Asian dramas like
Empress Wu Zetian Of China

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.

Narrates the tale of the sole female ruler in Chinese history who held the position of Empress Regnant. Based on the life of Wu Ze Tian.

Empress Wu Ze Tian made history as the only woman to ascend to the throne in ancient China. She was not born into nobility, but rather as the daughter of a wood merchant named Wu Shi Huo. Merchants were viewed negatively in those times, considered greedy and ruthless. Wu Ze Tian's mother, Princess Yang, hailed from the noble Sui Dynasty, which was overthrown by the Tang Dynasty following conflicts between Yang Guang and Li Shi Min. Princess Yang lived a commoner's life until her marriage in her forties, giving birth to two daughters, with Mei Niang being the second. Mei Niang was chosen to enter the Imperial Palace at the age of fourteen during Li Shi Min's reign as emperor. Initially enamored by her beauty, Li Shi Min's attention later shifted to another young woman named Xu Hui, who shared Mei Niang's intelligence and wit. Rumors circulated in Chang'an City about an empress named Wu who would seize power and eliminate the Li family's descendants. Li Shi Min suspected Wu Ze Tian could be this prophesied empress, considering eliminating her as a precaution. However, he ultimately decided to spare her life and advised her to become a nun at Ganye Temple alongside some of his other consorts. In that era, the notion of a woman ruler was deemed preposterous.

Di Renjie, a government official and investigator during the Tang dynasty, delves into enigmatic homicides.

The plot of this series revolves around Empress Wu Zetian, Emperor Gaozong, and Di Renjie as they navigate through different adventures, including investigations at the Buddhist Monastery, the downfall of Empress Wang, and schemes to take over the throne.

Centered on the rule of Emperor Wu Zhe Tian, Detective Di Ren Jie is tasked with multiple assignments from the Empress. Throughout his adventures, he comes across a variety of enigmas.

During a visit to a temple with his royal officials and Queen, Emperor Qianlong and his entourage are ambushed by rebels from the "Sun-moon cult," led by Zhong Liang and Zi Xia. Thankfully, no one is harmed, but the Queen, who is pregnant, becomes distressed and tragically dies after taking herbal medicine prescribed by a royal doctor. Outraged by this incident, Qianlong orders an investigation. Meanwhile, unrest in China and suspicions of conspiracy among his concubines and officials prompt Qianlong to travel to Jiang Nan with his bodyguard E Rong An, scholar Ji Xiao Lan, and Lian Er, the former maid of the deceased Queen.

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.

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?

Drawn from the tales of Wu Ze Tian and Di Ren Jie, the series centers on a mystical pearl concealing a little-known secret that triggers a series of perplexing incidents. (D-addicts)

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.

This story delves into the intense power struggle among imperial consorts during the Qing Dynasty. The Forbidden Palace is divided into two factions: Chuan Fei and Xiang Bin. Fearing the loss of the emperor's favor, Chuan seeks a replacement in the imperial concubine selection to rival Xiang for the position of Empress. Si Lin Chun escapes on her wedding day to participate in the selection and encounters a man named Ding An along the way. Jing Zhen and Lord Yi Hui, who have been close since childhood, are in love, but Jing decides to become a beloved concubine for the sake of improving relations with Mongolia. Desperate, Lord Yi Hui constantly seeks out Jing, while Si finds comfort in Lord Yi Hui. The complicated love triangle adds further chaos to the Forbidden Palace.

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.

After learning that his birth mother is not Empress Dowager Liu E but her servant Li Lanhui, Zhao Zhen decides to marry his daughter Princess Fukang to Li Wei, the son of the Li family, as a gesture of apology for his lack of respect. In the political sphere, Zhao Zhen works to maintain a delicate balance between the conservative and progressive factions following the backlash against the Qingli reforms. Within the palace, Emperor Renzong deals with the loyal Empress Cao, the troublesome Zhang Mihan, and the gentle Lady Miao.

The plot revolves around Kwangjong, who served as the monarch during the reign of the Koryo Dynasty from 918 to 1392.

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.

Derived from the occurrences during the rule of the Jiajing Emperor of the Ming dynasty.

Xie Yao Huan is an imagined female investigator in the Tang dynasty, known for unraveling multiple enigmatic cases while serving under Empress Wu Ze Tian.

This show revolves around the story of Qin Shi Huang, the inaugural ruler who brought together China under the Qin dynasty in 221 BC.

A theatrical production that portrays the life of King Gwang Gae To the Great, who reclaimed the splendor of Goguryeo by regaining control from Baekje, which had invaded Goguryeo before Gwang Gae To's arrival and ruled over East Asia during the reign of King Geun Cho Go.

In a twist of events, Princess An Ding Si, the eldest daughter of Wu Ze Tian, was not killed as history suggests, but instead managed to escape the country. As she grew older, she returned under a new identity to seek revenge on her mother for using her to achieve her goal of becoming the first female ruler of China. By posing as her younger sister, she became known as Princess Tai Ping, the most adored child of Empress Wu Ze Tian. Exploiting her mother's fondness for Tai Ping, the princess manipulated the court to further her own ambitions of seizing power and ruling China.

The fourth part of the "Mi Shi" series offers a fictionalized portrayal of Kang Xi's journey to ruling independently, including romantic entanglements and intense moments. Following the death of Regent Suo Ni in the eighth year of Emperor Kang Xi's reign, Kang Xi sees a chance to establish his authority. During a visit to a minister's home, Kang Xi meets and falls for Qing Ge Er, the lovely daughter of Ao Bai. Unaware of Kang Xi's true status, Qing Ge Er tries to resist his advances. Nalan Xing De, the brave and skilled son of Minister Nalan Ming Zhu, intervenes to protect her, provoking the displeasure of the Emperor. This initial confrontation sets the stage for both competition and eventual mutual admiration.

During the late Warring States period, the Qin State emerged as a dominant force with the help of leaders such as Ying Zheng, Lu Bu Wei, Li Si, and Wang Jian. Together, they worked to bring the six states under one rule, leading to the establishment of the Qin Empire as the first dynasty of Imperial China. King Zhao Xiang's aggressive tactics helped the Qin State gain strategic advantage over the other states. Following the deaths of King Zhao Xiang and King Xiao Wen, disputes over legitimacy arose within the royal court. Lu Bu Wei, a influential merchant, sought to seize power by supporting the exiled prince, Ying Yi Ren. The eldest prince eventually resolved the political unrest by leaving the capital. Despite facing difficulties in battles against Zhao, Qin continued its ambition to conquer all lands. Ying Zheng, with guidance from Lu Bu Wei, began to demonstrate leadership qualities as he returned home with his mother, Zhao Ji. To secure the throne for her son, Zhao Ji and Lu Bu Wei allied against Huayang Furen. Ying Zheng embarked on a ruthless journey towards becoming an emperor, utilizing those around him to consolidate power.

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.

Lee Lin Yin and On Tak Hoi, who both came from humble backgrounds, were sold into servitude as palace eunuchs when they were young. Under the guidance of senior eunuch Lau Dor San, they formed a strong brotherly bond and rose to prominent positions serving Empress Dowager Ci Xi. However, Tak Hoi's greed strained his relationship with the cautious Lin Yin. As the head eunuch, Chan Fuk felt threatened by their rising influence and began scheming against them. Fortunately, Lin Yin received support from palace maid Sin Yung and eunuch pharmacist Yiu Seung Hei. Meanwhile, tensions rose as Emperor Tong Zi prepared to select his empress, causing concern for Empress Dowager Ci An that Ci Xi would gain more power. To counter this, she allied with the Grand Prince to weaken Ci Xi's position.

The plot revolves around Emperor Wang Gun, who established the Goryo Dynasty.

To ensure Koryo's independence, Gong Min Wang wed a woman he had no affection for. With Mongolian forces in control of Koryo, he took the Mongolian princess as his wife, believing this alliance might eventually lead to Koryo's liberation. Shin Don, a Buddhist monk, was a key advisor to both Queen Nokuk and King Gong Min in their governance of Koryo.

Chung Nyeong, born as the third prince, was far from being in line for the throne. His formative years were marked by turmoil as Korea dealt with political strife both internally and externally, and he even faced the threat of abduction during his childhood. As he grew, the young prince found himself residing in a private home outside the palace, experiencing the daily lives of ordinary citizens until he reached young adulthood. Upon eventually taking the throne, Chung Nyeong, who became known as King Se Jong, worked to stabilize the newly established nation and fostered the flourishing culture of Joseon. During this time, he also created Hangul, the writing system used in Korea.

The series depicts historical events in China from the late 1800s to early 1900s, which resulted in the downfall of the Qing dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China. It covers significant occurrences during the late Qing dynasty and Republican period, including the First Sino-Japanese War, the Hundred Days' Reform, the Boxer Rebellion, and the Xinhai Revolution. Various factions, including monarchists, reformers, and revolutionaries, offer different solutions to the Qing dynasty's worsening situation, all aiming towards a common objective of restoring China as a sovereign, international, and independent nation.

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.

This tale revolves around Dongfang Shuo, a scholar during the Han dynasty who served as a court jester to Emperor Wu of Han. Unlike other scholars and officials in Emperor Wu's era, Dongfang Shuo had unique qualities. Despite falling in love with both a prostitute named Luo Qi and Princess Ping Yang, his unconventional advice was often disregarded, resulting in no change in his rank. Surprisingly, Emperor Wu never punished Dongfang Shuo and allowed him to remain by his side. Dongfang Shuo's intelligence was evident as he mediated conflicts within the Emperor's harem, modified Heqin's strategies, and provided counsel on how to combat the Xiongnu. However, the Emperor's arrogance led to setbacks for his empire, with the Xiongnu winning multiple battles and the loss of the young general Huo Qu Bing in combat. Realizing the Emperor's unwillingness to heed his advice, Dongfang Shuo eventually parted ways with him.

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.

A prophecy proclaiming, "The Dugu World: Whoever possesses Dugu, possesses the world," echoes throughout the land, suggesting that the Dugu family was meant for greatness. This prophecy brings focus to Dugu Xin, a court official, and his three daughters - Dugu Ban Ruo, Dugu Man Tuo, and Dugu Jia Luo. Each sister is gifted with beauty and intelligence from birth, and they make a pact to protect each other from the prophecy's potential harm. Despite their unity, Dugu Ban Ruo is driven by ambition to claim the empress' title, while Dugu Man Tuo seeks wealth and status even if it means resorting to violence. On the other hand, Dugu Jia Luo, the youngest sister, remains oblivious to the power struggle between her siblings and simply seeks happiness. However, as fate would have it, a romantic interest will draw Jia Luo into a world where only one Dugu sister can emerge victorious.

The series follows the story of Princess Tai Ping, the offspring of China's sole empress, Wu Ze Tian.

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.