Must Watch and Highly Recommended Chinese Dramas
A collection of must-watch and highly recommended Chinese dramas with unforgettable stories. Each title here delivers strong writing, emotional impact, and a truly memorable viewing experience.
This is a filtered version of my recommendations. For more suggestions, you can check my ratings or explore my other lists.
-
1. Joy of Life
Chinese Drama - 2019, 46 episodes
Witty, smart, and full of political intrigue — it masterfully blends humor, suspense, and heart. Every episode balances philosophy, power, and human emotion with remarkable storytelling.
-
2. Lost You Forever
Chinese Drama - 2023, 39 episodes
A Tale of Love, Loneliness, and Power That Cuts to the Soul
A hauntingly beautiful saga of love, fate, and heartbreak. Every relationship feels raw and real, with Yang Zi delivering one of her finest performances. The mix of politics, fantasy, and emotional depth makes it unforgettable.
- "if you don't earn it on your own, even it's given to you, you won't be able to keep it." (epi 21 by emperor of xian)
- My Review
- Genres: Romance, Wuxia, Drama, Fantasy
- Tags: Trauma, Xuanhuan, Reverse-Harem, Hidden Identity, Fantasy World, Gender Bender, Political Intrigue, Chinese Mythology, Abandonment Issues, Love Square
-
3. Dashing Youth
Chinese Drama - 2024, 40 episodes
A Friendship That Fought Against Fate/ A journey of Growing
At first glance, Dashing Youth looks like a classic wuxia drama — all about honor, brotherhood, and justice in a world of martial heroes. But if you dig deeper, the show reveals something much darker: a world full of hypocrisy, where those in power manipulate these ideals to keep control, and innocent people suffer because of it.
- My Review
- Genres: Wuxia, Youth, Fantasy
- Tags: Swordsman Male Lead, Jianghu, Slight Romance, Friendship, Action, Adventure, Martial Arts, Childhood Friends' Relationship, Master-Disciple Relationship, Love At First Sight
- A vibrant coming-of-age story wrapped in historical charm. With humor, friendship, and personal dreams, it celebrates youth and courage in the most heartwarming way.
-
4. The Blood of Youth
Chinese Drama - 2022, 40 episodes
A masterclass in adventure and brotherhood. With poetic dialogues, rich character arcs, and thrilling storytelling, it’s a wuxia that honors loyalty, ideals, and redemption.
-
5. The Story of Ming Lan
Chinese Drama - 2018, 78 episodes
A timeless tale of resilience and intelligence. Minglan’s journey from hardship to power highlights the strength and wisdom of women navigating a patriarchal world.
-
6. Go Ahead
Chinese Drama - 2020, 46 episodes
A found-family masterpiece that captures love beyond blood ties. It’s about healing, belonging, and the bittersweet path to adulthood.
-
7. Love and Redemption
Chinese Drama - 2020, 59 episodes
A soul-stirring xianxia epic that explores destiny, sin, and second chances. The chemistry between the leads and the deep emotional layers make it one of the genre’s best-written love stories.
-
8. Fall in Love
Chinese Drama - 2021, 36 episodes
A mature, elegant romance set against a turbulent political backdrop. With rich writing and graceful pacing, it captures love’s endurance through chaos and time.
-
9. The Double
Chinese Drama - 2024, 40 episodes
One lady, two revenges
The drama is gripping and well-paced. Chemistry and angst, the eye gazes and sexual tension are killer The plot twists are hard to predict as you dont know who will do what and whats next this keeps me on edge.- Genres: Historical, Mystery
- Tags: Revenge, Smart Female Lead, Identity Swap, Smart Male Lead, Hidden Identity, Slow Burn Romance, Mistreated Female Lead, Brave Female Lead, Family Relationship, Death
- My Review
- A smartly written political and romantic story about identity, deception, and love between two strong-willed individuals with undeniable chemistry.
-
11. My Journey to You
Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes
A visually stunning and emotionally complex wuxia drama with deep themes of loyalty, freedom, and love under pressure.
- My Review
- Genres: Romance, Wuxia, Drama, Fantasy
- Tags: Assassin Female Lead, Mystery, Martial Arts, Brothers' Relationship, Historical, Spy Female Lead, Death, Action, Teamwork, Investigation
-
12. Back from the Brink
Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes
-
13. Shadow Love
Chinese Drama - 2025, 38 episodes
-
14. You Are My Glory
Chinese Drama - 2021, 32 episodes
A modern romance that feels grounded and mature. The story blends love, ambition, and personal growth — showing that true connection doesn’t fade with time or distance.
-
15. Love between Fairy and Devil
Chinese Drama - 2022, 36 episodes
A grand fantasy about love, loss, and redemption — where darkness learns to love the light.
-
16. Reset
Chinese Drama - 2022, 15 episodes
Timeloop mystery
The story and the plot were concised and the time loop plots were not boring because they gave us more and new informations. Each episode also explored the different story about each passangers. It gave me suspense and made me curious that I kept wanting more.
- My Review
- Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Sci-Fi
- Tags: Time Loop, Death, Investigation, Explosion, Suspense, Rescue Mission, Violence, Strangers To Lovers
- A tightly written time-loop thriller that keeps you hooked. The emotional weight and clever writing make it one of C-drama’s smartest scripts.
-
17. Fated Hearts
Chinese Drama - 2025, 38 episodes
The Tale of Two Princes: Love, Power, and Betrayal in Fated Hearts
Fated Hearts is a turbulent tale of love, ambition, and betrayal set against the backdrop of royal politics. It follows two princes—one bound by duty and the other consumed by envy—whose fates intertwine with a fierce female general caught between loyalty and love. The drama shines in its intricate world-building and emotional tension, though it falters with repetitive tropes like amnesia and rushed romance arcs. Despite its flaws, Fated Hearts captivates with strong character performances, especially the unpredictable emperor and the bond between the Feng siblings, making it a memorable, if imperfect, royal saga.
- My Review
- Genres: Historical, Mystery, Romance
- Tags: Amnesia, Enemies To Lovers, Violence, Action, Physically Strong Female Lead, Physically Strong Male Lead, Age Gap [Real Life], Prince Male Lead, Cunning Female Lead, Emotionally Strong Female Lead
- A red-clothed archer and a strategic prince go from enemies to allies amid war, memory loss and conspiracy.
-
18. Lost You Forever Season 2
Chinese Drama - 2024, 23 episodes
Lost You Forever Season 2 is a powerful continuation that makes you cry, ache, and yet fall in love all over again. It’s not a perfect story, but it’s one that leaves a lasting mark on the heart.A tale of fated souls who love deeply yet are bound by destiny.
-
19. Legend of Fei
Chinese Drama - 2020, 51 episodes
-
20. Who Rules the World
Chinese Drama - 2022, 40 episodes
A perfect blend of power struggles, hidden identities, and sweeping romance. The chemistry between the leads and the political depth make it stand out.
-
21. Love Like the Galaxy: Part 1
Chinese Drama - 2022, 27 episodes
A perfect blend of power struggles, hidden identities, and sweeping romance. The chemistry between the leads and the political depth make it stand out.
- My Review
- Genres: Historical, Mystery, Romance, Political
- Tags: Slow Burn Romance, Adapted From A Novel, Family Relationship, Male Chases Female First, Family, Smart Female Lead, Han Dynasty, Slice Of Life, General Male Lead, Hidden Identity
-
22. Love Like the Galaxy: Part 2
Chinese Drama - 2022, 29 episodes
A perfect blend of power struggles, hidden identities, and sweeping romance. The chemistry between the leads and the political depth make it stand out.|
-
23. The Rebel Princess
Chinese Drama - 2021, 68 episodes
Grand Epic of Love, Power, and Unshakable Loyalty—A Game of Chess
Great drama, a magnificent lead couple with a lot of chemistry and jaw-dropping technical quality. It deserves to be reviewed over and over again because it is worth it.Refreshingly mature slow burn relationship.
- My Review
- Genres: Historical, Romance, Drama, Melodrama
- Tags: Power Struggle, Arranged Marriage, Political, Badass Male Lead, War, Royalty, Nice Male Lead, Sibling Rivalry, Princess Female Lead, Reverse-Harem
- A grand epic of mature love, power, and sacrifice with breathtaking cinematography. The political intrigue and the leads’ partnership are its strongest pillars.
-
24. New Life Begins
Chinese Drama - 2022, 40 episodes
Sisterhood -Light slice of life rom com
The story of the life in Xin Chuan, how different women from nine regions come together and live their life there, also centering around the main couple (the sixth prince of Xin Chuan and a girl from Jin Chuan.).Some dark themes are touched with abuses on women at centre stage.- A warm, charming slice-of-life romance set in a comedic arranged marriage. Light, comforting, and full of lovable characters.
- Genres: Historical, Comedy, Romance, Life
- Tags: Cheerful Female Lead, Sismance, Arranged Marriage, Multiple Couples, Nice Male Lead, Palace Setting, Friendship, Concubine Female Lead, Smart Male Lead, Found Family
- My Review
- A comedic and adorable arranged marriage between two unwilling strangers who end up being soulmates.
-
25. You Are My Hero
Chinese Drama - 2021, 40 episodes
A heartwarming romance between a doctor and a special forces officer. Sweet, mature, and filled with beautiful character development.
-
26. A Dream of Splendor
Chinese Drama - 2022, 40 episodes
A Beautiful, Empowering Journey
A stunning drama about female friendship, resilience, and self-made success.
Gorgeous production and a refreshing storyline make it one of the best of its genre. -
27. Love of the Divine Tree
Chinese Drama - 2025, 40 episodes
Two halves of a fruit ,Vows, fate, and a role-swap romance
A powerful love story with reincarnation, epic fantasy, hidden identities, sword fights, devastating sacrifice, and love that makes you scream into your pillow — this drama will wreck you in the best way. It’s unskippable, unforgettable, and undeniably addictive. once you start, you won’t be able to stop. And once you finish, you won’t be able to move on.
- "Everyone has their own fate. Sometimes, you can save a person but can't change their fate." - Ye Xin
- Genres: Romance, Wuxia, Drama, Fantasy
- Tags: Master-Disciple Relationship, Xianxia, Conspiracy, Cultivation, Past Life, Noble Sacrifice, Hidden Identity, Betrayal, Reincarnation, Amnesia
- My Review
- A fantasy romance woven around destiny, sacrifice, and ancient powers.
Ideal for fans of tragic yet beautiful xianxia storytelling.
-
28. The Prisoner of Beauty
Chinese Drama - 2025, 36 episodes
Enemies to Lovers Trope Done PERFECTLY!
"A slow-burn journey where love, emotional safety, and resilience break the cycle of generational wound. The Prisoner of Beauty" is one of those rare series you’ll find yourself watching more than once—and still be amazed by the storyline, the characters, and the breathtaking visuals.Great Actors with excellent chemistry between them
- My Review
- Genres: Historical, Romance, Political
- Tags: Enemies To Lovers, Arranged Marriage, Smart Female Lead, Supportive Grandparent, Loyal Female Lead, Cunning Female Lead, Married Female Lead, Married Male Lead, Emotionally Strong Female Lead, Physically Strong Male Lead
- A drama filled with danger, intrigue, and the struggle for freedom.
Its mix of tension and emotional sincerity keeps the story gripping.
-
29. Legend of the Female General
Chinese Drama - 2025, 36 episodes
A strong heroine leads a story of war, loyalty, and love forged through hardship.
Perfect for fans of powerful FLs and military strategy arcs. -
30. The Glory
Chinese Drama - 2025, 30 episodes
Gripping and thrilling story of a comeback
A beautiful journey of calculated vengeance and evolving trust between two clever, formidable leads.Revenge drama done RIGHT with actually morally grey characters, sisterhood and strong chemistry!
-
31. Are You the One
Chinese Drama - 2024, 40 episodes
Amnesia, Fake Marriage, and Real Feelings
A surprisingly engaging drama with great chemistry, humor, and emotional depth. It kept me hooked till the end and delivered solid entertainment throughout.
-
32. Legend of Zang Hai
Chinese Drama - 2025, 40 episodes
A sweeping mythology-based epic blending fate, love, and ancient secrets.
It stands out for its grand world-building and emotional depth. -
33. Fangs of Fortune
Chinese Drama - 2024, 34 episodes
A Gripping Tale of Friendship. Fate, Power, and Redemption
It's visually stunning with gorgeous costumes and beautiful cinematography. The OST is moving and memorable. The fight scenes are elegant and well executed. But above all else, we have a team of endearing and interesting main characters we can root for to overcome all obstacles thrown their way.
- "Meeting you all was like a wonderful dream... but dreams must end"
- My Review
- Genres: Mystery, Romance, Wuxia, Fantasy
- Tags: Demon Male Lead, Demon/Monster Hunting, Teammates' Relationship, Chinese Mythology, Skilled Fighter, Slight Comedy, Enemies To Friends, Friendship, Supernatural, Adapted From Folklore
A visually striking historical fantasy with political twists and mystical undertones.
Perfect for viewers who enjoy darker, atmospheric world-building. -
34. Love in the Clouds
Chinese Drama - 2025, 36 episodes
Bound by Fate, Lifted by Love— A Promise Written in the Sky
LITC is about two souls reaching for freedom and connection above the suffocating rules of the palace — a romance as delicate and fleeting as a drifting cloud.A story bout two lovers bound by duty and fate, yet yearning to break free and soar together despite impossible odds.A story of a promise made under the sky, fragile yet eternal, even when separated by the weight of the world.
- 27 Oct
- Genres: Romance, Wuxia, Fantasy
- My Review
- Tags: Hidden Agenda, Hidden Identity, Xuanhuan, Physically Strong Male Lead, Smart Female Lead, Fake Identity, Enemies To Lovers, Warrior Male Lead, Shapeshifting
A mesmerizing fantasy romance set against celestial realms. With hidden identities, forbidden love, and heart-fluttering chemistry, it’s both magical and emotionally rich.
- 27 Oct
-
35. A Journey to Love
Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes
-
36. Blood River
Chinese Drama - 2025, 38 episodes
A Haunting Journey Into the Heart of Dark River
Blood River is a dark, atmospheric wuxia that expands the Youth Universe with richer lore, deeper character exploration, and stunning action. It finally gives Su Muyu and the Dark River clan the depth missing in previous series. While not romance-focused and not timeline-accurate to BOY/DY, it stands strong as an emotional, visually striking standalone.
- 17 Nov
- My Review
- Genres: Thriller, Wuxia
- Tags: Assassin Male Lead, Secret Organization, Multiple Mains, Martial Arts, Action, Assassin Female Lead, Attempted Assassination, Found Family, Jianghu, Teamwork
-
37. Destined
Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes
A beautifully crafted story about fate, love, and thriving through hardship. The leads’ emotional journey feels grounded and deeply meaningful.
-
38. Si Jin
Chinese Drama - 2025, 40 episodes
A story filled with mystery, emotional tension, and beautifully layered characters.
Its quiet storytelling style keeps you intrigued from start to finish. -
39. When I Fly Towards You
Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes
When Youth Finds Its Wings with Overloaded Cuteness_
It is a heartwarming and nostalgic coming-of-age drama that perfectly captures the innocence and beauty of first love. Set in a high school filled with laughter, dreams, and bittersweet moments, it tells the story of Su Zai Zai — a bright, bubbly girl who falls for the quiet and kind Zhang Lu Rang. Their story isn’t about grand gestures, but the gentle moments that make young love so memorable — shared glances, silent support, and growing together through life’s uncertainties.
With its soft cinematography, relatable characters, and genuine chemistry between the leads, the drama feels like a warm summer memory — simple yet unforgettable. It reminds us that sometimes love isn’t about chasing perfection but about finding someone who makes you feel at peace with who you are.
- My Review
- Genres: Comedy, Romance, Youth
- Tags: Friendship, Love At First Sight, Female Chases Male First, First Love, Healthy Mains’ Relationship, Friends To Lovers, Secondary Couple, High School To Working Life, Coming Of Age, Introverted Male Lead
When I Fly Towards You takes us on a poignant journey through time, capturing the essence of love, self-discovery, and personal growth with a touch of wistful nostalgia.
-
41. Love Me, Love My Voice
Chinese Drama - 2023, 33 episodes
Sweetness Without the Drama—Just Pure Love
Love Me, Love My Voice is one of those rare modern C-dramas that feels like a warm hug. It’s tender, sincere, cozy, and absolutely overflowing with heart. What makes it special is not grand conflicts or dramatic twists but its purity, its gentle romance, and its authenticity. This is a story that celebrates kindness, healing, good food, good music, and genuine connection.
- 3 May
- My Review
- Genres: Food, Music, Romance, Drama
- Tags: Fluffy, Straightforward Male Lead, Male Chases Female First, Voice Actor Male Lead, Healthy Mains’ Relationship, Best Friends' Relationship, Musician Female Lead, Hidden Identity, Composer Female Lead, Voice Actor/Actress Supporting Character
Love Me Love My Voice delivers a heartwarming and soothing narrative, offering audiences a respite from the typical dramatic rollercoaster genre. A must watch if you love a simple but heartwarming drama!!
-
42. The Starry Love
Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes
A Delighfully Fun Fantasy Drama That Avoids Clichés
Starry Love is one of those rare Xianxia dramas that feels refreshing, warm, emotional, and beautifully balanced in every aspect. It sets a new standard for future C-dramas by giving us healthy family bonds, character growth for everyone, well-written female leads, and four realms that are actually interesting.
- 19 Nov
- My Review
- Genres: Comedy, Romance, Wuxia, Fantasy
- Tags: Xianxia, Sisters' Relationship, Nice Male Lead, Twin Exchange, Multiple Couples, Calm Male Lead, Opposites Attract, Warrior Male Lead, Unlikely Romance
Starry Love is stunning, heartfelt, funny, beautifully written, and full of depth. The story is emotional without being depressing, magical without being confusing, and romantic without being toxic.
-
43. Rising with the Wind
Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes
A Smart, Grown-Up Love Story Set in the Business World
Rising With the Wind stands out as one of those rare modern C-dramas that balances business realism with heartfelt character growth, without ever falling into unnecessary tropes. It’s a grounded, mature story carried by sharp dialogue, nuanced characters, and emotionally rich performances.It is a Slow-Burn Romance Wrapped in Real-World Business Challenges.
-
44. Princess Silver
Chinese Drama - 2019, 58 episodes
A Hidden Gem That Deserves Far More Love
This drama has one of the clearest, neatest storylines I’ve ever seen—nothing feels rushed, and every character gets the attention and development they deserve. The suspense is kept alive till the very last episode; even though most of the story unfolds by episode 5, you're still unsure what will happen by episode 58, which is a huge kudos to the writer.
- Genres: Romance, Wuxia, Drama, Fantasy
- Tags: Arranged Marriage, Amnesia, Fake Identity, Reverse-Harem, Sismance, Martial Arts, Revenge, Historical, Illness
-
45. My Fated Boy
Chinese Drama - 2021, 29 episodes
The Childhood Sweethearts Fated to Be Together
It is honestly one of the most wholesome and unexpectedly satisfying dramas I’ve watched. From the very first episodes, the close-up shots were wow — the chemistry between the leads felt natural, warm, and effortless. There were no plot holes, and the FL’s concerns were always valid. The story handled emotional issues maturely, which made everything feel grounded and realistic.
-
46. The Best Thing
Chinese Drama - 2025, 28 episodes
A Beautiful, Uncomplicated, & Healing Love
A beautifully filmed love story infused with traditional Chinese medicine wisdom, despite a slower second half.A Light, comforting, and aesthetically pleasing love story with some great and amazing cinematography. Every scene felt like a perfectly drawn portrait from an artist’s sketchbook.
- Genres: Business, Romance, Drama, Medical
- Tags: Doctor Male Lead, Hotelier Female Lead, Healing, Traditional Medicine, Adapted From A Novel, Insomnia, Hospital Setting, Hotel Setting, Workplace Setting, Healthy Mains’ Relationship
- nothing to the story watch it for cinematography or leads













































