The popularity of Chinese dramas continues to soar as viewers look for fresh stories and visually captivating series each year. Based on rankings from Maoyan, one of China’s most influential entertainment platforms, several Chinese dramas stand out as top recommendations. These titles not only earn impressive ratings but also dominate conversations on social media and streaming platforms.
For those seeking recommendations on which Chinese dramas to watch, this comprehensive list highlights the most-watched series that have captured audiences’ hearts. Each title offers something unique, from epic adventures to deeply emotional romances, proving the diversity and creative excellence of Chinese drama productions.
1. Legend of Zang Hai
Topping the Maoyan charts is "Legend of Zang Hai," which masterfully blends epic fantasy action with moving romantic elements. The story follows a young swordsman tasked with safeguarding the human world from ancient dark forces. Visually, the series features grand cinematic scenes and mesmerizing visual effects, setting a new standard for fantasy dramas.
Cheng Yi and Liu Shi Shi star as leads, showcasing powerful chemistry that brings life to every scene. Their performances, combined with outstanding cinematography and captivating scoring, have earned widespread critical and audience acclaim.
2. In The Name of Blossom
Unlike its fantasy counterpart, "In The Name of Blossom" delivers a modern romance filled with gentle yet emotional storytelling. The plot centers around two young adults whose lives intersect again a decade after being separated by fate. The show uses pastel visuals and poetic dialogue to create an aesthetically pleasing and heartfelt viewing experience.
Bai Jingting and Esther Yu are praised for their natural and sweet chemistry, making their characters’ reunion feel genuine and relatable. The series enjoys immense popularity, particularly in Southeast Asia, for its visually soothing style and universally appealing storyline.
3. The Journey of Legend
Combining elements of fantasy, adventure, and historical intrigue, "The Journey of Legend" tells the tale of two souls interconnected through dreams across different eras. This drama is a must-watch for fans of intricate narratives and surprising plot twists.
Dylan Wang and Tan Songyun anchor the series with nuanced performances as characters bound by fate but divided by time. The epic musical score and beautiful shooting locations contribute to an immersive viewing experience.
4. Immortal Accession
"Immortal Accession" immerses viewers in the world of cultivation and eternal life, distinguished by its cinematic approach and stunning choreography. The narrative follows a young man striving for immortality while wrestling with dilemmas of love and sacrifice.
Luo Yunxi shines in the leading role, showcasing depth in portraying complex, emotionally charged characters. This drama stands out for its well-executed action scenes and balanced CGI effects.
5. Prisoner of Beauty
Offering an unconventional storyline, "Prisoner of Beauty" revolves around a genius painter wrongfully accused of a crime, and a determined female detective who seeks to uncover the truth. The blend of mystery, romance, and art crafts a uniquely gripping series.
Atmospheric tension and an intense narrative keep viewers hooked from beginning to end. The series is regarded as one of the most distinctive Chinese dramas, with a combination of suspenseful and artistic storytelling.
6. Guardian of Dafeng
Set in an ancient kingdom, "Guardian of Dafeng" explores themes of sacrifice and heroism. The plot centers on a young general torn between loyalty to his country and his true love.
Ren Jialun delivers a memorable performance, bringing complexity and emotional intensity to the lead character. With its intricate story and high-quality cinematography, the drama is as epic as historical series get.
7. This Thriving Land
Differing from fantastical tales, "This Thriving Land" presents a realistic portrayal of young adults striving to launch a business amid modern economic challenges. The simple yet powerful story carries messages of friendship, ambition, and perseverance.
Praised for its relatable script and portrayal of everyday struggles, the series has become an inspirational favorite among modern Chinese dramas.
8. Feud
"Feud" leverages political intrigue and intense family conflicts as its foundation. The drama tells the story of two powerful business families locked in fierce rivalry, each member carrying ambitions and hidden traumas.
The fast-paced plot and sharp writing make this a standout among script-driven dramas. Chen Xiao and Maggie Jiang’s compelling performances add further depth and suspense.
9. A Dream Within a Dream
Uniquely artistic, "A Dream Within a Dream" blurs the lines between dreams and reality through its protagonist—a writer grappling with the shifting boundaries of imagination. The series leans into psychological and philosophical themes, providing a deeply thought-provoking viewing experience.
With each scene crafted like a piece of visual art, this drama appeals to mature audiences and those seeking something more cerebral and visually striking.
10. Moonlit Reunion
Rounding out the top ten, "Moonlit Reunion" presents a touching classic romance. The story focuses on two adults who reconnect in a small town years after their school days together.
The soft cinematography and warm ambiance create an atmosphere of nostalgia, making it one of the most beloved romantic dramas according to Maoyan. The emotional journey and affectionate storytelling resonate with audiences seeking heartfelt narratives.
Top 10 Chart: Most Popular Chinese Dramas on Maoyan
| Rank | Drama Title | Main Genre | Lead Stars | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Legend of Zang Hai | Fantasy/Action | Cheng Yi, Liu Shi Shi | Epic action, top visual effects |
| 2 | In The Name of Blossom | Romance/Modern | Bai Jingting, Esther Yu | Poetic dialogue, pastel visuals |
| 3 | The Journey of Legend | Fantasy/History | Dylan Wang, Tan Songyun | Time travel, strong plot twists |
| 4 | Immortal Accession | Fantasy/Cultivation | Luo Yunxi | Beautiful fighting choreography |
| 5 | Prisoner of Beauty | Mystery/Romance | — | Artistic story, suspenseful narrative |
| 6 | Guardian of Dafeng | Historical/Epic | Ren Jialun | Epic storytelling, emotional performance |
| 7 | This Thriving Land | Modern/Slice of Life | — | Relatable, motivational themes |
| 8 | Feud | Drama/Crime | Chen Xiao, Maggie Jiang | Political intrigue, sharp script |
| 9 | A Dream Within a Dream | Psychological/Art | — | Surreal, artistic visuals |
| 10 | Moonlit Reunion | Romance/Drama | — | Nostalgic, warm classic love story |
These dramas are highly recommended not only for their entertainment value but also for their success in setting new trends in storytelling and production values. Maoyan’s yearly rankings reflect both critical acclaim and audience popularity, making them trustworthy sources for viewers searching for the best Chinese dramas to watch next.
Whether your preference is fantasy, romantic stories, or realistic life struggles, this list ensures an engaging viewing experience. Keeping up with these top-charting Chinese dramas from Maoyan can help viewers stay at the forefront of TV entertainment trends and join the global conversation about Asian series hits.
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