Spring is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a fresh batch of Chinese dramas? Chinese dramas have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their engaging storytelling, stunning visuals, and talented cast of actors. Whether you’re a longtime fan of C-Dramas or new to the genre, there’s no shortage of great shows to watch this spring.
Here, you will find the 10 recommended C-Dramas to watch this season. From sweeping historical epics to heartwarming romances, there’s something for everyone in this list.
So, grab your snacks, settle in, and get ready for some great TV viewing!
Joy of Life
“Joy of Life” (庆余年) is a Chinese historical drama based on the novel of the same name by Mao Ni. The story is set during the Tang Dynasty and follows the adventures of Fan Xian, a young man with a mysterious past who becomes embroiled in political intrigue and danger as he navigates the complex world of court politics.
Fan Xian is an unconventional protagonist who defies expectations and challenges the status quo. He possesses a sharp wit and a keen intellect, and he uses these qualities to outmaneuver his enemies and protect his loved ones. As he rises through the ranks of the court, he also uncovers dark secrets and conspiracies that threaten the stability of the kingdom.
“Joy of Life” features a talented ensemble cast of actors, including Zhang Ruoyun as Fan Xian, Li Qin as Lin Wan’er, and Chen Daoming as Emperor Liang. The drama is known for its complex characters, intricate storytelling, and stunning cinematography. It explores themes of power, loyalty, and sacrifice, and it offers a nuanced and engaging portrayal of court politics during the Tang Dynasty.
“Joy of Life” has gained a massive following both in China and internationally, and it is considered one of the most successful and critically acclaimed Chinese dramas of recent years.
Eternal Love
“Eternal Love” (三生三世十里桃花) is a popular Chinese fantasy romance drama that tells the story of Bai Qian, a nine-tailed fox spirit, and Ye Hua, a heavenly prince. Bai Qian is sent to the mortal realm by her master to complete a trial that requires her to live as a mortal for ten thousand years. During this time, she meets Ye Hua and they fall in love, but their happiness is short-lived as they face many obstacles and challenges.
As the story unfolds, the audience is taken on a journey through various realms and timelines as Bai Qian and Ye Hua’s love story transcends time and space. They are separated by misunderstandings, political intrigue, and even death, but their love remains steadfast and true.
The drama is known for its stunning visuals, intricate storytelling, and compelling characters. It stars Yang Mi as Bai Qian and Mark Chao as Ye Hua and features a talented ensemble cast of actors. “Eternal Love” has gained a massive following both in China and internationally, and it is considered one of the most successful and beloved Chinese dramas of all time.
Story of Yanxi Palace
“Story of Yanxi Palace” (延禧攻略) is a historical drama that takes place during the Qing Dynasty in China. It follows the story of Wei Yingluo, a smart and determined young woman who enters the imperial palace as a low-ranking maid to investigate the death of her sister. In her quest for justice, Wei Yingluo becomes embroiled in the complicated political machinations of the palace and catches the attention of the emperor’s favored concubine, Consort Xian.
As Wei Yingluo rises through the ranks of the palace, she uncovers secrets and conspiracies and ultimately becomes a key player in the battle for power and influence among the concubines. Along the way, she also develops a complicated relationship with the emperor, and the two of them struggle with their feelings for each other as they navigate the treacherous waters of palace politics.
“Story of Yanxi Palace” is known for its intricate plot, stunning costumes and sets, and strong performances by its cast, which includes Wu Jinyan as Wei Yingluo and Nie Yuan as the emperor. The drama was a massive success both in China and internationally, and it has been praised for its engaging storytelling and its depiction of complex female characters in a historical context.
The Untamed
“The Untamed” (陈情令) is a Chinese fantasy wuxia drama based on the popular web novel “Mo Dao Zu Shi” by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. The story follows the adventures of Wei Wuxian, a mischievous and charismatic cultivator who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy involving dark magic and political intrigue. Along the way, he meets Lan Wangji, a stoic and virtuous cultivator, and the two of them become unlikely allies as they work to uncover the truth behind the conspiracy.
Set in a world of magic and martial arts, “The Untamed” features complex characters, intricate storytelling, and stunning visuals. The drama explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and sacrifice, as Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji navigate a world full of danger and treachery. As they unravel the mysteries of the conspiracy, they also confront their own personal demons and grow closer to each other in the process.
“The Untamed” stars Xiao Zhan as Wei Wuxian and Wang Yibo as Lan Wangji, and it features a talented ensemble cast of actors. The drama has gained a massive following both in China and internationally, and it is known for its strong fan base and its impact on the popularity of Chinese fantasy and wuxia dramas.
Love and Redemption
“Love and Redemption” (琉璃) is a Chinese fantasy romance drama based on the novel “Three Lives, Three Worlds, The Pillow Book” by Tang Qi Gong Zi. The story follows the journey of a young woman named Xuan Ji, who is the reincarnation of the powerful Nuwa Empress. Xuan Ji is born with a special power that allows her to control the elements, but she is also cursed with a tragic fate: she will never be able to love or be loved by anyone.
Despite this curse, Xuan Ji falls in love with the immortal prince, Bai Feng Jiu, and the two of them embark on a journey to break the curse and find true love. Along the way, they face numerous obstacles and challenges, including battles with powerful enemies and the revelation of long-buried secrets.
“Love and Redemption” is known for its beautiful cinematography, stunning special effects, and engaging storyline. The drama explores themes of love, destiny, and sacrifice, and it features a talented ensemble cast of actors, including Crystal Yuan as Xuan Ji and Cheng Yi as Bai Feng Jiu. The drama has gained a massive following both in China and internationally, and it is considered one of the most successful and beloved Chinese dramas of recent years.
Nirvana in Fire
“Nirvana in Fire” (琅琊榜) is a Chinese historical drama based on the novel of the same name by Hai Yan. The story is set in a fictional kingdom during the Northern Wei Dynasty and follows the journey of Lin Shu, a talented strategist and military leader who is seeking revenge against those who wronged him and his family.
Lin Shu assumes the identity of Mei Changsu and infiltrates the royal court, where he begins to work behind the scenes to uncover a conspiracy that threatens the stability of the kingdom. Along the way, he forms alliances with unexpected allies and outmaneuvers his enemies with his intelligence and cunning.
“Nirvana in Fire” is known for its intricate plotting, complex characters, and beautiful cinematography. The drama explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and revenge, and it offers a nuanced and engaging portrayal of court politics during the Northern Wei Dynasty. The drama features a talented ensemble cast of actors, including Hu Ge as Mei Changsu/Lin Shu, Liu Tao as Princess Nihuang, and Wang Kai as Prince Jing.
“Nirvana in Fire” has gained a massive following both in China and internationally, and it is considered one of the most successful and critically acclaimed Chinese dramas of all time. The drama has won numerous awards and has been praised for its storytelling, acting, and production values.
Legend of Fuyao
“Legend of Fuyao” (扶摇) is a Chinese fantasy romance drama based on the novel “Empress Fuyao” by Tianxia Guiyuan. The story follows the journey of Fuyao, a young woman who is born with a special power that allows her to control the elements. Fuyao sets out on a quest to uncover the truth about her past and to restore justice to the kingdom.
Along the way, Fuyao meets and falls in love with the Crown Prince, Zhangsun Wuji, and the two of them become embroiled in a battle against powerful enemies who seek to control the kingdom. Fuyao must use her intelligence and martial arts skills to outmaneuver her enemies and protect those she loves.
“Legend of Fuyao” is known for its stunning visual effects, intricate plot, and engaging characters. The drama explores themes of love, sacrifice, and destiny, and it features a talented ensemble cast of actors, including Yang Mi as Fuyao and Ethan Juan as Zhangsun Wuji. The drama has gained a massive following both in China and internationally, and it is considered one of the most successful and beloved Chinese dramas of recent years.
Ashes of Love
“Ashes of Love” (香蜜沉沉烬如霜) is a Chinese fantasy romance drama based on the novel “Heavy Sweetness, Ash-like Frost” by Dian Xian. The story follows the journey of Jinmi, a flower fairy who falls in love with the Heavenly Emperor’s second son, Xu Feng, but their love is forbidden by the laws of the heavens.
As Jinmi and Xu Feng navigate their feelings for each other, they become entangled in a complex web of intrigue and betrayal, as various factions vie for power in the heavens. Jinmi must use her wits and her magical powers to navigate these dangerous waters and to protect herself and those she loves.
“Ashes of Love” is known for its breathtaking visuals, intricate plot, and complex characters. The drama explores themes of love, sacrifice, and destiny, and it features a talented ensemble cast of actors, including Yang Zi as Jinmi and Deng Lun as Xu Feng. The drama has gained a massive following both in China and internationally, and it is considered one of the most successful and beloved Chinese dramas of recent years.
The Story of Ming Lan
“The Story of Ming Lan” (知否？知否？应是绿肥红瘦) is a Chinese historical drama based on the novel “Do You Know? It Ought To Be a Green Vegetables but Ended Up Being Red Flushed Meat” by Guanxin Zeluan. The story follows the life of Ming Lan, the sixth daughter of an aristocratic family during the Northern Song Dynasty.
Ming Lan faces many challenges as she grows up, including the jealousy and scheming of her stepmother and stepsiblings, the political intrigue of the royal court, and the societal pressures of being a woman in a patriarchal society. Despite these challenges, Ming Lan is determined to carve out a life for herself and to protect those she loves.
“The Story of Ming Lan” is known for its richly detailed portrayal of life in ancient China, its strong female lead, and its engaging storytelling. The drama explores themes of family, loyalty, and personal growth, and it features a talented ensemble cast of actors, including Zhao Liying as Ming Lan and Zhu Yilong as Gu Tingye. The drama has gained a massive following both in China and internationally, and it is considered one of the most successful and acclaimed Chinese dramas of recent years.
Sparrow
“Sparrow” (麻雀) is a Chinese espionage thriller drama set in Shanghai during the 1940s. The story follows the journey of Liu Shan Feng, a young man who is recruited by the Communist Party to become a spy and infiltrate the Japanese-controlled police force.
As Shan Feng navigates his dangerous new world, he becomes embroiled in a complex web of espionage, betrayal, and political intrigue. He must use his intelligence and his martial arts skills to outmaneuver his enemies and to protect those he loves.
“Sparrow” is known for its gripping plot, intense action sequences, and engaging characters. The drama explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the struggle for freedom in a time of war and occupation. It features a talented ensemble cast of actors, including Li Yifeng as Shan Feng and Zhou Dongyu as a fellow spy. The drama has gained a massive following both in China and internationally, and it is considered one of the most successful and beloved Chinese dramas of recent years.
Coming soon: Born to Fly
“Born to Fly” (长空之王) is a Chinese drama that centers around a group of elite pilots led by Lei Yu and Deng Fang as they embark on a challenging flight mission. Throughout the series, the team defies their own limits and conquers the skies with their exceptional flying skills and unwavering courage to take on any obstacle, even if it means risking their own lives. Despite facing unforeseen crises one after another, they remain determined to overcome every challenge and create miraculous outcomes.
“Born to Fly” will have it premiere on April 28th, 2023.
More C-dramas soon
This concludes our list of C-Dramas to watch this spring, but we’ll be back with more recommendations soon! If you enjoyed this post, make sure to bookmark our blog or subscribe to our newsletter to receive regular updates on the latest and greatest Chinese dramas. We’ll be sharing our top picks on a regular basis, so you’ll never run out of great shows to watch.
In the meantime, if you have any C-Drama recommendations or requests for future blog posts, don’t hesitate to let us know by contacting us.
Thank you for reading, and happy watching!