Asian dramas like
The Luckiest Man 2003

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.

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.

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)

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.

Wong Fei Hung, a renowned figure of his era, is both a skilled martial artist and a revered hero. As a doctor at Po Chi Lam, a clinic in Canton, he has rescued numerous individuals, yet he is compelled to utilize his combat skills to protect the community.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

The knowledgeable scholar Ji Xiao Lan engages in a continuous mental and verbal clash with the seemingly gentlemanly yet corrupt official He Shen, both enjoying the battle with no clear winner. Emperor Qian Long's actions sow discord between them, leading Ji Xiao Lan and He Shen to strategize relentlessly. The BronzeTeeth III consists of six stories that vividly depict power struggles in the Qing imperial court through humor, anger, and curses.

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.

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.

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.

A tale of rivalry and romance unfolds between Jianwen Emperor Zhu Yun Wen and his uncle Zhu Di as they compete for power and the affections of the same woman. Despite his impressive abilities and bravery, Zhu Di was never able to become crown prince due to the rules of succession. When the crown prince unexpectedly dies, Zhu Yun Wen is named emperor by Zhu Yuan Zhang, creating a barrier for Zhu Di. Both men become enamored with Xu Miao Yun, setting the stage for her tragic dilemma of being torn between two rulers.

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.

In Wangsha Village, Macau, a determined young man named Lin Wei Liang courageously revolted against colonial authority by assassinating Shavard, the Portuguese colonial governor of Macau, thus symbolizing Macau's fight for independence

A television series depicting the dreams, challenges, and victories of Nu Er Ha Chi, the founder of the Qing Dynasty. It follows his journey from a humble soldier to successfully overthrowing the formidable Ming Dynasty. (DramaWiki)

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.

Hong Gil Dong was the son of a prominent minister born out of wedlock. A local monk took him in and instructed him in martial arts. Driven by a desire to combat the societal injustices that separated nobles from commoners—where the former enjoyed privileges due solely to their lineage—Hong Gil Dong became a fighter for change. Meanwhile, the female lead, Heo Yi Nok, had recently returned to Korea from China alongside her grandfather. They made their living by showcasing performances and selling their distinctive medicines in the market. Lee Chang Hwi had been raised with the belief that he was the legitimate heir to the throne, which had been seized by his half-brother. Having just returned from exile in China, he was scheming to topple the emperor. The three characters found themselves caught in a web of love, animosity, loyalty, and treachery, with only one faction destined to prevail.

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.

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)

Po Chung Ling was born into a family known for their expertise in New Year prints, in the city of Jinan. He is highly intelligent, and his father, Po Poon, has always hoped that he would continue the family tradition. However, Ling believes that Poon is involved in corruption with some officials, leading to a strained relationship between them. Ling's close friend, Ko Jit, who is a constable, shares his disdain for corrupt officials. There are rumors circulating about a troublesome fox spirit in Jinan, and when Ling and Jit investigate, Ling is almost fatally injured. Thankfully, a mysterious girl named Ling Wu Siu Tsui saves him just in time. It is later revealed that Tsui is the fox spirit, and she saved Ling as a way of repaying a debt from the past. As they grow closer, Tsui begins to develop feelings for Ling. Meanwhile, the Po family receives a large order for New Year prints and must hire many female workers to complete the job on time. One of the applicants, Lau Sum Yu, has ulterior motives - she is seeking revenge on a man who wronged her sister. Little does she know, she will soon find herself entangled in a love triangle involving Ling and Jit.

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.

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 series follows the life of a young Prince named Hong Li, who later becomes Emperor Qian Long. Despite being the obvious choice to succeed his father Yong Zheng, Hong Li faces challenges and hardships on his journey to maturity. With a sincere and direct approach, he tries to use his education to improve the state's affairs. Surprisingly, this approach displeases Yong Zheng, leading the 3rd and 5th Princes, guided by their teacher Mr. Tian, to win over Yong Zheng and influence his decision to pass the throne to someone else.

Princess Sheng Ping is a determined royal who has a strong affection for Jiju. She escapes the palace to watch her favorite Jiju player, Chen Shao Tang, and amusingly crosses paths with Guo Ai, the sixth son of the Prince of Fenyang. Despite a rocky start, they eventually become close friends by helping each other and making valuable connections. Their bond deepens after failed romances lead them to marriage, although challenges arise due to Sheng Ping's royal status. Trouble brews when Guo Ai's ex-lover, Luo Xia, returns to cause discord. A drunken Guo Ai lashes out at Sheng Ping after she misses a family celebration, leading to a strained relationship between them. (DramaWiki; adapted from the Chinese folk tale "Zui Da Jin Zhi")

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.

Taking place in Qing Dynasty Twatutia from 1868 to 1888, this drama centers around key historical events such as the Sino-French War of 1883 to 1885 and the Mudan Incident of 1874. Zhi Kuan, a member of a well-known family, manages a successful herbal medicine shop and tea plantations. The harmony of Zhi Kuan and his wife Li Jun's marriage is tested when his former lover Yu Juan, who is a spy for the king, resurfaces after 20 years, along with Zhi Kuan's daughter Xin Lan.

Liu Bao Shan, also known as Liu Gan San, was a famous Peking opera performer during the Qing dynasty in Beijing. He specialized in playing comedic roles and was particularly known for portraying unattractive female characters. Using his quick wit, he often made spontaneous remarks during his performances to mock those in power. Originally from Tianjin, he once entertained Empress Dowager Cixi and Emperor Guangxu at the Forbidden City by teasing the empress dowager about the emperor not having a seat. On another occasion, he made fun of Prince Dun, Prince Gong, and Prince Chun, which resulted in him being physically punished. (Wikipedia) Based on the life of Liu Gan San.

In the novel series by Pai An Jing Qi, a young magistrate named Hang Tie Sheng is tasked with investigating a string of mysterious deaths. As a rookie mayor and detective, he must rely on his intelligence, physical strength, and various specialized tools to solve several challenging cases. One of these cases involves a plot to assassinate the Emperor. Hang receives help from his bold stepmother, an eccentric lieutenant, and a skilled martial artist, but they face obstacles from a troublesome prince.

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.

The tale of the individual who transforms from a salt pirate into the ruler of Wuyue.