Asian dramas like
Rosy Business

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.

In the Qianlong era of the Qing Dynasty, the counties of Yellow River and Chaocheng experienced devastating floods, leading to widespread poverty and illegal salt trading. Despite the challenges, the court appointed Zheng Ban Qiao, a 50-year-old veteran, as the county magistrate of Fang County. Zheng Ban Qiao took swift action to address the issues, including cracking down on illegal salt trade, repairing dikes, and aiding disaster relief efforts. His dedication to serving the people and upholding justice earned him a reputation for diligence, honesty, and compassion.

In Beijing, during the Qing dynasty, a formidable empress ascended to the throne. The narrative revolves around four distinct households. One of them is the Chai family, led by Chai Hok Yan, who was betrayed by fellow officials resulting in the family being condemned to death. The sole survivor, Chai Pak Chuen, managed to escape thanks to the loyal assistance of a trusted aide who swapped identities with him. Renamed Fan Chi Chai, Pak Chuen relocated to a different city to start afresh. It was there that he crossed paths with the Kiu family, headed by successful business banker Kiu Bun Yip. Despite his prosperity, Bun Yip faced adversaries, including the Cho family. Bun Yip welcomed Pak Chuen to his banking establishment, Ding Fung Shing, to impart knowledge about banking. Simultaneously, Pak Chuen forged a close friendship with Cheung Shung Man.

The maxi-series uncovers a group of heroes who played key roles in peasant uprisings throughout history in rich detail. Moreover, the story is intertwined with the real-life aspects of society in order to understand Tseng Guo-fan, a figure who fought for survival, upheld his beliefs, and dedicated himself to the court.

The Guo family has a long history of practicing bone setting for more than two centuries, always having male successors to carry on their skilled healing tradition. However, Guo Yi Shan, a fourth-generation descendant, faces a challenge as he is left with only a young daughter following the deaths of his two wives. To ensure the continuity of the family medical practice, Yi Shan chooses to marry again, this time to a rural woman named Yun He Ming. Unfortunately, on their wedding day, Yi Shan is abducted by vengeful bandits orchestrated by Liu Xian Tang, the leader of "Everlasting Life Temple." He Ming learns of the kidnapping and successfully saves her husband, earning the admiration of the entire Guo family. As a result, Yi Shan decides to teach his new wife how to read and practice medicine.

During the transition from the late Qing Dynasty to the Republican era, a courageous woman rises above challenges to become a savior during tumultuous times. Yan Yang Chun faced the tragedy of losing her family at a young age, leaving her with the responsibility of seeking justice for her loved ones. Along her journey in the martial arts world, she encounters three individuals who each develop unique bonds with her. Yan Yang Chun also takes in five children - YanZhao, Yan Zhen, Yan Jun, Yan Hong, and Zhang Shan. Despite the turmoil, she showcases remarkable abilities as she upholds her principles to assist those in distress. Simultaneously, she confronts her two main adversaries using her intelligence and determination.

During the Qing Dynasty, in a specific location in Hunan, there were two local tea establishments run by siblings who had become estranged over a misunderstanding. Despite their mutual love for tea, they avoided communication and collaboration. However, their dynamic shifted when the emperor indicated his preference for Hunan tea as a tribute. Recognizing the significance of this opportunity, the brothers and sisters set aside their feud and united to create top-quality tea. Their combined efforts resulted in esteemed tea that was chosen as tribute for the emperor. Ultimately, the siblings reconciled and continued their tea-making tradition together.

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.

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.

Drawing from the occurrences of the Taiping Rebellion and the establishment and decline of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom during the final years of the Qing dynasty.

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

The knowledgeable scholar Ji Xiao Lan engages in a continuous mental and verbal clash with the seemingly gentlemanly yet corrupt official He Shen, both enjoying the battle with no clear winner. Emperor Qian Long's actions sow discord between them, leading Ji Xiao Lan and He Shen to strategize relentlessly. The BronzeTeeth III consists of six stories that vividly depict power struggles in the Qing imperial court through humor, anger, and curses.

The events of the story unfold during the rule of Hong Taiji, the founder of the Qing dynasty. In order to strengthen his military power, he solidified alliances by marrying into both Mongol and Manchu clans. His first marriage was to Jerger of the Khorchin Mongols, who became his main wife. Later on, he further solidified the alliance by marrying Jerger's niece, Dayu'er. Despite this, Hong Taiji showed favoritism towards Dayu'er's half-sister, Harjol, causing tension among the women. Dayu'er then collaborated with Hong Taiji's brother, Dorgon, in a secret plan to place her son on the throne ahead of his elder sons and brothers.

Fifteen years following the coronation of Emperor Ka Hing during the Qing dynasty, the kingdom seems to be peaceful. However, tensions rise among the imperial concubines as they vie for the emperor's affection. As the triennial imperial concubine selection approaches, all the concubines, including the emperor's favorite Yu Fei, feel anxious. Yu Fei faces competition from imperial descendant Yuk Ying, powerful eunuch's adopted daughter Yi Sun, and experienced imperial servantmaid On Sin. These women are both allies and rivals in the battle for the emperor's love. Yi Sun eventually falls for imperial physician Bak Yeung, who also captures the hearts of courtesan Heung Fou Lady Fuk and his neglected wife. However, Bak Yeung only has eyes for Yuk Ying, the one who least reciprocates his feelings. Meanwhile, as a palace maid, On Sin falls for imperial guard Hung Mou, but he distances himself from her once she becomes a Lady, the emperor's concubine.

The Imperial Household Bureau in the Tong Dynasty oversees the management of all household services for the Emperor and the Imperial family. It consists of four departments: Jewels, Attire, Food, and Furnishings. Lan Sam Ho and Yiu Kam Ling are brought into the bureau at a young age and raised in the palace's strict disciplines. Yuen Tsui Wan, the Head of Jewels, and Chung Suet Ha, the Head of Attire, both admire Sam Ho for her kind-hearted nature. They compete for her favor, as Sam Ho always remembers her mother's advice to do good deeds, speak good words, and show goodwill. In contrast, Kam Ling believes in using ruthless tactics to survive in the palace, eventually becoming a concubine through deceit. Despite realizing Sam Ho's love for the chess master Ko Hin Yeung, Kam Ling's jealousy is sparked by Sam Ho's connection with Emperor Lee Yi. In a bid to maintain her power, Kam Ling falsely accuses Sam Ho of murdering the Empress, leading to Sam Ho's wrongful condemnation to death. However, Kam Ling's schemes do not unfold as planned, highlighting the message of the drama that "benevolence" ultimately leads to victory.

The story tells of a Qing Dynasty emperor who falls in love with a singer named Dong Xiao Wan from Jiangnan. Despite facing opposition from the Empress Dowager Xiao Zhuang and other malicious forces, their unwavering love for each other remains steadfast. It is forbidden for a woman of Han descent to marry the Qing Emperor, but this does not deter the couple from continuing their relationship.

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 Wangsha Village, Macau, a determined young man named Lin Wei Liang courageously revolted against colonial authority by assassinating Shavard, the Portuguese colonial governor of Macau, thus symbolizing Macau's fight for independence

A television series depicting the dreams, challenges, and victories of Nu Er Ha Chi, the founder of the Qing Dynasty. It follows his journey from a humble soldier to successfully overthrowing the formidable Ming Dynasty. (DramaWiki)

A notorious femme fatale, So Yong utilizes her innate beauty, charm, and intelligence to capture the affection of the King and secure her position among his royal concubines. King In Jo becomes infatuated with So Yong, allowing his royal responsibilities to fall by the wayside. Capitalizing on King In Jo’s weaknesses, So Yong seizes his authority and wields complete control over the nation. She even aligns herself with a rebellion led by her stepfather. When Crown Prince So Hyeon returns home after seven years in captivity, he aims to modernize his country by introducing advanced scientific methods and cultural practices. Nevertheless, the young prince poses a danger to So Yong, prompting her to scheme against him and persuade the King to poison his own son. Following Prince So Hyeon’s demise, Kang Bin, the Crown Princess, uncovers So Yong's treachery. Collaborating with the courtiers, Kang Bin seeks to overthrow So Yong and reclaim the kingdom. However, So Yong is cunning and determined to maintain her grip on power. Thus begins the ruthless saga of the Bloodied Palace. (JTBC)

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 narrative unfolds in the Northeast during the conflict between Japan and Russia in the final years of the Qing Dynasty, leading up to the September 18th Incident. It depicts the intertwined emotions of three siblings, showcasing both their affection and animosity, as well as their bravery in defending their nation. (DramaWiki)

In the 1930s, Guangzhou was facing a period of political unrest, with gangsters causing chaos and the illegal opium trade flourishing. To combat this, the government established the Anti-Smoking Bureau to crack down on opium, but it was actually controlled by Cheng Long Kwan, the leader of the gang. Cheng Kau Mui, Kwan's cunning eldest daughter, returned from Shanghai to capitalize on the profits. Mui carefully strategized her every move. Meanwhile, Lau Sing led the Criminal Investigation Team, working tirelessly to secure a better future for his family, especially his sickly sister Lau Ching. Despite his fiery temper, Sing valued loyalty and camaraderie above all else. He once risked his life to help his timid colleague, Pai Kuat. As the Japanese army invaded China and took control of Canton, Mui faced her darkest hour when her aunt Cheng Long Hei framed her.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

The story of Wang Li Fa, who runs a teahouse in Beijing during the 20th century, and the various customers who frequent the establishment.

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.

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)

Wong Fei Hung, a renowned figure of his era, is both a skilled martial artist and a revered hero. As a doctor at Po Chi Lam, a clinic in Canton, he has rescued numerous individuals, yet he is compelled to utilize his combat skills to protect the community.

The plot revolves around Liang Jiyao, a courageous figure who emerges as a hero in the Second Sino-Japanese War amidst the tumultuous backdrop of national conflict and familial animosity.

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.

The story follows the challenges faced by a feudal family in China as the country undergoes significant transformations in the past century. Lu Tian En, born into a noble family during the late Qing Dynasty, recalls his grandmother Lady Lu with admiration as a princess. As the sole male heir, Tian En carried the weight of restoring his family's former prestige from a young age. Despite his desire to explore opportunities abroad and pursue a career as a bureaucrat, he was restricted by his family. The Lus eventually relocated to Shanghai, where Tian En struggled to adapt to the shifting societal norms. Witnessing the Japanese invasion and civil unrest, Tian En sought refuge in Taiwan in 1949 in search of solace for his troubled heart and a better future for his loved ones.

Zhou Ying is bartered to the influential Shen family by her guardian, but manages to flee by hiding in merchant Wu Ping's carriage. Impressed by her exceptional business skills, the Wu family decides to offer her shelter. Shen Xingyi, the spoiled son of the Shen family, eventually develops feelings for Zhou Ying.

The narrative revolves around Wei Xiao Bao, a street urchin with no formal education, who grew up in a brothel under the care of his mother. Despite his humble beginnings, Wei found himself journeying from Yangzhou to Beijing, where he unexpectedly crossed paths with the young Kang Xi Emperor. Through a combination of luck, genuine care, and unwavering loyalty to Kang Xi, Wei Xiao Bao earned a place of great trust and friendship with one of China's most significant monarchs. The storyline traces Wei's transformation from poverty to prosperity as he navigates political schemes and court rivalries, defending Kang Xi and achieving remarkable feats. Throughout his adventures, Wei encounters and charms seven beautiful women, rises in social status from brothel dweller to esteemed nobleman, and attains prestigious titles like Imperial Emissary, Ambassador, general, and admiral - all thanks to Kang Xi's favor. However, Wei also finds himself entangled in conflicting roles, such as Master of the Heaven and Earth Society and Marshal of the Mystic Dragon Cult. Ultimately, Wei Xiao Bao struggles to reconcile his dual identities as an anti-Qing rebel and Kang Xi's loyal subject. In a sacrificial gesture to repay Kang Xi's kindness and disentangle himself from the Heaven and Earth Society, Wei offers his own life, leading to his execution at Kang Xi's command. Overwhelmed with sorrow and regret, Kang Xi walks along the Great Wall, seeking divine guidance, only to be astonished by Wei Xiao Bao's unexpected return, as he had miraculously survived. After saving Kang Xi once more, Wei bids farewell, solidifying their enduring friendship in memory alone.