Asian dramas like
A Robbery

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.

Set in Shanxi during the early Republican era, the story centers around the Long family, a wealthy clan. The protagonist, Ying Niang, along with her children, face numerous challenges in a harsh world. Ying Gu, a young mistress of the affluent Long family, has three daughters during her eight-year marriage. Due to superstitions surrounding her third daughter, Ying Gu and her husband, Long Ji Zong, are compelled to leave with their daughter for her safety. Tragedy strikes when Xu Zhi passes away, leaving Ying Gu pregnant with his son and deserted by her in-laws. Facing rejection from her own family, Ying Gu is forced to marry an opium addict who callously sells her daughter for drugs. In a moment of desperation, Ying Gu starts a fire and is imprisoned. Despite giving birth to her son while incarcerated, her life post-release is grim. Long Yan Zong, her husband's younger twin, tries to assist, but the tumultuous times lead to her separation from her children. Determined to reunite her family, Ying Gu embarks on a challenging journey.

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.

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.

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.

Phoenix Wears Peony is set during the winter of 1923 in Northern China, a time of conflict and uncertainty. Wu Xia, a young Buddhist nun, discovers that she is the eldest daughter of the renowned Yu Family in Suzhou, famous for their silk embroidery. Fleeing from the military, she is rescued by Huo Dong Qing, a young and idealistic businessman, who guides her to Suzhou. Throughout her journey, Wu Xia must navigate challenges stemming from family and societal expectations, demonstrating resilience and determination.

In 1955, the play begins with Xu Hui Zhen, who became a widow shortly after getting married. She now operates a small tavern that was passed down to her. Despite facing various challenges such as the socialist transformation of businesses, the Great Leap Forward, natural calamities, and the Cultural Revolution, Hui Zhen stays committed to her principles on managing the tavern. As economic reforms are eventually implemented, Hui Zhen and her tavern reap the rewards of her dedication and unwavering belief in her values.

A romantic thriller unfolding in the chaotic era of Shanghai. (DramaWiki)

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.

In the 1930s, the setting for this tale is in the southern region of Fujian

The plot revolves around Bai Wen Huan, who is the head of the Northern Shaanxi Brothers Association

Shen Xin Ci escapes from her dangerous fiance, Liang Yong Chang, after discovering the truth. Along the way, she encounters Zhao Shi Jun, who shows compassion by giving her money to settle her father's medical bills. Following her father's passing, Xin Ci resolves to find Shi Jun and repay his kindness, regardless of the request. To resolve conflicts between Shahe Town and Wan Jia Village and secure the water supply, Zhao Shi Jun is compelled to marry Mayor Wan's daughter, Wan Qiu Ling. On their journey to Qiu Ling's new home, she falls ill due to a lifelong condition but is saved by a mysterious doctor, Liang Yong Chang. He offers a cure for her illness but warns that she will be unable to conceive in the future. Determined to continue her family line, Qiu Ling follows Yong Chang's advice and switches places with another girl to ensure pregnancy. Unbeknownst to Yong Chang, the other girl happens to be his former fiance, Shen Xin Ci. Now, Yong Chang seeks revenge on Zhao Shi Jun and anyone else in his path.

Set against the backdrop of the Republic of China, the narrative unfolds the tale of two children, Xiao Jun and Xiao Jie, who were raised in Taiwan. Orphaned at a young age, they embarked on a journey across the sea to locate Xia Men. Despite facing numerous challenges, Father Zheng Shi Xian, the siblings were eventually reunited with their father and assimilated into their new family dynamic.

During the 1930s in Shanghai, Peng Yu Tian, a National Army officer, bravely fought against the Japanese forces and was gravely wounded. He was saved by Lei Jin Yi, a field nurse, and the two developed a deep bond. Just as they were preparing to wed, Peng was called back to the battlefield. Tragically, Peng's family was targeted and bombed by the Japanese. Lei managed to escape with Peng's child and later assumed a new identity as Shen Han Bing, working as a dancer to support her family. Meanwhile, Peng, believing Lei had perished in the bombing, went on to marry a wealthy businessman named Wu Jiang. However, fate brought Peng and Lei back together when they crossed paths at a party hosted by Wujiang. As a member of the Communist underground, Peng was tasked with investigating Wu Jiang, and sought Lei's help in uncovering the truth. It was ultimately revealed that Wu Jiang was a Japanese spy posing as a Chinese. After the Anti-Japanese War, Wu Jiang attempted to flee with Lei, but was apprehended and met his end at the hands of Peng and Lei.

The narrative follows the daily lives of three households residing in a small courtyard residence in Beijing: the carpenter Wang Man Tang, the widow Liu Cui Lan, and Doctor Zhou

"The Tale of Qin Cheng" narrates the renowned saga of Meng's Household and Lin's Household near the Yellow River. In the past, Meng Xiang He, the heir of Meng's clan, wedded Lin Xiang Yu, the offspring of Lin's Household, in an arranged marriage. However, he absconded shortly after the ceremony. Consequently, Meng's Household agreed to a settlement: if Meng Xiang He did not return within six years, they would compensate Lin's Household with ten thousand silver dollars and over sixty thousand square meters of land. After six years, Meng Xiang He reappeared with his newfound lover as his wife. This led to a complex web of emotions involving both families and wives. Leveraging his business acumen, he amassed a fortune through trading hookahs and rose to become the wealthiest individual in Qingcheng, earning himself the status of a legendary figure. As the prolonged feud neared its conclusion, the true identity of the main antagonist was finally revealed. (Q1Q2)

Taking place during the Ming Dynasty, the Mu clan of the Naxi tribe holds power over Lijiang Prefecture near the Himalayas through ruthless tactics. One victim of their violent rise to authority is a girl named Aleqiu, who was orphaned and raised to seek vengeance against the Mu clan for wiping out her family. Infiltrating the clan as a young maid serving the matriarch, Aleqiu harbors thoughts of revenge while still maintaining her innocence and compassion. Complicating matters further, she falls in love with Mu Zeng, the heir to the governorship of Lijiang. Just as they contemplate a tragic end to their love, a glimmer of hope emerges as Aleqiu manages to marry Mu Zeng. However, her challenges within the Mu household are far from over...

Taking place in Shanghai during the 1930s, this famous story follows the journey of Zhang Lian Xin, a former maid who defies her predetermined fate during China's conflict with Japan. In her pursuit of liberty and affection, Lian Xin becomes entangled in Zhang Wen Jin's plot to overthrow his father, leading to her and Chong Yang being falsely accused of a crime. As they face numerous challenges while battling against Wen Jin and the Japanese forces, Lian Xin and Chong Yang develop a romantic relationship. In an attempt to protect Chong Yang, Lian Xin chooses to turn down He Tian, a wealthy admirer who is deeply in love with her, and instead weds Ma Kun, the influential leader of Shanghai Bund's underworld. Upon uncovering Ma Kun's true nature and facing the wrath of the Japanese, Lian Xin and Chong Yang make the ultimate sacrifice by relinquishing their love and lives in the name of freedom and justice.

The tale of Charles Song, a key figure in the establishment of the inaugural Chinese Republic

In a time of military expansionism, He Tao Hua's father, a highly respected military official, was killed. Adopting a new persona, Tao Hua embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her father's murder. By 1925, the He Family had been wiped out, leaving only He Tao Hua alive. She ventures to a different city and finds employment as a servant for the Liao Family. Her quick wit and charm win over Old Master Liao, while she also forms a romantic relationship with Young Master Liao Chun Feng. However, just before their wedding, Liao Chun Feng learns of her true identity and, unable to bear the burden, confesses before leaving to join the war effort. Recognizing her feelings for him, He Tao Hua decides to pursue him despite the challenges that lie ahead.

A jade sculptor named Li Tian Shun, residing in Beijing Old Street, bravely defends a valuable jade ornament that has the power to change the fate of the nation. Despite facing opposition from local criminal groups, Li Tian Shun remains steadfast in his mission to safeguard this national treasure. Alongside other ordinary yet courageous individuals in the neighborhood, such as Chinese opera singer Yang Shang De, camel herder Ding Guang Yuan, and antique dealer Jin Zhao Ji, Li Tian Shun demonstrates unwavering resilience in the face of adversity. The arrival of Ding Liu Lan, a Communist revolutionary, brings a glimmer of hope for a brighter future to Old Street.

In 1913, Yuan Shi Kai assumed the role of temporary president and collaborated with foreign countries to betray the nation. Four individuals - Feng Yi, a covert operative dedicated to his homeland, Liu Yi Kui, a passionate nationalist, Hua Er, a destitute girl longing for basic necessities, and Xiao Xue, an aspiring singer - all become entangled in the clandestine plot to betray their country. Xiao Xue harbors feelings of affection and admiration for Liu Yi Kui, who, in turn, develops feelings for the courageous Hua Er. However, Hua Er's heart belongs to Feng Yi, who had shown her kindness in her time of need. As they face a treacherous conspiracy and the destiny of their nation, their youthful relationships become increasingly complex, and their bond must withstand numerous challenges until they ultimately emerge as unsung heroes of the nation. During that era, a group of individuals emerged who, though not connected by blood or friendship, were willing to make great sacrifices that have shaped our present reality.

The tale takes place in the early Minguo period within a concealed library. Fan Zhen holds the books passed down from his forebears in high regard and protects them fiercely. Fan Shu Han, Fan Zhen's adopted son, possesses an extraordinary memory and is infatuated with Lin Ruo Yun, the daughter of his father's long-time friend Lin Zheng Gong. Despite their decision to run away together, their plans are foiled, leading to a tragic outcome. Fan Yu Lian, Shu Han's older sister, is intelligent and sophisticated. She is compelled to marry Lin Shao Qing, Zheng Gong's eldest son, due to family obligations, even though her heart belongs to Fang Zi Wen, a scholar who frequents her family's library.

Lin Wan Ru's family runs a well-known bean shop and they lead a modest, yet fulfilling life. However, their peaceful existence is disrupted when Mr. Lin agrees to guarantee his cousin's loan and becomes the primary target of debt collectors. The family loses everything, including their shop and home. To repay the debt, Wan Ru takes a job at Ji Xiang Brothel. Gao Ming Hui, a compassionate and affluent young man who owns a prosperous timber business, empathizes with Wan Ru and falls in love with her. Despite his mother's strong disapproval, Ming Hui rescues Wan Ru from her difficult situation at the brothel and decides to marry her.

In 1910, Ou Zhentian and Ma Tianfang, prominent individuals in Guangzhou, went missing

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'.

Taking place during the Republican era, rural girl Wan Xin was offered to the frail Wu Hui Xiang as a servant to protect against misfortune. Despite her humble position, Wan Xin manages to impress the matriarch with her wit and assists in safeguarding the Wu family from their power-hungry sons and relatives.

Taking place in Shanghai during the 1930s and 1940s, the plot centers around a dance hostess named Chin Zhao Li and her relationships with three significant men. Chin Zhao Li was compelled to work as a dance hostess at the well-known Paramount dance hall in Shanghai at the age of 18 due to her family's financial struggles. The narrative revolves around her encounter with her first love, Sheng Yue Ru, a young man from Shanghai's elite class who is passionate about painting and theater, having studied abroad. Despite facing opposition from their families, particularly Yue Ru's affluent banker father, the couple's love blossomed and they became romantically involved. This story is adapted from the short story "The Last Night of Taipan Chin" from the collection "Taipei People" by Pai Hsien Yung.

The drama narrates the tale of Hong Pei Shan, the Hong family's adopted daughter-in-law, who defied traditional practices and challenged destiny due to her romance with the Hong family's adopted son in the era of the Republic of China

The series revolves around the challenges faced by the main character as she is compelled into a marriage with a high-ranking official of the Kuomintang, also known as the National party.

The narrative follows Lin Rui Xi, a timid girl from a humble village, as she rises from obscurity to prominence in the glamorous world of Shanghai's film industry. Through a stroke of luck involving a cheongsam dress, Lin unexpectedly finds love, success, and a passion for her work. Set against a backdrop of intense rivalry and conflicting interests, she navigates the tumultuous waters of love and ambition with resilience and grace.

Master Long and his loyal friend Fang Xiu Cai come together to help their village during a severe outbreak. They later uncover that Madam Long and Master Long are responsible for the disease outbreak. The wicked duo then kills Master Long and blames Fang Xiu Cai for the epidemic, resulting in the demise of the entire Fang family except for Fang Xiu Cai's young son. In a twist of fate, Fang Xiu Cai's son is mistakenly switched with the Long family's son. The true heir of the Long family is raised by the Guan family, while Fang's son grows up in the Long family's care.

A narrative depicting the challenges of establishing a business in Zhangjiakou centers around a trader named He Tian Bao, who remains steadfast in his convictions and practices the values instilled in him from a young age. (ChineseDrama.Info)

"The Nine Rivers Leading to the Sea" depicts the tumultuous history of Tianjin between 1901 and 1949. Following the lives of three generations of protagonists - Haijia, Liujia, and Tangjia - the novel showcases the resilient nature of Tianjin's inhabitants, their outward toughness, inner richness, and harmonious spirit. The book also illustrates the gradual transformation of Tianjin into the political and financial hub of northern China during that period. (Douban)

The plot follows Du Yu Lou, who runs a tea shop called "Shenchang" and is unexpectedly promoted to head after his brother's tragic death