The Most Popular Historical Chinese Drama, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the drama you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 30, 2024 06:40
In a world where media choices often feel overwhelming due to their sheer number and variety, having a curated list of top-ranked items can simplify decisions. Historical Chinese dramas, with their intricate plots and deep cultural roots, offer a unique entertainment experience. However, identifying which of these series stand out from the rest can be a daunting task for both newcomers and seasoned viewers alike.
This live ranking serves as a crowd-sourced guide to help you quickly identify the most beloved historical Chinese dramas according to collective viewer feedback. Each vote helps ensure that the ranking accurately reflects current popular opinions and trends in the genre. This dynamic list updates in real-time as more users contribute their views, making it an essential tool for anyone looking to dive into the rich world of historical narratives with confidence.
What Is the Most Popular Historical Chinese Drama?
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183votes
Nirvana in Fire (琅琊榜)
Hai YanThis drama is considered a masterpiece in the genre of historical Chinese dramas, with intricate political intrigue and compelling characters. It has won numerous awards and has a large fan base both in China and internationally.Nirvana in Fire (琅琊榜) is a popular historical Chinese drama that aired in 2015. It is based on the novel of the same name written by Hai Yan. Set during the Southern Liang Dynasty, the story follows Lin Shu, a nobleman's son who becomes a strategist and seeks justice for his family. With its compelling plot, intricate political schemes, and engaging characters, the drama received critical acclaim for its storytelling, acting performances, and production quality.- Year: 2015
- Genre: Historical drama
- Episodes: 54
- Original Novel: Nirvana in Fire
- Setting: Southern Liang Dynasty
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244votes
Story of Yanxi Palace (延禧攻略)
Yu ZhengThis drama was a massive hit in China and internationally, breaking records for online views and popularity. It tells the story of a young woman who rises from a lowly palace maid to become a powerful figure in the court of the Qing dynasty.The Story of Yanxi Palace (延禧攻略) is a popular Chinese historical drama that was released in 2018. It tells the story of Wei Yingluo, a smart and determined young woman who enters the palace as a low-ranking maid but eventually rises through the ranks to become one of the most influential figures in the court. Set during the Qing dynasty, the drama showcases the complex power struggles, political conspiracies, and romantic entanglements within the imperial palace.- Genre: Historical drama
- Release Year: 2018
- Setting: Qing dynasty
- Language: Mandarin
- Episodes: 70
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319votesThis drama follows the life of a young woman who becomes a concubine in the court of the Qing dynasty, and eventually rises to become the emperor's favorite. It is known for its detailed depictions of court life and political intrigue.Empresses in the Palace (甄嬛传) is a popular Chinese historical drama that is based on the novel of the same name by Liu Lianzi. It depicts the power struggles and intrigues among the concubines of Emperor Qianlong in the Qing dynasty. The drama offers a captivating portrayal of the inner workings of the imperial court and provides a glimpse into the lives of the women who wielded significant influence behind the scenes.
- Original Title: 甄嬛传
- Director: Zhu Ruibin, Zheng Xiaolong
- Country: China
- Language: Mandarin
- Number of Episodes: 76
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424votesThis is another drama set in the same era as "Empresses in the Palace", but it focuses on a different character and tells a different story. It is known for its beautiful cinematography and intricate plot.The Legend of Zhen Huan (甄嬛传) is a popular historical Chinese drama set in the 18th century during the Qing Dynasty. It tells the story of Zhen Huan, a young concubine who rises to power in the imperial harem, navigating through the treacherous politics, fierce competition, and complex relationships among the concubines and the empress. The drama explores themes of power, betrayal, love, and survival in a highly stratified society.
- Genre: Historical drama
- Episodes: 76
- Original network: Hunan Television
- Original release: November 17, 2011 – February 6, 2012
- Based on: The novel 'Hōnglóu Mèng' by Cao Xueqin
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514votes
Scarlet Heart (步步惊心)
Tong HuaThis drama tells the story of a modern woman who is transported back in time to the Qing dynasty and finds herself caught in a complex web of political intrigue and romance. It has a large fan base both in China and internationally.Scarlet Heart (步步惊心) is a popular historical Chinese drama that tells the story of a modern-day woman named Zhang Xiao who travels back in time and finds herself trapped in the body of Maertai Ruoxi, a 16th-century noblewoman. As she navigates the complexities of the royal court and becomes entangled in political intrigue, Zhang Xiao must make difficult choices that could alter history forever.- Genre: Historical, Romance
- Original language: Mandarin Chinese
- Number of episodes: 35
- Release year: 2011
- Based on: Bu Bu Jing Xin by Tong Hua
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67votes
The Rise of Phoenixes (凰权·弈天下)
Chen KaigeThis drama is based on a novel and tells the story of two powerful figures in the court of a fictional dynasty. It is known for its complex and compelling characters, as well as its stunning visuals.The Rise of Phoenixes is a critically acclaimed Chinese historical drama series. Set in a fictional ancient Chinese empire, it follows the story of Ning Yi, a prince with a mysterious past who embarks on a journey to seek justice and claim his throne. Along the way, he crosses paths with Feng Zhiwei, a brilliant woman disguised as a man, who becomes entangled in his quest for power and survival. The series delves into politics, intrigue, and romance, showcasing the complex dynamics within the imperial court.- Genre: Historical drama
- Episodes: 70
- Release Year: 2018
- Language: Mandarin
- Country of Origin: China
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723votesThis drama follows the life of a young woman in the Song dynasty who must navigate the complexities of family life and court politics. It is known for its realistic portrayal of historical society and its strong female lead.The Story of Ming Lan (知否？知否？应是绿肥红瘦) is a popular historical Chinese drama that aired in 2018. It is based on the novel of the same name written by Guanxin Zeluan. The drama follows the life of Ming Lan, a young woman from a noble family during the Northern Song Dynasty. Ming Lan navigates through various challenges and social complexities as she strives for independence and happiness, breaking traditional gender norms along the way.
- Original novel: The Story of Ming Lan by Guanxin Zeluan
- Genre: Historical drama, Romance
- Language: Mandarin Chinese
- Number of episodes: 73
- Original network: Hunan TV
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83votesThis drama tells the story of a princess who is forced to flee her home and seek revenge against those who wronged her family. It is known for its suspenseful plot and strong female lead.The Princess Weiyoung (锦绣未央) is a highly popular historical Chinese drama that aired in 2016. It is based on the novel titled 'The Bastard Princess' by Qin Jian.
- Genre: Historical drama
- Language: Mandarin Chinese
- Number of Episodes: 54
- Original Network: Hunan TV
- Main Cast: Tang Yan, Luo Jin, Vanness Wu
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911votes
Legend of Fu Yao (扶摇)
Tianxia GuiyuanThis drama tells the story of a young woman who rises from a humble background to become a powerful warrior and protect her kingdom from outside threats. It is known for its action-packed fight scenes and strong female lead.The 'Legend of Fu Yao' is a popular historical Chinese drama that aired in 2018. It is based on the novel 'Empress Fuyao' written by Tianxia Guiyuan. The drama follows the journey of Fu Yao, a young woman who strives to uncover her true identity and protect her loved ones in a world filled with political intrigue and martial arts. She embarks on a dangerous adventure that takes her to different kingdoms and forces her to confront powerful enemies. Along the way, she discovers her own strength and seeks to bring justice and peace to the land.- Genre: Historical, Fantasy, Romance
- Episodes: 66
- Year: 2018
- Main Cast: Yang Mi, Ethan Juan
- Setting: Ancient China
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106votesThis drama is set in the Tang dynasty and follows a group of officials as they try to prevent a terrorist attack on the capital city. It is known for its intense and suspenseful plot, as well as its historical accuracy.The Longest Day in Chang'an (长安十二时辰) is a historical Chinese drama based on a popular novel of the same name by Ma Boyong. Set in the Tang Dynasty, the story unfolds in Chang'an, the capital city, during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong. The drama follows the intense investigation led by an exiled detective, Zhang Xiaojing, to uncover a terrorist plot that threatens the entire city on the day of a major festival.
- Genre: Historical drama
- Language: Mandarin
- Country of origin: China
- Original network: iQiyi
- Number of episodes: 48
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Discussion
Ranking factors for popular drama
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Critical reception and awardsThe critical reception and awards a drama has received can also be a good indicator of its popularity. Positive reviews from influential critics, inclusion in top drama lists, and accolades such as best drama or best actor/actress awards are all factors that contribute to a drama's popularity.
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Historical accuracyWhile historical Chinese dramas often take creative liberties with historical events and characters, the level of historical accuracy can be an important factor in their popularity. Dramas that are well-researched and offer a more accurate portrayal of history are often better received by audiences.
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Production qualityHigh production quality, including impressive sets, costumes, and cinematography, can greatly contribute to a historical drama's popularity. A well-produced drama is more likely to attract and captivate viewers.
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Storyline and plotA well-written and engaging storyline is essential for a historical drama to be successful. A well-executed plot with memorable, well-developed characters can garner a drama a loyal fan base and widespread popularity.
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Cast and acting performancesThe cast and their acting performances can make or break a historical Chinese drama. Talented actors and actresses who can bring their characters to life and have good on-screen chemistry can greatly contribute to a drama's popularity.
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Popularity on social media and online platformsThe presence and popularity of a historical Chinese drama on social media platforms and online forums can indicate its level of popularity. A drama with a dedicated online fan base, trending hashtags, and high engagement can be considered more popular.
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Longevity and re-watchabilityFinally, the longevity of a historical Chinese drama can also determine its popularity. If a drama continues to be well-received years after its initial release and is considered a "classic" or is often re-watched by fans, it can be considered highly popular.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular historical Chinese drama. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or drama is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 4459 views
- 180 votes
- 10 ranked items
Movers & Shakers
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each drama once every 24 hours. The rank of each drama is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular historical chinese drama
China has a rich history and culture, and its television industry has produced some of the most popular dramas in recent years. Historical dramas, in particular, have captivated audiences with their vivid depictions of ancient Chinese dynasties, battles, and romances. These dramas are not only entertaining but also provide a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. With so many historical dramas to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which one is the most popular. At StrawPoll, we've conducted a poll to find out which historical Chinese drama reigns supreme in the hearts of viewers.
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