At its core, Northward is a tale of aspiration, self-discovery, and the inevitable pull of one’s roots. The protagonists, having grown up along the Grand Canal, set off on a journey northward, each chasing dreams beyond their small hometown. As they navigate the challenges of an ever-changing world, the drama explores themes of ambition, friendship, and the tension between progress and nostalgia. The storyline weaves between their struggles and triumphs, making it a relatable and thought-provoking watch.
The cast delivers standout performances, with Bai Lu and Ou Hao leading with commendable depth and emotional resonance. Bai Lu’s portrayal of a strong yet vulnerable young woman is particularly compelling, while Ou Hao brings a rugged charm to his role. The supporting actors also contribute significantly, ensuring that each character feels well-developed and integral to the story.
Visually, Northward is a treat. The cinematography masterfully captures the contrast between the rustic charm of Flower Street and the bustling, uncertain world beyond. The Grand Canal, an important symbol throughout the series, is depicted with a poetic grandeur that enhances the story’s nostalgic undertones. Directors Yao Xiaofeng and Zhou Nan skillfully balance intimate character moments with sweeping visuals, making the drama both visually and emotionally immersive.
One of Northward’s greatest strengths is its cultural depth. It not only highlights the significance of the Grand Canal in China’s history but also delves into the emotional struggle between personal growth and the longing for one’s hometown. The drama resonates deeply with anyone who has ever left home in pursuit of something bigger, making it universally relatable despite its distinctly Chinese setting.
With a compelling narrative, stellar performances, and stunning visuals, Northward (2025) is a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking, character-driven dramas. It successfully blends historical and modern elements, offering a deeply engaging reflection on youth, ambition, and the meaning of home. Whether you’re drawn in by its literary origins or its captivating performances, Northward is a drama that lingers in the heart long after the credits roll.
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I wished it was more than 38 eps, i can watch it many times without getting bored.
This is one of the best slice of life drama I’ve ever watched, i don't watch this genre that much but since i like bailu i guve a try when i first heard there will be 38 eps, I was worried there might be filler ep but I was wrong. Each and every eps were interesting. The camera work, scenery, script, acting, everything was flawlesAll the actors delivered outstanding performances and it didn’t feel like acting. The drama was so fresh, realistic and pure. It teaches you how to live life as it is and to find stability. It also shows how strong the bonds between their childhood friendships and their familiesAt first, XWH was desperate to succeed and forgot about humanity and had no empathy but XFH helped him realize success wasn’t everything and to live and love life. And that there’s nothing wrong with failing and that anyone could get up again, Bailu delivered her best and did really well although she usually don’t act in modern realistic dramas. Her acting was raw and her eyes were filled with emotions. She even cut her hair, put on heavy tanned makeup, wore braces although it was uncomfortable without any complaints.
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TRUE DEFINITION OF SLICE OF LIFE DRAMA!!!
Tried watching multiple realistic/ slice of life dramas but honestly nothing has or will ever compare to Northwards!!! The story follows a beautiful and unique story about 5 families, with each family’s history being soooo unique each with their own stories and spotlight!!!Special mention to Bai Lu!!! Bai Lu absolutely devoured her role as Xia FengHua/ HuaZi, it’s not only the way she delivers the uniqueness of the character through her voice but her eyes!!! The way her eyes just make you travel into the story is indescribable!!! She’s also so committed to playing the character from wearing braces, cutting her hair short, applying a tan everyday to work just proves her hardwork and her love for this character!! Ever drama Bai Lu proves herself, proves that she is an actress who dares to push the boundaries trying different genres everytime and just serving it as always!!! Bai Lu will truly accomplish much greater success in the future!!!
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This review may contain spoilers
One of the best dramas I have ever seen!
I am going to be so honest, I first started this drama just because I was bored and Bailu is my queen so I gave it a try. Before even starting I told myself "Oh I'll probably just watch ep 1 & 2 but not more then that, this drama is not the style I usually go for" but when I tell you I fell in love with this story from the first episode I mean it. The cinematography is so beautiful, the way they portrayed their childhood is so realistic it made me cry multiple times remembering my own childhood and how I also used to play with my neighbors in the street all day. The transition between being kids to teenagers to adults is so smooth and doesn't feel abrupt at all, the writing is well, it didn't make me feel confused because everything was done so nicely. Shoutout to the writers and directors because this drama is literally a piece of art! The emotions, the acting, the music and lyrics, everything was done so well, so beautifully. The plot wasn't confusing at all, the pace made me feel comfortable. Overall a masterpiece that you need to give a chance too, I am sure you will love it~Was this review helpful to you?
I loved it, it's better than my expectations.
When drama was still in filming process, i was a bit curious about the original novel and the relationship of the grand canal with this story so i checked it and read about it and some articles about the canal as a way of knowledge and entertainment in the same time, so Northward shifts focus from the past to the present and future, while the novel takes a reflective approach, the adaptation embraces a broader theme of "going to the world," emphasizing modern relevance. The historical narrative once central now serves as a backdrop with the canal culture evolving into a symbol of continuity and renewal.By the 22nd episode, Chen Rui's discovery of an old notebook at the Grand Canal Culture Exhibition reveals deep ties between historical figures and his own ancestry. As the mystery unfolds, the series diverges significantly from the novel’s original storyline opting for a fresh narrative approach. The adaptation’s structure initially obscures these connections, allowing them to resurface gradually much like a sunken ship slowly revealing itself.
The drama Northward takes even greater liberties, reducing the historical scope and shifting focus to everyday life. It chronicles the evolution of six major families along the canal from ancient times to 2014, compressing history into a single, vivid portrait. The opening scene briefly nods to the past before transitioning into the daily realities of canal life. This transformation from "historical narrative" to "realistic narrative" creates a striking contrast, leaving fans of the original novel surprised( me too but i find the drama more good and lively) by the shift in perspective. The book intricately weaves historical and contemporary( there is a part from the story is set in an old dynasty not sure but when i searched i found this info) narratives, but the adaptation significantly trims the historical aspects. In the novel, an Italian named "Little Polo" embarks on a journey through China’s canal cities, searching for his lost brother and ultimately becoming part of local history. His story, filled with encounters, struggles, and love, forms the backbone of the book. Meanwhile, the present-day storyline follows a journalist retracing these historical connections.
The TV adaptation, however, streamlines this complex dual narrative. While it retains echoes of the past, its focus is firmly on the present, redefining the canal’s legacy for a new generation. The result is a reimagined tale that while controversial to purists offers a fresh perspective on history, culture, and identity.
You can read the novel if you liked the drama especially if you like the novels where you can learn many things about differents cultures and traditions... The drama seriously is better than i expected but i think it's for the mature people, or people who will understand the background of the story..
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So beautiful and warm drama, i appreciate my family more and more now
This drama is so well written and i'd give my everything just to experience it for the first time again.The cinematography is breathtaking. That canal's landscapes, the river views make everything feel so nostalgic and peaceful. The acting? Perfect, it doesn't even feel like acting. The drama is a bit slow sometimes, but in a way that makes you want to soak in every second. It's not just about romance; it's about family, resilience, and the things we leave behind to chase our dreams.It isn't just about love; it's about life, the struggles, the sacrifices, and the quiet moments that shape us. If there's a drama that perfectly captures our minds, so this is the best example and choice. I watched it with my grandmother and sister which make this so much special for me. Watching this gave me comfort and sadness at the same time. We are too busy growing up to realise that our parents are growing old too and that family is so important.It's the kind of drama that makes you feel warm and sad at the same time. It doesn't give you dramatic plot twists or unrealistic love stories. It just feels real.Was this review helpful to you?
It is a good melodrama about growing youths. It is nice to see Bai Lu doing something different
Northward is a melodrama about the lives of these young Jiangnan youths who grow up seeing the hardships their parents went through, the changes in their lives, and the economy booming in their town after they experience hardships working and living in the cosmopolitan city of Beijing. Eventually, they all return home after they find it difficult to make it in the big city.The entire cast's acting is phenomenal, and it is nice to see Bai Lu acting in something different from her usual idol dramas. It stretches her acting talents, and Vanda Margraf has the potential to be a great actress. It is too bad that she misses most of the drama after her character decides to leave Jiangnan, only to reappear in the last two episodes at the end.
Ou Hao and Zhai Zi Lu did a great job as well. The pace of the drama is good, and the story is good. Overall, it is enjoyable to watch.
Synopsis: The story revolves around several boys and girls who grew up along the canal. After parting ways to forge their paths, they reunite years later, navigating the struggles of competition and life's pressures while rediscovering hope for a new beginning. Through the perspective of these Jiangnan youths, the audience witnesses their growth and experiences the historical transformations of the Grand Canal, which has evolved over a century from dry spells to rejuvenation.
My Reviews:
1. Acting: 8
2, Script: 8
3, Music/OST: 8
4, Production Quality: 8
5. Cinematography: 8
6. Rewatchable: 8
7. Onscreen Chemistry: 8
Overall Rating: 8
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Heartwarming story with the themes of youth, nostalgia, friendship and family.
I am happy that I came across watching Northward. It feels nostalgic of a time that i wasnt’t even born. However, i can’t help but feel warm watching the happy days of the characters teens era in 90's.The series captures the essence of the 90's, evoking a sense of nostalgia through its portrayal of daily life, cultural references, and social dynamics. The attention to detail in the settings of the drama creates a vivid backdrop that resonates with audiences, especially those who experienced that era.Each character is well-developed, with relatable struggles, dreams, and relationships. This drama emphasizes the importance of family bonds and friendships. It beautifully portrays the warmth and support found in these relationships, highlighting both the joys and challenges of growing up and the emotional scenes of the series resonate with universal experiences of love, loss, and growing up. This drama showcases the unique aspects of culture, from food to traditions, offering viewers a glimpse into a specific time and place.
Overall, Everything about Northward is great. The cast, the acting, the friendship, the family, everything. It lowkey made me feel at home, like I felt I was a part of the show. I just loved it..
This show is a must watch for everyone.
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Heartwarming drama, so beautiful.
In our mundane world of everyday life amid a time of decline swept along by a great current—“Northward ” unfolds at a gentle pace, its prose fresh and flowing like the steady trickle in an ordinary person’s life. It allows us to occasionally catch glimpses of light and shadow in the routine of daily life. Heavy like a descending night, it nevertheless emits a faint glow; the tones are deep and full of tension.
It has been a journey of the soul. In the “sea mirror” conjured by the atmosphere, I felt the canal’s warmth. Those writings, which speak from the perspective of bystanders rather than participants, are mostly detached, yet they embed themselves within it all the same... Good watch.
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Love it So Much!
Northward is a beautifully shot and emotionally resonant Chinese TV drama that explores the complexities of family, sacrifice, and resilience against the backdrop of post-war China. The story follows several families as they migrate north in search of a better life, weaving together personal struggles and broader social changes with a touching sense of realism.The performances are incredibly strong—especially from the lead actors, who bring depth and nuance to their roles. The pacing can feel a bit slow at times, especially in the middle episodes, but it pays off in the emotional weight the series builds over time. The cinematography and costume design are top-notch, immersing viewers in the era with great attention to detail.
What really stands out is the emotional honesty of the show. Northward doesn’t shy away from difficult moments or moral ambiguity, which gives it a sense of gravity and authenticity that lingers long after the final episode.
Highly recommended for viewers who enjoy character-driven historical dramas with heart.
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So Good!
This was such a heart warming watch. I definitely enjoyed the Flower Street Families and their stories. One of my top watches so far for 2025.What I loved:
I was so invested in everyone and their stories. Not a dull moment from each character. I rooted for all of them and wanted to see them at their best, though I appreciated that they showed us them at their worst. Made for an amazing story of growth. I loved how real this show was. The characters were flawed, normal. Like your everyday people and strived for happiness and success. It made them so relatable. It was easy to connect with each character because the plot was so strong and executed so well. Such strong acting all around. I loved the story about their roots. I trace my own roots so that sat very well with me, as I too find excitement in learning more about my past.
What I didn’t like:
One major gripe was the music. I loved it but sometimes the music came in too loud and overshadowed the talking. It’s like they had the volume too high in some scenes. My only other issue was Siyi’s story. I wish we could have gotten more from her during her time away instead of at the very end.
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Northward drama is masterpiece / Gem
Youth can watch and understand better type life and their Perspective..... And learn how their responsibility connective between family/ career ....... Balance both understand Parents and their Society ......
Best Drama for youth , this drama educative , warm , romance essense ..
Amazing Acting Actor : Main lead female and main lead Male acting Another level.....
All other casting work as well ...
Synopsis
In the early 2000s, in a small courtyard on Huajie Street by the canal in Honghuai City, six families lived closely together. Xia Fenghua, Xie Wanghe, Shao Xingchi, and Zhou Haikuo, along with newcomer Ma Siyi and their classmate Chen Rui, formed a deep friendship and grew up together.
At the same time, as the Beijing-Shanghai Expressway was about to be fully opened, the declining shipping industry brought various challenges to their families. Amid the changes and development of the canal, the youths spent their formative years together.
By 2014, the broad streets of Beijing were bustling with traffic, and the wave of internet entrepreneurship was surging. Xia Fenghua, Xie Wanghe, Shao Xingchi, and Zhou Haikuo embarked on their journey northward.
Years later, Xia Fenghua entered the logistics industry and became the head of a courier station. Wanghe invited Xingchi and Haikuo to join him in building a thriving food delivery business. However, after tasting the sweetness of success, they also faced workplace conflicts, arguments, and even crises. The once-young boys and girls of Huajie Street stood at a new crossroads in life, facing yet another choice.
In the end, with the successful inscription of the canal as a World Heritage site, the friends who had once left home reunited on Huajie Street. After their entrepreneurial journey, they found clarity amid their confusion and rediscovered the meaning of life. Like the newly revitalized canal, they embarked on a new chapter of their journey.
I suggest plz watch this drama , you definitely learn some lesson for this drama......
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