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…

As one of China's most dynamic "post-95" actresses, Zhao Lusi has redefined the landscape of historical and fantasy dramas with her magnetic performances. Her works are not just entertainment—they are gateways to understanding Chinese culture, blending traditional aesthetics, mythological lore, and progressive themes. This guide recommend her top Period Dramas: Love Like the Galaxy·星汉灿烂·月升沧海 Aired: July 2022 Genres: Family Saga, Political Intrigue, Romance Period Background: Loosely inspired by the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), with fictional kingdoms and war-torn landscapes. Adapted From: Xing Han Can Lan by Guan Xin Ze Luan. Cheng Shaoshang (Zhao Lusi), a neglected noble daughter, grows up in a family overshadowed by political ambitions. Abandoned by her parents during wartime and raised by a manipulative aunt, she survives by feigning ignorance while secretly honing her intellect and resourcefulness. Her life intertwines with Ling Buyi (Wu Lei), a general haunted by his mysterious past and driven by a quest for justice. Their relationship evolves from mutual distrust to a partnership that navigates familial betrayals, wartime chaos, and court conspiracies. The series delves into Confucian family dynamics, where filial piety clashes with personal ambition. Shaoshang's journey—from a marginalized "left-behind child" to a strategist who saves her nation—mirrors the…

2025 emerges as a landmark year for Xianxia (仙侠) — a genre blending immortal heroes, ancient mythology, and Taoist-inspired cultivation. This guide highlights the most anticipated Xianxia anime of 2025. Dive into epic tales of celestial battles, mortal struggles, and philosophical depth, all while immersing yourself in China's historical and mythological heritage. A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality: Overseas Strife 凡人修仙传：外海风云 Aired: January 2025 (ongoing) Genres: Cultivation, Adventure, Political Intrigue Cultural Themes: Han Dynasty aesthetics, Confucian values, Taoist philosophy Based on Wang Yu's legendary novel A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality, this highly anticipated arc follows Han Li, a pragmatic mortal navigating the treacherous world of cultivation. The Overseas Strife installment takes the story beyond the familiar sect conflicts and into uncharted maritime territories, where Han Li faces foreign cultivators, demonic sea creatures, and ancient island ruins hiding lost techniques. As an ordinary man relying on intellect rather than destiny, Han Li's journey encapsulates the enduring appeal of the underdog—a mortal striving for ascension in a world dominated by celestial elites. The animation's hyper-realistic art style, reminiscent of traditional Chinese landscape paintings, breathes life into mist-shrouded mountains, oceanic whirlpools, and intricately designed talismans. The attention to…

Hanfu, the traditional attire of the Han Chinese, is more than just a piece of clothing—it is a symbol of culture, identity, and history. Throughout Chinese history, literature and classical texts have played a crucial role in shaping and preserving the significance of Hanfu. From ancient poetry to Confucian philosophy, Hanfu is often depicted as a marker of virtue, status, and national pride. But how exactly has Hanfu influenced Chinese literature, and what role does it play in classical texts? Let’s dive into the intricate relationship between Hanfu and Chinese literary traditions. The Symbolism of Hanfu in Classical Chinese Literature Hanfu is not just a form of dress—it is a representation of Confucian ideals, social order, and aesthetics. In classical Chinese literature, Hanfu is often used as a symbol to convey deeper meanings about a character’s identity, social status, and moral values. Hanfu as a Reflection of Status and Virtue In many ancient Chinese texts, clothing is an essential marker of a person’s role in society. The “Book of Rites” (礼记), one of the Confucian classics, describes in detail the appropriate attire for different social classes and occasions. Hanfu was more than fashion—it was a reflection of an individual's virtue…

For a generation raised on the sleek aesthetics of 2D hand-drawn and 3D CGI animation, stop-motion might seem like an antiquated relic of the past. Unlike its counterparts, stop-motion is built on tangible artistry: puppets, clay figures, and mixed materials manipulated frame by painstaking frame. The result? A distinctive, textured realism unmatched by digital techniques. In China, the legacy of stop-motion animation once flourished with studios like Shanghai Animation Film Studio producing classics such as Magic Brush Ma Liang (神笔马良) and The Story of Avanti (阿凡提的故事). However, since the rise of CGI in the 1980s, stop-motion animation has become a niche art form globally, celebrated only by enthusiasts or explored in experimental shorts. Breaking this lull, Tencent Video’s Lantern Blade (灯笼刀) reintroduces audiences to the magic of stop-motion animation, this time through a gritty, action-packed lens. Adapting the cult-favorite comic of the same name, Lantern Blade blends martial arts, cosmic horror, and Western-esque atmospheres into a striking 67-minute trilogy. A Blade that Glows in the Dark Lantern Blade opens in a shadowy, mythical world steeped in Lovecraftian lore. The story revolves around an enigmatic warrior named Lantern Blade, whose titular weapon, a lantern-clad sword, glows in the presence of undead…

A Fantasy That Divides: Beauty or a Beast in Disguise? The recent release of Fangs of Fortune (大梦归离) has ignited a fiery debate among viewers, solidifying its place as one of the most polarizing dramas of the season. Directed by Guo Jingming (郭敬明), known for his divisive cinematic style, this new venture builds on his earlier work, Cloud Feather. While fans hail Fangs of Fortune as a rare gem that revitalizes the fantasy genre with its dazzling visuals and bold narrative, critics deride it as an overindulgent spectacle with little substance beneath its glamorous surface. This divide echoes Guo’s career-long reception: celebrated by some, castigated by others. A World Beyond Genre Categorizing Fangs of Fortune is no easy task. It flirts with elements of fantasy, mystery, and wuxia (martial arts drama), fusing them into a narrative that defies convention. Set in a mystical world where humans, gods, and monsters coexist, the show weaves a tale of intrigue, danger, and fractured allegiances. The drama draws heavily from The Classic of Mountains and Seas (山海经), an ancient Chinese text brimming with mythical creatures. The plot unfolds during the Zhenyuan (桢沅) Era, a time of chaos triggered by the untimely death of the…

From Sidekicks to Protagonists: The Rise of Veteran Action Stars In recent years, the action film genre has experienced a remarkable resurgence, defying predictions of its decline and captivating audiences with fresh energy and innovation. This revival is not happening in traditional cinemas, but rather in the realm of streaming platforms, where a new generation of filmmakers and seasoned action stars are finding unprecedented creative freedom and audience appreciation. The unexpected success of films like "Kowloon Walled City: The Besieged" (九龙城寨之围城) during the May Day holiday period and the summer hit "Rebirth" has shattered preconceptions about the genre's viability. These productions have not only exceeded box office expectations but have also showcased the untapped potential of veteran actors who are finally stepping into leading roles, captivating viewers with their newfound prominence. This shift is particularly evident in the online film market, where an increasing number of action performers are demonstrating their versatility and growth. Take, for instance, the case of Xie Miao (谢苗), who has re-entered the public consciousness with his roles in the "Northeast Police Story" and "No One in Sight" series. His successful transition from child star to mature actor exemplifies the kind of career evolution that the digital platform enables…

In recent years, a fascinating cultural phenomenon has been sweeping across the globe, captivating the hearts and minds of fashion enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The resurgence of Hanfu, the traditional clothing of China's Han ethnic majority, has transcended its original borders and found a new audience on the international stage. This revival is not just a nostalgic nod to the past, but a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage that's making waves from the ancient caves of Dunhuang to the chic streets of Paris. The Artisans Behind the Movement: Weaving Tradition into Modern Fashion At the heart of this Hanfu renaissance are passionate artisans and entrepreneurs who are breathing new life into age-old designs. Take, for example, the story of Qin Weifeng and Zhou Wanchao, a millennial couple from Hangzhou who have become unexpected champions of traditional Chinese fashion. Their journey began in the textile mills of Chongxian, a once-thriving center of silk production in northern Hangzhou. Qin and Zhou's venture into the world of Hanfu was serendipitous. As the demand for traditional silk bedding waned, the couple found themselves at a crossroads. Rather than abandoning their family's textile legacy, they saw an opportunity to pivot towards creating authentic Hanfu…

In the ever-evolving landscape of television dramas, few things spark as much debate and disappointment as abrupt endings and unfulfilled promises. Recently, the Chinese TV series "Golden Age of Jin Yong" (金庸武侠世界) found itself at the center of such controversy, leaving viewers divided and questioning the integrity of its production. The series, originally touted to encompass 60 episodes under the ambitious title "New Legend of the Condor Heroes," abruptly concluded after airing only the first segment titled "Iron-Blooded Heart" (铁血丹心). This unexpected decision was met with a wave of criticism from loyal fans who had eagerly anticipated the unfolding of the entire narrative. Announced via the official Weibo account on July 6th, the closure of "Golden Age of Jin Yong" came as a shock to many. The post expressed gratitude to viewers for their support and hinted at a farewell to the martial arts world depicted in the series. Despite initial excitement and high expectations fueled by promotional material featuring a star-studded cast and grandiose production promises, the series failed to deliver on its full potential. At its core, "Golden Age of Jin Yong" aimed to create a cinematic universe akin to Marvel's, gathering iconic characters from Jin Yong's extensive…

Ren Jialun (任嘉伦), once hailed as a heartthrob of Chinese television dramas, has encountered turbulent tides in his career journey, marked by both soaring success and challenging controversies. From his iconic roles opposite leading actresses like Tan Songyun (谭松韵) and Bai Lu (白鹿) in "Under the Power" (锦衣之下) and "Forever and Ever" (一生一世) respectively, to the anticipated period drama "The Flame" which unfortunately failed to ignite as expected, Ren's career has been a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows. Ren Jialun's rise to fame was swift, propelled by his charismatic performances in popular dramas that captured the hearts of audiences nationwide. However, his career took a downturn amidst a scandal of infidelity, tarnishing his once impeccable public image. Despite efforts to revive his popularity with "The Flame," his hopes were dashed as competing dramas starring Zhao Liying and Lin Gengxin dominated viewership and online discussions, leaving Ren struggling to reclaim his former glory. A Glimmer of Hope: "Drifting Through the Water" In his latest endeavor, the historical drama "Drifting Through the Water," Ren Jialun collaborates with Li Landi in a poignant tale of tragic romance set against a backdrop of political intrigue. The drama, adapted from the novel by Chinese author Xiaolou, promises to captivate audiences with its…

On July 14th, amidst a backdrop of suspense and excitement, Tencent Video's highly anticipated original animated shorts collection finally lifted its veil, launching with its debut works "Save Me" and "Lantern Blade" under the "Stop-Motion Animation Series". These shorts, exclusive to Tencent Video's JUMP Card, mark the beginning of a journey into the realms of fantasy and creativity. Featuring 12 animated shorts crafted by a diverse group of 12 directors from around the world, the collection is structured around three main themes: "Stop-Motion Animation Series", "Young Directors Series", and "Great Artists Series". Innovative Storytelling through Classic Animation Imagine finding a message in a drifting bottle inside a public restroom toilet – it reads "Save Me" (救我) alongside precious diamonds. Between the struggle of desires, would you choose to rescue the one in distress or wait for more diamonds? This is the premise of "Save Me", a whimsical tale that navigates through twists and turns of wuxia adventure and mystery. Meanwhile, "Lantern Blade" (灯笼刀) dives into the realms of traditional martial arts and Lovecraftian horror, bridging Eastern and Western elements to convey universal values of truth and beauty. Upcoming in the series, "The Inn of Heroes" promises a modern-day comedic take on martial…