Asian dramas like
Expressway Of First Empire

An ancient tale of eternal life drives a romantic saga spanning over three thousand years. According to legend, the first Emperor of China, Qin Shihuang, dispatched Xu Fu to the eastern seas in search of the elixir of immortality. Tragedy strikes when forbidden love blooms between the maiden Han Dong'er and Meng Tianfang, leading to Han sacrificing herself by feeding Meng the elixir before both are turned into terracotta warriors. Fast forward to modern-day China, where a terracotta warrior mysteriously comes to life and vanishes from the museum. A Japanese man named Haneda, claiming to be Xu Fu's descendant, embarks on a quest to find the living terracotta warrior who consumed the elixir and uncover Emperor Qin's tomb in Xi'an. Meanwhile, actors Zhu Lili and Lan Tian accidentally stumble upon a passageway leading to the tomb. Will they unravel the mystery of the living terracotta warrior, safeguard the Emperor's resting place, and unearth the key to everlasting life?

He adored her and sacrificed his kingdom for her, but their destiny did not align. She aspired to be the Emperor's consort and eventually took control of the empire, only to find that he was not by her side.

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.

During times of turmoil, individuals with extraordinary abilities often come to the forefront, much like Lv Bu Wei did during the tumultuous Warring States period in China. As the era drew to a close, Lv Bu Wei journeyed as a trader through the Zhao state before eventually aligning himself with the Qin state. This alliance proved significant as the Qin state, under the rule of Qin Shi Huang, successfully united China for the first time, marking the beginning of China's imperial era.

During the transition from the Qin Dynasty to the Han Dynasty, a blend of historical events and science fiction unfolds, involving key figures such as Qin Shi Huang, Liu Bang, Han Xin, Zhang Liang, and Xiang Yu. Han Xin, a gifted young man facing neglect and mistreatment, is approached by a mysterious individual in black who offers him a chance to alter his destiny. With the assistance of divine powers, the man in black proposes a deal to aid Han Xin. Meanwhile, as Qin Shi Huang, Liu Bang, Xiang Yu, and Zhang Liang navigate through turbulent times, Han Xin begins to realize that an unseen force has been orchestrating the rise and fall of dynasties.

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

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

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.

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.

"Jing Ke the Assassin" is a Chinese TV show that tells the story of the legendary assassin Jing Ke, who famously tried to assassinate Ying Zheng, the King of Qin, in 227 BC. (Wikipedia)

"The Legend of Qin" depicts the historical period of the Qin dynasty, showcasing the Emperor of the Qin, King Zheng's conquest of the six other nations to unify China, as well as the emergence of the king of Western Chu, Xiang Yu, who seizes the capital city, Xianyang. The narrative revolves around a young protagonist, Jing Tian Ming, who transforms from a vulnerable and naive boy into a formidable hero with a significant impact on history. This storyline is inspired by the anime "The Legend of Qin" produced by Sparkly Key Animation Studio, adapted from Wen Shi Ren's novel series of the same name. Viewers have the option to choose between two versions: 54 episodes on DVD or 58 episodes on TV.

A tale depicting the challenges faced by Huang Xiao Hua, a retired soldier and member of the Communist party, from her youth at 18 to her old age at 80. Following the Chinese victory in the Anti-Japanese Occupation war, Huang Xiao Hua settles down in a peaceful farming village. She attracts the attention of two young men - war hero Wei Shou Gen and party branch secretary Tan Shan Tang - who both vie for her affections. Forced to flee, Huang Xiao Hua disguises herself as a man and relocates to a different village. There, she meets military leader Zhao Jing Song and joins the military as a medical worker. The two develop a romantic relationship, but Huang Xiao Hua is injured in battle and falls into a coma. Upon awakening, she embarks on a quest to find her lover, only to discover that he has passed away. She then dedicates herself to caring for his children until they come of age.

This period drama series from China follows the story of a well-known merchant family involved in the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine towards the end of the Qing dynasty

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.

This series is inspired by the tale of Lu Bu and Diao Chan from the novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms. (DramaWiki)

A tale depicting the Hong brothers managing Lou Wai Lou amidst military imperialism, warfare, and the resistance against Japanese occupation throughout a span of two decades. (ChineseDrama.info)

In the era of the Warring States, Li Hao Lan is expelled from her household and sold into slavery despite being the daughter of the Public Censor of Zhao. She is bought by Lu Bu Wei and given to Ying Yi Ren, a Qin Royal serving as a hostage to ensure peace between the Qin and Zhao states. Their arrival sparks a perilous conflict, forcing them to use their cunning to stay alive. Can Hao Lan achieve triumph over the challenges in her life? (Viki)

In 1937, the Japanese imperialists initiated a violent war against China, putting the Chinese nation in a crucial phase. Xu Tian, a color-blind accountant in Shanghai with military training, chose to stay close to his mother following his father's passing. After encountering a group of patriots connected to his late father, he was inspired by their patriotic fervor. Utilizing his keen intellect, he aided the patriots in transporting crucial materials, attracting the attention of the Japanese occupying forces in the city. Amidst these events, he formed bonds with Jin, a former conman now businessman, and Tielin, a police officer in the Shanghai French Concession. Simultaneously, pharmacist Tian Dan sought refuge in Xu's home after losing her parents in a situation he was deeply involved in. Against the backdrop of the national crisis, individuals navigated their interconnected lives driven by motives of revenge, duty, self-interest, or ideology.

The play depicts the experiences of three individuals during a challenging period in history. Diverse characters navigate through a tumultuous time, facing both positive and negative circumstances while resisting Japanese influence.

In 1927, during the upheaval of an anti-government uprising, Xia Heng Xuan passed away while rescuing a member of the Communist Party named Ren Zhi Yuan. He left behind his younger sister Xia Yu Zhu and her servant Shuang Ju. Yu Zhu, who is fragile, struggles to support herself, while Shuang Ju joins a special group within the Kuomintang upon the suggestion of Zhi Yuan's partner, Xiao Cheng Bi. Some time later, Yu Zhu coincidentally saves Zhi Yuan, leading her to be deeply moved when he sacrifices his life. This prompts Yu Zhu to join the clandestine branch of the Communist Party, where she meets Xiao Jun Hao, Cheng Bi's younger sibling, who is on the same mission. As they collaborate, their relationship transforms into something more than friendship.

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.

The Conqueror's Tale recounts the transformation of Liu Bang from a humble commoner to the inaugural Emperor, Emperor Gao, of the Han Dynasty.

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".

NHK's 56th historical drama series follows the Ii family's rule over the Totomi region during the Sengoku period. With no male heirs left due to previous conflicts, Naotora Ii, the lord's sole daughter, is set to inherit the title. Despite the challenges ahead, the unwavering support of her long-time betrothed provides Naotora with the strength to persevere.

Is it possible for a compassionate and truthful individual to elevate themselves from poverty to achieve great success? Shen Wan San, a man known for his kindness and honesty, often struggles to afford even basic necessities. Despite this, he rises to become the wealthiest entrepreneur of the Ming Dynasty, all the while remaining optimistic and cheerful. How does he accomplish such a remarkable feat?

There is no historical figure that captures the hearts and imaginations of people worldwide quite like Zhao Zi Long, also known as Zhao Yun. He was a renowned military general during the late Eastern Han Dynasty and early Three Kingdoms period. Known for his exceptional fighting skills, bravery, and charm, Zhao Yun initially served under the warlord Zan Gong Sun before switching sides to join Liu Bei as one of the esteemed Five Tiger Generals. However, as Zhao Yun finds himself entangled in a romantic rivalry between the lovely Xiaohou Qing Yi and the formidable warrior Gao Ze, he may realize that battles of the heart can be the most perilous of all. This storyline is adapted from Luo Guan Zhong's novel "San Guo Yan Yi." Three versions of the adaptation are available: 49 episodes (TV), 56 episodes (Uncut), and 60 episodes (DVD).

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

The drama revolves around the formative years of the renowned Yang Clan before they entered the military. It depicts the impact of their parents, adversaries, and romantic partners on shaping their identities, guiding their paths, and inspiring them to become the heroic fighters that their clan is renowned for.

In the third part of the series, the Grand Empress returns to confront the gang once again. Displeased with Yong Qi's failure to produce an heir, she forces him to marry another woman in hopes of having a son who could potentially become the emperor in the future. Xiao Jian, the brother of Xiao Yan Zi, is in love with Qing Er, but holds a grudge against the emperor for the past murder of their parents. Qing Er's fate lies in the hands of the Grand Empress, as she is favored by her. To allow Qing Er and Xiao Jian to be together, Yong Qi decides to marry the other woman. Yong Qi selflessly sacrifices himself to ensure the happiness of Qing Er and Xiao Jian. Meanwhile, the neighboring nation is on the brink of war, leading to Er Kang being drafted. During a significant battle, Er Kang loses his memory and falls in love with another woman. The question remains: will Er Kang reunite with Zi Wei, and will Yong Qi develop feelings for his second wife?

The narrative follows the individuals residing at the base of the mountains in North-eastern China, who, guided by the Communist Party of China and the Anti-Japanese Allied Forces, stood up against the Japanese invaders to protect their country

In ancient China during the Spring and Autumn period, the four prominent families in the Qi state were engaged in fierce competition for political power. Despite their fathers' rivalry, Sun Wu and Guo Wujiu formed a strong friendship and received military training from the renowned strategist Tian Rangju. In the Chu state, Wu Zixu became a fugitive after his father was falsely accused of treason and his family was wiped out by King Ping of Chu. With the help of Sun Wu and Wujiu, Wu Zixu found refuge in the Wu state. The situation in Qi worsened when the Sun clan launched a surprise attack on the Guo and Gao clans, leading to a violent conflict. Wujiu managed to escape from Qi and viewed Sun Wu as his bitter rival from then on. He settled in Chu and became a general. Meanwhile, Sun Wu, devastated by the events, roamed until he settled in Wu state. Through Wu Zixu's introduction, Sun Wu was appointed as the military leader by King Hel of Wu. Sun Wu began his successful career by writing The Art of War and showcasing his strategic brilliance in leading the Wu army to victory in battles against rival states.

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.

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)

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.

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.

Deng Gui Chan, a powerful female entrepreneur nicknamed "Seventh Master", is fiercely competitive and unafraid to take risks

Taking place during the Warring States Period, the narrative centers on a remarkable prodigy with a mysterious background. Similar to a chess grandmaster, Wang Chan orchestrates events during turbulent times to suppress rebellion and bolster his nation's power, eventually earning the revered title of Gui Gu Zi. In 390 BC, Wang Cuo aids the Crown Prince of Wei in thwarting a coup, leading to the exile of Wei Huan and the escape of Wu Qi to Chu. Following a momentous victory, Wang Cuo faces retaliation from Wu Qi, who seeks to claim Sun Tzu's The Art of War for himself. Surrounding the manor with five hundred soldiers, Wu Qi massacres all within. Despite the tragedy, Madame Wang gives birth to Wang Chan, who grows up to become a skilled political strategist.

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.

This narrative portrays the sorrowful tale of Nalan Rong Ruo, a Manchu poet whose poems mirror the heartbreaking love stories he encountered in his brief life.

In 1937, Japanese forces took control of Manchuria. Ku Ping On and her close friend Tin Hau Yi traveled to Nanjing with her ill mother to find her father, Ku Man Chai, who owned the largest rice company in the city. To her surprise, she learned that Hau Yi, whom she thought was her fiancé, was in love with Cheng Yuet Fung, her father's fourth wife. Subsequently, Poon Sai Cheung, who collaborated with the Japanese, "acquired" Ping On.