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Strange Stories From Liao Zhai Season 3

Liao Zhai Zhi Yi, also known as Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio, is a compilation of close to five hundred predominantly mystical stories that were released in the early Qing Dynasty. This show will feature a selection of six stories. (DramaWiki)

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.

Taking place in Beijing during the early 1900s, three apprentice friends experience tumultuous lives

This period drama series from China follows the story of a well-known merchant family involved in the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine towards the end of the Qing dynasty

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 defiant Crimson Blossom Alliance, headed by the captivating Chan Gar Lok, endeavors to eliminate Emperor Qian Lung of the Ching Dynasty. Despite preparations by Chan and his comrades to fulfill their mission, an unexpected revelation results in a intense confrontation, leading to Chan's banishment to the western border where he meets the renowned Princess Fragrance. Collaborating with the nomads, Chan orchestrates a bold comeback to the imperial city and devises a daring scheme to finally seize control of Qian Lung.

"Liao Zhai Zhi Yi", also known as "Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio", is a compilation of around five hundred mostly supernatural stories that were published in the early Qing Dynasty. In the selection "Liao Zhai Qi Nv Zi", four stories are featured, narrating the lives of some exquisite and extraordinary women. In "Lian Cheng", two rival families in a town had daughters named Lian Cheng and Bin Niang, who took their rivalry to the extreme when they both fell in love with the same man, Qiao Sheng. They fought fiercely for his affections, even beyond death. Yet, they eventually realized that true love was not about possession and were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for each other. In "Xin Shi Si Niang", a beautiful fox demon named Xin Shi Si Niang found joy in aiding others and sought spiritual enlightenment to escape the typical fate of fox demons. However, her encounter with Feng Sheng changed her destiny. "Huan Niang" tells the story of upper-class lady Zhao Huan Niang and talented stage actor Wen Ru Chun, who believed the only way to be together was through a joint suicide. Only Huan Niang perished, returning as a ghost to discover the truth. Lastly, in "Xia Nv", Xu Mu E disguises herself as a boy to learn martial arts secretly, despite her mother's wishes. After getting injured during an adventure, she meets young doctor Gu Xiang Ru, with whom she starts developing feelings. However, Xiang Ru's heart belongs to Lin Yue Fu, the governor's ailing daughter.

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?

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.

The drama narrates the tale of Pu Yi, the final emperor of China

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 narrative is set during the Qing Dynasty and focuses on the Sung and Leung clans. Kwan Wai Lan runs a small enterprise with her eldest son, Leung Jing Yiu, her second son, Leung Jing Hong, her third daughter, Leung Sau Man, and her youngest daughter, Leung Sau Yin. Yiu used to work at the Jiujiang brewery before a calamity drastically changed the destinies of both the Leung and Sung families.

Thirteen Traditional Chinese Stories: 1. "White Cloud Pavilion" (Parts 1-3) 2. "The Emerald Hairpin" (Parts 4-6) 3. "Rose Pavilion" (Parts 7-10) 4. "Reminiscences of the Zither" (11-12) 5. "Fifteen Coins" (Parts 13-17) 6. "Four Scholars" (Parts 18-20) 7. "Plum Blossom Fan" (Parts 21-24) 8. "Wang Laohu's Qin" (Parts 25-26) 9. "The Romance of the West Chamber" (Parts 27-29) 10. "Spring in the Jade Hall" (Parts 30-32) 11. "Reunion After Separation" (Parts 33-34) 12. "Yan Zhi" (Parts 35-36) 13. "Dou'E's Garden" (Parts 37-39)

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.

During the Qing Dynasty, a period marked by political corruption and unethical officials, the people of China faced great hardships. Exploiting the chaos, foreign powers launched various invasions on the country. Amidst these turbulent times, a young hero named Song Shi Jie emerged quietly. Born to a jailer, Jie grew up observing the injustices and sorrows of the world from within the prison walls. He came to believe that the concepts of law and justice were distant ideals. Unconcerned with wealth or fame, Jie assisted his friend He Shouxin in achieving success and then set out on his own path to become an official. Alongside his brother Song Ajiu Lang, Jie lived a carefree life, encountering and outsmarting thieves and bullies with ease. His life took a turn when he crossed paths with Linglong, a woman of mysterious background with fierce temperament and exceptional martial arts skills. Despite their initial conflicts, Jie and Linglong's destinies intertwined, leading them to become a devoted couple. Jie's reputation as a skilled lawyer quickly spread throughout the country, attracting numerous clients and important figures seeking his assistance. Together with Linglong, brother Jiu, and maid Xiao Feng, Jie formed an unstoppable team capable of solving any case, big or small. Their keen eyes never missed a detail, ensuring that no case went unsolved.

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.

Lin Sui Sui finds herself in the fragmented narrative of My Fair Princess, where she takes on the role of a maid in the Empress’s palace. In order to go back to her own world, she is tasked with mending the storyline, but unforeseen challenges posed by an enigmatic guard jeopardize her efforts.

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.

During the 1930s in Chengdu, the Gao family held significant power and influence as a feudalistic household. Jue Xin, the eldest grandson, faced pressure to abandon his love for cousin Mei Fen and marry Rui Jue, a woman chosen by his parents. Following his father's passing, Jue Xin was tasked with continuing the family business as per tradition, a challenging responsibility that stirred up jealousy and deceit among other family members. Despite his grandfather's attempts to arrange a marriage with Mr. Feng's granddaughter, Jue Min defied expectations by running away. Meanwhile, Jue Hui and servant girl Ming Feng, who shared a deep connection from childhood, found themselves torn apart when Grandfather decided to give Ming Feng to Mr. Feng as a concubine.

For the past century, the Tang empire has thrived since its establishment. However, challenges and risks often accompany times of prosperity. An ancestor of the well-known Taoist group, Xuan Xin Zhen Zong, once came across a large stone cave in a remote mountain range. Inside the cave was a stone slab inscribed with ancient writings. These inscriptions accurately predicted events dating back to the Tang Dynasty's inception, including the identities of future emperors and the timing of disasters. Of particular concern was the final message on the slab, which foretold a dark future: when the constellation of the Prince of Darkness clashes with the Seven Malignant Stars, a pair of estranged lovers from seven lifetimes will be reborn. The demon sect plans to exploit the power generated by the star-crossed lovers to seize control of the world and turn it into a nightmarish realm. The slab also revealed the specific time and place where the estranged couple would be born, in the hopes that a chosen individual would discover it and devise a plan to protect the population.

Zhu Kai Shan's family migrated to Baishan Heishui from Shandong due to the impacts of war and famine. They engaged in various activities such as gold panning, logging, and ginseng collection, while also facing challenges from bandits, officials, and feudal systems. Despite numerous close calls with death, they eventually acquired their own farmland. However, they were considered outsiders by local tycoons who made their lives difficult. Through several conflicts, the Zhu family shared their advanced farming techniques from Shandong with the locals, forming strong bonds with them. Seeking further opportunities, Zhu Kai Shan led his family back to the city, determined not to fall prey to any threats.

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.

The novel "Qin Empire" by Sun Hao Hui portrays the events that occurred in China during the Warring States era, focusing mainly on the Qin state under the leadership of King Huiwen and King Wu. Duke Xiao, the ruler of the Qin state during that time, enlists the help of statesman Shang Yang to implement daring reforms that bring about significant changes in Western China. This information is sourced from Wikipedia.

Based on the book "Tian Long Ba Bu" by Jin Yong, this adaptation...

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.

In the second season, the storyline takes a darker turn as the princes compete for the vacant seat of the Crown Prince. Despite Crown Prince Yin Reng losing power, Nian Shu Yuan stands by his side. When Empress Dowager Xiao Zhuang falls seriously ill, they leave the palace to pray for her recovery. Their sincerity moves Kang Xi, who reinstates Yin Reng as Crown Prince after the First Prince's conspiracy is exposed. Meanwhile, war hero Nian Geng Yao returns with increased military and political influence. Even the secretive Fourth Prince begins to make a move towards claiming the throne.

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.

In the midst of a high-speed pursuit on a motorboat, local police officer Wong Tai Mui is swept up into a waterspout that serves as a portal through time. She finds herself transported back to 19th century Hong Kong during the Qing dynasty. There, she encounters a Cantonese pirate named Cheng Yat, along with his wife Shek Giu and their adopted son Cheung Po Tsai. Despite their skepticism about her sudden appearance, Tai Mui uses her knowledge of the future to help them escape a dangerous naval battle against the Qing fleet led by Prince Man Ho. Meanwhile, in Beijing's Imperial Palace, Consorts Yim and Shun scheme to increase their own power while manipulating Prince Man Ho. Disillusioned with the political intrigue and family conflicts, Prince Man Ho decides to leave the palace and abandon his aspirations for the throne. As a waterspout forms over the Canton Sea during a solar eclipse, Po Tsai assists Tai Mui in accessing the time portal that will return her to the 21st century. In a selfless act, he joins her on the journey back to the future.

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.

During Tokugawa Yoshimune's rule in Edo, Sachi from Tsutomura loses her father and brother to illness and starts working at the Isuzuya kimono shop in Tenma, Osaka. The shopkeeper Jihei imparts business knowledge to the apprentices using "business traffic" as a teaching tool at night. Intrigued, Sachi pays close attention and finds herself drawn to the world of business. Two years later, the fourth-generation owner of the shop, Tokubei, marries Kikuei, the daughter of a prominent merchant, but Tokubei encounters a problem...

The cunning leader of the Manchurian constable is plotting to thwart any uprising by martial artists against the Qing government. Kam, a rogue with exceptional martial arts skills in secret, is the only one aware of the constable's scheme. He joins forces with fellow fighters and pledges to topple the Manchurians. (ovguide.com)

The epic tale of the civilization of Dunhuang recounts its rise, decline, and resurgence through the acts of concealing, seeking, and safeguarding treasures during three significant periods in Chinese history: the Northern Song Dynasty, the end of the Qing Dynasty, and the Republic era. In the first chapter, the Xixia King of the Northern Song era coveted Dunhuang and eventually invaded it despite efforts to dissuade him with a gold-carved Buddhist scripture. The monks of Dunhuang made a final stand by burying themselves and the relics in the caves. Chapter Two tells of foreigners in the Qing Dynasty looting Dunhuang of its ancient artifacts, prompting Qin Wen Yu to seek help from local thugs to halt the plunder. Unfortunately, the Chinese authorities punished those who resisted the foreigners instead of protecting the treasures. The final chapter takes place in the Republic era, where artists Liang Mu Tian and Su Qing Ping discovered Dunhuang in ruins after years of looting. They inspired the local community to preserve and restore their ancient city before the impending threat of Japanese invasion during World War II.

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