Asian dramas like
Butterfly Shadow 2023

Gu Yi Zhong, the heir of the well-known Gu Family in Suzhou, completed his studies in the architecture department of a prominent foreign university

This recounts the series of frequent terrorist incidents that occurred in Baihe Town, a town that heavily relied on water transportation during the Republic of China. These incidents included the theft of zodiac hearts, the discovery of human flesh buns, the framing of an innocent person as the real murderer, the assassination of the county magistrate, and the murder of Li Zheng Jiu's fiancé. Li Zheng Jiu, also known as "Uncle Jiu," had a talent for uncovering unusual occurrences within the community. After his brother's mysterious death a year prior, Uncle Jiu suspected a connection to the terrorist activities in Baihe Town.

Derived from the short story "Qiu Chan" in the book "Yin Bi De Shi Jie" written by Lai Ji.

In 1941, Feng Jiu Si, a young police officer stationed in the British Concession, witnessed the death of an underground member of the Chinese Communist Party. This incident led to him being suspected by the CCP. At the same time, the Japanese were in the process of eliminating anti-Japanese groups in Tianjin in preparation for taking control of the British-French concession. As an undercover member of the CCP within the police force, Feng Jiu Si must demonstrate his allegiance to the CCP while working to uncover the Japanese plot.

Confidential research regarding the latest advancements in Bathyscaphe technology has been unlawfully taken

Nan Yu, the main character of a game focused on pursuing romantic interests, finds herself in the Republic of China as a forensic pathologist investigating dead bodies. A strange will states that she must solve a murder in order to go back to her own world. However, she must also contend with Gao Han, the lead character of a detective game, for control of their shared body, with only one of them able to return home. Realizing Gao Han's expertise in crime-solving and her own knowledge of love, Nan Yu decides to collaborate with him to tackle the complex case, which reflects the complexities of both their worlds. In the end, Nan Yu proposes an alliance with Gao Han, acknowledging that they both need each other to succeed.

Renowned master carpenter Li Mu Dun, celebrated for his expertise in traditional Luban methods, finds himself the main suspect in a string of chilling murders steeped in superstition. Eager to vindicate himself, Li joins forces with detective Yang Zong and forensic specialist Su Qing Yun. Together, this trio is driven by logic and a quest for justice as they strive to prevent further murders and uncover the reality behind the alleged “supernatural.”

Taking place in the 1930's, the story is centered around the Manchukuo Police Department in the vicinity of Harbin during a chaotic era of espionage in the midst of war. (Baidu)

Based on the short story "Qiu Chan" found in Lai Ji's novel "Yin Bi De Shi Jie".

Ma San, an inheritor of an ancient tailoring technique, utilizes his distinct abilities to rescue lawyer Song Yuan from a dangerous situation. Together, they join forces to solve puzzling mysteries and uphold the principles of justice.

Taking place in Yongxin City during the 1920s, the enigmatic demise of an antique store proprietor coupled with the heist of invaluable treasures sparks a fierce conflict. Singer Du Qing, Detective Han Zhou, and Luo Ting must navigate their suspicions of one another and collaborate to safeguard the artifacts while outsmarting formidable adversaries.

In the era of the Republic of China, a clandestine pawnshop named Shenhong provides retributive justice for women who have suffered at the hands of others. Under the leadership of Si Jia Li and her crew, they assist those in need while attracting the interest of Detective Zhou Mu, whose investigation reveals an old case that connects everyone involved.

Wealthy entrepreneur Bai Yi Ming took his soon-to-be wife, A Bu, to his stunning Rose Manor. A Bu experienced a series of strange occurrences and nightmares during their stay. Seeking answers, she turned to her fiance. Bai Yi Ming had a brief affair with a woman named Hu Yin Yin, promising to marry her before disappearing without a trace. Learning of her pregnancy, Hu Yin Yin traveled to Shanghai in search of Bai Yi Ming. Fate had other plans for her, as she was eventually taken care of and loved by musician Tao Da Wei. While Bai Yi Ming was involved with other women, Tao Da Wei and Hu Yin Yin faced many challenges together. They welcomed a set of twins, and Tao Da Wei discovered Hu Yin Yin's beautiful singing voice. Tragically, Hu Yin Yin was disfigured in a terrible accident, leading her to wear a mask. Their paths crossed again when Hu Yin Yin, now known as Hu Die, encountered Bai Yi Ming once more. Despite their shared history, Bai Yi Ming pursued Hu Die. However, their story did not have a happy ending, as it was eventually revealed that Hu Die had passed away.

Set against the backdrop of three significant historical events pre-dating the establishment of New China, The Eve revolves around the journeys of Lin Xi, Su Nan, and other zealous young individuals who participate in the revolution and dedicate themselves to their country. The narrative unfolds during the 1941 Shanghai Concession, the 1948 Battle of Jinzhou, and the liberation of Shanghai in 1949. Lin Xi, a member of a gang, and Su Nan, a forward-thinking female student, embody the unrecognized heroes of their era. It portrays the clandestine struggles and imminent perils faced during the Anti-Japanese War of Resistance, as well as the arduous path revolutionary laborers have trodden in pursuit of their beliefs.

Amidst numerous challenges posed by U.S. and Jiang spy operatives, Police Officer Pang Hong Mei successfully rescued Ji Danyang, a patriotic scientist recently returned from the United States, from an enemy spy. Together, they traveled to Lumen City to take part in the "Water Drop Project." Enemy special forces devised a sabotage mission called "Operation Rock," mobilized their troops, and attempted to dismantle the "Water Drop Project." Pang Hong Mei and Ji Dan Yang engaged in a fierce battle with enemy agents in Lumen, thwarted their scheme, safeguarded the "Water Drop Project," and ultimately achieved the desired outcome. The pair, who endured a life-threatening ordeal, also fulfilled their aspirations and unwavering beliefs.

The story takes place in the idealized chaos of China in the early 1900s, where patriotic rebels and deceitful spies clash in a risky battle for control of the republic. Gao Tian Wei, a brave revolutionary, experiences amnesia following a violent altercation. Without knowledge of who he is, he is unknowingly drawn into a plot and transforms into a spy for the Japanese. What will occur when his memory is eventually restored?

Based on Han Jing's novel "The Hidden Commander," the following information is derived.

Taking place prior to the Battle of Changsha, this is a tale of unknown heroes in a time of conflict, following a man who discovers a larger purpose as he seeks revenge for his father's murder. To gain control of Changsha, the Japanese employ the 'shadow servant', a cunning spy who has been operating in China for 15 years to execute a carefully planned deceit. Yun Mu Zhi, a member of the underground faction of the Communist Party of China, is assassinated while probing the activities of the "shadow servant." Unaware of his father's true identity, his son Yun Hong Shen returns to their native Changsha to hunt down his father's killer. With the assistance of his father's ally and fellow fighter, Yun Hong Shen teams up with Wen Ye Ming, a patriotic young woman driven by her sense of duty, as they confront numerous challenges. Putting aside his personal vendetta, Yun Hong Shen enters a dangerous game with Japanese spies in order to give his fellow countrymen a chance at victory in the war.

The narrative follows three young women in Shanghai during the 1920s

In 1938, in the city of Harbin in Heilongjiang, China, Zhou Yi, a special agent for the Communist Party, has successfully infiltrated enemy territory posing as a high-ranking official. Gu Qiu Yan, an experienced telegraph operator, has been sent by the Communists to pretend to be Zhou Yi's wife. They must now confront the meticulous and formidable Guomindang special agent, Gao Bin, who could reveal their true identities at any moment. Initially struggling to cooperate, Zhou Yi and Gu Qiu Yan slowly start to develop their relationship.

Diverging from the typical law enforcement storyline, a Chinese television series showcases a group of investigators who are willing to make significant sacrifices in order to combat the circulation of fake currency. When a new type of undetectable counterfeit bills emerges, police captain Qi Tian takes charge of the investigation with the help of his colleagues Xiang Bei and Wei Xian Yu. Caught in the midst of the operation is Xiang Bei's brother-in-law Tang Song, who succumbs to the allure of quick riches and becomes involved in the production of fake money. As it becomes evident that there are multiple sources of counterfeit currency, a specialized task force is assembled to apprehend all those responsible.

The story takes place during a chaotic time in Shanghai, China, amidst the Republic of China. In this tumultuous period, the forensic doctor Che Su Wei and the sophisticated detective Gu Yuan find themselves caught up in different conflicting powers. Deputy Inspector Kang Yi Chen, along with the spirited reporter Cao Qing Luo, join forces to solve a series of strange and intriguing cases, uncovering the truth along the way.

The narrative revolves around twin siblings, Guan Hong Feng and Guan Hong Yu, who find themselves entangled in a tragic family murder. They join forces with various parties to uncover the truth behind the 213 family massacre and triumph over the criminal organization lurking in the shadows.

The drama takes place during the tumultuous era of the Republic of China in Shanghai. Shanghai's thriving city of Shiliyangchang, known as the "Enchanted Capital of the Orient" in the 1930s, was filled with hidden perplexing and unimaginable criminal incidents. Gu Yuan, recently promoted to chief inspector, teams up with the renowned female forensic doctor Che Su Wei and Kang Yi Chen, the president of the Shanghai First Chamber of Commerce, to investigate peculiar and mysterious cases together.

After experiencing the killing of his father and the vanishing of his mother, Ning Zhen finds himself entangled in a dangerous puzzle once again when the mysterious symbol "Abyss" reemerges. With the past intersecting with the present, two different eras must reveal the reality to prevent a tragic recurrence.

In Hong Kong, Senior Inspector Wai Jing Sheng and ICAC Senior Investigation Director Ho Wai Lin join forces to uncover corruption among prominent members of society. Despite not being close allies, they must work together using their intellect to uncover the truth before time runs out. As the situation escalates, Jing Sheng finds himself falsely accused of a crime and must evade killers who are pursuing him.

Zhan Peng's father served as a railway policeman and was posthumously recognized as a martyr for his selfless service many years prior. Inspired by this legacy, Zhan Peng always dreamed of following his father’s path and working at the same station where his father had served. However, upon his arrival in Xiaotong to start his duties, he quickly realized that the circumstances were much more intricate than he had anticipated. Initially, he felt distrustful towards Tu Hong Jiang, a seasoned police officer he met. Zhan Peng became cautious of Tu Hong Jiang's questionable behavior during the investigation of a drug trafficking case. Yet, as time went on, Tu Hong Jiang demonstrated his integrity through his actions. As they collaborated on various cases, Zhan Peng began to respect Tu Hong Jiang, and eventually, they united their efforts to capture the mastermind behind the criminal activities.

During the time when the final emperor Pu Yi was confined in the northeast, a group of patriotic fighters ventured into the Emperor Tai Chi Mausoleum to safeguard a secretive mahogany box from being seized by the Japanese. This led to a chain of strange occurrences, including deaths and vanishings, linked to the box.

This drama is the pioneering production in China to explore the jailbreak theme in both film and television. Referred to as the "Chinese equivalent of jailbreak", it centers around a thrilling death game during a war. The storyline focuses on a daring escape following a series of deadly challenges. The narrative unfolds with the arrival of skilled jailbreakers, engaging in a series of intricate and clever escape attempts within a dark prison. This adaptation is based on Zhang Hai Fan's novel "Blue Blind Escape".

The tale chronicles the events of the 20th century, depicting the struggles of the people amidst natural disasters and ongoing chaos. Hidden motives emerge, taking advantage of the turmoil for nefarious purposes. Small Lang Yang Yi, possessing the spirit of a dragon, becomes entangled in a treacherous battle in Shanghai due to a plague incident, where he encounters the Mayor Mo Xiaoyu and falls in love. Unbeknownst to many, Yang Yi also harbors a dark side, driven by a delusional quest for "longevity" that leads him to spread the plague artificially, profit from medicinal herb production, and orchestrate political assassinations and wars. His ultimate goal is to unleash the "six scourges" through blood sacrifices in order to ensure his own survival.

The plot unfolds in Republican Shanghai, where four individuals from diverse backgrounds unite to delve into the secretive realm of Qianmen Jianghu and unravel enigmatic cases. Su Zi Quan, a sharp-witted individual who boasts of being the top detective globally, possesses a remarkable memory but cannot recollect his early years. His weakness lies in his allergic reactions to women, causing him to sneeze upon physical contact with them. Tang Dai Yun, a benevolent yet headstrong wealthy young woman, crosses paths with Zi Quan while searching for her missing brother. Accompanying them are Chen Yi Ming, the stoic butler of the Tang family with exceptional combat skills and a soft spot for Dai Yun, and Lu Zi Xiao, Zi Quan's childhood companion and the only woman he is not allergic to.

Taking place during the period of the Republic, the plot centers around five interconnected cases. A skilled detective, a cunning thief, and an undercover operative join forces to combat criminal activity. A series of perplexing murders have left the authorities baffled, leading them to enlist the help of Xiang Long, Qian Kong, and Lan Ruo Xin. Initially at odds, the trio - consisting of a detective, thief, and undercover agent with multiple identities - eventually learn to collaborate effectively. Just as they celebrate solving the case, a new, greater threat emerges.

In the midst of the Chinese Civil War, Yu Ze Cheng operated as a seemingly inconspicuous military officer within the Bureau of Investigation and Statistics under the Kuomintang. However, unbeknownst to many, he also carried out clandestine activities as a Communist Party of China informant.

During the 1930s, Wisely comes back to China after studying abroad and establishes a detective firm in Shanghai to look into supernatural incidents. He crosses paths with a physician named Pak So, with whom he develops a romantic relationship. However, they face numerous challenges and obstacles that put their love to the test before they eventually end up together. The series consists of eight separate tales, following Wisely and his team as they embark on investigations to solve each mystery.

Lei Ming, a detective working in the Republic of China, uncovered a puzzling case involving theft and vandalism three decades ago, which ended up implicating him in the investigation.

Taking place during the republican era, the story follows the Jiu Long Uniform Embroidered Guards as they solve mysterious cases and uncover the hidden truth behind the Nine Palace Treasure, which triggers a major conspiracy.

In the swiftly evolving city of Hanzhou, Officer Qin Feng and his close companion Liu Tian Ye confront perilous criminals while wrestling with profound ethical dilemmas and the intricate relationships involving family, authority, and justice. Adapted from the book "Ying Xiong Jian Shi" (英雄简史) by Shu Zhong Min (舒中民).

Special operatives known as Salt and Sugar have returned to duty

The security and tranquility of the nation are safeguarded by unseen protectors. Behind the scenes, dedicated public servants risk their lives to combat crime and maintain peace along the Sino-Russian border. In a swift operation, Chinese border police successfully neutralized a group involved in illegal arms trafficking within seven minutes. Despite the capture of the group's leader, Xu Zhi Hai, police chief Li Jian remains concerned about the prevalence of gun-related crimes along the border. Following Li Jian's instructions, undercover investigator Zhang Meng infiltrates the prison to gather information from Xu Zhi Hai, who eventually develops a level of trust with Zhang Meng. However, no valuable information regarding gun smuggling is obtained. After a daring escape by Xu Zhi Hai, Zhang Meng pursues him relentlessly. Xu Zhi Hai meets his demise at the hands of law enforcement, but not before revealing a crucial detail to Zhang Meng: to seek out his older brother, Xu Zhi Qiang, in Russia.

A group of passionate young individuals come together to establish a detective agency with a mission to uncover the truth. Known as the Young Blood Agency, this investigative team operates during the Republican era and is committed to unraveling enigmatic cases. Despite gaining a positive reputation for their successful investigations, the mysteries they encounter are intertwined with unresolved conflicts from the past. As the four members of the agency delve deeper into their cases, they come to realize the complex ties that bind them together.

After his Master passed away, the painter Cheng Ren was overcome with sorrow. He found a painting left behind by his Master and set out on a quest to uncover the hidden truth. Despite facing many challenges, Cheng Ren was determined to seek justice for the living and the deceased. Though initially appearing unrelated, the six cases he investigated were ultimately intertwined. Baidu

As Jiang Ling Long delved into the mysterious disappearance of a young girl, she crossed paths with Gu Zhan Bei, a youthful marshal hailing from Ping Cheng. Together, they cracked the case, prompting Jiang Ling Long to admire Gu Zhan Bei's capabilities and propose they team up at the detective agency. As they unraveled their second case, Gu Zhan Bei began to suspect that he and Jiang Ling Long were entangled in a series of murders. Simultaneously, tensions arose between the two as they confronted emotional complexities, unresolved cases from a decade past, and shadowy figures pulling the strings from the background, plunging them into a dire predicament.

The notorious criminal known as "Flying Eagle" made a sudden appearance in Linjiang City, employing clever tactics to evade capture by law enforcement agencies. Tasked with investigating the case was Lu Jiang, a young expert in criminal investigations. The Pan and Xu families, longstanding rivals in Linjiang, were involved in the conflict. Pan Yue Yang, Lu Jiang's uncle, had always hoped for Lu Jiang to marry his adopted daughter, Su Pan. As business and criminal activities intertwined, Lu Jiang found himself caught in the middle and forced to make a decision.

Detective Gong Sun He, along with Bao Qing Tian and their colleagues, are up against a dangerous criminal syndicate. Through cleverness and collaboration, they work together to unravel a string of intricate cases. Their mission is to combat wrongdoing and uphold the principles of justice. (TMDb)