Asian dramas like
An Ancient Bottle Of Vinegar

Emperor Tai Zong of the Tang Dynasty appointed competent and honest individuals to key positions by carefully selecting and utilizing his ministers. Tai Zong was known for seeking candid feedback and constructive criticism from his advisors, demonstrating a deep respect for life and a willingness to listen. By surrounding himself with upright ministers like Wei Zheng, he displayed humility and openness to guidance. During his rule, Tai Zong prioritized agriculture, promoted frugality, and revitalized culture and religion, including enhancing the imperial examination system. These efforts contributed to a stable society. In the military, he quelled unrest caused by Tu Jue's influence, while also showing respect for the traditions of ethnic minorities in border regions, leading to peace and stability. Tai Zong's reign, known as Zhenguan (626-649), marked the first golden age of the Tang Dynasty and set the stage for the prosperous Kaiyuan era.

Following the confrontation at Xuan Wu Gate with his siblings Li Jian Cheng and Li Yuan Ji, Li Shi Min ascended to the throne as the second emperor of the Tang dynasty, adopting the era title Zhen Guan. Despite facing obstacles and internal disputes, his rule ushered in a period of stability and prosperity for the nation and its citizens.

A tale of joy and sorrow unfolds as an archaeologist is transported back in time to the Tang Dynasty and becomes entangled in palace politics. Yun Ye, caught in a sandstorm during an excavation, is astonished to find himself in ancient China. Drawing on his contemporary expertise, he establishes a new life for himself and gradually ascends the ranks as a government official. Along the way, he forges a bond with the Crown Prince and reunites with a past flame.

A sweeping story of war and a timeless romance set in the midst of conflict in ancient China's Tang Dynasty. (Viki)

In the historical comedy-drama's second season, the spotlight is on Li Wei, a county magistrate who lacked literacy but rose to prominence as a respected official in the Qing dynasty of the 18th century.

A Chinese historical TV show is centered on the Transition from the Sui dynasty to the Tang dynasty, focusing on the character Li Shi Min who later becomes Emperor Tai Zong of the Tang dynasty. Li is portrayed as a virtuous and fearless leader who is willing to sacrifice his life for the empire when necessary.

Yang Gui Fei, known as one of ancient China's Four Great Beauties, is the central figure in this drama depicting the complexities of her romantic life. She was originally married to Prince Shou, a son of Emperor Xuan Zong, but caught the emperor's eye and was forced to divorce her husband. Becoming Xuan Zong's imperial consort, she was known as Yang Gui Fei. Xuan Zong's infatuation with her caused him to neglect his duties as emperor, leading to a power struggle involving An Lu Shan and Yang Guo Zhong, who had gained power through Yang Gui Fei's influence. The consequences were severe, with Yang Gui Fei being blamed for a rebellion that forced Xuan Zong to make a difficult decision.

In the Tang dynasty, Fang Zhao Yi is wed to the emperor, whom she despises, but harbors feelings for a monk. After experiencing peculiar incidents, she finds herself in the Qin dynasty and later in the present day of 2014. Here, she encounters the emperor's reincarnation and her former lover. Seizing the chance, she confronts the emperor about her grievances, as he is now caught up in a complex situation regarding his legacy. Amidst the conflicts and time shifts, she must determine her true feelings.

Towards the end of the Sui dynasty, Emperor Li Guang grows suspicious of General Li Yuan's allegiance. To ensure his loyalty, Li Guang arranges for his daughter Ruo Xi to marry Li Yuan's eldest son, Li Jian Cheng. However, Ruo Xi is already in love with Li Yuan's second son, Li Shi Min. This causes a rift between the two brothers and their followers, ultimately resulting in the downfall of the Sui dynasty and the rise of the Tang dynasty.

The Luckiest Man is a comedy that takes place during the Ching Dynasty and follows Dai, the sole heir of a wealthy rural family. Despite his vow to remain loyal to one woman, Dai finds himself with two wives due to unexpected circumstances. This leads to a series of peculiar adventures for Dai, including an unlikely friendship with the young Ching Emperor. The film explores themes of fidelity, love, and the twists of fate in a light-hearted historical setting. (yesasia.com)

Set in the 18th century during the Qing Dynasty in China, this historical drama focuses on the relationship between the Qianlong Emperor and his advisor, Heshen. The series explores the Emperor's efforts to enhance the well-being of his people and create a government that cracked down on corruption. By emphasizing the importance of a strong nation for the prosperity of its citizens, the rule of this respected monarch left a lasting impact on Chinese history.

The plot revolves around a messenger who encounters the rebirth of his former romantic partner. (DramaWiki)

Princess Sheng Ping is a determined royal who has a strong affection for Jiju. She escapes the palace to watch her favorite Jiju player, Chen Shao Tang, and amusingly crosses paths with Guo Ai, the sixth son of the Prince of Fenyang. Despite a rocky start, they eventually become close friends by helping each other and making valuable connections. Their bond deepens after failed romances lead them to marriage, although challenges arise due to Sheng Ping's royal status. Trouble brews when Guo Ai's ex-lover, Luo Xia, returns to cause discord. A drunken Guo Ai lashes out at Sheng Ping after she misses a family celebration, leading to a strained relationship between them. (DramaWiki; adapted from the Chinese folk tale "Zui Da Jin Zhi")

Xu He Zi, a talented singer and dancer hailing from Yongxin, Jiangxi, finds herself enamored with her childhood companion, the scholar Yin Meng He. Despite her affections, she is forcefully taken from her home by local authorities and transported to the palace in Chang'an. Upon entering the imperial harem, she becomes entangled in a power struggle between Consort Mei and Imperial Consort Yang. Despite her desire to depart the palace, fate intervenes and she catches the attention of Emperor Xuan Zong with her melodic voice, leading him to bestow upon her the title of "Singing Consort".

Li Wei, a young county magistrate who lacked formal education, rose to prominence as one of the key officials in the Qing dynasty of the 18th century.

Liu Bao Shan, also known as Liu Gan San, was a famous Peking opera performer during the Qing dynasty in Beijing. He specialized in playing comedic roles and was particularly known for portraying unattractive female characters. Using his quick wit, he often made spontaneous remarks during his performances to mock those in power. Originally from Tianjin, he once entertained Empress Dowager Cixi and Emperor Guangxu at the Forbidden City by teasing the empress dowager about the emperor not having a seat. On another occasion, he made fun of Prince Dun, Prince Gong, and Prince Chun, which resulted in him being physically punished. (Wikipedia) Based on the life of Liu Gan San.

The series revolves around the life of Yin Reng, the eldest son of Emperor Kangxi who faced being appointed as Crown Prince and then removed from the position twice. Ultimately, his younger brother Yin Zhen ascended to the throne as Emperor Yongzheng.

In Jin Yong's final wuxia novel, fictional characters and historical figures are intertwined to narrate the tale of an unorthodox hero who rises to fame and fortune through luck and clever tactics. Wei Xiao Bao, born in a Yangzhou brothel, possesses a natural cunning, wit, and laziness. Believing he has gleaned all there is to know about heroes from teahouse patrons, Xiao Bao decides to become one himself. By chance, he assists Mao Shi Ba, a nobleman facing hardships, and persuades him to journey to Beijing. This decision marks the beginning of Xiao Bao's adventures. Upon entering the palace, Xiao Bao outwits Head Eunuch Hai and assumes the identity of Xiao Gui Zi, a young eunuch. One day, while exploring, Xiao Bao encounters Emperor Kang Xi practicing martial arts. After a friendly sparring match, an unlikely friendship blossoms between the two. Throughout the novel, Xiao Bao aids Kang Xi in thwarting power-hungry individuals, quelling rebellions, and facing various challenges, all while concealing his secret role as a mole for Tian Di Hui, an anti-Qing group.

Season 4 of The Eloquent Ji Xiaolan includes the stories: Xiaoyue's Homecoming, The Revolution that Wasn't, The Written Conversation Case, and Loyalty Temple. Ji Xiao Lan, a wise scholar who upholds justice fairly, Emperor Qian Long from the Kangxi-Qianlong era, and the corrupt He Shen, who accepts bribes and twists the law, once again engage in hilarious yet profound tragicomedies. (Ruyi Films)

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.

During the era of Emperor Tai Zong, known as the period of Prosperity of Zhenguan, a former tailor named An is falsely accused and imprisoned. To protect her daughter Liu Li, An entrusts her to a trusted acquaintance in the palace. Raised within the palace walls, Liu Li becomes a skilled medical officer specializing in preventing epidemics, as well as inheriting her mother's talent for clothing design. Facing challenges from envious individuals, Liu Li encounters Pei Xing Jian, a highly capable individual who aids her in escaping danger. As they delve into uncovering the truth behind An's case, Liu Li and Pei Xing Jian form a strong bond and develop feelings for each other while working together.

Inspired by a historical figure, Ji Xiao Lan narrates the tale of an intelligent scholar serving as a top official under Emperor Qian Long in the Qing Dynasty. Ji Xiao Lan, known for his modesty and integrity, strives to aid the people affected by unfair treatment from heartless and dishonest government officials. He often clashes with the corrupt yet affable He Shen, a fellow official of the same rank but with more connections and resources. The series delves into various challenges faced by the Qing Dynasty government, such as famine, natural disasters, rebellion, censorship, murder cases, and widespread corruption. While the show primarily offers humor with wordplay, jokes, and absurd arguments, it also includes moments of serious and emotional drama. Emperor Qian Long occasionally joins the duo as their "third brother" during his secret travels across the country. Each season features loosely connected storylines comprising five to six narratives or arcs.

Yip Yeung is intrigued by the ancient practice of using "tui bei tu" diagrams to glimpse into the future. These diagrams have the power to foresee upcoming events, enabling individuals to either attract good fortune or avoid calamity. Yuen Hei deceives Yip Yeung into purchasing counterfeit diagrams, but his scheme is exposed by Lee Sing Tin. Recognizing potential in both Yip Yeung and Yuen Hei, Lee Sing Tin takes them under his wing as apprentices to impart his knowledge of the mystical diagrams. Yip Yeung later learns of his royal lineage, descending from the last ruler of the kingdom. He endeavors to use his divination skills to seize the throne but is met with visions of tragedy at every turn, foreshadowing the futility of his attempts to alter fate.

Dik Yan Kit was a renowned chancellor in ancient China, serving during both the Tang Dynasty and Zhou Dynasty. He earned the trust of Mo Chak Tin, who was the ruler at the time. Unfortunately, Mo Sing Chi, the Empress's nephew, harbored jealousy towards Dik and falsely accused him of plotting with his son-in-law, Sung Ting Yuk, to take over the throne. As a result, Dik's family was captured, but he managed to escape amidst the chaos. In a bid to further harm Dik, Mo Sing Chi threatened to harm Dik's wife, Cho Yuet. The question remains - will Dik Yan Kit emerge victorious against his adversaries?

The drama will portray significant historical occurrences with a scholar at its core. Ryu Seong Ryong was a government official who served during the late 16th century under King Seon Jo. A distinguished Confucian scholar, he was appointed to oversee military efforts during the Imjin War and had a considerable impact on Admiral Lee Soon Shin. The narrative begins prior to the onset of the Imjin War and will track the characters through to the Battle of Noryang and the demise of Lee Soon Shin.

The narrative follows the fictionalized account of Liu Che, who was known as Emperor Wu during the Han Dynasty.

In the era of the Ming Dynasty, Emperor Zhu Yuan Zhang abdicated in favor of his frail grandson, Zhu Yun Wen. Subsequently, Zhu Yun Wen was deposed by his own uncle, who then ascended to the throne as Emperor Yong Le.

Li Bing He and Li Yu Fan are fraternal twins who have shared identical dreams since childhood. When Li Yu Fan falls into a coma following a car accident, Li Bing He attempts to utilize their shared dream world to bring her back. In this dream, Li Yu Fan becomes the esteemed Wu Mei Niang, her admirer Da Gang transforms into the court jester, and Li Bing He takes on the role of the Lord of Nan Chang. Together, they navigate a world filled with palace conspiracies where only the most cunning can survive. (DramaWiki)

The narrative revolves around a peasant named Yang Yuk Wan who is selected by the emperor to serve as one of his concubines. As she strives to gain the emperor's attention and favor, Yang Yuk Wan faces hostility from envious concubines who are determined to eliminate their competition. (spcnet.tv, DramaWiki) This account is inspired by the real-life events of Yeung Yuk Wan, also recognized as Concubine Yeung Gwai or Lady Yang.

The plot revolves around the connection between Wu Ze Tian, the sole woman to ever rule as an emperor in Chinese history, and Xie Yao Huan, an imagined female official who works in Wu's palace.

During the Qing Dynasty, a period marked by political corruption and unethical officials, the people of China faced great hardships. Exploiting the chaos, foreign powers launched various invasions on the country. Amidst these turbulent times, a young hero named Song Shi Jie emerged quietly. Born to a jailer, Jie grew up observing the injustices and sorrows of the world from within the prison walls. He came to believe that the concepts of law and justice were distant ideals. Unconcerned with wealth or fame, Jie assisted his friend He Shouxin in achieving success and then set out on his own path to become an official. Alongside his brother Song Ajiu Lang, Jie lived a carefree life, encountering and outsmarting thieves and bullies with ease. His life took a turn when he crossed paths with Linglong, a woman of mysterious background with fierce temperament and exceptional martial arts skills. Despite their initial conflicts, Jie and Linglong's destinies intertwined, leading them to become a devoted couple. Jie's reputation as a skilled lawyer quickly spread throughout the country, attracting numerous clients and important figures seeking his assistance. Together with Linglong, brother Jiu, and maid Xiao Feng, Jie formed an unstoppable team capable of solving any case, big or small. Their keen eyes never missed a detail, ensuring that no case went unsolved.

Martial arts specialist Nip Dor Po enlists in the Imperial Guard with the intention of advocating for the common people. He serves under the leadership of Prince Yue, Fook Chuen, and the two develop a strong friendship over time. Following Chuen's suggestion, Po becomes the personal protector of Chuen's younger brother, Emperor Hong Hei. Po is taken aback by the palace's atmosphere of scheming and deception, as well as Chuen's hidden rebellious plans. While harboring feelings for Cheuk Chi Ying, Po witnesses her entanglement in a power struggle among the imperial concubines. Amidst a web of allies and enemies, deceit and deception, Po finds himself thrust into a lone battle in the shadows.

This tale takes place in the Tang dynasty, under the rule of Emperor Tai Zong. Princess Gao Yang, the beloved daughter of Lady Dai and the Emperor, enjoyed a life of luxury with numerous servants. Despite her engagement to a wealthy noble named Fang Yi Ai, she falls in love with a monk called Bian Ji. Their forbidden romance faces many obstacles, as Bian Ji is dedicated to a life without love, while Gao Yang is of high status as a princess. Meanwhile, Emperor Tai Zong navigates through political challenges and the intrigues of his harem, where the consorts compete for his favor. The entrance of a new maiden named Mei Niang adds further complexity to the situation.

The narrative revolves around a romantic entanglement involving the fourth prince, the crown prince, and the top female scholar, Shu Yuan, in the Qing dynasty. Love and power intertwine in a struggle for both affection and the throne. The storyline appeals to female audiences with its feminist themes, distinctive characters, and dramatic twists and turns.

The narrative focuses on the selection of Yang Yu Huan, a commoner, to join the Emperor's concubines. In contrast to typical historical dramas centered on warfare or fame, this series highlights the romantic relationship between Yang Gui Fei and Emperor Ming of Tang.

Da Yu Er, a notable woman in the early Qing Dynasty, played a key role in overseeing three changes of power. Originally a carefree princess exploring the Mongolian grasslands, she harbored hopes of marrying Dorgon, her true love. However, she ultimately wed his sibling, Hong Tai Ji, in a strategic marriage alliance. Throughout her life, she faced a constant internal battle between following her heart and fulfilling her obligations to her family.