Asian dramas like
Secret History Of Empress Wu

The plot revolves around the connection between Wu Ze Tian, the sole woman to ever rule as an emperor in Chinese history, and Xie Yao Huan, an imagined female official who works in Wu's palace.

The film depicts the real-life events during Emperor Wu's rule in the Han Dynasty, highlighting his triumphs, setbacks, life journey, and the brutal truths of existence. The screenplay drew inspiration from Ban Gu's "Book of Han" and Sima Qian's "History Records."

The series follows the story of Princess Tai Ping, the offspring of China's sole empress, Wu Ze Tian.

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.

Centered on the rule of Emperor Wu Zhe Tian, Detective Di Ren Jie is tasked with multiple assignments from the Empress. Throughout his adventures, he comes across a variety of enigmas.

During the transition from the Qin Dynasty to the Han Dynasty, the Chu-Han Contention unfolded with both tragedy and heroism. General Li Cang, serving under Liu Bang, sustained severe injuries during the conflict and stumbled upon Fengzhen near Lake Yunmeng by chance. This unexpected visit by Li Cang had a profound impact on the lives of several young individuals in the village. Xin Zhui, a young girl, came to the rescue of the injured and unconscious Li Cang, who was then entrusted to her care by her dying father. This sudden turn of events led to Xin Zhui becoming the general's wife, while her neighbor Fu Shen took on the role of protecting her and transformed into a chivalrous knight. Additionally, a prostitute named Nan Shi was captivated by Liu Bang, leading him down a path of pursuing fame and wealth. Both a 34-episode TV version and a 40-episode DVD version of this story are available.

The latest Gong drama unfolds a fresh romantic tale during the Yongzheng era. Lian Er pleads with her father to allow her entry into the palace to meet the seventeenth prince, Yun Li. The two develop feelings for each other and plan to wed. However, when Yun Li's mentor, Alinga, faces trouble, Yun Li is compelled to marry Alinga's daughter to rescue him. A devastated Lian Er strives to protect herself within the palace, yearning to lead a normal life outside its walls. Unforeseen to her, she becomes entangled in a power struggle orchestrated by influential figures and betrayed by someone she once considered a sister. Alliances are forged, debts are incurred, and just as Lian Er is on the brink of despair, she unintentionally attracts the attention of Yongzheng and is appointed as one of his consorts. Everything suddenly becomes more complex - if she stops now, she will suffer, but she fears losing herself if she persists. She opts to have faith in the light and trust that her determination will guide her through the turmoil.

A Chinese historical TV show is centered on the Transition from the Sui dynasty to the Tang dynasty, focusing on the character Li Shi Min who later becomes Emperor Tai Zong of the Tang dynasty. Li is portrayed as a virtuous and fearless leader who is willing to sacrifice his life for the empire when necessary.

This tale revolves around Dongfang Shuo, a scholar during the Han dynasty who served as a court jester to Emperor Wu of Han. Unlike other scholars and officials in Emperor Wu's era, Dongfang Shuo had unique qualities. Despite falling in love with both a prostitute named Luo Qi and Princess Ping Yang, his unconventional advice was often disregarded, resulting in no change in his rank. Surprisingly, Emperor Wu never punished Dongfang Shuo and allowed him to remain by his side. Dongfang Shuo's intelligence was evident as he mediated conflicts within the Emperor's harem, modified Heqin's strategies, and provided counsel on how to combat the Xiongnu. However, the Emperor's arrogance led to setbacks for his empire, with the Xiongnu winning multiple battles and the loss of the young general Huo Qu Bing in combat. Realizing the Emperor's unwillingness to heed his advice, Dongfang Shuo eventually parted ways with him.

This tale takes place in the Tang dynasty, under the rule of Emperor Tai Zong. Princess Gao Yang, the beloved daughter of Lady Dai and the Emperor, enjoyed a life of luxury with numerous servants. Despite her engagement to a wealthy noble named Fang Yi Ai, she falls in love with a monk called Bian Ji. Their forbidden romance faces many obstacles, as Bian Ji is dedicated to a life without love, while Gao Yang is of high status as a princess. Meanwhile, Emperor Tai Zong navigates through political challenges and the intrigues of his harem, where the consorts compete for his favor. The entrance of a new maiden named Mei Niang adds further complexity to the situation.

The narrative focuses on the selection of Yang Yu Huan, a commoner, to join the Emperor's concubines. In contrast to typical historical dramas centered on warfare or fame, this series highlights the romantic relationship between Yang Gui Fei and Emperor Ming of Tang.

Set in the historical backdrop of Emperor Kangxi's reign, this period drama explores themes of romance, betrayal, loyalty, and intrigue within the palace walls. The focus is on the transformation of a Princess from a carefree, naive young lady to a mature woman, wife, and mother, delving deep into the complexities of love, commitment, and happiness. The intertwined love stories of other characters add depth to the narrative, prompting viewers to question the sacrifices demanded by love and loyalty. (Viki)

Yuming Ge Ge holds a special place in her father Emperor Qianlong's heart. Despite her fearless demeanor in the palace, she harbors a deep fear of caterpillars. While mingling with people, Yuming encounters peers of a similar age. As she matures, Yuming develops feelings for the esteemed official Jin Hong, unaware that he is actually her half-brother, a result of a past mistake made by her father. Despite their genuine love for each other, their blissful ignorance is shattered when Qianlong intervenes and arranges for Yuming to marry Yin De, the son of He Shen. The shocking revelation leaves Yuming devastated, leading to a tragic attempt at suicide with Jin Hong. Miraculously, the attempt fails, leaving Yuming in a deranged state and Jin Hong with amnesia. Meanwhile, rumors begin to swirl in the palace about Yin De's true identity as Qianlong's illegitimate son.

Empress Wu Ze Tian made history as the only woman to ascend to the throne in ancient China. She was not born into nobility, but rather as the daughter of a wood merchant named Wu Shi Huo. Merchants were viewed negatively in those times, considered greedy and ruthless. Wu Ze Tian's mother, Princess Yang, hailed from the noble Sui Dynasty, which was overthrown by the Tang Dynasty following conflicts between Yang Guang and Li Shi Min. Princess Yang lived a commoner's life until her marriage in her forties, giving birth to two daughters, with Mei Niang being the second. Mei Niang was chosen to enter the Imperial Palace at the age of fourteen during Li Shi Min's reign as emperor. Initially enamored by her beauty, Li Shi Min's attention later shifted to another young woman named Xu Hui, who shared Mei Niang's intelligence and wit. Rumors circulated in Chang'an City about an empress named Wu who would seize power and eliminate the Li family's descendants. Li Shi Min suspected Wu Ze Tian could be this prophesied empress, considering eliminating her as a precaution. However, he ultimately decided to spare her life and advised her to become a nun at Ganye Temple alongside some of his other consorts. In that era, the notion of a woman ruler was deemed preposterous.

A baby boy is born one fateful night, bearing a jade pendant and a mark on his left shoulder that reveals his true identity as the emperor's son. Raised as an orphan named Xue Ping Gui to protect him from threats on his life, he later falls in love with Wang BaoChuan, the third daughter of the emperor's prime minister. Despite their love, they face opposition from her disapproving father and societal norms during the Tang Dynasty. The couple must overcome numerous obstacles and make sacrifices for their love to survive.

The Forbidden City, a historic imperial capital, was shaken by Feng Yu Xiang's bombing. The last emperor of the Qing dynasty, Pu Yi, fled hastily to Tianjin with his empress and concubine, seeking refuge in Jingyuan. The nation has changed irreversibly, and the royal family's fate is uncertain. Originally intending to appoint Wen Xiu as empress and Wan Rong as his concubine, Pu Yi's plans were altered by Empress Dowager Long Yu's interference. This decision sparked a significant concubine revolution in Chinese history.

During the early Ming Dynasty, the remaining Bazawarmi Mongolian army from the Yuan Dynasty took control of Yunnan. The Ming government appointed Fu You De to lead the army in the south, while imperial envoy Ma Ye was tasked with bringing peace to the southwest using a combination of military and diplomatic strategies. Lady She Xiang, a member of the Shuixi Yi ethnic group, displayed remarkable courage and leadership. She served as the regent of Shuixi, formed an alliance with the Ming army, promoted the study of Chinese culture, and worked towards improving the Yi economy. Despite facing numerous challenges, both internal and external, Lady She Xiang continued to earn the admiration and support of her people.

The plot revolves around Kwangjong, who served as the monarch during the reign of the Koryo Dynasty from 918 to 1392.

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 show revolves around the story of Qin Shi Huang, the inaugural ruler who brought together China under the Qin dynasty in 221 BC.

Emperor Tai Zong of the Tang Dynasty appointed competent and honest individuals to key positions by carefully selecting and utilizing his ministers. Tai Zong was known for seeking candid feedback and constructive criticism from his advisors, demonstrating a deep respect for life and a willingness to listen. By surrounding himself with upright ministers like Wei Zheng, he displayed humility and openness to guidance. During his rule, Tai Zong prioritized agriculture, promoted frugality, and revitalized culture and religion, including enhancing the imperial examination system. These efforts contributed to a stable society. In the military, he quelled unrest caused by Tu Jue's influence, while also showing respect for the traditions of ethnic minorities in border regions, leading to peace and stability. Tai Zong's reign, known as Zhenguan (626-649), marked the first golden age of the Tang Dynasty and set the stage for the prosperous Kaiyuan era.

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.

Is it possible for a hero without fighting skills to rescue the empire? Wei Xiao Bao, the clever and humorous son of a prostitute during the early Qing Dynasty, seems an unlikely candidate. Born in a brothel in Yangzhou, he faces various challenges on his journey to Beijing. After being captured and brought to the imperial palace, Xiao Bao pretends to be a eunuch in order to survive. Through a series of fortunate events, wit, and unforeseen circumstances, he assists Emperor Kang Xi in defending his throne against dangerous rivals and surviving numerous abduction attempts by cults and other perilous factions. Xiao Bao also marries seven women, including the stunning Shuang Er. However, will he ultimately be able to choose between his loyalty to the emperor and his ties to the anti-Qing movement? (Viki)

The play portrays the exciting and daring experiences of Wang Zhao Jun, a member of the Four Beauties from ancient China who were capable of influencing kingdoms with their stunning looks. Wang is celebrated not just for her remarkable beauty, but also for her intelligence and strength. This highlights the influence of women in a society that is predominantly male-dominated.

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.

The plot unfolds during a chaotic period in Korean history, when a group of fighters including Jung Joong Bu, Lee Ui Bang, Lee Go, and Chae Won staged a revolt against King Ui Jong of Goryeo and his administration, which was controlled by intellectuals and officials, in order to institute a military-led governance.

The series depicts historical events in China from the late 1800s to early 1900s, which resulted in the downfall of the Qing dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China. It covers significant occurrences during the late Qing dynasty and Republican period, including the First Sino-Japanese War, the Hundred Days' Reform, the Boxer Rebellion, and the Xinhai Revolution. Various factions, including monarchists, reformers, and revolutionaries, offer different solutions to the Qing dynasty's worsening situation, all aiming towards a common objective of restoring China as a sovereign, international, and independent nation.

The narrative revolves around a peasant named Yang Yuk Wan who is selected by the emperor to serve as one of his concubines. As she strives to gain the emperor's attention and favor, Yang Yuk Wan faces hostility from envious concubines who are determined to eliminate their competition. (spcnet.tv, DramaWiki) This account is inspired by the real-life events of Yeung Yuk Wan, also recognized as Concubine Yeung Gwai or Lady Yang.

It comprises of three distinct and comprehensive narratives. Entrepreneurship: Da Sheng Kui emerged three centuries ago. Against all odds, Wang Xiang Qing, Shi Da Xue, Zhang Jie, and three other men from Shanxi joined forces to venture into the world, ultimately becoming creators of immense wealth. Their journey across treacherous terrains, facing harsh weather conditions, unknowingly reconnected the civilizations of Europe and Asia. With the accompaniment of soothing camel bells, business pioneers from various ethnicities traversed thousands of miles on foot, establishing a vital trade route spanning Eurasia - the tea industry road. Societe Generale: Shopkeepers, led by Da Sheng Kui, united against Western powers 160 years later. Through perseverance and sacrifice, they overcame challenges and achieved greater successes amidst trials of bloodshed and adversity. The third segment narrates Da Sheng Kui's fulfillment of his historical duty and eventual closure in the early 20th century, set against a backdrop of global shifts and domestic turmoil.

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 prophecy proclaiming, "The Dugu World: Whoever possesses Dugu, possesses the world," echoes throughout the land, suggesting that the Dugu family was meant for greatness. This prophecy brings focus to Dugu Xin, a court official, and his three daughters - Dugu Ban Ruo, Dugu Man Tuo, and Dugu Jia Luo. Each sister is gifted with beauty and intelligence from birth, and they make a pact to protect each other from the prophecy's potential harm. Despite their unity, Dugu Ban Ruo is driven by ambition to claim the empress' title, while Dugu Man Tuo seeks wealth and status even if it means resorting to violence. On the other hand, Dugu Jia Luo, the youngest sister, remains oblivious to the power struggle between her siblings and simply seeks happiness. However, as fate would have it, a romantic interest will draw Jia Luo into a world where only one Dugu sister can emerge victorious.

The tale unfolds in the Qing dynasty under the rule of Emperor Yong Zheng. His severe policies provoke widespread dissatisfaction and discord among the populace. Meanwhile, a clandestine group of assassins, known as the flying guillotine, roams the land eliminating the emperor's foes. The young heir to the throne, Hong Li, disguises himself as a commoner and embarks on a journey to Jiangnan for inspection. During his travels, the prince narrowly escapes several attempts on his life orchestrated by ambitious nobles aiming to seize power. Moreover, he uncovers a startling revelation about his true lineage. Along the way, he forges friendships with two young women, Lu Si Niang and Yu Niang.

This series follows the story of Empress Dowager Feng, a formidable ruler of the Northern Wei Dynasty.

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.

The plot of this play revolves around the life of Zhu Yuan Zhang, who faces hardships in his impoverished state during the Yuan dynasty, eventually joining the Rebel Army to establish the Ming dynasty. As Emperor, he introduces reforms and grieves the loss of his family.

Da Yu Er, a notable woman in the early Qing Dynasty, played a key role in overseeing three changes of power. Originally a carefree princess exploring the Mongolian grasslands, she harbored hopes of marrying Dorgon, her true love. However, she ultimately wed his sibling, Hong Tai Ji, in a strategic marriage alliance. Throughout her life, she faced a constant internal battle between following her heart and fulfilling her obligations to her family.

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.