Honest Rankings - C-Drama Costume & Period
Began my C-Drama journey at the start of 2024.
This list includes all the series I’ve watched in full, as well as the ones I’m currently watching (which will appear unrated at the bottom).
If I drop a show before finishing it, it will be removed entirely - in my view, if I can’t make it to the end, it doesn’t deserve a spot here.
Plot holes and poor storytelling are my biggest pet peeves, along with drawn-out “poisoned hero” or “cursed power” tropes where an otherwise overpowered main character is constantly restricted for the entire series. Despite this, Nirvana in Fire being on top of my list should be an indicator of the greatness of the series.
I really enjoy elaborate world-building, layered storytelling, and well-rounded character arcs. I also love when a story includes comedic elements, though it’s not essential for me to enjoy a series.
I’m always open to C-Drama recommendations and welcome any comments on the list. This is an evolving list and I look forward to discovering more titles worthy of being here.
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1. Nirvana in Fire
Chinese Drama - 2015, 54 episodes
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2. Joy of Life
Chinese Drama - 2019, 46 episodes
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3. Joy of Life Season 2
Chinese Drama - 2024, 36 episodes
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4. Guardians of the Dafeng
Chinese Drama - 2024, 40 episodes
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5. The Blood of Youth
Chinese Drama - 2022, 40 episodes
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6. Who Rules the World
Chinese Drama - 2022, 40 episodes
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7. Mysterious Lotus Casebook
Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes
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8. Side Story of Fox Volant
Chinese Drama - 2022, 40 episodes
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9. The Immortal Ascension
Chinese Drama - 2025, 30 episodes
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10. Sword Snow Stride
Chinese Drama - 2021, 38 episodes
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11. Word of Honor
Chinese Drama - 2021, 36 episodes
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12. Legend of the Female General
Chinese Drama - 2025, 36 episodes
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13. Till the End of the Moon
Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes
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14. Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty
Chinese Drama - 2022, 36 episodes