Asian dramas like
The Virtuous Queen Of Han

Empress Wu Ze Tian made history as the only woman to ascend to the throne in ancient China. She was not born into nobility, but rather as the daughter of a wood merchant named Wu Shi Huo. Merchants were viewed negatively in those times, considered greedy and ruthless. Wu Ze Tian's mother, Princess Yang, hailed from the noble Sui Dynasty, which was overthrown by the Tang Dynasty following conflicts between Yang Guang and Li Shi Min. Princess Yang lived a commoner's life until her marriage in her forties, giving birth to two daughters, with Mei Niang being the second. Mei Niang was chosen to enter the Imperial Palace at the age of fourteen during Li Shi Min's reign as emperor. Initially enamored by her beauty, Li Shi Min's attention later shifted to another young woman named Xu Hui, who shared Mei Niang's intelligence and wit. Rumors circulated in Chang'an City about an empress named Wu who would seize power and eliminate the Li family's descendants. Li Shi Min suspected Wu Ze Tian could be this prophesied empress, considering eliminating her as a precaution. However, he ultimately decided to spare her life and advised her to become a nun at Ganye Temple alongside some of his other consorts. In that era, the notion of a woman ruler was deemed preposterous.

The sudden passing of Wu Mei Niang's infant daughter led to speculation that the childless Empress Wang Ni Jun may have been involved in a possible murder. To clear the Empress' name, her former lover Ming Chong Yan and close friend Helan Xin Er decided to investigate the tragic event. Their inquiry revealed that the infant's death was just one part of a larger conspiracy to take over the palace. The storyline is divided into three parts based on Chinese mythological figures representing man, ghost, and demon.

In ancient times, there was a mystical being known as Hu Xiao Li, who could transform into a human form. She experienced a heartbreaking love story during the Han Dynasty. Originally tasked with protecting the prince, Gong Hao, who was targeted for assassination, Xiao Li's mother intervened and saved him, living in obscurity as a commoner. When the Emperor discovered Gong Hao was his son, he brought him back to the palace. The Emperor's rage towards his consort, Concubine Shu, who had ordered the prince's assassination and killed his mother, the Empress, led to his demise. Gong Hao then assumed the throne, with Xiao Li becoming Empress. However, their love faced challenges when Tang Shi Shi came between them and won Gong Hao's heart, becoming his consort. Tang Shi Shi falsely accused Xiao Li of plotting to harm her, prompting Xiao Li to reveal her true form as a nine-tailed fox. Gong Hao, devastated, sentenced her to death. Just before her execution, he reminisced about their joyful marriage. Tang Shi Shi, fearing Gong Hao's forgiveness, urged her execution. Xiao Li escaped using her powers but was punished by her mother with a thousand years of imprisonment in ice for using her abilities in the mortal realm. Years later, Gong Hao, facing personal turmoil, inadvertently freed Xiao Li while hiking in the mountains. They reunited and married, but Tang Shi Shi's interference threatened their happiness once again. The question remains: will Xiao Li endure another tragic love story or fight for Gong Hao's love?

The leader of the Huns, Huhanxie Shanyu, made the decision to establish diplomatic ties with the powerful Han Dynasty for the benefit of his tribe. However, his brother Hutuwusi disagreed with this plan due to being influenced by the Qulan family. Despite having exceptional beauty and skills, Wang Zhao Jun was still destined to serve in the palace. Upon entering the court, Wang Zhao Jun used her intelligence and bravery to navigate the dangers of the harem. As Hu Hanxie Shanyu pushed for peace with the Han Dynasty, Wang Zhao Jun, who was reluctant to remain in the palace, took the initiative to visit them. After facing various challenges, she eventually set off on a long journey to the distant lands of the Huns.

The narrative follows the fictionalized account of Liu Che, who was known as Emperor Wu during the Han Dynasty.

He adored her and sacrificed his kingdom for her, but their destiny did not align. She aspired to be the Emperor's consort and eventually took control of the empire, only to find that he was not by her side.

The events of the story unfold during the rule of Hong Taiji, the founder of the Qing dynasty. In order to strengthen his military power, he solidified alliances by marrying into both Mongol and Manchu clans. His first marriage was to Jerger of the Khorchin Mongols, who became his main wife. Later on, he further solidified the alliance by marrying Jerger's niece, Dayu'er. Despite this, Hong Taiji showed favoritism towards Dayu'er's half-sister, Harjol, causing tension among the women. Dayu'er then collaborated with Hong Taiji's brother, Dorgon, in a secret plan to place her son on the throne ahead of his elder sons and brothers.

The story tells of a Qing Dynasty emperor who falls in love with a singer named Dong Xiao Wan from Jiangnan. Despite facing opposition from the Empress Dowager Xiao Zhuang and other malicious forces, their unwavering love for each other remains steadfast. It is forbidden for a woman of Han descent to marry the Qing Emperor, but this does not deter the couple from continuing their relationship.

Upon entering the palace gates, one is immediately struck by the profound depth within. While the palace may appear opulent to outsiders, it conceals the struggles of numerous imprisoned women. Xiao Cai Ren, for instance, relied on the emperor's favor to confront Concubine Wei, even resorting to plotting against her. Recognizing the need for strength and alliances, Concubine Wei navigated the treacherous palace life by forming bonds with other concubines, as well as princes and princesses from foreign lands.

In the year 637 AD, a young maiden named Wu Ru Yi from Jingzhou County was chosen to join the imperial harem of the Tang Dynasty. Ru Yi displayed exceptional dancing skills that set her apart from the other girls. One day, during a practice session, she captured the attention and affection of Emperor Tai Zong Li Shi Min, who gave her the nickname Meiniang, meaning graceful lady. At that time, she was 14 years old while he was 39. On the same evening, a fellow girl was found dead, leading to accusations against Meiniang as the culprit. She was subjected to torture in order to extract a confession and was subsequently banished to the Cold Palace. There are four versions of this story available: 96 episodes lasting 30 minutes each on Hunan Satellite TV, 82 episodes lasting 45 minutes each on DVD, 75 episodes lasting 60 minutes each on TVB, and 86 episodes lasting 30 minutes each on Zhejiang Satellite.

In the era of Emperor Wu of Han, Princess Jie You was dispatched to Xiyu as a form of Heqin. In this new land, she faced the challenge of adjusting to her surroundings and managing her husband's harem. Through her dedication, the Han dynasty emerged victorious over the Xiongnu tribe, leading to the spread of Han culture in Xiyu.

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)

Illustrates the beautiful romance and aspirations of Won Gyeong and Yi Bang Won, who immediately connected upon their first encounter

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 Conqueror's Tale recounts the transformation of Liu Bang from a humble commoner to the inaugural Emperor, Emperor Gao, of the Han Dynasty.

Xu He Zi, a talented singer and dancer hailing from Yongxin, Jiangxi, finds herself enamored with her childhood companion, the scholar Yin Meng He. Despite her affections, she is forcefully taken from her home by local authorities and transported to the palace in Chang'an. Upon entering the imperial harem, she becomes entangled in a power struggle between Consort Mei and Imperial Consort Yang. Despite her desire to depart the palace, fate intervenes and she catches the attention of Emperor Xuan Zong with her melodic voice, leading him to bestow upon her the title of "Singing Consort".

In the Western Han Dynasty, Emperor Zhao of Han, who was just eight years old, is rescued from the desert cold by a girl named Huo Yun Ge. Ten years pass, and Huo, now a beautiful young woman, still remembers the boy she saved. Unfortunately, the emperor has moved on with a new love named Xu Ping Jun, leaving Huo heartbroken. She later meets Meng Jue, a handsome man, and becomes entangled in power struggles in the imperial palace. This story is inspired by Tong Hua's novel "Song in the Clouds."

Taking place in Chang'an, China at the start of the Han Dynasty, Meiren Xinji is a fictionalized portrayal of Empress Dou and her significant impact on the rule of Emperor Wen. Her contributions in the royal court played a crucial role in the establishment of the Rule of Wen and Jing.

Luo Qing Chuan, a contemporary young woman with a passion for history, finds herself transported back in time to the period of Emperor Kang Xi in the Qing dynasty. She gets entangled in the power struggle among the princes vying for the throne and is torn between her affection for Yin Si, the eighth prince, and Yin Zhen, the fourth prince who will become Emperor Yong Zheng. As she navigates through the political scheming, her intelligence and historical knowledge become crucial in her survival, revealing to her the harsh realities of history that are often glossed over in books. (DramaWiki) Unofficially adapted from the novel "Bu Bu Jing Xin" by Tong Hua. Two versions available: 39 episodes (TV) || 35 episodes (DVD)

This tale revolves around Dongfang Shuo, a scholar during the Han dynasty who served as a court jester to Emperor Wu of Han. Unlike other scholars and officials in Emperor Wu's era, Dongfang Shuo had unique qualities. Despite falling in love with both a prostitute named Luo Qi and Princess Ping Yang, his unconventional advice was often disregarded, resulting in no change in his rank. Surprisingly, Emperor Wu never punished Dongfang Shuo and allowed him to remain by his side. Dongfang Shuo's intelligence was evident as he mediated conflicts within the Emperor's harem, modified Heqin's strategies, and provided counsel on how to combat the Xiongnu. However, the Emperor's arrogance led to setbacks for his empire, with the Xiongnu winning multiple battles and the loss of the young general Huo Qu Bing in combat. Realizing the Emperor's unwillingness to heed his advice, Dongfang Shuo eventually parted ways with him.

A historical drama showcases the challenges encountered by Emperor Qin Shi Huang following the unification of the Empire: the ambitious construction of a new highway, growing public dissatisfaction, and political schemes endangering the palace.

An ancient tale of eternal life drives a romantic saga spanning over three thousand years. According to legend, the first Emperor of China, Qin Shihuang, dispatched Xu Fu to the eastern seas in search of the elixir of immortality. Tragedy strikes when forbidden love blooms between the maiden Han Dong'er and Meng Tianfang, leading to Han sacrificing herself by feeding Meng the elixir before both are turned into terracotta warriors. Fast forward to modern-day China, where a terracotta warrior mysteriously comes to life and vanishes from the museum. A Japanese man named Haneda, claiming to be Xu Fu's descendant, embarks on a quest to find the living terracotta warrior who consumed the elixir and uncover Emperor Qin's tomb in Xi'an. Meanwhile, actors Zhu Lili and Lan Tian accidentally stumble upon a passageway leading to the tomb. Will they unravel the mystery of the living terracotta warrior, safeguard the Emperor's resting place, and unearth the key to everlasting life?

Taking place during the Warring States Period, the narrative centers on a remarkable prodigy with a mysterious background. Similar to a chess grandmaster, Wang Chan orchestrates events during turbulent times to suppress rebellion and bolster his nation's power, eventually earning the revered title of Gui Gu Zi. In 390 BC, Wang Cuo aids the Crown Prince of Wei in thwarting a coup, leading to the exile of Wei Huan and the escape of Wu Qi to Chu. Following a momentous victory, Wang Cuo faces retaliation from Wu Qi, who seeks to claim Sun Tzu's The Art of War for himself. Surrounding the manor with five hundred soldiers, Wu Qi massacres all within. Despite the tragedy, Madame Wang gives birth to Wang Chan, who grows up to become a skilled political strategist.

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.

This drama explores the journey of Kim Soo Ro, the famed founder of Geumgwan Gaya, the leading city-state within the Gaya confederacy that excelled in maritime trade and iron production during the Three Kingdoms Period. Kim Soo Ro relies on his passionate nature, charm, and intellect as he navigates the protracted political conflicts he faces, including rivalry for the throne from his half-brother and longtime adversary, Ijinashi, his former ally Suk Tal Hae, and the menacing ambitions of Shin Kwi Gan.

In the era of the Ming Dynasty, Emperor Zhu Yuan Zhang abdicated in favor of his frail grandson, Zhu Yun Wen. Subsequently, Zhu Yun Wen was deposed by his own uncle, who then ascended to the throne as Emperor Yong Le.

Li Bing He and Li Yu Fan are fraternal twins who have shared identical dreams since childhood. When Li Yu Fan falls into a coma following a car accident, Li Bing He attempts to utilize their shared dream world to bring her back. In this dream, Li Yu Fan becomes the esteemed Wu Mei Niang, her admirer Da Gang transforms into the court jester, and Li Bing He takes on the role of the Lord of Nan Chang. Together, they navigate a world filled with palace conspiracies where only the most cunning can survive. (DramaWiki)

In Tokyo in 1935, Yanagi Etsuko, a 10-year-old girl with a passion for music, is concerned for her father Kantaro. Kantaro, a struggling songwriter still grieving for his late wife, is not living life to the fullest. Etsuko decides to help her father find a new partner and mother figure. She initially tries to set him up with her teacher, Muraoka Masako, but the plan does not work out. Etsuko then meets a salesgirl named Ikebe Kyoko and is captivated by her simple nature, growing to see her as a mother figure. However, Kantaro's sister, Tsuruyo, intervenes by arranging a meeting with Kusakabe Kaoru, the daughter of a bank owner who has ties to the family business. (jdramas.wordpress)

The storyline follows the Yang family and their unwavering dedication to the nation despite their emperor's incompetence and self-centeredness. General Yang, the father, is depicted as overly strict and rigid due to his loyalty, while Sai Hua, the mother, is portrayed as the only one willing to defend her children. The family consists of seven sons, all of whom have their designated roles. However, much of the focus is on the fourth son, Alec Su, who rebels against his father's strict ways and has his own beliefs. As the family confronts the challenges of war, they begin to face various struggles and setbacks.

In a famous tale, a man unintentionally travels back 2000 years to the Warring States Era and becomes embroiled in a conflict between nations. While on a space expedition, Xiang Shao Long experiences an event that propels him into a black hole, transporting him to ancient China during the Warring States Era. This period predates the Qin Emperor's reign by three hundred years, leaving Xiang Shao Long stranded in the State of Zhao. To return to his own time, he resolves to assist Ying Zheng in claiming the throne, leading to unexpected relationships and romantic entanglements with Xing Yun along the way.

A tale about Concubine Meng, a mischievous woman who initially clashes with the King but eventually falls in love with him. Meng is the daughter of a prominent official in the Sui Dynasty. Upon entering the palace, she is exposed to the deceit and schemes within the royal family. Choosing not to let others control her fate, Meng feigns illness. During her time in the palace, she befriends Concubine Yan, who is clever, Concubine Qu, who is emotional and loves food, and Concubine Xiao, a skilled martial artist from a family of generals. The four women quickly bond and become like sisters in the palace. Due to ongoing disagreements with Meng's father, the King decides to confront Meng one day, but unexpectedly finds himself drawn to her unique personality. Despite the King's efforts to spend time with her, Meng tries to avoid him. It is only after a chance meeting outside the palace that Meng begins to see the King's positive and endearing qualities.

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.

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.

The Han Triumph, also referred to as Wind Ode, is a Chinese TV show that depicts events from the early Han dynasty, starting with Liu Bang (Emperor Gao) establishing the dynasty after defeating Xiang Yu. The series also covers the events that led to the rule of Liu Heng (Emperor Wen).

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.

The biography of Huang Dao Po, a trailblazing woman who transformed the Chinese textile sector amidst the Mongol invasion of the Song dynasty and the rise of the Yuan dynasty.

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.

Amidst the challenges within the grand palace and the allure of authority, will love endure and friendships remain steadfast? Zhan Xinghan, Mu Feiyan, and Xing Yingdie, childhood companions, find their lives transformed after the separation of lovers Zhan Xinghan and Mu Feiyan. Mu Feiyan is relocated to the palace to serve as an imperial concubine. Xing Yingdie remains untainted beyond the palace walls, witnessing the transformation of Mu Feiyan as she navigates deceit and manipulation in her pursuit of power.

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.

During the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD), known as one of the most violent in Chinese history, the story unfolds of the love affair between Zhen Fu and Cao Cao, as well as his sons Cao Zhi and Cao Pi.

Huang Cai Wei was betrothed to Bai Qian Feng before he disappeared during a business trip and was believed to be deceased. As a result, she was compelled to wed his brother, Bai Qian Sheng. Bai's evident partiality toward Huang sparked envy among his other wives, particularly his main spouse, Ma Fu Fang. Huang navigated through the schemes of the women using her intelligence. However, when her original betrothed reappeared alive, she found herself in a difficult position where she was unable to extricate herself.

In the Tang Dynasty, Eunuch Ju murders five government officials to cover up his crimes, but Prime Minister Mu discovers the evidence. When Prime Minister Mu's daughter, Mu Fu Rong, rejects a forced marriage and attempts suicide, she is rescued by a mysterious hero. Eunuch Ju now sees Mu Fu Rong and her family as his enemies due to the rescue incident.

In "Jang Hee Bin," we follow the tale of a young court servant who captivates the King with her beauty and becomes his concubine. Through her rapid ascent in status and the birth of her son, she is motivated by a strong desire for power, leading her to not only secure her position but to ultimately become Queen.