Asian dramas like
Li Wei Ci Guan

During Qianlong's eight-year rule, a thorough examination of the golden chamber bird resulted in a devastating earthquake that brought about calamities. This event revealed the pressing issue of diminishing grain fields in Daqing.

The story focuses on the lineage of three Emperors and their respective groups of concubines.

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.

This series follows the life of a young Prince named Hong Li, who later becomes Emperor Qian Long. Despite being the obvious choice to succeed his father Yong Zheng, Hong Li faces challenges and hardships on his journey to maturity. With a sincere and direct approach, he tries to use his education to improve the state's affairs. Surprisingly, this approach displeases Yong Zheng, leading the 3rd and 5th Princes, guided by their teacher Mr. Tian, to win over Yong Zheng and influence his decision to pass the throne to someone else.

The series revolves around the life of Yin Reng, the eldest son of Emperor Kangxi who faced being appointed as Crown Prince and then removed from the position twice. Ultimately, his younger brother Yin Zhen ascended to the throne as Emperor Yongzheng.

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.

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.

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)

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.

Taking place during the mid-1800s Qing Dynasty, Curse of the Royal Harem is inspired by the rule of the Daoguang Emperor in China. The series depicts the complexities of drama and romantic entanglements within the Manchurian royal harem at court. (Wikipedia) There are two versions available: 29 episodes in Hong Kong and 31 episodes overseas.

In 1776, during the 41st year of Qian Long's reign, the court faced a financial crisis due to the need for funds for war. Official Akezhan was tasked with collecting donations from wealthy salt merchants in Yangzhou. Instead, Akezhan uncovered a significant corruption scandal that had deep implications for the nation. Fortunately, merchant Wang Chao Zong stepped in to assist by providing funds for the frontline and suggesting anti-corruption reforms. The aftermath of the salt scandal led to a widespread power struggle, unfolding during Qian Long's inspection tour of the southern regions, filled with danger and intrigue.

At the age of 8, Kang Xi became emperor after Shun Zhi decided to become a monk due to the passing of his favorite concubine. With the assistance of Grand Empress Dowager Xiao Zhuang, Kang Xi successfully navigated a challenging power struggle against Ao Bai and eventually established his own control over the nation. Over the course of his 61-year reign, the longest in Chinese history, Kang Xi defeated rebellious former Ming generals Wu Sangui, Shang Kexi, and Geng Jinmao, incorporated Taiwan into the empire, and emerged victorious over Ge ErDan, leading to a period of unparalleled growth and prosperity in the country.

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.

During the late Qing Dynasty, Empress Ci Xi was a well-known figure. Wen Xiu and Chun Er, two young individuals, sought employment in the Forbidden City. Chun Er ended up becoming a eunuch serving Empress Ci Xi. Both men found themselves entangled in the political disputes of the empress.

Upon their births, Lian Cheng and Heng Tai were switched, leading them down very different paths in life. Lian Cheng found herself living on the streets and working in brothels, while Heng Tai grew up in the luxurious Wei general's residence. Through a series of mysterious events, Lian Cheng and Heng Tai cross paths and develop feelings for each other, prompting Lian Cheng to return to her rightful place in the general's mansion. However, their love faces many challenges and is not easily accepted by others.

The Luckiest Man is a comedy that takes place during the Ching Dynasty and follows Dai, the sole heir of a wealthy rural family. Despite his vow to remain loyal to one woman, Dai finds himself with two wives due to unexpected circumstances. This leads to a series of peculiar adventures for Dai, including an unlikely friendship with the young Ching Emperor. The film explores themes of fidelity, love, and the twists of fate in a light-hearted historical setting. (yesasia.com)

Taking place at the end of the Qing Dynasty, the series follows the Chinese National Industry and Commerce as they push back against Western influences. Under the rule of Guangxu, the Zhang family oversaw the Zhangku Avenue of the Northern Silk Road, which thrived and expanded towards the Russian trading route. However, everything changed one fateful day. Lu Junjie, a member of the Zhang family, faced a significant upheaval and was forced to flee to the grasslands. Despite his desire for a fresh start, the Zhai family, who had stolen his family's assets, continued to pursue him, even enlisting bandits to attempt his murder. Lu Junjie's loyal supporters valiantly defended the Zhangku Avenue, rallying more individuals to his cause. Together, they worked on repairing railways, establishing commercial radio stations, and significantly boosting the country's trade. Following the Japanese invasion, Lu Junjie confronted the Zhai Tribe in a final battle, achieving vengeance for his family. With his enemies vanquished, Lu Junjie remains hopeful that the former glory of the Zhangku Avenue will be resurrected.

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.

Liu Bao Shan, also known as Liu Gan San, was a famous Peking opera performer during the Qing dynasty in Beijing. He specialized in playing comedic roles and was particularly known for portraying unattractive female characters. Using his quick wit, he often made spontaneous remarks during his performances to mock those in power. Originally from Tianjin, he once entertained Empress Dowager Cixi and Emperor Guangxu at the Forbidden City by teasing the empress dowager about the emperor not having a seat. On another occasion, he made fun of Prince Dun, Prince Gong, and Prince Chun, which resulted in him being physically punished. (Wikipedia) Based on the life of Liu Gan San.

When two princes vie for the throne, the situation becomes complicated. While one prince appears innocent, the other presents a facade of kindness that may hide his true motives.

The series follows the life of Qiao Zhiyong, a prominent figure in the Qiao Family from Qi County, Shanxi, during the late Qing Dynasty. It begins with Qiao Zhiyong leaving for Beijing to take the imperial examination during the Xianfeng Emperor's rule. However, he is forced to return home without completing the exam due to the passing of his older brother, Qiao Zhiguang. Despite his initial reluctance, Qiao is persuaded by his sister-in-law, Madam Cao, to take over the family business as it is struggling financially. To prevent the family from going bankrupt, Qiao reluctantly marries Lu Yuhan, the daughter of wealthy Shanxi merchant Lu Dake. With Qiao at the helm, the family business eventually becomes profitable once again.

The drama primarily narrates the journey of a prince through various challenges and triumphs amidst the tumultuous period of the late Qing dynasty.

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?

In 1627, Emperor Chong Zhen took over the leadership of the Ming dynasty following his brother Emperor Tian Qi, with assistance from Wang Cheng En, a eunuch. Despite his best efforts, Emperor Chong Zhen struggled to revive his declining empire due to widespread corruption inherited from his predecessors and a rebellion led by Li Zi Cheng. Meanwhile, Huangtaiji, the ambitious ruler of the Qing dynasty, was preparing to invade the Ming Empire from the north. Emperor Chong Zhen appointed Yuan Chong Huan and Hong Cheng Chou as military commanders to counter the threat, but their outcomes differed - Yuan was falsely accused of plotting against the emperor and executed, while Hong surrendered to the Manchus after a defeat at the Battle of Songjin and later aided them in fighting against the Southern Ming dynasty. In 1644, Li Zi Cheng's rebels seized Beijing, leading Emperor Chong Zhen to take his own life. Shortly after, Wu San Gui, a Ming general, defected to the Qing dynasty, allowing them to conquer the rest of China. Wu's betrayal was driven by the loss of his concubine, Chen Yuan Yuan, who was taken by a rebel general after the fall of Beijing. Wu joined forces with the Qing against the rebels in retaliation.

Martial arts specialist Nip Dor Po enlists in the Imperial Guard with the intention of advocating for the common people. He serves under the leadership of Prince Yue, Fook Chuen, and the two develop a strong friendship over time. Following Chuen's suggestion, Po becomes the personal protector of Chuen's younger brother, Emperor Hong Hei. Po is taken aback by the palace's atmosphere of scheming and deception, as well as Chuen's hidden rebellious plans. While harboring feelings for Cheuk Chi Ying, Po witnesses her entanglement in a power struggle among the imperial concubines. Amidst a web of allies and enemies, deceit and deception, Po finds himself thrust into a lone battle in the shadows.

A play depicting the extraordinary life of Qi Jun Zao, a learned individual from the Qing dynasty. He held positions under four rulers and educated three of them.

The narrative follows the life of Li Chuan Wei, the grandson of Li Wei. During an investigation, Li Chuan Wei encounters a wanderer who bears a striking resemblance to him. As a skilled martial artist in the imperial palace, Li Chuan Wei sustains an injury and swaps identities with Zhao San. Seizing the chance, Li Chuan Wei infiltrates the anti-Qing Dynasty movement and earns a significant responsibility by gaining their confidence. Meanwhile, Zhao San assumes the role of Emperor Qianlong's personal protector within the palace. Despite lacking a martial arts background, Zhao San learns how to navigate interactions with prominent figures such as Qianlong, Jia Qing, and He Kun. While their upbringings and approaches differ, Li Chuan Wei and Zhao San unite to thwart the rebellion against the throne, rekindling a lost sense of brotherhood along the way.

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 the historical comedy-drama's second season, the spotlight is on Li Wei, a county magistrate who lacked literacy but rose to prominence as a respected official in the Qing dynasty of the 18th century.

The narrative follows the fictionalized account of Liu Che, who was known as Emperor Wu during the Han Dynasty.

A tale of court intrigues and power struggles among the royal family members and officials during the Kang Xi era is depicted in the drama. After Princess Yi Dan's secret affair with her cousin, Emperor Kang Xi, led to her leaving the palace in shame, she gave birth to Han Xiang before being killed by a schemer. Han Xiang, searching for her origins and her mother's killer, grew up and snuck into the palace disguised as a servant. While there, she became caught up in the palace's rivalries and ambitions. Prince Ge Tai, despite the societal taboos, developed feelings for her and Han Xiang couldn't resist falling for him in return.