Asian dramas like
Fighting Fragrance

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.

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.

Following the Mukden Incident on September 18, 1931, Ma Zhong Qiu and his family's tranquil existence is thrown into turmoil. Ma Zhong Qiu transitions from a humble swordsman to an honorable police officer, and eventually joins the ranks of the Communist Party of China as a soldier. Throughout his journey, he faces numerous challenges and life-threatening situations. Initially driven by the desire to reunite his family in peace, his motivations later shift to fighting for love and eventually, as a defender of his nation and people. Along the way, he crosses paths with dancer Nan Yan and falls deeply in love. Their relationship weathers the storms of war, but their genuine and selfless love becomes a source of strength as they stand together to defend their country.

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

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.

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 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

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.

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.

Based on Ba Jin's novel "Cold Nights," ( ) was the inspiration for this adaptation.

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.

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

Located in Yulin, Shanxi Province, the story revolves around a young woman named Yang Fen who adopts a male identity

The melodrama depicts the journey of Han Chun Ming, a once educated young man. Upon his return to the city from a rural village, Han Chun Ming explores various avenues to sustain himself, such as running a street vendor stall. Through his perseverance and dedication, Han Chun Ming manages to save up enough money to start his own business and capture the affection of his desired romantic partner.

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.

Taking place in the Republican era, the narrative centers around Chen Huai Hai, the proprietor of a traditional Shandong inn, as he endeavors to eke out a living in Dalian. Formerly a ginseng hunter in the dense forests of Dong Bei, Chen Huai Hai faces a major setback when his children are separated and his wife departs. With no other options, he relocates to Dalian, which was then under Japanese colonial control, in order to establish an inn. The inn evolves into a hub of intelligence where individuals from diverse backgrounds gather. Driven by a strong sense of ethics, Chen Huai Hai does everything in his power to shield his fellow countrymen from the Japanese authorities. He crosses paths with Gu San Mei, who transforms the inn into a hub for Communist party communications. Influenced by her, Chen Huai Hai and his family become involved in the resistance against the occupation.

The story takes place between the 1920s and 1940s and focuses on Beile Ha Lan, a mischievous and timid individual from the former Qing Dynasty. Ha Lan's life takes a dramatic turn when he comes into possession of a confidential document detailing the treasures hidden in the imperial tombs. Born in a rundown palace in the capital city in 1909, Ha Lan shares a childhood romance with Xiao Yue Lou. While serving as a study companion in the palace, Ha Lan develops a passion for imperial cuisine and befriends the skilled Chef Xie. Despite being engaged to Tong Li Hua, the daughter of Marquis Tong, Ha Lan declines the arrangement and expresses his desire to marry Xiao Yue Lou instead. Elsewhere, Eunuch Wang steals the secret tomb records, but Chef Xie manages to swap it with a meal given to Ha Lan. Additionally, Eunuch Wang's godson, Wang Si Jai, is also on the hunt for the treasures.

Set in a vineyard in China during the early 20th century, the story revolves around the art of winemaking and the emotional journey of a widow engaged in a ghost marriage and her husband's loyal servant.

During the summer of 1920, there was a devastating flood that affected four counties, including Wenling and Zhejiang. In the midst of this chaos, some individuals sought to profit while others struggled to survive. Lin Bi Jun, a skilled female locksmith, escaped to Suzhou with her adoptive father in order to stay alive. Known for her intelligence and knack for fixing and unlocking things, Lin Bi Jun believed she and her father could build a comfortable life in Suzhou. However, her plans took a drastic turn when she was framed and faced execution. In a twist of fate, Lin Bi Jun found herself awakening in a luxurious room with a wealthy man in the north. As she delved deeper into the situation, she discovered a plot involving her sister and a foreigner to smuggle valuable minerals overseas for profit. Influenced by Marxist ideas from a progressive youth named Qian Zhong Jie, Lin Bi Jun was determined to protect the town's resources from exploitation. Through a series of events, she was able to persuade her sister to change her ways and together they worked to safeguard the town's valuable minerals.

Derived from Wang An Yi's book "The Song of Eternal Regret."

Yun Naing grew up without knowing her true identity and her family's tragic history. She faces challenges when she falls in love with Hao Chung, the son of a wealthy man. Despite facing difficulties and obstacles, they eventually marry. However, Yun Naing's mother-in-law shows animosity towards her from the beginning, subjecting her to verbal abuse. In a world that feels unfamiliar, Yun Naing must discover love and confidence in her own way as she gradually uncovers the connection between her new family and her past.

Gu Han Sen, a prominent figure in Shanghai, took in two sons during the early years of the Republic of China - Liao Si Cheng and Fang Tian Yi. The two adopted sons, along with Gu Han Sen's daughter Ting Gu, grew up together like true siblings. Fang Tian Yi, a kind and honest young man, valued their sibling bond above all else. Despite his unrequited love for Ting Gu, he kept his feelings hidden after learning of her feelings for Liao Si Cheng. The trio bravely fought against the Japanese invasion and played a crucial role in the War of Liberation. Gu Han Sen, aware of his daughter's feelings for Liao Si Cheng, attempted to arrange their marriage, but Liao Si Cheng prioritized his duties over personal matters. He joined the BIS, with Ting Gu and Fang Tian Yi following suit. Years later, they were unknowingly involved in a conspiracy while intercepting Qing treasures as part of a team led by Liao Si Cheng.

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.

Taking place in China during the 1930s and 1940s, Manchuria is occupied by the Japanese. With the CCP's intelligence system destroyed, two CCP operatives named Song Yan Qiao and Shu Jie work to undermine the Japanese authority and liberate their imprisoned colleagues.

Taking place in Qing Dynasty Twatutia from 1868 to 1888, this drama centers around key historical events such as the Sino-French War of 1883 to 1885 and the Mudan Incident of 1874. Zhi Kuan, a member of a well-known family, manages a successful herbal medicine shop and tea plantations. The harmony of Zhi Kuan and his wife Li Jun's marriage is tested when his former lover Yu Juan, who is a spy for the king, resurfaces after 20 years, along with Zhi Kuan's daughter Xin Lan.

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

Based on the book "Four Generations Living Together" by the author Lao She.

The story revolves around the love story between the heir of a prominent tea merchant in Jiangnan and a girl who works in the tea fields. Cheng Jing Mo is the only child of the tea business owner, known for his love of art and carefree nature. Ruan Qiu Shui, on the other hand, is skilled in mathematics and carries the weight of her family's financial struggles. When their paths cross, their lives become deeply intertwined, much like ink mixing with water.