The highly anticipated historical mystery drama Calming Waves (定风波), starring rising talents Wang Xingyue and Xiang Hanzhi, is set to premiere soon. Promising a gripping blend of political intrigue, martial arts heroism, and mind-bending mysteries, this series has already generated buzz for its bold premise, lavish production, and star-studded cast. Adapted from a popular novel of the same name, the 36-episode drama takes viewers into the chaotic world of the Great Qi Dynasty, where survival demands not just strength, but brilliance. A Tale of Betrayal, Survival, and Redemption At the heart of Calming Waves lies the story of Xiao Beiming (played by Wang Xingyue), once revered as the dynasty's greatest detective. His life shatters on what should be his happiest day: framed for a crime during his wedding ceremony, he is forced into exile. This opening twist—rare for a historical drama—sets the stage for a relentless quest for justice. Three years later, Xiao returns to the capital, determined to clear his name. Alongside his sharp-witted martial sister Zhong Xueman (Xiang Hanzhi) and a band of loyal allies, he uncovers a web of conspiracies that threatens both the imperial court and the jianghu (martial arts world). The series masterfully interweaves multiple…

As the Eastern Han crumbled in 220 CE, a whirlwind of ambition swept across China, fracturing the empire into three rival states: Wei, Shu, and Wu. The Three Kingdoms era (220–280 CE) became a theater of legendary rivalries, where cunning strategists and warrior-kings clashed to reunify a fractured realm. Born from the ashes of the Yellow Turban Rebellion, this age turned warlords into philosophers, poets into generals, and betrayal into an art form. Wei, led by the calculating Cao Cao, dominated the north with a blend of Machiavellian politics and military innovation. In the southwest, the virtuous Liu Bei—a distant Han relative—championed Confucian ideals, rallying heroes like the oath-sworn brothers Guan Yu and Zhang Fei. Meanwhile, Sun Quan's Wu kingdom clung to the Yangtze, mastering naval warfare and surviving through shrewd alliances. The Battle of Red Cliffs, where fireboats annihilated a northern fleet, became a symbol of underdog triumph, while Zhuge Liang's Empty Fort Strategy turned psychological warfare into poetry. Ready to outwit history? Charge into sagas where silk-clad scholars duel with stratagems sharper than swords, and alliances shatter like glass under the weight of pride. Witness Cao Cao's tortured brilliance as he straddles tyrant and visionary, or feel the…

Period dramas have leveled up lately. Gone are the days of cheap-looking costumes and flimsy sets—today's productions are all about immersive details. But Chronicles of the Morning Snow (朝雪录) isn't just another pretty historical show. It's a spine-chilling dive into "Chinese Gothic" horror, blending eerie crime scenes, razor-sharp storytelling, and a slow-burn romance. Trust me, this iQiyi exclusive is the dark horse of 2025—and here's why it's worth the hype. A Plot That Grips Like a Nightmare Adapted from the hit novel The Imperial Coroner's Justice, the series opens with Qin Wan (Li Land, 李兰迪), a timid noblewoman in the Qin household. Bullied and overlooked, she's the last person you'd expect to dissect corpses. But after her father's sudden death—a man who quietly solved crimes through forensic science—Qin Wan undergoes a radical transformation. Overnight, she becomes a sharp-witted investigator, using her father's techniques to speak for the dead. Her first case? The infamous Headless Bride Murders, where a noblewoman's decapitated body is found draped in a blood-red wedding gown. The crime scene—a dimly lit ancestral hall with incense smoke curling around severed jade bracelets—sets the tone for the show's unflinching style. This isn't sanitized crime-solving; it's visceral, haunting, and steeped…

If you're into costume dramas and feeling a little starved lately, you're not alone. 2025 has been rough for the genre—modern dramas have been dominating while fantasy period pieces are struggling to stay afloat. A string of duds like White Moon Brahma Star and A Tree in the Immortal City left fans begging for something with real heart. But hope is finally on the horizon. Liu Shishi (刘诗诗), one of the queens of historical drama, is back—bringing with her the full emotional chaos of a fantasy tragedy. Her new drama Huai Shui Bamboo Pavilion (淮水竹亭), dropping on iQIYI on April 13, is already generating serious buzz. Based on Fox Spirit Matchmaker (狐妖小红娘), this show promises everything: intense love, heartbreak, and a lot of crying. Let's break down why this show might just be the new gold standard for tragic period romance. Not Your Average Forbidden Love Story If Startling by Each Step (步步惊心) taught us anything, it's that Liu Shishi knows how to deliver pain. But Huai Shui Bamboo Pavilion isn't just another tearjerker—it's a masterclass in tragic storytelling, with a fantasy twist. Liu Shishi plays Dongfang Huaizhu (东方淮竹), the noble and aloof daughter of the Spirit Tribe and the…

If you've ever wondered how Chinese mythology, history, and fantasy collide on screen, Yang Zi's (杨紫) costume dramas are the perfect starting point. Take Ashes of Love, where she plays Jin Mi, a flower deity navigating love and betrayal across celestial realms. The series doesn't just romanticize immortality; it dissects the consequences of emotion-suppressing poisons and divine politics. Or consider Flourished Peony, where her stoic swordswoman Lu Xueqi battles sect rivalries in a world where loyalty clashes with ambition. Yang Zi's characters aren't just "strong"—they're layered, flawed, and rooted in specific eras, from the Tang Dynasty's perfume trade (Flourished Peony) to mythological clan wars (Lost You Forever). Here's a curated guide to Yang Zi's most iconic costume works. Lost You Forever 长相思 Aired: 2023 Period Background: Mythological era inspired by ancient Chinese legends. Genres: Xianxia, romance, political intrigue. Main Roles: Yang Zi as Xiao Yao, a resilient princess; co-stars Deng Wei (邓为) and Zhang Wan Yi (张晚意). Adapted From: Tong Hua's novel of the same name. Xiao Yao's story begins in tragedy—after losing her royal status and memories, she reinvents herself as Wen Xiao Liu, a rough-edged healer in Qing Shui Town. Her life intertwines with four men, each representing…

Dilraba Dilmurat (迪丽热巴) has redefined versatility in Chinese costume dramas, seamlessly shifting from mischievous fox spirits to battle-hardened warriors. Her ability to anchor fantastical plots with emotional authenticity makes her a standout in the genre. Take The Long Ballad: As Li Changge, she delivered a masterclass in restraint, whether strategizing siege defenses or silently mourning her family's massacre. In Eternal Love of Dream, she balanced Bai Fengjiu's whimsy with grit, turning a lovestruck princess into a symbol of resilience. These roles aren't just performances—they're blueprints for how modern xianxia and historical dramas can prioritize character over spectacle. Below, we break down five dramas that showcase her range, each distinct in tone yet unified by her magnetic presence. Eternal Love of Dream 三生三世枕上书 Aired: 2020 Period Background: Mythological fantasy world spanning three lifetimes. Genres: Romance, Fantasy, Xianxia. Main Roles: Dilraba as Bai Fengjiu, a nine-tailed fox princess; Gao Weiguang as Dong Hua Dijun. Adapted From: Tang Qi Gongzi's novel Three Lives, Three Worlds: The Pillow Book. Spanning three lifetimes, Eternal Love of Dream follows Bai Fengjiu, a fiery nine-tailed fox princess from the Qingqiu fox tribe, as she relentlessly pursues Dong Hua Dijun, an ancient deity who sacrificed his emotions to…

Bai Lu's (白鹿) rise in costume dramas isn't just about beauty—it's a masterclass in versatility. From the tender restraint of a noblewoman to the fiery swagger of a rebel queen, she molds each role into something unforgettable. Take The Journey of Chong Zi: her character Cui Shiyi, a reserved heiress bound by tradition, contrasts sharply with The Legends of Lu Zhaoyao, a leather-clad warlord who smirks while swinging a sword. Even within a single series, like Song of Youth, she shifts seamlessly from Ming-dynasty elegance in embroidered silk to comedic chaos in slapstick disguises. Her secret? She leans into extremes. In The Legends, a crimson robe and unapologetic red eyeliner scream "villainess," while in Court Lady, a single red-dress dance scene—all swirling sleeves and defiant glances—cements her as the queen of physical storytelling. No two roles blur; each is a bold, deliberate stroke on a growing canvas of reinvention. This article highlights her top works, blending rich storytelling, cultural depth, and performances that transcend language barriers. One and Only 周生如故 Aired: 2021 Period Background: Set in a fictional dynasty mirroring the Northern and Southern Dynasties (420–589 CE), a turbulent era marked by fractured kingdoms, military coups, and rigid Confucian social…

If you've ever wondered how Chinese historical dramas blend martial arts, romance, and myth into binge-worthy spectacles, Wang Hedi (王鹤棣) is your gateway actor. Known for roles that demand both physicality and emotional depth—like the time-traveling detective in Guardians of the Dafeng—Wang has become a defining face of China's costume drama boom. This article breaks down Wang Hedi's essential costume dramas, highlighting what makes each unique: intricate worldbuilding, genre-blending narratives, and performances that transcend language barriers. Guardians of the Dafeng 大奉打更人 Aired: 2025 Period Background: A fictional dynasty inspired by the Tang and Ming dynasties, blending historical aesthetics with fantasy elements. Genres: Historical fantasy, mystery, romance, comedy. Main Roles: Wang Hedi as Xu Qi'an, Tian Xiwei as Princess Lin'an Adapted From: The hit web novel of the same name by Mai Bao Xiao Lang Jun The series opens with Xu Qi'an investigating a series of ritualistic murders linked to a cult worshipping the "White Bone Goddess." Using forensic techniques alien to the Great Feng—like analyzing blood spatter patterns and soil samples—he exposes a plot to destabilize the throne. However, the deeper he digs, the more he uncovers about his own mysterious arrival in this era, including cryptic clues left by…

This April, three of China's hottest male stars—Cheng Yi (成毅), Xiao Zhan (肖战), and Yang Yang (杨洋)—are going head-to-head with their brand-new dramas: Fu Shan Hai, Legend of Canghai, and A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality. It's a fantasy face-off of epic proportions—so, which one are you betting on? The Immortal Ascension 凡人修仙传 Starring Yang Yang, Jin Chen (金晨), Wang Duo, Zhao Xiaotang, Zhao Qing, Jiayue, and Rong Zixi, this 30-episode historical xianxia drama tells the legendary tale of an ordinary village boy who accidentally joins a minor martial arts sect. Though he's born with no exceptional talent, he relies on grit, smarts, and persistence to ultimately ascend to immortality. Yang Yang, known for his classic "model face" and heartthrob status, shot to fame with the 2016 megahit Love O2O, which racked up over 10 billion views online. He returned to the top again in 2021 with You Are My Glory, proving he's still a fan favorite among the A-list. Xianxia dramas like Swords of Legends, Immortal Samsara, Ashes of Love, and Eternal Love have long dominated Chinese streaming platforms. Judging from the trailer, A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality doesn't disappoint—Yang Yang's action scenes and…

Produced by Huanrui Century and directed by the visionary duo Mai Guanzhi (Eternal Love) and Li Weiji (The Untamed), Destiny and Saving emerges as 2024's most ambitious Xianxia drama. Starring Zhang Yuxi (张予曦) and Tong Meng (佟梦), this 40-episode saga blends celestial warfare, reincarnation, and a love story that defies cosmic laws. Slated for an April 8 premiere on Mango TV, the series promises lush visuals, morally gray characters, and a narrative that asks: Can love rewrite fate? The Plot: A Phoenix's Ashes and a God's Burden At its core, Destiny and Saving is a tale of cyclical destiny. Feng Lixue (Zhang Yuxi), the fiery phoenix reborn from ashes, embodies resilience and rebellion. Once a revered deity, she falls from grace after defying heavenly edicts to save mortals, only to reincarnate as Nihuang—a demoness with fragmented memories and a heart scarred by betrayal. Opposite her is Mo Xiao (Tong Mengshi), the stoic Shushan sect master burdened by a 1,000-year-old karmic debt. His past life as the God of War left him sealed in ice for millennia, awakening to a world where the lines between righteousness and demonic influence blur. When Nihuang's path collides with Mo Xiao's mission to eradicate demonic…

Hey, ever wanted to see a real-life fairy kick butt in ancient China? Meet Liu Yifei (刘亦菲) — the actress who's been slaying wuxia swords, brewing Song Dynasty tea, and redefining warrior princesses since she was 14. Whether you're here for the sword fights or the feels, Liu Yifei's roles are your next binge-watch obsession. Return of the Condor Heroes 神雕侠侣 Aired: 2006 Period Background: Southern Song Dynasty (13th century) Genres: Wuxia, romance, adventure Main Roles: Liu Yifei as Xiaolongnü (小龙女), Huang Xiaoming as Yang Guo (杨过) Adapted From: Jin Yong's (金庸) classic wuxia novel The Return of the Condor Heroes Return of the Condor Heroes isn't just a drama—it's the ultimate wuxia rollercoaster. Liu Yifei's breakout role as Xiaolongnü (Little Dragon Girl) turned her into an overnight icon, and for good reason: this series has everything. Sword fights on bamboo forests? Check. Forbidden romance that'd make Shakespeare sweat? Double-check. A heroine who can kill you with a silk ribbon? Oh yeah. The Setup: Xiaolongnü isn't your average girl-next-door. Raised in the Tomb of the Living Dead (活死人墓—yes, that's its actual name) by her reclusive sect, she's mastered ancient martial arts but knows zilch about the outside world. Enter Yang…

If you've ever wondered why Hu Ge (胡歌) is called the "King of Chinese Costume Dramas," his roles speak louder than titles. From sword-wielding heroes to cunning strategists, he's brought China's past to life for over 20 years—and his shows are a perfect starting point for anyone curious about Chinese history, myths, and storytelling. No frills, no jargon—just great stories that mix action, romance, and a slice of ancient China. Let's break down his best costume hits and why they're worth your watchlist. Chinese Paladin: Sword and Fairy 仙剑奇侠传 Aired: 2005 Period Background: Mythical Ancient China (Wuxia/Xianxia genre) Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Adventure Main Roles: Hu Ge (Li Xiaoyao), Liu Yifei (Zhao Ling'er), An Yixuan (Lin Yueru) Adapted From: The Sword and Fairy RPG game by Softstar Entertainment. Li Xiaoyao isn't your typical hero. He starts as a carefree, slightly lazy innkeeper in a small coastal village, cracking jokes and dodging responsibility. But when his aunt falls mysteriously ill, he's forced to leave home and seek a cure. What begins as a simple rescue mission quickly spirals into an epic adventure. Along the way, he meets Zhao Ling'er, a gentle but enigmatic girl with a secret lineage tied to ancient immortals,…

If you've ever binge-watched a Cheng Yi (成毅) drama, you know two things: he loves a good costume, and he'll make you cry—or cheer—without saying a word. From mystical immortals to scheming emperors, Cheng Yi has become the go-to actor for Chinese historical and fantasy dramas that hook viewers with their mix of heartbreak, sword fights, and intricate plots. Let's dive into his top period dramas—where every flick of his sleeve or subtle glance tells a story. Love and Redemption 琉璃 Aired: 2020 Period Background: Set in a mythical ancient China Genres: Xianxia, Romance, Fantasy Main Roles:Cheng Yi as Yu Sifeng (禹司凤), Yuan Bingyan (袁冰妍) as Chu Xuanji (褚璇玑) Adapted From: The novel Liu Li Mei Ren Sha (琉璃美人煞) by Shi Si Lang (十四郎) At its core, Love and Redemption is a saga of cosmic love and redemption spanning ten reincarnations. Yu Sifeng, a noble yet cursed disciple, falls for Chu Xuanji, whose fragmented soul lacks emotional awareness due to her divine origins. Each lifetime, Sifeng sacrifices himself to protect her—whether by taking lethal blows, enduring soul-crushing betrayal, or surrendering his spiritual essence—only to watch her forget him repeatedly. Xuanji's journey to regain her "heart" mirrors her awakening as the…

Liu Shishi's (刘诗诗) costume dramas have a unique charm. Whether she plays a gentle yet resilient heroine or a bold and fearless warrior, she always brings her characters to life. Today, let's dive into her top five costume classics and see which one stands out as your favorite. Bu Bu Jing Xin / Startling by Each Step 步步惊心 Aired: 2011 Period Background: Qing Dynasty (17th–18th century) Genres: Time-travel romance, political intrigue Main Roles: Liu Shishi as Zhang Xiao/ Ruoxi (若曦), Nicky Wu as Fourth Prince Yinzhen (胤禛) Adapted From: Tong Hua's (桐华) novel Bu Bu Jing Xin If you've ever daydreamed about time travel, Bu Bu Jing Xin (BBJX) is the drama that will make you rethink that fantasy. Forget glossy escapism—this series drops a modern woman into the cutthroat politics of the Qing Dynasty and asks: What if you knew how history would unfold, but couldn't change it? The Setup: Zhang Xiao (Liu Shishi), a 21st-century office worker, wakes up in 1711 as Maertai Ruoxi, a noblewoman entangled with Kangxi Emperor's sons. Her modern sensibilities clash with rigid imperial rules, but her knowledge of history (thanks to history books) becomes both a weapon and a curse. The Storm: The…

If you're new to Chinese historical dramas, Zhang Ruoyun's (张若昀) name should be at the top of your list. Forget stiff period pieces—his shows mix sharp wit, high-stakes politics, and characters who feel real, even in silk robes. Whether he's playing a math genius in the Ming Dynasty or a warrior prince in a fictional empire, Zhang makes centuries-old stories crackle with modern energy. Let's cut to the chase: here are his five best costume masterpieces to binge next. Joy of Life 庆余年 Aired: Season 1 (2019), Season 2 (2024) Period Background: Fictional Qing Dynasty-inspired empire Genres: Political intrigue, Historical fantasy, Mystery Main Roles: Fan Xian (范闲): Zhang Ruoyun as a witty, modern-minded nobleman navigating court conspiracies. Emperor Qing (庆帝): Chen Daoming (陈道明) as the enigmatic ruler. Adapted From: Cat Nip's novel Joy of Life. If you've ever wondered what Game of Thrones might look like with a Chinese twist—minus the dragons but packed with biting humor and brainy schemers—Joy of Life is your answer. Zhang Ruoyun's breakout role as Fan Xian redefined historical fantasy, blending time-travel logic, political chess games, and a protagonist who'd feel just as at home in a coffee shop as in a royal palace. Aired in two…

If you're tired of predictable heroes in period dramas, meet Yang Yang (杨洋)—an actor who's equally convincing as a brooding immortal, a sword-slinging detective, or a prince who'd rather solve equations than wage wars. Forget stuffy historical accuracy; Yang's dramas thrive on blending fantasy, wit, and heart. Whether he's floating through xianxia realms or sparring with corrupt officials, his roles feel like invitations to explore China's storytelling traditions. Here's why his costume dramas offer the ultimate historical adventures. Who Rules the World 且试天下 Aired: 2022 Period Background: Fictional warring kingdoms (inspired by ancient Chinese dynasties) Genres: Wuxia, Political intrigue, Romance Main Roles:Hei Fengxi/Prince Feng Lanxi (黑丰息/丰兰息): Yang Yang as a cunning, dual-identity prince balancing court politics and martial arts mastery. Bai Fengxi/Feng Xiyun (白风夕/风惜云): Zhao Lusi (赵露思) as a warrior princess and his equal in wit and combat. Adapted From: Qing Lengyue's (倾泠月) novel Who Rules the World. Set in a fictional world of warring kingdoms (think ancient China meets Dune), the show avoids stuffy historical lectures. Instead, it drops you into a high-stakes power struggle between six royal families. Hei Fengxi isn't your typical prince: by day, he's Feng Lanxi, a sickly scholar calculating tax reforms. By night, he's…

If you've ever binge-watched a Chinese drama just for the costumes, chances are Yang Mi (杨幂) was in it. From mischievous fox spirits to time-traveling heroines, she's dominated China's costume drama scene for over a decade—not just with her looks, but with roles that blend grit, wit, and heart. Let's cut straight to her most iconic characters and why they're worth your screen time.   Eternal Love 三生三世十里桃花 Aired: 2017 Period Background: Mythical fantasy realm spanning heavenly, mortal, and demonic worlds. Genres: Xianxia (fantasy martial arts), Romance, Drama Main Roles: Yang Mi as Bai Qian (白浅), Mark Chao (赵又廷) as Ye Hua (夜华) Adaptation Source: Novel Three Lives, Three Worlds, Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms by Tang Qi Gong Zi (唐七公子) Bai Qian, a 140,000-year-old fox goddess and ruler of the Qingqiu Fox Clan, is no damsel in distress. She's a deity who drinks wine like water, fights demons with a smirk, and has zero patience for celestial bureaucracy. But her life gets complicated when a celestial romance curse forces her into three lifetimes of love, loss, and amnesia. First Life: As a young immortal, Bai Qian disguises herself as a male disciple named "Si Yin" to train under the…

As one of China's most versatile actors, Xiao Zhan (肖战) has carved a unique niche in the world of historical and fantasy serie. His roles often showcase not only his acting range but also the intricate beauty of traditional Chinese aesthetics—from flowing hanfu robes to meticulously recreated imperial settings. Whether you're drawn to epic tales of loyalty and heroism, intricate political intrigues, or soul-stirring romances set against mythical backdrops, Xiao Zhan's dramas deliver unforgettable narratives. This guide will spotlight his most iconic period dramas. Prepare to be captivated by sword-clashing grandeur, poetic storytelling, and a star whose talent shines as brightly as the worlds he brings to life. Cang Hai Zhuan 藏海传 Aired: 2025 (Upcoming) Genres: Historical, Political Intrigue, Revenge Main Roles: Xiao Zhan (Cang Hai), Zhang Jingyi (Xiang Antu) Set in the fictional Great Yong dynasty, Cang Hai Zhuan revolves around the titular character (Xiao Zhan), a survivor of a clan massacre who dedicates a decade to mastering strategy, craftsmanship, and political manipulation. His mission: infiltrate the imperial court disguised as a scholar to unravel the conspiracy behind his family's annihilation. The story intertwines personal vengeance with national salvation as Cang Hai climbs the bureaucratic ladder, forging fragile alliances…

Imagine wandering through mist-shrouded mountains where immortal cultivators duel with spells, or bustling Tang Dynasty markets humming with Silk Road traders and political conspiracies. This is the world of Wang Yibo's Period dramas—a gateway to China's mythic past, where history and fantasy collide in breathtaking spectacle. Wang Yibo (王一博), a rising star with over 40 million Instagram followers, has become an unlikely ambassador of Chinese culture. His roles—whether as a stoic swordsman, a rogue prince, or a genius scholar—transcend language barriers, blending Confucian ideals with modern charisma. Below is a curated guide to his Top 3 Period Dramas. The Untamed 陈情令 Aired: June–August 2019 Period Background: Fictional ancient China, inspired by the Five Great Clans system. Genres: Fantasy, Xianxia (immortal heroes), Mystery, Bromance Main Roles: Wang Yibo as Lan Wangji (蓝忘机), Xiao Zhan as Wei Wuxian (魏无羡) Adaptation Source: Based on Mo Xiang Tong Xiu's novel Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation At its core, The Untamed is a story of defiance and devotion. Set in a world where powerful clans cultivate spiritual energy to combat supernatural evils, the series follows two contrasting souls: Lan Wangji, the icy yet righteous heir of the Gusu Lan Clan, and Wei Wuxian, a free-spirited prodigy…

When Xiao Zhan's studio announced the global release of his album We / Us / Wild on March 14, even they might not have anticipated the storm it would unleash within 24 hours-all without pre-promotion, no music show performances, and zero TikTok hype. Day One Triumph: Numbers That Speak Volumes Within eight hours of release, the album topped iTunes charts in 19 countries. By the next day, that number had climbed to 21 No. 1s and 41 high rankings globally, securing the second spot on the worldwide album chart. What's more shocking is its dominance in Japan, a notoriously insular market where the Mandarin album debuted at No. 1 on iTunes. In the U.S., it rose from No. 2 to claim the top spot, with its music video also hitting first place. A foreign music critic remarked, "This isn't just a win for Chinese music-it's a triumph of emotional resonance." Unlike K-pop groups that flood global markets with multilingual tracks and worldwide tours, his Mandarin-only album shattered cultural barriers through raw authenticity. His Milan Fashion Week appearances, Cannes Film Festival teasers for The Legend of Eagle Shooter, and casual Barcelona postcards shared on social media became subtle catalysts for this…