focus on her career.

One day the two strong-willed protagonists’ paths cross, and nothing remains the same in their lives.

Wait in Beijing is a beautiful new Chinese romantic drama that will make you want to keep on looking for the one.

7| Miss S | 2020

Miss S Chinese drama is one of the most anticipated new Chinese dramas of 2020. The murder mystery, detective drama is yet to be released this year. There are some rumors about this show being based on the Australian detective series Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries.

Thanks to the promising Miss S cast, it is very likely to be amongst the most popular new mystery Chinese dramas this year produces.

It will be following Miss S, a detective lady who has to solve a thrilling puzzle.

If you are looking for a quality Chinese Drama, Ma Yi Li, Vengo Gao, Wu Hao Chen, and Michelle Dong along with many more great actors can ensure your entertainment.

6| iPartment Season 5 | 2020

IPartment season 5 is finally out and it is certainly blowing fans’ minds. This is for sure number one of the most anticipated Chinese dramas of 2020. After the entertaining and funny four seasons, and the hit movie in 2018, we finally get to enjoy more of these quaint couples.

This hilarious show follows a number of couples, and different people, who are not the most likely friends.

The fun continues in the Apartment of Love, where love birds get to live with free electricity and water thanks to the love lover building manager in Shanghai.

Who are going to get married in this season? Join in or catch up with the show for a good laugh.

iPartment is one of the best Chinese romance comedy-dramas of the decade. It was also among the most successful Chinese sitcoms as well. You can watch season 3 and 4 on Viki and surely season 5 will be available soon.

5| Jade Lovers | 2020

Her family’s luck has turned and they have gone bankrupt.

Chen Xi’s life much more eventful and she has to gain her strength to overcome a number of difficulties. Over time, she becomes strong and inspirational. Bai Luo Han (Lee Jong Suk) is a man, who is difficult to trust.

He doesn’t shy away from being involved in shady businesses. Despite how he wants to be seen, he is very compassionate and Chen Xi is very important to him.

Jade Lovers is going to be one of the most engaging new Chinese romance fantasy dramas to watch in 2020.

4| Ever Night: Season 2 | 2020

The first season of Ever Night has brought a lot of action and terrifying surprises in 2019.

After the undeserved slaughter of his family, Ning Que goes on an adventure, no ordinary young boy would be able to survive. On his way, he finds a baby girl in a mass-grave.

The girl called Sang Sang and Ning Que rely on each other on their route to becoming key figures in the victory of either evil or good powers.

Ever Night season 2 was one of the most anticipated Chinese dramas of 2020 and it does not disappoint; it is still full of action, suspense, and terrific twists.

You are not going to be bored for a moment, because the exhilarating story and the beautiful pictures will keep you amazed.

It is certainly one of the best new Chinese dramas to watch on VIKI in 2020. Ever Night is a great fantasy romance Chinese drama with action.

3| New World | 2020

The New World Chinese drama is taking us to 1949, just before the People’s Republic of China was founded. We get to peek into three men’s lives, who are very close to each other. Jin Hai, Tie Lin, and Xu Tian would do anything for one another.

When policeman Xu Tian’s fiancee is murdered, he tirelessly investigates, which leads him to become part of something that may make history.

The three friends are quite different from each other and things change rapidly for each of them with the liberation of their home, the city of Beiping.

New World has quickly become a beloved historical action drama with romance and mysteries. It is one of the best new Chinese dramas in 2020.

2| Mr. Right | 2020

We are always in need of a little boost for the heart by a good old love story. Of course, it would be too easy if things just worked out straight away. Mr. Right Chinese drama is one romantic story that will get your heart going.

Hardworking Wang Wei An has to take on his responsibilities as the leader of his parent’s business at a young age. He is very focused and capable, still, there are plenty of difficulties to cope with.

We also follow Yang Hai Yi coming from a once-rich family now struggling with financial problems.

The two become part of each other’s life and after a rough start, they realize their love and never let go.

The Mr. Right cast makes us hopeful of another outstanding romantic series. By the end of 2020, we will be watching the love story brought to life by the talented Sunny Wang and Ji Chang Wook along with Zhang Ling Zhi and Andy Zhang.

This beautiful romance comedy is among the most anticipated Chinese dramas of 2020.

1| The Legend of Xiao Chuo | 2020

Out of all upcoming Chinese dramas in 2020, The Legend of Xiao Chuo is the best with a strong female lead. In the desperate times of the Liao Dynasty, Xiao Yanyan gains extraordinary powers by marrying with Yelü Xian.

She plays her cards very well, gaining further power becoming the most respected woman in the country.

Following her husband’s death, she finally has the opportunity to seek her childhood love, Han Derang and fulfill her heart’s desire as well.

The Legend of Xiao Chuo is going to be one of the most exciting historical fantasy Chinese dramas in 2020. It has a strong female lead who doesn’t shy away from harsh politics.

Top Chinese dramas from 2019 That are Worth Watching

7| The King’s Avatar | 2019 | Modern Sports Drama

In the 21st century, esports got huge and players enjoy more and more respect every day. It is not yet common knowledge that they actually have to put a lot of work into their success.

Just as sportspeople, they spend hours everyday training and getting ready for the competition.

We get to peek behind the scenes, naturally with a good spin c-dramas would present such a story.

Ye Xiu is among the biggest gamers and naturally, there is always something to make his life exciting.

In this modern Chinese drama, you get to know fun and loyal characters. While also becoming more familiar with the professional gaming world.

The King’s Avatar is one of the best modern Chinese dramas about gaming to watch on Netflix.

6| Listening Snow Tower | 2019 | Historical Fantasy Romance Drama

Prepare for an outstanding wuxia Chinese television series, which is going to mesmerize you. What is the wuxia genre? It literally means martial heroes, so you can guess, it is going to be an eventful ride.

This perfectly choreographed picture is a delight to watch. The story revolves around Xiao Yiqing, master of the Listening Snow Tower and Shu Jingrong, daughter of the Blood Demon.

You are going to sit on the edge of your seat throughout all the 56 episodes. Excitement awaits as good fight evil and love blooms. All the characters are perfectly crafted, you are going to root for all of them.

Listening Snow Tower is definitely among the most exciting wuxia Chinese series to watch on Viki.

5| Arsenal Military Academy | 2019 | Action Drama

Arsenal Military Academy last year deservedly topped almost every Chinese drama list. It is a very suspenseful, versatile and emotional show. You are going to find yourself feeling very strongly about the main characters and wonder what could happen next.

Xie Xiang lost her brother and to honor his memory, enrols to the Arsenal Military Academy. At the end of the 19^th century, China was in dire need of willing soldiers, but females were not allowed. She disguises herself as a male with only person knowing her secret; Tan Xiaojun.

Her life at the academy is not easy, although she manages to make friends and eventually win everyone’s admiration.

Arsenal Military Academy is surely amid the most captivating Chinese military action thriller shows on Viki.

4| The Legend of Haolan | 2019 | History Chinese Drama

Fortunately, the Chinese historical drama scene wasn’t at all quiet in 2019. There were a couple of great shows, which would definitely make great materials for a binge-watch movie night.

The Legend of Haolan was highly regarded by lovers of the genre. It is one of those great Chinese dramas for beginners and for those who are already addicted to as well. You are going to love either way.

We are going back to the Warring States Period, where we immerse ourselves in the eventful life of Li Haolan. Starting at a devastating low, betrayed by her loved ones, she manages to rise through the ranks. All the way up to becoming the empress because she doesn’t give up easily.

The Legend of Haolan is one of the most beautiful c-dramas with the strongest female lead in 2019.

3| Put Your Head on My Shoulder | 2019 | Modern Chinese Drama

This rather short (24+1 episodes) romantic comedy Chinese drama is heartwarmingly delightful. There are only a few c-dramas that are so fun despite seeing the protagonist be a little hapless.

Situ Mo is quite bad at making the right decision on her own. She gets into all sorts of difficult situations because of her indecisiveness.

As graduation is nearing, there is more pressure on her to finally pick a lane.

Her love life couldn’t be worse either, because she is after her childhood friend.

To her luck, everything changes when she ends up as Gu Weiyi’s roommate. The genius physics student may be the answer to everything.

Put Your Head on My Shoulder is one of the best romantic comedy Chinese dramas to watch if you’re new to C-dramas.

2| Le Coup de Foudre | 2019 | Modern Chinese Drama

This touching romantic drama is based on Qiao Yi’s I Don’t Like This World, I Only Like You. The novel was quite a success and the Chinese television series won over many fans’ hearts too.

On its debut, the show had over 100 million views on the first day. Can you think of bigger success than that?

Zhao Qiaoyi and Yan Mo had big hopes to be beside each other after graduation, however life ruined their plans.

Due to a family issue, they had to go their separate ways and drifted away.

The two reunite again four years later and almost nothing seems to have changed.

Le Coup de Foudre is a beautiful story about love and never giving up on your soul mate. It is surely the best romantic Chinese series to watch on Viki.

1| The Untamed | 2019 | Costume Chinese drama

In case you are looking for a fun and exciting Chinese costume dram, The Untamed is a superb pick. Not only because of the fantastic dresses and indulging pictures, but because of the great cast.

Everyone seems to be perfectly fitting in the story and you will quickly grow fond of the two protagonists.

The two young men are solving murder mysteries hoping to get closer to the mastermind behind them.

All the fifty episodes are pretty interesting, never allowing you to be bored for a moment. You are going to wonder who is the terrible person behind all the evil deeds.

The Untamed is one of the best Chinese shows to watch on Netflix. The costumes are beautiful while the story is stunningly exciting.

Top Chinese dramas 2018 that are Worth Watching

10| Ashes of Love | 2018 | Fantasy Chinese Drama

This indulging Chinese television series is going to be your new favorite in the xianxia genre. What is xianxia in Chinese dramas?

It is mainly influenced by Chinese mythology and religion colored by traditional medicine and martial arts. Knowing that, it is no doubt Ashes of Love is going to be interesting.

To show how beloved this show is, in less than four months it recorded over 15 billion views. That speaks for itself.

The daughter of the flower goddess is unable to feel love because her mother made her take a pill. The goddess’ intentions weren’t all bad, she wanted to prevent a prophecy.

Thanks to a trick, Jin Mi coughs up the pill and the world is about to change.

Prepare for godly warfare, love and secrets.

Ashes of Love is an eventful xianxia fantasy Chinese drama with many interesting characters.

9| The Rise of Phoenixes | 2018 | Chinese drama

If you are looking for quality Chinese series to watch on Netflix USA, The Rise of Phoenixes is definitely a good pick.

The story is based on the hit novel Huang Quan by Tianxia Guiyuan and did not disappoint on screen either.

We follow Ning Yi, the sixth prince of the kingdom. He has learned from others’ mistakes and puts on a carefree mask to disguise his true personality. He is pretty smart trying to be always a step ahead of others in the court.

Life is going to be exciting if you decide to watch this captivating romance historical fiction C-drama.

The Rise of Phoenixes is definitely among the most remarkable political Chinese dramas to watch on Netflix in the USA.

8| Lost in 1949 | 2018

Let’s take a journey back to 1949 Shanghai and meet Huang Li Wen, a communist agent. She returned because her husband and his comrades passed away during a mission.

There isn’t much time for her to mourn, since the country needs her to continue her mission.

As a good patriot, she does not stop for a moment and goes after a lead to gather valuable information. It may just be the key to the liberation of the country.

Li Wen meets someone who can help her on the streets. Slowly even love seems to find its way back into her life.

Lost in 1949 is among the best Chinese spy dramas to watch if you’re new to C-dramas.

7| Fights Break Sphere / Battle Through the Heavens 2018

Here is another adaptation, which has everything a good Chinese drama fan may look for. Written by Tiancan Tudou, the eponymous novel was pretty appreciated.

Xiao Yan had a rather tough childhood, his mother was murdered at the age of nine. His father never shared details about it, so the mystery kept on disturbing him.

He was training hard to become a heroic fighter, but he doesn’t seem to improve. As it turns out, because of his mother’s ring there is no progress.

One day, he meets an elder, who helps him and Xiao manages to become better. He also learns about the circumstances of her mother’s death and it looks like the world conspired against his family.

An epic battle begins for survival and revenge.

Battle Through the Heavens is deservedly on our best Chinese drama list, because it is entertaining and full of action. It is certainly among the best wuxia fantasy Chinese dramas.

6| Here to Heart | 2018 | C Drama

This exceptional story was written by An Ning with the title The Warm Chord. The novel was welcomed by a wide range of readers making the series highly anticipated.

It was definitely one of the best modern Chinese dramas of the year because it has everything. A smart female character, who despite her success makes a huge sacrifice for love. There is an ambitious male lead, who struggles without the help of his old love.

Wen Nuan has a great job in the UK. But when she finds out that her once boyfriend needs help with his app, she gives up everything. It did raise some questions, however, when it turns out that behind her decisions is love, we can forgive her.

Will they be able to end up living happily ever after?

Here to Heart is a touching romance C-drama everyone will love because it speaks to everyone.

5| Only Side By Side With You | 2018 Chinese Drama

One of the best modern Chinese dramas was based on Xiao Hu Ru Wei’s novel with the same title. Prepare for a true drama packed with mysteries, romance, and twist.

There is not one episode you can rest, something is definitely going on. You are in for a fun ride of forty episodes.

Shi Yue served in special forces and for a calmer life he has chosen to run a bar. He thought it was going to easier, but when drone designer Nan Qiao enters the bar, his life changes forever.

The two may have met before and Shi Yue cannot rest until he finds out the truth.

Only Side By Side With You is among the best Chinese dramas for beginners and for those who are already addicted to.

4| Scret of the Three Kingdoms | 2018 | Chinese History Drama

Here is another one of the best Chinese historical dramas you can find. It was based on the fantastic work of Ma Boyong with the same title. He was acknowledged as China’s best author in 2010.

The Secret of the Three Kingdoms is perfectly well crafted. There is a lot of tension, while you grow fond of the characters as well.

It is a fascinating story of two twins, whose mother was killed because of jealousy. One of them is raised as a royal to be the emperor, while the other grows up as a commoner.

As tensions grow and chaos takes over, the emperor only keeps the title but loses power. He also learns about his twin brother and incredible struggles begin.

Secret of the Three Kingdoms is a truly captivating historical c-drama with political battles, secrets and outstanding costumes.

3| Bloody Romance | 2018 Chinese Drama

As the title suggests, love doesn’t always come easy for everyone. Nearing the end of the Tang Dynasty, life in China wasn’t easy. There were quite a chaos throughout and lives were at risk for many reasons.

After escaping the dark world of prostitution, Qi Xue gets into the dark underbelly of an unknown city. She takes on dangerous missions and becomes involved in a deadly political game.

On the way she meets Chang An, a man of mystery.

This exciting romance fantasy Chinese Chinese television series was a huge hit upon its debut. In less than a month more than 600 views were recorded.

Bloody Romance is certainly amid the Chinese shows to watch because it is full of action and twists.

2| Legend of Fuyao | 2018

Legend of Fuyao is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable fantasy adventure Chinese series to watch on Viki. Besides the dreamy setting and costumes, the cast is also great.

The story takes us to a fictive place, where five kingdoms are ruled by the Imperial City of Tianquan. Peace is a fragile state, life could turn upside down in a moment.

Meet Fuyao, who grew up an orphan and therefore a slave. She doesn’t accept her fate and embarks on an adventure that will reveal the true destiny of hers. Meeting the crown prince reveals further secrets about her identity and brings love in her life too.

If you enjoy adventure series with some romance, Legend of Fuyao is a perfect pick. It is also one of the best Chinese dramas to watch if you’re new to C-dramas.

1| The Story of Ming Lan | 2018 | Historical Drama

If you enjoy beautiful scenes set in historic China, then you are in for a superb treat. It is one of the best Chinese shows to watch on Viki.

The challenging life of Ming Lan, Sheng Hong’s sixth daughter is captivating. The fourth official has one wife and two concubines. His rather undesired daughter from the second mistress doesn’t really cheer him up.

Meet the smart and beautiful lady, who has much more serious ambitions than what her family wishes her to fulfill.

The series is overall eye-catching, we love the costumes and the setting. You are going to be indulged throughout the 72 episodes as we get into love, politics, and family life.

The Story of Ming Lan is undoubtedly among the best Chinese historical dramas if you enjoy politics and ambitious female leads.

Most Popular Chinese Dramas of the Past

Best Chinese dramas 2017

Attention, Love! 2017
Eternal Love 2017 (Most watched Chinese drama of all time with over 50 billion views)
Lion Pride 2017
In the Name of the People 2017
A Love So Beautiful 2017
My Dear Boy 2017

Best Chinese dramas 2016

Rookie Agent Rouge 2016
The Princess Weiyoung 2016
Thinking Of You, Lu Xiang Bei 2016
Love O2O 2016
Back To 1989 2016
Proud Of Love 2016
The Mystic Nine 2016
Ode To Joy 2016

Best Chinese dramas 2015

Love Me If You Dare 2015
Nirvana in Fire 2015
The Journey of Flower 2015
Bromance 2015
Legend of Mi Yue 2015

Best Classic Chinese dramas from 1979 – 2014 you should check out

Death Notify: The Darker 2014
Prince of Lan Ling 2013
The Qin Empire II: Alliance 2012
Empresses in the Palace 2011
The Dream of Red Mansions 2010
Dali Princess 2009
Royal Tramp 2008
The Fairies Of Liao Zhai 2007
The Rise of the Tang Empire 2006
Home with Kids 2005
Assassinator Jing Ke 2004
The Imperfect Sculpture 2003
Qianlong Dynasty 2002
Kangxi Dynasty 2001
The Taiping Heavenly Kingdom 2000
Journey to the West – Legends of the Monkey King 1999
My Fair Princess 1998
A Sentimental Story 1997
A Romance in Shanghai 1996
Sinful Debt 1995
Romance of the Three Kingdoms 1994
I Love My Family 1993
The Three Heroes and Five Gallants 1991
The Investiture of the Gods 1990
Dream of the Red Chamber 1987
Outlaws of the Marsh 1983
Legend of Chu Liuxiang 1979

Thank you for reading!