Asian dramas like
A Dream Of Splendor

The series narrates the tale of two extraordinary women from the Northern Song Dynasty: Li Qing Zhao, a renowned Chinese poet and writer, recognized as one of the most prominent poets in Chinese history, and Li Shi Shi, a courtesan who resided in Bianjing (present-day Kaifeng), the capital of the Song Dynasty. Emperor Huizong, who frequently patronized Li Shi Shi, was rumored to be so infatuated with her that he allegedly had a secret tunnel constructed from his palace directly to her residence.

A young woman aspires to become the top entrepreneur during the Song Dynasty, yearning to break free from the constraints of marriage and pursue a life of independence. (Douban)

The renowned tale revolves around a brilliant young woman hailed as a masterful tactician during the Northern Song Dynasty in ancient China. She finds herself entangled in a romance with Yang Zong Bao, the successor of the Yang family generals, while also fiercely defending her nation. This narrative chronicles the journey of a girl who defies societal norms, seizing control of the Emperor's army in a time when women were limited to roles as daughters, sisters, wives, and mothers.

"The Purple Hairpin Legend" is set during the Tang dynasty, a period known for its flourishing Chinese art, fashion, music, dance, and innovative creations. The brave Nalan Dong, referred to as the "Yellow-Clothed One," falls for the enchanting dancer Huo Xiao Yu. Despite his feelings, Dong sacrifices his love for Xiao Yu due to his loyalty to his best friend, Li Yi, who also harbors deep affection for her. This story is inspired by the Ming dynasty opera "The Legend of Purple Hairpin."

The story revolves around three separate households in Beijing as they experience China's transition from a feudal society to a democracy. The themes of familial bonds, love, and patriotism are interconnected as individuals, both men and women, evolve in their relationships for the sake of love or friendship.

Taking place in the 10th century, the plot centers on two kings: Zhao Kuang Yin, a skilled conqueror who became the inaugural leader of the Song dynasty, and Li Yu, a renowned writer who served as the final ruler of the Southern Tang dynasty. The TV show delves into the intricate dynamics of the friendship and rivalry between these historical figures, as well as their romantic involvement with a woman named Zhou E Huang.

Rei, a young woman from a small town, relocates to a bustling metropolis in pursuit of her aspirations. Upon her arrival in Tokyo, she secures a job at a bar where she forms friendships with three fellow female employees: Maki, a student of art; Ryoko, who is opportunistic; and Hirono, an aspiring actress. The establishment they work at is called Yume no Kura, meaning "Dream Warehouse", reflecting each girl's quest for their dreams. (Asiatorrents)

The story revolves around a group of young women from the post-95s generation who face challenges upon entering society but eventually find love and personal growth in both their careers and personal lives. Luo Yan secures a job close to home with the help of her mother, three years after graduating from college. Jiang Xiao Guo appears to lead a glamorous life as a financial professional, but in reality, she is constantly working overtime. Duan Jia Bao, formerly part of a wealthy family, now struggles with debt due to a family crisis. Liang Shuang achieves success as a popular beauty vlogger, although her career has its ups and downs. Xiao Guo, Da Bao, and Liang Shuang reunite as roommates and befriend Ding Yi Xuan. Despite facing challenges, the women continue to move forward on their paths. Being 25 years old comes with its share of hardships and moments of brightness.

The plot centers on three adolescent boys who were raised in the vicinity of Kamakuragashi near Edo Castle, along with a girl who is admired by all three boys. As they navigate through life, their friendship, romantic relationships, and challenges help them transition into adulthood, all while being supported by their kind and nurturing neighbors.

This tale follows four women residing in a shared residence. They each have unique perspectives on love. One is eager to tie the knot with anyone available: "Jie Hun Kuang" (Crazy for Marriage). Another desires love, but not within the confines of marriage: "Wan Ren Mi" (The Ten Thousand Year Fox). A third prioritizes career over romance: "Nan Ren Po" (Tomboy). The fourth woman remains a mystery to all men: "Tian Zhen Mei" (Naive Girl).

A group of close friends who met in college are excelling in their professional lives as independent women. Wang Mi Na, Yin Ge Li, Weng Mei Yan, and Bai Ya Xuan are often compared to princesses in a tower due to their dedication to their jobs. However, as they navigate the complexities of balancing career and relationships, they are forced to contemplate whether they can have it all or if they must make a difficult choice.

Yue Fei started his career from humble beginnings and eventually became a renowned military leader who defended Southern Song against northern Jin invaders. Unfortunately, he was unjustly executed by his own government. General Yue Fei's name continues to be associated with the virtue of "loyalty" in Chinese culture.

The events unfolded in the era of Emperor Ren Zong in the Northern Song Dynasty. Chaos erupted in Kaifeng House as voices of distress filled the air. Sheng Man, the female chef of Lan Kwai Fong, prepared to defend herself. Liu Ming Yue, a homemaker with a husband and son, stood apart from Lan Kwai Fong in terms of personality. Both women found themselves unexpectedly linked to a series of murders. In Kaifeng, the customary approach was to rely on the assistance of Bao Da Ren and his team, including Nan Xia Zhan Zhao and the knowledgeable Bei Xia Ouyang Dong. Ming Yue and Sheng Nan, implicated in the murders, each showcased their unique abilities in aiding the court's investigation. Emperor Ren Zong decreed that the women would work alongside Bao Zheng in Kaifeng. With the support of Zhan Zhao, Gong Sun Ce, and others, they successfully cracked numerous challenging cases. Despite encountering humor along the way, their commitment to justice and morality allowed them to fulfill their duty of eradicating violence.

Cheng Yue Liang, a man with autism, is saved by his stepmother in a crucial accident after his father dies during the war with Japan in the 1940s. The narrative explores their tumultuous lives and close familial bond. The drama features acclaimed screenwriter Cheung Wah Biu, known for works like 'Moonlight Resonance', 'Rosy Business', 'No Regrets', and the 80s trilogy 'The Legend of the Condor Heroes'.

After losing her parents at a young age, Liu E journeys to the capital city of Kaifeng where she attracts the attention of Zhao Heng. Despite being a concubine, Liu E displays a keen understanding of political matters and frequently engages in discussions with Zhao Heng. This dynamic persists even after Zhao Heng ascends to the throne in 997. Following the adoption of a concubine's son (who later becomes Emperor Renzong), Liu E is named empress and assumes the role of regent for the Song Dynasty during the final two years of her husband's rule. Liu E continues to govern until her passing in 1033, twelve years later. This account draws inspiration from the remarkable life of Empress Zhangxian Mingsu, also known as Liu E of the Song Dynasty.

Five women have recently become neighbors, all residing on the same floor of an apartment complex. Among them, there is Zhu Zhe, a hotel manager, Yu Chu Hui, who is relatively new to the workforce, and He Min Hong, who share a flat. The other two units are occupied by the mysterious Fang Zhi Heng and Ye Zhen Zhen, a life science researcher. Each woman comes from a different background and faces challenges in their careers, families, and relationships. Fang Zhi Heng's behavior raises suspicion, while Ye Zhen Zhen experiences unexpected hostility in her workplace. Yu Chu Hui's intelligence leads her to employ deceitful tactics, only to learn valuable lessons. Zhu Zhe excels in her work but struggles to advance due to her lack of academic qualifications. He Min Hong's well-meaning actions often backfire due to her naivety. Despite their individual struggles, these women eventually learn to open up to each other and support one another in their personal growth journey in the bustling city of Shanghai.

The plot centers on Rong Yan and Tian You. Rong Yan is on a mission to avenge her family's brutal murder at the hands of Lu Sheng, Tian You's father. In order to seek revenge, Rong Yan decides to marry Lu Sheng with the help of her friend Yun Mo, who also seeks justice for her family's death caused by Lu Sheng. Despite Rong Yan's initial intention to kill Tian You's father, she finds herself falling in love with Tian You instead. As their forbidden romance blossoms, Rong Yan disguises herself as Tian You's stepmother to keep their relationship a secret within his household.

Zhang Pei, Gou Dan Dan, Dong Jia Xi, and Wu Yun are childhood friends who have pursued different careers in various cities. Zhang Pei is a dedicated insurance agent, Gou Dan Dan is a successful beauty influencer, Dong Jia Xi works at a theater to follow her passion, and Wu Yan has joined the civil service. Despite their separate paths, fate brought them back together in their hometown. Zhang Pei returned for business opportunities, Gou Dan Dan moved back to start a family, Dong Jia Zi returned due to her mother's illness, and Wu Yun eagerly awaited their reunion amidst her busy schedule. In their hometown, they discovered new career paths, cherished friendship, found solace in family, and experienced the joy of love.

Emi works as a lighting technician at a company that specializes in lighting. Due to her predominantly male colleagues, she has adopted a more tomboyish behavior. Emi is not interested in typical girly things like fashion and has a cynical view on love. Despite this, she harbors feelings for her ex-boyfriend, who is also her coworker. Mako is a diligent office worker who is somewhat clumsy and hesitant to pursue romantic relationships. She had never been intimate with anyone until she developed feelings for a colleague. Saki is a stunning and confident young woman with aspirations of becoming a journalist. However, she ends up working as a hostess in a bar to support her family. Saki fabricates stories about working at a prestigious publishing company to her family. She becomes romantically involved with a married man who is kind and supportive.

The storyline follows the Yang family and their unwavering dedication to the nation despite their emperor's incompetence and self-centeredness. General Yang, the father, is depicted as overly strict and rigid due to his loyalty, while Sai Hua, the mother, is portrayed as the only one willing to defend her children. The family consists of seven sons, all of whom have their designated roles. However, much of the focus is on the fourth son, Alec Su, who rebels against his father's strict ways and has his own beliefs. As the family confronts the challenges of war, they begin to face various struggles and setbacks.

Jin Qian has been unsuccessful in her attempts to pass the exams required to become a city official. Frustrated with her failures, she decides to use a faulty time machine created by her friend to cheat. However, the machine malfunctions and transports her back to the Northern Song Dynasty. In order to blend in, she disguises herself as a man and secures a position as a constable at Kai Feng Manor, working under the renowned Bao Qing Tian. This marks the beginning of her career as a civil servant in the Northern Song Dynasty, where she encounters various famous historical figures and faces off against the ultimate challenge in Prince Xiang Yang.

In the Shaoxing era of the Southern Song Dynasty, most countries were facing instability both internally and externally. Despite this, the Nan An state stood out as an exception under the leadership of Du Bao. In gratitude, the people presented him with a seven-colored peony as a symbol of their appreciation. This gesture symbolized the sudden blooming of flowers to bless the beloved couple in this legendary tale.

Taking place in Guangzhou during the 1920s, the series follows the story of four young individuals who navigate through friendship and competition while trying to establish their identities during the chaotic warlord period.

The epic tale of the civilization of Dunhuang recounts its rise, decline, and resurgence through the acts of concealing, seeking, and safeguarding treasures during three significant periods in Chinese history: the Northern Song Dynasty, the end of the Qing Dynasty, and the Republic era. In the first chapter, the Xixia King of the Northern Song era coveted Dunhuang and eventually invaded it despite efforts to dissuade him with a gold-carved Buddhist scripture. The monks of Dunhuang made a final stand by burying themselves and the relics in the caves. Chapter Two tells of foreigners in the Qing Dynasty looting Dunhuang of its ancient artifacts, prompting Qin Wen Yu to seek help from local thugs to halt the plunder. Unfortunately, the Chinese authorities punished those who resisted the foreigners instead of protecting the treasures. The final chapter takes place in the Republic era, where artists Liang Mu Tian and Su Qing Ping discovered Dunhuang in ruins after years of looting. They inspired the local community to preserve and restore their ancient city before the impending threat of Japanese invasion during World War II.

The tale of three women with contrasting personalities who unexpectedly become friends and support each other through life's challenges, discovering their self-worth along the way. Kang Zi You, who recently returned to China from the United States, works as a sales executive director at an aesthetic medical clinic owned by her close friend Lin Qian Yu. Despite excelling in her career, Kang Zi You struggles with personal organization and relies on her daughter Kang Ni for support. Kang Ni, a skilled homemaker with a passion for cooking and table setting, cares for her mother while longing for independence. The arrival of a new doctor, Nie Yun Ze, disrupts the women's routine but also brings Kang Zi You and Nie Yun Ze closer despite their differences. Meanwhile, Lin Qian Yu's marital problems compel Kang Zi You to work with her ex-husband's wife, Meng Yu Shan, to find a solution.

In their younger days, Ino, the daughter of a restaurant owner, Shika, the elegant wife of a samurai, and Chou, the owner of a sundries shop, formed a close trio in Bakurocho in Edo. Now in their thirties, each woman is feeling disheartened by their current situations, unable to confide in anyone. Suddenly, they decide to leave behind their responsibilities and families to embark on the Nuke Mairi pilgrimage to the Ise Grand Shrine, a popular journey during the Edo Period. Setting out on foot along the Tokaido, the main road connecting Kyoto and Edo, the three women aim to start afresh at Ise.

During their childhood, Huai Yu, Zhi Gao, and Dan Dan made a pact to be as close as siblings and visited a mysterious old eunuch for fortune-telling using divination sticks. However, the sticks were accidentally shuffled by the eunuch's cat before they could be interpreted. One stick mentioned preferring death over birth, another suggested life was better than death, and the third talked about dying and being reborn. The meaning behind these messages remains a mystery.

The biography of Huang Dao Po, a trailblazing woman who transformed the Chinese textile sector amidst the Mongol invasion of the Song dynasty and the rise of the Yuan dynasty.

Qin Yue Xiang, a former housekeeper, unintentionally causes the death of her husband who was a builder while trying to protect her 9-year-old daughter Sang Cai Qing from being forced into marriage with an elderly man. Facing punishment by the local official Xiao Ru Zhang, Yue Xiang arranges for Cai Qing to seek safety with her biological father, wealthy businessman Chen Yuan. However, Chen's envious wife, Yu Ru, forces Cai Qing to work as a servant in their mansion. As Cai Qing grows older, she becomes entangled in a series of romantic entanglements.

During the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD), known as one of the most violent in Chinese history, the story unfolds of the love affair between Zhen Fu and Cao Cao, as well as his sons Cao Zhi and Cao Pi.

The plot centers around three women in their forties: Ye Hong, a cashier at a supermarket, Du Xiao Ling, a lawyer, and Song Qing, who has recently returned from living abroad. Ye Hong, after divorcing her gambling-addicted ex-husband, moves into a room in a house owned by He Jing, a taxi driver who is also divorced. The situation becomes complicated when He Jing's ex-wife and Ye Hong's ex-husband both move in at the same time, leading to awkward interactions among the four residents. This drama addresses the prevalent issue of single middle-aged individuals, showcasing the perspectives of urban dwellers on marriage and relationships. It follows the journey of these women as they navigate their lives, pursue happiness, and demonstrate strength and resilience.

In ancient times, there was a mystical being known as Hu Xiao Li, who could transform into a human form. She experienced a heartbreaking love story during the Han Dynasty. Originally tasked with protecting the prince, Gong Hao, who was targeted for assassination, Xiao Li's mother intervened and saved him, living in obscurity as a commoner. When the Emperor discovered Gong Hao was his son, he brought him back to the palace. The Emperor's rage towards his consort, Concubine Shu, who had ordered the prince's assassination and killed his mother, the Empress, led to his demise. Gong Hao then assumed the throne, with Xiao Li becoming Empress. However, their love faced challenges when Tang Shi Shi came between them and won Gong Hao's heart, becoming his consort. Tang Shi Shi falsely accused Xiao Li of plotting to harm her, prompting Xiao Li to reveal her true form as a nine-tailed fox. Gong Hao, devastated, sentenced her to death. Just before her execution, he reminisced about their joyful marriage. Tang Shi Shi, fearing Gong Hao's forgiveness, urged her execution. Xiao Li escaped using her powers but was punished by her mother with a thousand years of imprisonment in ice for using her abilities in the mortal realm. Years later, Gong Hao, facing personal turmoil, inadvertently freed Xiao Li while hiking in the mountains. They reunited and married, but Tang Shi Shi's interference threatened their happiness once again. The question remains: will Xiao Li endure another tragic love story or fight for Gong Hao's love?

In the Tang Dynasty, Eunuch Ju murders five government officials to cover up his crimes, but Prime Minister Mu discovers the evidence. When Prime Minister Mu's daughter, Mu Fu Rong, rejects a forced marriage and attempts suicide, she is rescued by a mysterious hero. Eunuch Ju now sees Mu Fu Rong and her family as his enemies due to the rescue incident.

A tale of a demon prince who loses his royal position and is appointed as a constable. Teaming up with his lover, companion, and ally, he fights against evil to uphold justice. During a turbulent era ruled by an ailing and feeble King, his sons scheme to seize the throne. The 7th Prince Xun Yan stays away from palace intrigues. Speculations circulate that he is the offspring of a demon and despite his exceptional talents, he faces rejection due to his heritage and lives recklessly. When Xun Yan accidentally harms the Crown Prince while saving the 9th Princess, the King removes his title and assigns him as a constable in Jinyuan County. In a brothel, a man dies mysteriously in Ru Yue's chambers. Xun Yan utilizes his extraordinary powers to uncover the true culprit. Forming new friendships, he embarks on a journey of solving crimes, all while a palace conspiracy unfolds.

In a tale set in the Song Dynasty under Emperor Zhen Zong's rule, Empress Liu, unable to conceive, conspires with eunuch Kwok Wai to switch the newborn prince with a feral cat.

The leader of the Huns, Huhanxie Shanyu, made the decision to establish diplomatic ties with the powerful Han Dynasty for the benefit of his tribe. However, his brother Hutuwusi disagreed with this plan due to being influenced by the Qulan family. Despite having exceptional beauty and skills, Wang Zhao Jun was still destined to serve in the palace. Upon entering the court, Wang Zhao Jun used her intelligence and bravery to navigate the dangers of the harem. As Hu Hanxie Shanyu pushed for peace with the Han Dynasty, Wang Zhao Jun, who was reluctant to remain in the palace, took the initiative to visit them. After facing various challenges, she eventually set off on a long journey to the distant lands of the Huns.

In the aftermath of World War II in Shanghai in 1945, Tang Teng, a fighter pilot, and Shen Ying, a Qi Pao saleswoman, fell in love. Despite facing consequences such as being court-martialed for desertion, Tang Teng was determined to be with Shen Ying. He was ultimately saved from a death sentence by family friend Ji Wen, who helped him escape to Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Shen Ying, believing Tang Teng to be dead, agreed to marry another man for financial support. However, upon learning that Tang Teng was alive in Hong Kong from expert tailor Lu Xiao Mao, she broke off the engagement and traveled to Hong Kong. Instead of a joyful reunion, Shen Ying discovered that Tang Teng had married Ji Wen.

Ai Lian, Ah Pan, Yang Nian, and Mei Qin have been friends for a long time, despite their unique personalities. They are able to share their secrets and have open conversations about various topics such as work, life, fashion, relationships, and more. This group of close friends is reminiscent of the American TV series "Sex in the City" [1998].

The Qian family holds the esteemed title of being the premier florist in Hualing City. In a bid to elevate their family's status to that of royal merchants, Qian Jin Jin sets her sights on the young master of the Yan family for a marriage proposal. To assist her older sister, Qian Bao Bao proposes to marry the young master's uncle. This decision leads to a tangled web of relationships within the Qian family. The five sisters of the Qian family, known as the "Five Beauties of Qian" and recognized as the wealthiest in the capital, each have their own unique characteristics. Qian Jin Jin, the eldest and leader of the family, is driven by a desire for wealth. Qian Yin Yin, the second sister, is a renowned socialite known for her beauty. The third sister, Qian Zhu Zhu, is skilled in martial arts. Qian Bao Bao, the fourth sister, is known for her kindness and charm. The youngest sister, Qian Bei Bei, often finds herself in trouble. Qian Jin Jin's bold pursuit of Yan Yaoyu, the most handsome man in the capital, as a means to secure imperial connections for her business creates a stir. However, Yan Yaoyu mistakenly believes her intentions are based on his appearance. Unbeknownst to him, Qian Jin Jin's motives are purely business-oriented. After achieving her goal, Qian Jin Jin promptly presents Yan Yaoyu with divorce papers, causing him to feel humiliated. Determined to win back his wife, Yan Yaoyu devises a plan. Concerned for her sister's happiness, Qian Bao Bao takes matters into her own hands and proposes to marry Yan Yaoyu's uncle, Yan Qi, the patriarch of the Yan family.

This story takes place in the 1930s during Japan's occupation of Korea. Na Yeo Gyeong owned a bookstore and was also an activist for independence. Seon U Wan, the affluent family's playboy son, got involved in the struggle for freedom after making a wager with his colleagues to win over Na Yeo Gyeong. His father financed the education of his employee's son, Lee Su Hyeon, only to be dismayed upon discovering he was working for the Japanese government's Security Branch. Cha Song Ju was a renowned gisaeng who operated a prestigious brothel.

Kudi Liu Li and Pei Xing Jian have a strong marriage. After he is demoted, they move to Xizhou where they meet Qu Chong Yu, a suspicious young noble. Qu Chong Yu causes trouble for Pei Xing Jian, who has received a sudden official position. Despite this, the couple remains united in serving the people. Their sincerity eventually wins over Qu Chong Yu, turning him from foe to friend. Meanwhile, Su Hai Zheng, the Anxi Grand Protectorate, detains Pei Xing Jian for their own gain. Liu Li rallies the people of Xizhou to write petitions to bring her husband back. She also uses her cleverness to protect the people of Xizhou in times of danger.

During the early 1900s in China, Xiao Yue Gui, a young girl from the countryside, moves to Shanghai to avoid starvation. By rescuing Yu Qi Yang, a member of the Pujiang Association, the most powerful gang in Shanghai, she gains access to the leaders of the organization. This leads her to start working at their brothel, which alters the course of her life. Xiao Yue Gui is now on a journey to become the next "King of Shanghai," following in the footsteps of three previous generations, as depicted in Hong Ying's novel.

Due to financial difficulties, Wen Yu He's father agreed to have her marry into the Gu family as the wife of Madam Gu's third son. With Madam Gu's first son missing and her second son deceased, all hope was placed on Yu He and her remaining brother-in-law. The third son, Shao Tang, is known for his reckless behavior, spending time in brothels and gambling away his money. Madam Gu believed that Yu He could positively influence her son. Yun Kai, a school teacher, disguised himself as a groundskeeper to work in the Gu household, assisting with accounting and the family's lantern business. Despite facing mistreatment from her older sister-in-law, Yu He remains devoted to Shao Tang. As tensions rise and hidden agendas come to light, the Gu family's secrets begin to unravel, revealing a web of deceit and betrayal.