Asian dramas like
Royal Feast

Taking place during the last period of the Qing Dynasty, the story centers around Rong Er, an ordinary person who is appointed as a palace maid. Her exceptional cooking skills lead her to become the apprentice of Shouxi, another palace maid. However, when Shouxi is killed by a eunuch, Rong Er finds herself involved in a plot. Teaming up with Li Qi, a palace guard, she delves into the mystery surrounding the theft of valuable national artifacts.

In the era of Emperor Wu of Han, Princess Jie You was dispatched to Xiyu as a form of Heqin. In this new land, she faced the challenge of adjusting to her surroundings and managing her husband's harem. Through her dedication, the Han dynasty emerged victorious over the Xiongnu tribe, leading to the spread of Han culture in Xiyu.

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.

Sheng Chu Mo, born into a life of privilege as the son of one of the Tang Empire's founders, initially lived a carefree existence with no goals or ambitions. However, everything changed when he met Fu Rou, a merchant's daughter. Inspired by her greatness, Chu Mo decided to improve himself and earn her love. As he dedicated himself to studying and growing, he also volunteered to defend the coast from pirates, following in his father's footsteps. Meanwhile, Fu Rou pursued a career as a master weaver in the royal palace, getting involved in dangerous palace intrigues. Despite facing numerous obstacles and enemies, Chu Mo and Fu Rou must rely on their intelligence and skills to overcome these challenges and save their country and their love.

The narrative revolves around a woman entangled in a violent love affair with two princes

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.

Ji Yuan Su, the Crown Prince of a thriving kingdom, is known for his icy demeanor

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)

Taking place in 1947, the story revolves around a trio consisting of a shop owner, his spouse, and a young lady on a mission to heal her father. Yan Zheng Sheng manages a pickle shop in Beijing and assumes the responsibility of caring for his uncle after his brother and nephew tragically pass away. To fulfill his duties as a son and ensure the family legacy, Yan Zheng Sheng marries Mu Chun Hua as his second wife while already being wed to Lin Cui Qing. Their relationship blossoms over time, but in 1950, they are compelled to divorce due to the implementation of the New Marriage Law. Despite this, Yan Zheng Sheng, Mu Chun Hua, and Lin Cui Qing navigate the following decades as a united family. This narrative sheds light on the lives of everyday individuals residing in Sesame Alley.

In order to escape her abusive stepmother, Lu Zhen decides to seek refuge in the palace as a servant. Due to her exceptional pottery-making skills, she quickly rises in status. Despite capturing the affection of crown prince Gao Zhan, their love is thwarted by societal barriers and envious adversaries. Lu Zhen dedicates herself to politics and aids Gao Zhan in overcoming a coup. Although she cannot become his empress, Gao Zhan appoints her as the female prime minister, the highest position in the kingdom.

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'.

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.

During the early years of the Republic of China, Su Man Li, a substitute dancer at the XianYuess Club, meets Chen Bi, a lady from a prominent family who has lost her loved ones tragically, as she seeks justice for her father's murder. Assuming Chen Bi's identity, Su Man Li approaches Yang Zi Qin, a member of the Haitang Society, to investigate the truth behind the massacre of the Chen family. Upon discovering Yang Zi Qin's real identity, the trio teams up to confront the mastermind responsible for the tragedy.

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.

The drama portrays the story of Zhang Ju Zheng, a renowned figure during the Ming Dynasty. In the hierarchical society of ancient China, few prime ministers rise to power from modest beginnings like Zhang Ju Zheng. He mentors the young emperor in implementing important changes, but faces opposition to his reforms. As a consequence of his decisions, his family suffers the consequences. His tragic fate serves as a precursor to the decline of the Ming Dynasty.

Taking place in the 1930s, this drama follows the lives of a prosperous Chinese family in Malacca over multiple generations, focusing on the conflicts within the family. The protagonist, Yue Niang, a determined Nyonya, rejects her humble origins and strives to alter her fate, ultimately achieving success as an entrepreneur. This series is a reimagined version of the Singaporean TV show "The Little Nyonya" from 2008.

The ancestral temple holds great significance for a family, yet during a time when women are seen as inferior, they are forbidden from approaching it. Men inside the ancestral temple defend the family and the nation, while women outside accept their destiny.

The tale narrates the life of the Taichang Emperor and his four concubines, each characterized by unique personalities.

Upon entering the palace gates, one is immediately struck by the profound depth within. While the palace may appear opulent to outsiders, it conceals the struggles of numerous imprisoned women. Xiao Cai Ren, for instance, relied on the emperor's favor to confront Concubine Wei, even resorting to plotting against her. Recognizing the need for strength and alliances, Concubine Wei navigated the treacherous palace life by forming bonds with other concubines, as well as princes and princesses from foreign lands.

Ma Fu Ya, a royal member of the Chu region during the 10th century in China, finds herself in a tumultuous period marked by warfare and political unrest. Following the treacherous actions of her uncle who seizes the throne and eliminates her family, Fu Ya courageously embarks on a mission to seek vengeance for her loved ones and reclaim her rightful rule, regardless of the sacrifices involved. Caught in a complex web of relationships with Prince Meng Qi You of Shu and Prince Liu LianCheng of Northern Han, the banished princess becomes entangled in the power struggle within the Shu court and the ongoing conflict between their respective states. As she navigates through a landscape shaped by war, love, and deception, the question remains: what lies ahead for Fu Ya, her people, and her heart?

The narrative follows the relationship between Meng Li Jun, the skilled and attractive daughter of a high-ranking official, and Huang Fu Shao Hua, the courageous and good-looking son of a general. Their fathers' political differences led to General Huang Fu forbidding his son from pursuing Meng Li Jun. Instead, the Empress Dowager's nephew from the Liu family was chosen to marry Meng Li Jun. Following General Huang Fu's defeat in a battle, the Emperor accused him of treason and ordered the entire family to be imprisoned. Huang Fu Shao Hua managed to escape, prompting Meng Li Jun, who was in love with him, to disguise herself as a man in order to seek justice for the Huang Fu family.

The narrative centers around a crown prince named Lee Sun, who battles the Pyeonsuhwe organization that wields total control over the kingdom and monopolizes the water supply through privatization. This drama weaves together elements of romance, action, and courtly intrigue as Crown Prince Lee Sun valiantly fights for the welfare of his people, while Han Ga Eun unexpectedly finds herself falling for him instead of seeking revenge for her father's execution at his hands. In “The Emperor: Owner of the Mask,” there are palace conspiracies related to the true authority behind the throne, along with a surprising twist when the prince swaps identities with a commoner. Ultimately, the central theme of the series is love, which permeates the romance between the prince and his beloved, as well as their shared compassion for the nation and its citizens. (MBC)

Orphan girl Fang Yi Shao, known for her culinary talents, is unexpectedly thrust into a marriage with the notorious young master Shen Yong as a replacement bride. Shen Yong had previously rescued her from a kidnapping, earning her gratitude. Using her cooking and martial arts abilities, Yi Shao impresses her new family and eventually wins over Shen Yong. Despite rumors, she firmly believes in Shen Yong's inherent goodness. Through her positive influence, Shen Yong transforms his reckless behavior and strives to establish himself in this charming and humorous tale.

Having fled from a harsh pearl farm, Duan Wu, a talented diver, crosses paths with merchant Yan Zi Jing and noble Zhang Jin Ran. After joining Yan's group of travelers, she becomes entangled in the dazzling world of precious stones while learning about her mysterious past. Despite facing betrayal and sorrow along the journey, she remains resolute in her quest for the truth. Rechristened as Su Mu Zhe, she establishes her own enterprise, "Clear Mind," and collaborates with Zhang to correct an old injustice. Ultimately, Su Mu Zhe flourishes at the Jewel Exhibition, serving as an inspiration for women to seize control of their futures.

Determined to become the best royal chef in the world, young cook Ling Xiao Xiao impressed prince Zhu Shou Kui with her culinary skills and landed a job in the palace's delicacy room. Despite facing challenges from King Jin, Concubine Li, and the Queen, Ling Xiao Xiao, with the prince's support, overcame each crisis with her exceptional cooking abilities and kindness. She gained the trust of the palace residents and the affection of prince Zhu Shou Kui. However, as the future crown princess, the emperor prohibited her from entering the kitchen. Ling Xiao Xiao made a tough choice to pursue her dreams and left the palace to open her own restaurant. The question remained: would the prince choose duty and family, or his true love?

Yan Xing, the daughter of a concubine in the Yan family, was mentored by the chief inspector of the Ministry of Justice since she was young, acquiring exceptional investigative abilities to uncover hidden truths from evidence. After passing the examination to become a female official in the Ministry of Justice, she is determined to reveal the true perpetrators and uphold justice. However, when her third sister runs away from an arranged imperial marriage, Yan Xing marries Shen Du, the leader of the imperial guard, in her sister's place to protect her family. Together, Yan Xing and Shen Du work to solve a series of mysterious cases in the capital, their bond deepening as they unravel a shocking conspiracy and safeguard the peace and justice of Xiang'an City.

During the period of significant economic expansion in the 1990s, the story revolves around A Bao, a successful entrepreneur who rises from a challenging upbringing to amass great riches in Shanghai. His interactions with four different women symbolize his quests for adventure, respect, love, and purity. (Reference: Screen Daily) Inspired by JinYu Cheng's book "Fan Hua."

Set against a captivating backdrop that intertwines history and modernity, the narrative centers on Chef Yeon Ji Yeong, a meticulous French-trained culinary expert at the pinnacle of her career, who unexpectedly finds herself transported to the royal palace of the past. There, she must prepare meals for the notoriously volatile tyrant, King Yi Heon, a monarch with an exquisite palate and a quick temper. Yeon Ji Yeong, a contemporary woman, navigates the ruthless dynamics of palace intrigue, survival cooking, and unforeseen romance. Her goal? To endure the challenges of the royal kitchen, win the heart of the formidable King, and perhaps alter the course of history. King Yi Heon, a leader known for his keen intellect and sharp criticism, instills fear and misunderstanding among those around him. With an unmatched appreciation for flavor and an intolerance for mediocrity, his court constantly dreads his next dining experience. However, when a passionate new chef enters his realm, not only do his taste buds begin to evolve, but his heart might follow suit as well.

After learning that his birth mother is not Empress Dowager Liu E but her servant Li Lanhui, Zhao Zhen decides to marry his daughter Princess Fukang to Li Wei, the son of the Li family, as a gesture of apology for his lack of respect. In the political sphere, Zhao Zhen works to maintain a delicate balance between the conservative and progressive factions following the backlash against the Qingli reforms. Within the palace, Emperor Renzong deals with the loyal Empress Cao, the troublesome Zhang Mihan, and the gentle Lady Miao.

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.

How can a group of visionaries combat widespread political corruption in the Ming Dynasty? When Wei Zhong Xian, the Minister of the Eastern Depot, rises to power, he dispatches Ye Hong Ying, a skilled assassin, to target Gu Ren Yuan and the members of the Donglin Academy for opposing his control over the Emperor. Yang Dong Qing, a dancer entangled in the conflict, is also on the run. With the assistance of Ma Shang Fei and Hua Yi, Dong Qing aids Ren Yuan in escaping from Hong Ying's perilous pursuit. However, a series of incidents lead Hong Ying to believe that Ren Yuan and their newfound allies are fighting for justice, prompting him to join their cause in overthrowing his malevolent superior. Can they triumph in restoring righteousness to the realm?

"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 during the Ming Dynasty, the Mu clan of the Naxi tribe holds power over Lijiang Prefecture near the Himalayas through ruthless tactics. One victim of their violent rise to authority is a girl named Aleqiu, who was orphaned and raised to seek vengeance against the Mu clan for wiping out her family. Infiltrating the clan as a young maid serving the matriarch, Aleqiu harbors thoughts of revenge while still maintaining her innocence and compassion. Complicating matters further, she falls in love with Mu Zeng, the heir to the governorship of Lijiang. Just as they contemplate a tragic end to their love, a glimmer of hope emerges as Aleqiu manages to marry Mu Zeng. However, her challenges within the Mu household are far from over...

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 versatile scholar Tong Bak Fu is on a journey across the country accompanied by his close friend Wat Gei. He is in search of the final beauty to include in his 'Nine Beauties Painting'. Along the way, he develops feelings for Chau Heung, a maid from the Wah family, and decides to paint her to complete his masterpiece. To get closer to her, he joins the Wah family as a servant. Initially, Chau Heung sees Tong Bak Fu as lacking in talent. However, as challenges arise that only Tong Bak Fu can overcome, their relationship becomes more complicated. Despite having different perspectives on life, Tong Bak Fu and Chau Heung find themselves at odds. The situation is further complicated by Princess Tin Yuk, who constantly bullies Tong Bak Fu and others but eventually falls in love with him. Adding to the drama, Tong Bak Fu becomes entangled in a power struggle involving the Emperor, Prince Ling, and others.

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.

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.