Best 8 Romantic CN Anime List

Chinese romance animations thrive on bold storytelling and character-driven intimacy. Series like Fox Spirit Matchmaker hook viewers with immortal lovers defying reincarnation cycles, while No Doubt in Us reinvents relationship dynamics through a royal couple's body-swap chaos. These stories avoid tired tropes by grounding emotions in tangible stakes: a demon hunter's loyalty tested across lifetimes in Demon List, or a mortal girl unraveling celestial secrets in Contemplation of Affection. What unites them is razor-sharp focus on how characters earn love—whether battling societal expectations or their own flaws—making every confession or sacrifice resonate with raw, earned authenticity.

Fox Spirit Matchmaker 狐妖小红娘

"Fox Spirit Matchmaker" redefines fantasy romance with its inventive premise of fox spirits bridging past and present loves. At its core lies the hauntingly beautiful saga of Dongfang Yuechu, a mortal warrior, and Tu Shan Honghong, a fox spirit matchmaker bound by centuries of duty. Their story isn't a straightforward courtship but a layered unraveling of identities—she must confront her role as an emotionless facilitator of others' romances while secretly yearning for her own; he grapples with fragmented memories of lives where their love repeatedly ended in tragedy.

The series weaponizes reincarnation as both plot device and emotional catalyst. Flashbacks to past lives—as star-crossed lovers in imperial courts or wartime allies—reveal how their choices ripple across lifetimes. These memories aren't mere history; they actively shape present tensions, forcing Honghong to question her detachment and Yuechu to defy the fatalism haunting their bond. In one pivotal arc, Honghong's professional composure cracks while negotiating a love contract for another couple, mirroring her own repressed desires and past failures.

Visually, the animation blends tradition with narrative purpose. Honghong's ornate robes, rich in intricate patterns, contrast with Yuechu's simpler attire, reflecting their clash between celestial duty and mortal vulnerability. Scenes transition between lush ink-wash landscapes and stark modern settings, mirroring the tension between eternal obligations and fleeting human connection.

What captivates is the protagonists' agency. Their romance thrives on active choices: Honghong risking divine wrath to preserve Yuechu's memories, or Yuechu confronting a past-life nemesis threatening her existence. Even humor—like Honghong's deadpan reactions to clients' petty dramas—underscores her struggle to balance duty with longing.

Forget destined soulmates—this is love carved through grit. As Honghong declares, "We've rewritten tragedies before. Why not this life?" The series triumphs by making every reunion and rupture feel earned, proving that resilience, not fate, fuels their bond. "Fox Spirit Matchmaker" delivers a romance where the fight for connection outweighs the fantasy tropes enabling it, offering emotional depth that lingers long after the credits roll.

Demon List 妖怪名单

Demon List is a captivating urban fantasy that follows Feng Xi, a young man entangled in the supernatural world due to his past-life connections with mythical beings. The story masterfully blends romance, action, and Chinese mythology, creating a rich narrative where ancient legends collide with modern life.

Feng Xi possesses the rare "Yin-Yang Eyes," allowing him to see spirits and demons hidden among humans. His life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters Su Jiu'er, a werewolf girl who becomes both his love interest and protector. Their relationship is central to the story, filled with tender moments and intense conflicts as Feng Xi navigates her dangerous world. Alongside Su Jiu'er, Feng Xi interacts with other supernatural beings—such as a nine-tailed fox spirit, a dragon princess, and a Taoist exorcist—each tied to his forgotten past lives.

The plot balances thrilling action (demonic battles, exorcisms) with emotional depth, exploring themes of fate, redemption, and coexistence between humans and spirits. A standout arc involves Feng Xi uncovering his past identity as a powerful demon hunter, which forces him to confront old enemies and question his moral boundaries. The side stories—like a ghost seeking vengeance or a yokai hiding in human society—add layers to the worldbuilding while reinforcing the blurred line between good and evil.

Visually, the series excels in reimagining traditional yaoguai (Chinese demons) with modern flair, from Su Jiu'er's fierce yet elegant design to eerie supernatural realms. The pacing is tight, with each chapter revealing new lore or escalating stakes.

White Snake: Origins 白蛇缘起

White Snake: Origins reinterprets China's timeless Legend of the White Snake, delving into Bai Suzhen's origins before she becomes the iconic serpent spirit. Unlike traditional adaptations, this prequel explores her first encounter with love—a mortal snake hunter named Xuan. After losing her memories, Bai Suzhen (simply called "Xiao Bai") awakens in a village where Xuan saves her from drowning. Their bond deepens as they journey together to uncover her true identity, facing Taoist sorcerers, vengeful demons, and the celestial order itself. The story masterfully balances tender romance with high-stakes fantasy action, culminating in a climactic battle that forces Bai Suzhen to choose between her supernatural destiny and her love for Xuan.

A Fresh Take on a Classic Myth–While most adaptations focus on Bai Suzhen's later life in Hangzhou, Origins crafts an original prequel story that enriches her character with emotional depth. Her struggle between duty and desire feels fresh yet faithful to the legend's spirit.

Stunning Visual Storytelling–The animation blends traditional Chinese ink-wash aesthetics with cutting-edge CGI, creating lush landscapes (floating pagodas, misty rivers) and dynamic action sequences (shape-shifting battles, spell duels). Every frame feels like a moving painting.

Unlike simplistic love stories, Bai Suzhen and Xuan's relationship evolves naturally—from curiosity to trust, then sacrifice. The film questions rigid moral boundaries (human vs. demon, duty vs. love) without easy answers.

Beyond romance, the film delivers exhilarating fights (Bai Suzhen's serpent form vs. an army of Taoist cultivators) and intriguing lore (the Snake Clan's rebellion against heaven). The pacing ensures no dull moments.

While accessible globally, the film honors its source material through details like Taoist talismans, folklore creatures (fox spirits, dragon guardians), and themes of reincarnation—making it a must-watch for wuxia/xianxia fans.

White Snake: Origins transcends being "just another retelling" by offering a poignant, action-packed origin story with universal appeal. Highly recommended for lovers of epic romance and mythic adventure.

When the Moon Rises: Chang'an Memories 拾忆长安·明月几时有

Set in a fictionalized Tang Dynasty-inspired empire, the series centers on Li Mingyue, a sharp-minded princess forced into a political marriage with General Xiao Jue, a stoic war hero entangled in court power struggles. Their union begins as a transactional alliance to quell rising rebellions, but as Mingyue navigates palace intrigue and Xiao Jue confronts his loyalty to the throne, their relationship evolves from icy distrust to a partnership rooted in mutual respect and quiet passion. Together, they unravel conspiracies threatening the empire, balancing duty with personal desires in a world where trust is a luxury.

Political Strategy as Character Development: Unlike many historical romances that treat politics as mere backdrop, this series uses court schemes to drive character growth. Mingyue's diplomatic acumen—such as outmaneuvering corrupt ministers through calculated alliances—mirrors Xiao Jue's battlefield tactics, showcasing how their strengths complement each other. Their evolving dynamic is less about grand romantic gestures and more about intellectual synergy.

Subverting Gender Roles: Mingyue is neither a damsel nor a warrior cliché. Her power lies in emotional intelligence and strategic negotiation, challenging the era's patriarchal norms. Xiao Jue, meanwhile, defies the "cold general" trope by grappling with vulnerability, particularly his conflicted loyalty to a morally ambiguous emperor.

Layered Antagonists: Conflicts stem from nuanced motives rather than one-dimensional villainy. A rival noble's vendetta against Xiao Jue, for instance, is rooted in wartime trauma, while a concubine's schemes arise from systemic disempowerment. This depth elevates the stakes, making resolutions feel earned.

Visual Storytelling with Purpose: The animation's muted color palette and intricate costumes reflect the story's tone—elegant yet restrained. Scenes like Mingyue's solitary walks through moonlit courtyards symbolize her isolation, while battle sequences use minimal dialogue to emphasize Xiao Jue's internal turmoil.

Balancing Episodic and Arc-Driven Narratives: Subplots, such as a rebellion led by disillusioned soldiers, tie into the central theme of sacrifice for the greater good. Even lighter moments—like Mingyue bonding with a young maid over shared loneliness—serve to humanize the high-stakes world.

Memories of Chang'an stands out by treating its historical setting as a catalyst for introspection rather than spectacle. It's a story where love and duty aren't at odds but intertwined forces shaping its protagonists' choices. For viewers seeking a romance steeped in political intellect and emotional subtlety, this series offers a refreshing departure from formulaic dramas.

Contemplation of Affection 眷思量

It is a visually stunning animated series set in Siliang, a secluded realm where exiled celestial beings and mortal descendants coexist under oppressive divine laws. Mortal Ling Xiao, shipwrecked in Siliang as a child, and celestial warrior Yan Xing, bound to protect the realm's secrets, collide when she awakens an ancient artifact linked to his past. Their forbidden attraction ignites amid political schemes threatening Siliang's stability, unraveling corruption among celestial elites and challenging taboos separating mortals and gods.

Siliang's floating islands, divine hierarchies, and lore of fallen deities create a mythic tapestry. Ling Xiao's mortal curiosity clashes with Yan Xing's guarded duty as they uncover the realm's cursed origins—a celestial cover-up endangering all. Divine edicts, like trapping mortals within Siliang, drive tension, while Yan Xing's wartime trauma adds emotional heft to his stoicism.

The animation blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with cinematic grandeur: moonlit palaces, flowing hanfu, and elemental magic craft ethereal visuals. Subtle character expressions—Yan Xing's conflicted glances, Ling Xiao's defiant resolve—elevate emotional stakes without dialogue.

Their bond grows organically through peril and quiet intimacy (e.g., Yan Xing teaching celestial calligraphy). Chemistry simmers in unspoken tension—his loyalty vs. her rebellion—eschewing melodrama for nuanced yearning.

The celestial council's lies mirror real power dynamics, as Ling Xiao challenges immortal hypocrisy: "Can justice thrive on deceit?" Side characters, like trickster fox spirit Xiao Jin, embody freedom vs. duty, while Ling Xiao's agency defies damsel tropes. Yan Xing's grief humanizes him beyond the "cold warrior" cliché.

While rooted in xianxia tropes, the series innovates by prioritizing emotional intelligence over spectacle. It balances mythic scale with intimate stakes, treating its lore with reverence rather than ornamentation.

For fans of Heaven Official's Blessing or To Your Eternity, Contemplation of Affection offers a mature, visually poetic exploration of love and morality. Its blend of political intrigue, cultural authenticity, and quiet romance redefines celestial storytelling, proving fantasy can be both breathtaking and profound. A masterpiece for those seeking depth beneath beauty.

No Doubt in Us 两不疑

"No Doubt in Us" is a fantasy rom-com set in an ancient imperial court, following Emperor Xiao Jinyun and Empress Xu Yu, whose icy marriage is upended when they accidentally swap bodies.

The emperor, adept at governance but lacking martial prowess, and the empress, a bold military heir stifled by palace life, initially share mutual distrust. Forced into each other's roles—Xiao Jinyun navigating harem politics and Xu Yu tackling state affairs—they confront hidden struggles. The emperor endures the empress's loneliness, while she grapples with his burdens of power. Through comedic mishaps and poignant revelations, their begrudging partnership evolves into mutual respect and love, culminating in a healed bond that embodies the adage, "Becoming husband and wife by tying hair together, loving without doubt."

Recommended for its clever fusion of humor and emotional depth, the series revitalizes the body-swap trope by intertwining it with gender critiques and palace intrigue. Xu Yu's fiery decisiveness in court contrasts hilariously with Xiao Jinyun's floundering in feminine social traps, subtly challenging stereotypes. Both characters defy archetypes: Xu Yu is no damsel but a warrior-stateswoman; Xiao Jinyun sheds arrogance to embrace empathy.

The narrative mirrors real marital struggles—communication breakdowns, rebuilding trust—without melodrama, balancing brisk pacing with nuanced emotional beats. Supporting characters add levity, while the protagonists'growth bridges ancient and modern relational ideals, offering entertainment and introspection.

Its success stems from thematic cohesion, using fantasy to underscore that love thrives on empathy, not perfection. The swap becomes a metaphor for vulnerability, fostering growth through shared adversity. Coupled with rich Chinese aesthetics and stellar performances, the series marries wit and wisdom, making it a timeless exploration of partnership. A masterclass in blending levity with heart, No Doubt in Us proves that understanding, forged through walking another's path, is the truest foundation of love.

Cinderella Chef 萌妻食神

Modern-day chef Ye Jiayao (played by Zhong Danni) accidentally time-travels to ancient China and is forced into a contract marriage with Xia Chunyu (Xu Zhixian), a bandit leader who is secretly an undercover nobleman. As they navigate their uneasy alliance, Xia's true mission as a spy unravels, while Ye leverages her culinary skills and business savvy to reinvent herself as a renowned chef in the male-dominated food industry. Their paths diverge when political turmoil erupts, but fate reunites them in a high-stakes game of court conspiracies and emotional trials, culminating in a partnership that defies societal norms.

Food isn't just a backdrop—it drives the narrative. Ye's modern techniques, like creating fruit preserves or using scarcity marketing to boost her restaurant's popularity, become clever plot devices that resolve conflicts and showcase her ingenuity. Each dish symbolizes her resilience and bridges her dual identities.

Ye Jiayao breaks the mold of passive heroines. Her wit, entrepreneurial spirit, and refusal to conform to ancient gender roles make her a compelling lead. Xia Chunyu's layered persona—stoic yet vulnerable—adds depth to their evolving relationship, balancing sweet romance with gripping tension.

The series thrives on humor derived from Ye's modern sensibilities clashing with ancient traditions. Scenes like her introducing games like Werewolf to the imperial court or disguising herself as a male chef inject levity without undermining the historical setting's authenticity.

Beyond romance, the plot weaves in espionage, royal succession battles, and family vendettas. Subplots like Xia's hidden lineage or Ye's entanglement in a political marriage scheme keep the stakes high, ensuring the story never feels one-dimensional.

Adapted from a popular web novel, the live-action and anime versions have garnered praise for their tight pacing and visual appeal. The anime, rated 9.3/10 on Bilibili, is lauded for its charming art style, while the drama's mouthwatering food cinematography and well-choreographed action scenes make it a perfect comfort watch. Directors Zhao Jintao and Zhang Jinqing skillfully balance comedic timing with suspense, creating a series that feels both whimsical and grounded.

Cinderella Cheff excels by intertwining food, love, and ambition into a cohesive narrative. Its clever blend of lighthearted charm and intricate plotting offers something for everyone, redefining the time-travel genre with originality and heart.

The Spirit Princess 通灵妃

The Spirit Princess follows Qian Yunxi, a sharp-witted heroine born with the rare ability to communicate with spirits. Thrust into a political marriage with the cold and secretive Prince Ye Youming, she enters his palace as a pawn in a feud between noble families. Refusing to be a passive bride, Yunxi uses her spiritual gifts to unravel court conspiracies tied to her husband's shadowy past. Their reluctant alliance evolves into a partnership that challenges rigid societal norms, blending supernatural intrigue with a enemies-to-lovers arc.

A Heroine Who Defies Tropes: Yunxi is no damsel in distress. Her humor, independence, and moral complexity drive the story. Whether bargaining with ghosts or outsmarting scheming nobles, she navigates adversity with agency, making her a refreshing departure from passive romance leads.

Supernatural Meets Court Drama: The series merges ghostly mysteries with palace politics. For instance, Yunxi's spirit allies help expose corruption or resolve tragedies haunting key characters, weaving the supernatural into human ambition without feeling gimmicky.

Dynamic Character Chemistry: The tension between Yunxi and Ye Youming crackles with wit and emotional depth. Their relationship grows from mutual distrust to a bond built on vulnerability—his cursed lineage and her outsider status mirror each other, adding layers to their romance.

Balanced Pacing & Tone: Episodes deftly shift between laugh-out-loud comedy (e.g., Yunxi's mischievous spirits tormenting officials) and darker themes like betrayal and sacrifice. This tonal balance prevents the story from veering into melodrama or slapstick.

Symbolism with Substance: Yunxi's spirit companions aren't mere plot devices. A recurring fox spirit, for example, reflects her adaptability in a patriarchal world, while ghostly subplots often critique societal injustices, grounding fantasy in real-world relevance.

The Spirit Princess stands out by centering a flawed, proactive heroine in a genre often dominated by archetypes. Its clever fusion of ghostly folklore and political machinations creates a narrative that's both whimsical and weighty, offering more than just romance—it's a story about resilience, empathy, and challenging the status quo. For viewers craving a historical fantasy with bite, this series delivers.

From magical contracts to schoolyard crushes, these series prove romance isn't a subplot but the narrative backbone. The best—like White Snake: Origins with its painterly tragedy or Universal Love Shop's quirky magical realism—use genre frameworks to amplify emotional truth. Whether it's a cross-dressing idol's identity crisis or an empress mastering swordplay to protect her partner, the tension lies in characters embracing vulnerability to grow. No grand metaphors needed—just flawed humans (or spirits) choosing connection over fear. For viewers craving love stories that do more than swoon, these titles deliver substance with every heart-stopping twist.