Asian dramas like
The Deer And The Cauldron 2014

Upon completing their journey to the west, the monks from Shaolin Temple were tasked by Kangxi to accompany General Wan Shou Shan and Princess Bing Yu back to the capital. Despite opposition from a faction in Xilu Tianhui who disagreed with the peace agreement, the surrender of Wan Shou Shan to the Qing Dynasty was seen as a disgrace by some anti-Qing individuals. Concerned that the monks' arrival in Beijing would expose his control over the Ming Dynasty's treasures, a prince sought to eliminate them by sending martial arts experts to block their path and capture them. Despite facing numerous challenges and even sacrificing their lives, the monks successfully protected Wan Shou Shan and delivered him to Emperor Kang Xi. Their display of justice, kindness, and desire for peace resonated with their adversaries, leaving a lasting impression of righteousness.

In Jin Yong's final wuxia novel, fictional characters and historical figures are intertwined to narrate the tale of an unorthodox hero who rises to fame and fortune through luck and clever tactics. Wei Xiao Bao, born in a Yangzhou brothel, possesses a natural cunning, wit, and laziness. Believing he has gleaned all there is to know about heroes from teahouse patrons, Xiao Bao decides to become one himself. By chance, he assists Mao Shi Ba, a nobleman facing hardships, and persuades him to journey to Beijing. This decision marks the beginning of Xiao Bao's adventures. Upon entering the palace, Xiao Bao outwits Head Eunuch Hai and assumes the identity of Xiao Gui Zi, a young eunuch. One day, while exploring, Xiao Bao encounters Emperor Kang Xi practicing martial arts. After a friendly sparring match, an unlikely friendship blossoms between the two. Throughout the novel, Xiao Bao aids Kang Xi in thwarting power-hungry individuals, quelling rebellions, and facing various challenges, all while concealing his secret role as a mole for Tian Di Hui, an anti-Qing group.

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.

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.

The narrative revolves around a romantic entanglement involving the fourth prince, the crown prince, and the top female scholar, Shu Yuan, in the Qing dynasty. Love and power intertwine in a struggle for both affection and the throne. The storyline appeals to female audiences with its feminist themes, distinctive characters, and dramatic twists and turns.

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.

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.

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.

The tale of the tragic love affair between Zhu Yi Huan, the final princess of the Ming Dynasty, and Kangxi, the youthful emperor of the Qing Dynasty. (TheTVDB.com)

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)

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.

A mysterious map revealing the location of an ancient treasure has been found in the royal court, leading to dangerous consequences for the influential figures of the Qing Dynasty. As ministers and generals start to vanish one by one, Princess Ciadie (Ady An) and Prince Batu (Steven Jiang) realize they have the unique abilities needed to expose deceitful courtiers who are willing to do anything to obtain the enigmatic treasure.

Since his youth, Ko Tin Po had developed a deep understanding of food and flavors. However, a family crisis forced him and his loyal companion Lee Wai to sell buns on the streets. Through his encounters with various individuals such as street entertainer Kei Mo Suet, the beautiful Lin Yeuk Bik, and chef Mai Siu Yue, Tin Po's fate took a turn when he was recommended to work as a palace chef by the Fourth Royal Prince Yan Chan. Little did he know that this opportunity would lead to confrontations with his old rival Choi Hok Ting and entangle him in the evil schemes of the Eighth Royal Prince Yan Yik.

Based on the book "The Legend of Lu Ya Ping and the Shaolin Chronicles: The End of the Rebellion" by Lu Ya Ping.

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 a twist of events, Princess An Ding Si, the eldest daughter of Wu Ze Tian, was not killed as history suggests, but instead managed to escape the country. As she grew older, she returned under a new identity to seek revenge on her mother for using her to achieve her goal of becoming the first female ruler of China. By posing as her younger sister, she became known as Princess Tai Ping, the most adored child of Empress Wu Ze Tian. Exploiting her mother's fondness for Tai Ping, the princess manipulated the court to further her own ambitions of seizing power and ruling China.

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.

The narrative centers around Wei Xiao Bao, a man of humble origins who found himself in the imperial palace through a stroke of luck despite lacking martial arts skills

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.

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.

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.

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.

Narrates the tale of the sole female ruler in Chinese history who held the position of Empress Regnant. Based on the life of Wu Ze Tian.

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)

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.

In a captivating scene, a young woman's enchanting music grabs the attention of Na Lan Rang Ruo, who soon realizes that the performer is his cousin, Wei Lin Lang. Witnessing his devoted subject's admiration, Emperor Kang Xi commands for Lin Lang to be located and engaged to Rong Ruo. However, Prince Fu Quan, assigned to carry out the task, observes the emperor's growing interest in her and decides to select a different bride, allowing Lin Lang to join the palace and serve Kang Xi instead.

The narrative centers around Chen Ting Jing, a virtuous individual who rises to the position of premier during the Qing Dynasty. In the 23rd year of Kangxi's rule, Chen Ting Jing is tasked by the Emperor to look into a fraudulent incident in Shuntian Village. This event marks the beginning of Chen Ting Jing's challenging efforts to combat corruption and advocate for change, entangling him in the power struggles within the royal court. (ChineseDrama.info)

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.

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 story follows the journey of the head chef at the royal palace during the rule of Emperor Kangxi in the Qing Dynasty. Beginning as an unskilled cook with exceptional knife skills, he rises to become the top chef in the palace.

During the late Qing dynasty, China faced humiliating defeats in battles against foreign powers like Britain and Japan. As a result, China was compelled to sign unfair treaties and give up territories to foreigners. Huo Yuan Jia, the son of Huo En Di, goes to Beijing to meet his father's acquaintance, "Great Sword" Wang Wu. Unintentionally, he becomes involved in the events of the Hundred Days' Reform. Wang is a supporter of the reformists and tries to rescue the "Six Gentlemen", who are imprisoned on the orders of Empress Dowager Cixi. Huo decides to help Wang in his mission, but they are unsuccessful, leading to the public execution of the six men and Wang's tragic death later on. Through these events, Huo Yuan Jia realizes the deteriorating condition of China and understands the need for change in order for the country to survive in the future.

Da Yu Er, a princess of the Khorchin Mongols, falls in love with Dorgo, one of Nurhaci's many sons, who is a leader of the Jurchen people. Despite her feelings for Dorgo, Da Yu Er becomes a concubine of Hong Tai Ji, the elder brother of Dorgo. Hong Tai Ji is already married to Da Yu Er's aunt, Jerjer, in order to strengthen the bond between the Khorchin Mongols and Later Jin. Although Hong Tai Ji initially has feelings for Da Yu Er, he realizes that her heart belongs to Dorgo, so he turns his attention to her sister, Harjol. Eventually, Hong Tai Ji goes on to establish the Qing Dynasty.