Asian dramas like
The Great Craftsman

Set in 1930s Shanghai, this tale follows a man hailing from a family of magicians who embarks on a journey of nationalism after seeking vengeance for his father's murder. Ye Fei's father, Ye Jin, leads the Jin Rong troupe, known for its lineage of skilled magicians. Following a victorious showdown with a German magician, Ye Jin is shunned by fellow troupes and succumbs to despair. Motivated by a thirst for retribution, Ye Fei ventures North to train under a renowned master. Upon completing his education, Ye Fei relocates to Shanghai where he crosses paths with Xiao Yao, the daughter of a crime boss, who falls for him. However, their romantic saga takes a backseat when war breaks out, forcing them to prioritize their country over their personal vendettas.

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.

"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 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.

During the period of the Republican era, a prominent family known for producing top-quality fragrances and incense must be vigilant against those seeking to pilfer their confidential recipes. Ning Zhi Yuan, the charming young heir of the family's fragrance business, finds himself entangled in a plot orchestrated by An Le Yan, a resolute young woman bent on seeking retribution against the Ning clan. Despite Zhi Yuan's affection for Le Yan, her true intentions lie in infiltrating his family to abscond with a prized perfume formula. Meanwhile, Le Yan's affections gravitate towards An Yi Chen, an inspector, while Xiao Hui, the offspring of a Japanese imperialist, sets her sights on winning Yi Chen's heart. Will Zhi Yuan be able to safeguard his family's legacy and his own emotions amidst these intricate entanglements? (Viki) - Two versions available: 42 episodes (TV) || 44 episodes (online)

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.

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.

The drama narrates the tale of Hong Pei Shan, the Hong family's adopted daughter-in-law, who defied traditional practices and challenged destiny due to her romance with the Hong family's adopted son in the era of the Republic of China

The series revolves around the challenges faced by the main character as she is compelled into a marriage with a high-ranking official of the Kuomintang, also known as the National party.

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.

The plot follows Du Yu Lou, who runs a tea shop called "Shenchang" and is unexpectedly promoted to head after his brother's tragic death

During the Qing Dynasty, a princess witnesses the downfall of her family. She navigates through challenging circumstances and grows into a successful businesswoman. Tong Yu Wan, despite her royal background, represents a new wave of empowered women in the Republican era. Her affection for Zhou Ting Chen develops after he saves her from danger, but she is ultimately married off to Du Yun Tang, the son of a wealthy businessman, by her parents. Du Yun Tang may seem carefree on the surface, but he proves to be a valuable and strategic business partner for Yu Wan. Meanwhile, Zhou Ting Chen becomes involved in revolutionary activities, while his friend Li Shao Feng poses as the only son of the Li family and offers his sister Li Xue Mei to warlord Shen Zhi Pei. At the same time, Li Shao Feng works for a Japanese company and becomes a fierce competitor to the Du family in the race for development projects. Yu Wan finds herself entangled in complex relationships with various individuals in her life, including her lover Zhou Ting Chen, husband Du Yun Tang, friend Li Xue Mei, foe Li Shao Feng, and twins Qing Ping and Hong Yu.

The melodrama depicts the journey of Han Chun Ming, a once educated young man. Upon his return to the city from a rural village, Han Chun Ming explores various avenues to sustain himself, such as running a street vendor stall. Through his perseverance and dedication, Han Chun Ming manages to save up enough money to start his own business and capture the affection of his desired romantic partner.

Set in Shanxi during the early Republican era, the story centers around the Long family, a wealthy clan. The protagonist, Ying Niang, along with her children, face numerous challenges in a harsh world. Ying Gu, a young mistress of the affluent Long family, has three daughters during her eight-year marriage. Due to superstitions surrounding her third daughter, Ying Gu and her husband, Long Ji Zong, are compelled to leave with their daughter for her safety. Tragedy strikes when Xu Zhi passes away, leaving Ying Gu pregnant with his son and deserted by her in-laws. Facing rejection from her own family, Ying Gu is forced to marry an opium addict who callously sells her daughter for drugs. In a moment of desperation, Ying Gu starts a fire and is imprisoned. Despite giving birth to her son while incarcerated, her life post-release is grim. Long Yan Zong, her husband's younger twin, tries to assist, but the tumultuous times lead to her separation from her children. Determined to reunite her family, Ying Gu embarks on a challenging journey.

The story takes place between the 1920s and 1940s and focuses on Beile Ha Lan, a mischievous and timid individual from the former Qing Dynasty. Ha Lan's life takes a dramatic turn when he comes into possession of a confidential document detailing the treasures hidden in the imperial tombs. Born in a rundown palace in the capital city in 1909, Ha Lan shares a childhood romance with Xiao Yue Lou. While serving as a study companion in the palace, Ha Lan develops a passion for imperial cuisine and befriends the skilled Chef Xie. Despite being engaged to Tong Li Hua, the daughter of Marquis Tong, Ha Lan declines the arrangement and expresses his desire to marry Xiao Yue Lou instead. Elsewhere, Eunuch Wang steals the secret tomb records, but Chef Xie manages to swap it with a meal given to Ha Lan. Additionally, Eunuch Wang's godson, Wang Si Jai, is also on the hunt for the treasures.

Set in a vineyard in China during the early 20th century, the story revolves around the art of winemaking and the emotional journey of a widow engaged in a ghost marriage and her husband's loyal servant.

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.

Derived from Wang An Yi's book "The Song of Eternal Regret."

Taking place in Shanghai during the Republican era, Gu Man Zhen is employed as a factory assistant, while Gu Man Lu works in a nightclub to provide for their family. Gu Man Zhen develops feelings for Shen Shi Jun, a wealthy young engineer who is already promised to another. Meanwhile, Gu Man Lu marries Zhu Hong Cai, who is infatuated with her younger sister. Years later, Gu Man Zhen and Shen Shi Jun reunite, both married, and strive to navigate societal expectations without sacrificing their chance at happiness.

Phoenix Wears Peony is set during the winter of 1923 in Northern China, a time of conflict and uncertainty. Wu Xia, a young Buddhist nun, discovers that she is the eldest daughter of the renowned Yu Family in Suzhou, famous for their silk embroidery. Fleeing from the military, she is rescued by Huo Dong Qing, a young and idealistic businessman, who guides her to Suzhou. Throughout her journey, Wu Xia must navigate challenges stemming from family and societal expectations, demonstrating resilience and determination.

Gu Han Sen, a prominent figure in Shanghai, took in two sons during the early years of the Republic of China - Liao Si Cheng and Fang Tian Yi. The two adopted sons, along with Gu Han Sen's daughter Ting Gu, grew up together like true siblings. Fang Tian Yi, a kind and honest young man, valued their sibling bond above all else. Despite his unrequited love for Ting Gu, he kept his feelings hidden after learning of her feelings for Liao Si Cheng. The trio bravely fought against the Japanese invasion and played a crucial role in the War of Liberation. Gu Han Sen, aware of his daughter's feelings for Liao Si Cheng, attempted to arrange their marriage, but Liao Si Cheng prioritized his duties over personal matters. He joined the BIS, with Ting Gu and Fang Tian Yi following suit. Years later, they were unknowingly involved in a conspiracy while intercepting Qing treasures as part of a team led by Liao Si Cheng.

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)

Taking place in the late 1920s, the story revolves around the trio of daughters belonging to Xinghua, a prominent figure in the Shanghai department store industry. They engage in a fierce competition amongst themselves to ascertain the rightful successor who will secure the family's ongoing success.

The story revolves around the love story between the heir of a prominent tea merchant in Jiangnan and a girl who works in the tea fields. Cheng Jing Mo is the only child of the tea business owner, known for his love of art and carefree nature. Ruan Qiu Shui, on the other hand, is skilled in mathematics and carries the weight of her family's financial struggles. When their paths cross, their lives become deeply intertwined, much like ink mixing with water.

After the passing of Zhang Zi Jun's parents, she took on the role of older sister to her brother and sister. Despite facing numerous challenges, she displayed resilience and eventually achieved success as a businesswoman. (Wikipedia)

Raised in a Wonton shop, Zhang Guo Guo works as a delivery girl and is beloved by her community for her genuine nature. Little do they know, she is the daughter of a renowned embroidery workshop owner and was brought up in the town following an accident. Gifted in embroidery, Guo Guo is thankful for Wang Ai Yu, who raised her, and considers Wang's biological daughter, Zhang YuXin, as her own family. As they pursue their aspirations, Guo Guo and YuXin cross paths with brothers Li Yun Kai and Li Yun Zhe, leading to romantic entanglements.

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'.

The son of the renowned doctor Gu Feng from Qingyuantang pharmacy tragically drowned, leading Gu Feng's mother to blame their butler, Fang Cheng. Feeling resentful, Fang Cheng, who had a daughter named Qiang Wei with his mistress He Xiu, decided to swap his daughter with Gu Feng's daughter Ren Dong, who had been previously fostered elsewhere. Qiang Wei was raised in luxury by the Gu family, while Ren Dong grew up in poverty with He Xiu. As adults, Ren Dong coincidentally found employment at Qingyuantang pharmacy and crossed paths with Han Chong, a man who had faced numerous hardships in his life. Ren Dong's positive attitude and medical skills quickly earned her popularity at the pharmacy, including catching the attention of Zheng Ding, her longtime crush. When Fang Cheng discovered Ren Dong's true identity, he plotted against her and convinced Gu Feng's mother to create obstacles for her. Qiang Wei, upon learning her real heritage, also worked to prevent Ren Dong from reuniting with her family. With the support of Han Chong and Zheng Ding, Ren Dong persevered through challenges and emerged as a respected doctor. Fang Cheng's deceitful actions were eventually exposed, leading to his punishment, and Ren Dong was ultimately able to reunite with her family.

In order to seek justice for her family, the stunning and elegant Wen Yu Nong decided to become a spy known for her skill in disguises. To achieve her goal of revenge, she must utilize her talents to impersonate another person as she reconnects with the man she once had feelings for.

Throughout the ten-year civil war, Gong Wei Ping, a covert member of the CCP in Beiping, was instructed to establish the party's presence within the independent faction of the remaining Anti-Japanese Allied Army in Chahar. Unfortunately, due to the betrayal of informants, the 25 individuals Gong Wei Ping had identified for development were captured and detained. In an attempt to save their lives, Gong Wei Ping voluntarily surrendered but was deceived. Yu Xue Yao, who harbored feelings for Gong Wei Ping, appealed to her brother, Yu Qin Zhai, a deputy director of the Central Committee, to free him. Yu Qin Zhai agreed to his sister's plea but devised a plan to test Gong Wei Ping's loyalty. Meanwhile, Gong Wei Ping received a secret directive from his superiors under the alias Comrade Zhu Guang, instructing him to infiltrate the Kuomintang Central Unification spy network. To fulfill this mission, Gong Wei Ping had to sever ties with his girlfriend and marry Yu Xue Yao. Unfortunately, Comrade Zhu Guang passed away unexpectedly, leaving Gong Wei Ping cut off from the party organization and his covert assignment a mystery. Faced with this challenge, Gong Wei Ping made the difficult decision to adopt a new identity, Gong Xiang Guang, and embarked on a perilous path to fulfill his mission. On his wedding night, he cleverly eliminated the traitors within the Japanese-affiliated underground party.

Chow Ming Hin successfully develops his family's shipping business into a prosperous company despite facing challenges with corrupt or incompetent family members. His son, Chow Tin Chi, is being groomed to take over the business but he is known for his mischievous behavior, especially towards Ho Seung Hei. Ng Yuk Hing plays a significant role in Chow Ming Hin's business ventures and becomes his romantic partner, despite being married. Eventually, Chow Ming Hin marries Ng Yuk Hing as his second wife and they have a child together, causing tension and jealousy with his first wife, Lee De Yung.

In 1937, Japanese forces took control of Manchuria. Ku Ping On and her close friend Tin Hau Yi traveled to Nanjing with her ill mother to find her father, Ku Man Chai, who owned the largest rice company in the city. To her surprise, she learned that Hau Yi, whom she thought was her fiancé, was in love with Cheng Yuet Fung, her father's fourth wife. Subsequently, Poon Sai Cheung, who collaborated with the Japanese, "acquired" Ping On.

Zha Mei Le's journey began in her childhood when she learned about her parents' impending divorce and their reluctance to take her in. Determined to change their minds, she excelled in all aspects of her life, earning certificates and admiration from her colleagues and boss. Through her kind and caring nature, she met her boyfriend Han Yi Feng and won over his family, except for his brother Han Yi Lei. Despite their initial dislike for each other, Mei Le agreed to pick up Yi Lei from the airport as a favor to her boyfriend. As she worked hard to help Yi Feng achieve his dream of owning a bakery, she discovered his infidelity with a coworker. This revelation led Mei Le to develop feelings for Yi Lei.