Asian dramas like
The Legend Of Meng Lai Cai

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.

During their childhood, Huai Yu, Zhi Gao, and Dan Dan made a pact to be as close as siblings and visited a mysterious old eunuch for fortune-telling using divination sticks. However, the sticks were accidentally shuffled by the eunuch's cat before they could be interpreted. One stick mentioned preferring death over birth, another suggested life was better than death, and the third talked about dying and being reborn. The meaning behind these messages remains a mystery.

Qin Yue Xiang, a former housekeeper, unintentionally causes the death of her husband who was a builder while trying to protect her 9-year-old daughter Sang Cai Qing from being forced into marriage with an elderly man. Facing punishment by the local official Xiao Ru Zhang, Yue Xiang arranges for Cai Qing to seek safety with her biological father, wealthy businessman Chen Yuan. However, Chen's envious wife, Yu Ru, forces Cai Qing to work as a servant in their mansion. As Cai Qing grows older, she becomes entangled in a series of romantic entanglements.

In the aftermath of World War II in Shanghai in 1945, Tang Teng, a fighter pilot, and Shen Ying, a Qi Pao saleswoman, fell in love. Despite facing consequences such as being court-martialed for desertion, Tang Teng was determined to be with Shen Ying. He was ultimately saved from a death sentence by family friend Ji Wen, who helped him escape to Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Shen Ying, believing Tang Teng to be dead, agreed to marry another man for financial support. However, upon learning that Tang Teng was alive in Hong Kong from expert tailor Lu Xiao Mao, she broke off the engagement and traveled to Hong Kong. Instead of a joyful reunion, Shen Ying discovered that Tang Teng had married Ji Wen.

The tale revolves around the 48th inheritor of the Yang Warriors martial arts technique, who battles monsters and enhances his abilities to emerge as a genuine hero. Yang Xiao Lang has never been fond of mastering martial arts. Disappointed by his lack of drive, his grandmother sends him to live with his uncle Liu Guo, who manages the Zhonghua restaurant in Jiangcheng. In this unfamiliar town, Yang Xiao Lang becomes entangled with the police, the Qinglong Clan, and foreigners. In order to defend Xiao Fan, the woman he loves, Yang Xiao Lang must rise to the occasion, relying on his intelligence to combat injustices and bring glory to his family.

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

The plot revolves around Bai Wen Huan, who is the head of the Northern Shaanxi Brothers Association

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.

During the 1930s in Shanghai, Peng Yu Tian, a National Army officer, bravely fought against the Japanese forces and was gravely wounded. He was saved by Lei Jin Yi, a field nurse, and the two developed a deep bond. Just as they were preparing to wed, Peng was called back to the battlefield. Tragically, Peng's family was targeted and bombed by the Japanese. Lei managed to escape with Peng's child and later assumed a new identity as Shen Han Bing, working as a dancer to support her family. Meanwhile, Peng, believing Lei had perished in the bombing, went on to marry a wealthy businessman named Wu Jiang. However, fate brought Peng and Lei back together when they crossed paths at a party hosted by Wujiang. As a member of the Communist underground, Peng was tasked with investigating Wu Jiang, and sought Lei's help in uncovering the truth. It was ultimately revealed that Wu Jiang was a Japanese spy posing as a Chinese. After the Anti-Japanese War, Wu Jiang attempted to flee with Lei, but was apprehended and met his end at the hands of Peng and Lei.

"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.

In a time of military expansionism, He Tao Hua's father, a highly respected military official, was killed. Adopting a new persona, Tao Hua embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her father's murder. By 1925, the He Family had been wiped out, leaving only He Tao Hua alive. She ventures to a different city and finds employment as a servant for the Liao Family. Her quick wit and charm win over Old Master Liao, while she also forms a romantic relationship with Young Master Liao Chun Feng. However, just before their wedding, Liao Chun Feng learns of her true identity and, unable to bear the burden, confesses before leaving to join the war effort. Recognizing her feelings for him, He Tao Hua decides to pursue him despite the challenges that lie ahead.

A jade sculptor named Li Tian Shun, residing in Beijing Old Street, bravely defends a valuable jade ornament that has the power to change the fate of the nation. Despite facing opposition from local criminal groups, Li Tian Shun remains steadfast in his mission to safeguard this national treasure. Alongside other ordinary yet courageous individuals in the neighborhood, such as Chinese opera singer Yang Shang De, camel herder Ding Guang Yuan, and antique dealer Jin Zhao Ji, Li Tian Shun demonstrates unwavering resilience in the face of adversity. The arrival of Ding Liu Lan, a Communist revolutionary, brings a glimmer of hope for a brighter future to Old Street.

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.

In 1913, Yuan Shi Kai assumed the role of temporary president and collaborated with foreign countries to betray the nation. Four individuals - Feng Yi, a covert operative dedicated to his homeland, Liu Yi Kui, a passionate nationalist, Hua Er, a destitute girl longing for basic necessities, and Xiao Xue, an aspiring singer - all become entangled in the clandestine plot to betray their country. Xiao Xue harbors feelings of affection and admiration for Liu Yi Kui, who, in turn, develops feelings for the courageous Hua Er. However, Hua Er's heart belongs to Feng Yi, who had shown her kindness in her time of need. As they face a treacherous conspiracy and the destiny of their nation, their youthful relationships become increasingly complex, and their bond must withstand numerous challenges until they ultimately emerge as unsung heroes of the nation. During that era, a group of individuals emerged who, though not connected by blood or friendship, were willing to make great sacrifices that have shaped our present reality.

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.

At birth, three sisters are separated and raised by different families, leading them to develop distinct personalities and skills. Lai Ji Di is carefree and open, Yun Yian is polite, knowledgeable in medicine, and Chu Yua excels in combat despite her cold exterior. Lai Ji Di becomes the bodyguard of Cheng San Liu, a studious young man unaware of his father's identity until he turns 20. Raised by his mother, San Liu's life takes a drastic turn when he learns the truth about his father's identity.

The play follows the story of Tang Doudou, a young woman determined to remain unmarried until she finds a suitable partner who truly understands and loves her. When the Tang family faces difficulties due to a mistake with the officials, the Zhuang family steps in to offer their assistance. Madame Zhuang proposes that Doudou marry her eldest son, a handsome, principled, and cultured man - but on the day of the wedding, he inexplicably regresses to the mental capacity of an eight-year-old. Despite her initial anger and confusion, Doudou is compelled to return to Madame Zhuang when faced with financial difficulties. As she uncovers unsettling truths about her husband's condition, Doudou realizes there is more to the situation than meets the eye, even as her mother-in-law remains mysteriously unconcerned.

A humorous retelling of the romance between Liang Shan Bo and Zhu Ying Tai. (DramaWiki)

With the backing of the head of the Police Authority, the notorious Ho Kei-Kin (Dayo Wong) of Guangzhou has been dominating those around him. Despite his initial kind-hearted nature, Kin's transformation into a manipulative individual stemmed from his childhood mistreatment by his father. After a confrontation with his father, who denied Kin's paternity and left town, Kin harbored deep resentment. Following a series of events, including a failed attempt to redeem himself by challenging the town's crime lord, Kin spiraled into chaos and destruction. However, a revelation about the demise of his father and family members led Kin to embrace a new persona as Gan Yan-Kin (Bully Kin). He adopted a ruthless attitude, believing that he must treat others poorly to survive. Tsui, the owner of a house sought by Kin, found solace in meeting the honorable Wong Fei-Hung (Dominic Lam). Kin, in an effort to recruit students for his kung-fu school, fabricated stories of his heroism. When faced with a contest against Fei-Hung, Kin resorted to deceit to secure victory. Disillusioned by Fei-Hung's integrity, Kin eventually decided to emulate his honorable ways. Despite criticism from others, Fei-Hung appointed Kin to manage Po Chi Lam, a decision met with skepticism. Kin's attempts to help his peers backfired, leading to further chaos. An incident involving the drugging of Fei-Hung during a lion dancing competition prompted Kin to reconsider his actions and strive to uphold Fei-Hung's legacy. As the story unfolds, Kin's journey towards redemption and acceptance within the community takes unexpected turns.

Master TAI YAU KUNG, also known as Gordon Liu, is an experienced official advisor who assists his foster son CHOW BING, portrayed by Kenneth Ma, in securing a position in the government. Despite Bing's resourcefulness, he struggles with the strict rules and practices of the officials, leading him to often idle away his time. During his adventures at a tavern, Bing encounters the charming owner CHONG SIU HAN, played by Leila Tong, which causes jealousy to arise in his wife CHIU YUK HING, portrayed by Kate Tsui. Yau Kung suggests Bing work as an advisor to the new government official SHUM GWUN BOK, portrayed by Matthew Ko, leading to a close friendship forming between Bing and Gwun Bok. However, Bing is taken aback when he learns that his respected master Yau Kung is actually Gwun Bok's father. As Gwun Bok begins to use Yuk Hing to scheme against Bing, Bing is shocked to discover that his wife is a spy sent by the Imperial forces.

During the early years of the Republic of China in Taiwan, there was a reorganization of industries, financial instability, and ongoing natural and man-made disasters. Two individuals from different regions, one from the North and the other from the South, came together to create and distribute the finest soy sauce in Taipei stores.

The tale commences with the birth of a daughter to the Emperor's concubine Zhang. Hoping to secure the birth of the Emperor's first surviving son, Zhang agrees to Eunuch Liu's proposal to swap her daughter with the son of the Lin family. However, Lin's wife was outraged by the forced exchange and left the baby princess at a brothel in Yang Zhou named Bai Hua Lou, where she was taken in and named Qian Qian. Fast forward 18 years, Qian Qian had grown into a playful young woman who often found herself causing mischief. By twist of fate, she crossed paths with the crown prince Zheng De during one of her escapades, capturing his attention.

Taking place in Shanghai during the 1930s and 1940s, the plot centers around a dance hostess named Chin Zhao Li and her relationships with three significant men. Chin Zhao Li was compelled to work as a dance hostess at the well-known Paramount dance hall in Shanghai at the age of 18 due to her family's financial struggles. The narrative revolves around her encounter with her first love, Sheng Yue Ru, a young man from Shanghai's elite class who is passionate about painting and theater, having studied abroad. Despite facing opposition from their families, particularly Yue Ru's affluent banker father, the couple's love blossomed and they became romantically involved. This story is adapted from the short story "The Last Night of Taipan Chin" from the collection "Taipei People" by Pai Hsien Yung.

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.

The narrative follows Lin Rui Xi, a timid girl from a humble village, as she rises from obscurity to prominence in the glamorous world of Shanghai's film industry. Through a stroke of luck involving a cheongsam dress, Lin unexpectedly finds love, success, and a passion for her work. Set against a backdrop of intense rivalry and conflicting interests, she navigates the tumultuous waters of love and ambition with resilience and grace.

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 the Early Republic period, this drama follows the tale of Gu Zhi Xia, the missing daughter of a military governor. Originally known as Ling Xue, she lost her memories while trying to find her father. Renamed Zhi Xia without her memories, her sworn sister Cui Cui took on the identity of Ling Xue. The story delves into the intricate and emotional love triangle involving Zhi Xia and the two men vying for her affection. Will she choose Xiang Tian, a rugged bandit with whom she developed a deep connection through life-threatening situations, or Chi Rui, the heir of the Chi family who instantly fell for her? Join Zhi Xia on her journey filled with joy, sorrow, and above all, love. (CdramaDevotee)

The story revolves around three separate households in Beijing as they experience China's transition from a feudal society to a democracy. The themes of familial bonds, love, and patriotism are interconnected as individuals, both men and women, evolve in their relationships for the sake of love or friendship.