Asian dramas like
How Much Sorrow Do You Have

In a tale set in the Song Dynasty under Emperor Zhen Zong's rule, Empress Liu, unable to conceive, conspires with eunuch Kwok Wai to switch the newborn prince with a feral cat.

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.

"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.

A biographical series depicting the life of the renowned poet and statesman Su Dongpo, also known as Su Shi. The show will follow Su Shi's journey over six decades, starting from his early days traveling to the capital of the Song Dynasty to participate in the civil service exam alongside his younger brother, up until his passing.

The series narrates the tale of two extraordinary women from the Northern Song Dynasty: Li Qing Zhao, a renowned Chinese poet and writer, recognized as one of the most prominent poets in Chinese history, and Li Shi Shi, a courtesan who resided in Bianjing (present-day Kaifeng), the capital of the Song Dynasty. Emperor Huizong, who frequently patronized Li Shi Shi, was rumored to be so infatuated with her that he allegedly had a secret tunnel constructed from his palace directly to her residence.

Consort Shun expressed her discontent with her elder sister Consort Yu by spreading rumors about her within the palace. The nanny, Sheung Ling, had ulterior motives as she pretended to help uncover the truth for others, when in reality she was scheming for personal gain. She managed to earn Consort Yu's trust and they became close friends. The arrival of Kunqu Opera artist Ko Lau Fei and FaDan Wan Chau Yin stirred up emotions among the women in the palace. Feeling threatened by Consort Yu interfering with her plans, Shun devised a cunning scheme. Unexpectedly, she found herself entangled in a complicated relationship with Ling and Fei. To further manipulate her sister, Shun enlisted the help of fortune-teller Tung Kat Hoi, who was seen as eccentric by the public but was privy to the true madness within the Forbidden City.

General Zhan Hao faces immense pressure from three imperial decrees to destroy a village that refuses to hand over control of an iron ore mine. In the chaos, his pregnant wife tragically loses her life while trying to prevent the massacre. Despite the loss, she gives birth to a son who is later rescued and raised by the village magistrate, Fang Zian. Zhan is wrongly accused of treason and imprisoned after being blamed for the unrest. Seeking revenge, he escapes from jail and kidnaps the infant prince, determined to use him to overthrow the Song dynasty. Two decades later, the prince, raised by Zhan as his own son, carries out his father's plan to rebel against the Empire. Meanwhile, the Song Emperor sends Fang's adopted son to infiltrate a rebel group led by his biological father, Zhan.

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.

Taking place during the early Qing dynasty, the plot centers on the love affair between Dorgon and Empress Dowager Xiao Zhuang. (Wikipedia)

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.

Yue Fei started his career from humble beginnings and eventually became a renowned military leader who defended Southern Song against northern Jin invaders. Unfortunately, he was unjustly executed by his own government. General Yue Fei's name continues to be associated with the virtue of "loyalty" in Chinese culture.

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.

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.

When marriages are arranged within the upper class, it often results in people getting hurt. Zhao An Hua finds himself in a situation where he is compelled to marry a daughter from the Xue family due to Madam Xue's ambitions for power and riches. As a result, An Hua's former lover is heartbroken and seeks vengeance by marrying the infamous gangster, Fu Zhen Jia. Will love be able to triumph over the pain and envy brought on by these strategic unions?

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.

In the novel "The Ninth Widow," we follow the life of Wang Pu-tao, a woman from a remote village in Central China. Wang tragically loses her family in a flood when she is just a child, and is later sold into servitude before being widowed at the young age of 14. Despite her hardships, Wang harbors a fugitive man (her father-in-law) in her cellar for three decades, providing him with care and protection during times of political turmoil, famine, and other disasters.

In the Shaoxing era of the Southern Song Dynasty, most countries were facing instability both internally and externally. Despite this, the Nan An state stood out as an exception under the leadership of Du Bao. In gratitude, the people presented him with a seven-colored peony as a symbol of their appreciation. This gesture symbolized the sudden blooming of flowers to bless the beloved couple in this legendary tale.

Numerous brave individuals rose to prominence during the turbulent era spanning from the Sui to early Tang dynasties. Among the most renowned were Qin Qiong, Luo Cheng, Cheng Yao Jin, Shan Xiong Xin, and Wei Chi Gong, collectively referred to as the "Five Tigers of Sui and Tang." These heroes played a crucial role in assisting Li Shi Min in overcoming rebellions and adversaries, ultimately bringing peace to the land. The drama will commence with the founding of the Sui dynasty and culminate in Li Shi Min's coronation as ruler.

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

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.

Qu Yuan, a gifted child from a respectable family, finds himself in an unexpected romance with Mo Chou Nu, a slave. Their love is hindered by their social differences, leading them to face numerous challenges as they navigate through political intrigues and palace schemes in their quest to be together. The narrative also chronicles Qu Yuan's gradual efforts to protect his nation.

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.

The play narrates the tale of Chang Hanqing, a youthful technician, and Jin Xing, a heroic fighter, in the aftermath of the establishment of the People's Republic of China. It focuses on the research, design, and progress of the innovative Chinese electric locomotive. (Baike Baidu)

A tale of rivalry and romance unfolds between Jianwen Emperor Zhu Yun Wen and his uncle Zhu Di as they compete for power and the affections of the same woman. Despite his impressive abilities and bravery, Zhu Di was never able to become crown prince due to the rules of succession. When the crown prince unexpectedly dies, Zhu Yun Wen is named emperor by Zhu Yuan Zhang, creating a barrier for Zhu Di. Both men become enamored with Xu Miao Yun, setting the stage for her tragic dilemma of being torn between two rulers.

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.

According to a myth, this series revolves around themes of power, love, and betrayal, with characters vying for dominance or affection, while one character simply desires peace and friendship. A complex love triangle forms involving Yan Fuk, Cho Chi Kin, Cho Chi Woon, and Kwok Huen, after Kwok Huen betrays Yan Fuk and pursues her own path to power.

The restaurant's history is deeply connected to the experiences of four women from different generations, showcasing common marital issues and the various stresses faced by women throughout history. In the late Qing Dynasty, Ngai Yu Fung's family falls on hard times and she is forced into marriage with Wong Yuk Lun, who later loses all their money. Fung sells a token of love from her first lover Yu Tsz to start the Phoenix Restaurant. During the May Fourth Movement, Fung's daughter Wong Chi Kwan runs away to Tianjin with her teacher Lee Kat Cheung. After their separation, Kwan returns to Beijing and finds the struggling Phoenix Restaurant.

During Emperor Songzong's rule, the government of Kaifeng faces a crisis. Public servant Baau Cing, guardian Gung Syun Caak, and Chin Chiu unite to fight corruption. Wan Chin Yu, a merchant's daughter, learns law from Gung Syun Caak and becomes a skilled advocate. Maid Gei Nim Nim excels in performing autopsies. Together, the two women assist the seven men of Kaifeng in solving numerous cases. However, dangers abound in Kaifeng. As Baau Cing and Nim Nim grow closer, their budding romance is threatened when he uncovers her true identity, which hides a significant conspiracy. Chin Yu's father harbors treacherous ambitions and accuses the Emperor of being an impostor. Baau Cing faces his toughest challenge yet. Will he sacrifice his principles for the greater good or expose the truth? (TVBAnywhere; Casual TVB)

During the chaos of war in mainland China in 1941, Shanghai fell under enemy control. Xue er and her family sought refuge in a concession area. Facing hardships and despair, Xue er's husband Gui Ting abandoned his family to reunite with his wealthy ex-girlfriend Liao Wanzhen. When all seemed lost, Bai Lang rescued Xue er and introduced her to the entertainment industry. A wealthy businessman named Qiao Xiannong pursued Xue er, who sought to leverage his power to regain custody of her son. Tragically, her son died in a fall, devastating Xue er. Seeking revenge against Gui, Xue er entered a relationship with Qiao. Bai, in an effort to win back Xue er, accepted a position in the puppet government's investigation bureau. After many trials, Bai ultimately succeeded in reuniting with Xue er and marrying her. However, Qiao's continued pursuit of Xue er led to his manipulation of her to seek vengeance against Gui. Ultimately, with Bai's guidance, Xue er realized the error of her ways and chose to abandon thoughts of revenge in favor of a happy life with Bai. Regrettably, Bai's involvement with the puppet government led to tragic consequences as Xue er sacrificed herself to save him by selling her body and consuming poison.