32 Best Chinese TV Series to Watch on Netflix

If you love C-dramas, watch 32 best binge-worthy Chinese TV series on Netflix now

Chinese dramas have become immensely popular in the entertainment world. You’ll go crazy for Cdramas’ fascinating plots, unique genres, incredible locations, celebrity star casts, and stellar performances.

Also, by C-dramas, I mean any Mandarin-language drama from mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, etc.

You can now watch hundreds of Chinese television shows across themes, stars, and lengths on Netflix and other online streaming services.

The options are endless for online streaming channels. Yet, of all the choices, Netflix is the most impressive streaming service for Chinese TV series.

Netflix offers a great choice of television shows and films for Mandarin learners. Plus, there are also many original shows available only on its platform.

But beware of addiction to these dramas and TV shows!

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How does watching TV Series on Netflix improve your Mandarin?

What Chinese TV series are on Netflix

Here are a few steps to help improve Chinese through TV series on Netflix.

Choose a TV series that interests you: The first step is choosing a TV show you enjoy viewing. For that, you need to have good reasons to learn Mandarin. This will assist you in staying motivated and engaged as you learn the language.

Start with subtitles: Begin by watching the TV series with English or other language subtitles you are fluent in. For example, your mother tongue. This will help you understand the story and get accustomed to hearing the new language.

Pay attention to pronunciation: Pronunciation is an essential aspect of learning any language, so pay attention to how words are pronounced and try to imitate the sounds. In this regard, Netflix helps learn a language.

Focus on keywords and phrases: As you watch the TV series, try to pick out keywords and phrases that are repeated frequently. These are often important for understanding the story and can help build your vocabulary.

Practice speaking: As you become more comfortable with the language, try to practice speaking along with the characters in the TV series. This can help you understand how the words sound in conversation and improve your pronunciation.

Supplement your learning with other resources: Netflix TV shows can be a fun and helpful way to learn Mandarin. Supplementing your studies with extra resources, like apps for learning Chinese, textbooks, or classes, can help you build a more comprehensive language knowledge.

32 Must-Watch Chinese Television Shows on Netflix Right Now

In addition to must-watch Chinese movies on Netflix, you can pick from a wide selection of TV shows. This makes its subscriptions a valuable tool in your quest to master Mandarin.

But because of the overwhelming array of Chinese shows available, finding the best ones can be a challenge.

Here are 32 must-watch popular Chinese TV series on Netflix that you may find valuable and enjoyable. You can also find a brief description of every show.

Best Netflix Chinese TV series

1. The Untamed (陈情令, 2019) | Episodes – 50

“The Untamed” is a Chinese fantasy series that follows two cultivators, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji. They try to solve a string of mysterious cases and uncover a conspiracy.

The series explores friendship, loyalty, and love themes, featuring action-packed fight scenes and beautiful cinematography.

This show has gained a large and devoted following and is praised for its strong character development and engaging plot. If you are a big fan of fantasy and action, you may enjoy watching “The Untamed.”

2. Love O2O (微微一笑很倾城, 2016) | Episodes – 30

“Love O2O” is a Chinese romantic comedy series based on the novel “Just One Smile Is Very Alluring” by Gu Man. The series follows the relationship between Bei Weiwei, a famous online game player, and Xiao Nai, a computer engineering major.

The series is known for its charming characters and its portrayal of the joys and struggles of modern romance. You may enjoy watching “Love O2O” if you enjoy romantic comedies.

3. The Rise of Phoenixes (天盛长歌, 2018) | Episodes – 70

“The Rise of Phoenixes” is a Chinese historical drama series that tells the story of Feng Zhiwei, a prince who seeks to reclaim his throne and avenge his family. The series is set in the Qing Dynasty and is based on the novel “Huang Quan” by Tianxia Guiyuan.

The show is known for its intricate plot and compelling characters. In addition, it has received praise for its historical accuracy and stunning cinematography. If you are a fan of historical dramas, you may enjoy watching “The Rise of Phoenixes.”

4. The King’s Avatar (全职高手, 2017) | Episodes – 27

The King’s Avatar” is a Chinese animated series that follows the story of Ye Xiu, a skilled gamer forced to rebuild his team and career after being betrayed by his former teammates.

The TV series is based on the novel “The King’s Avatar” by Hu Dielan and is set in the world of professional online gaming.

The series is known for its fast-paced action and engaging characters. As a result, it has gained a large following among online gaming fans. If you enjoy action and gaming, you may enjoy watching “The King’s Avatar.”

5. The Legend of Mi Yue (羋月傳, 2015-16) | Episodes – 81

“The Legend of Mi Yue” is a Chinese historical drama series that tells the story of Mi Yue, the first empress dowager in Chinese history, and her rise to power. The series is set in the Qin Dynasty and is based on the novel “Empress Dowager Cixi” by Liu Lianzi.

Chinese TV series on Netflix

The series is known for its strong female lead and historical accuracy. Plus, it has received praise for depicting the Qing Dynasty and portraying women’s lives in ancient China.

If you are a fan of historical dramas, you may enjoy watching “The Legend of Mi Yue.”

6. Eternal Love (三生三世十里桃花, 2017) | Episodes – 58

“Eternal Love” is a Chinese fantasy series based on the novel “Three Lives, Three Worlds, Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms” by Tangqi Gongzi. The series follows the story of two deities, Bai Qian and Ye Hua, who are reincarnated in different dynasties and fall in love with each other.

The series is known for its beautiful cinematography, engaging plot, and powerful performances by its lead actors.

If you appreciate fantasy and romance, you will enjoy watching “Eternal Love.” This is one of the excellent TV series for learning Chinese.

7. Swords of Legends (古剑奇谭, 2014) | Episodes – 52

“Swords of Legends” is a Chinese action series that follows the story of Chu Xuanyue, a young man who ventures on a journey to discover the truth about his family and the ancient swords they possess.

The series is based on the novel “Swords of Legends” by Guowang Bixia and is set in a world of martial arts and ancient mythology.

The series is known for its action-packed fight scenes and engaging plot and has gained a large following among martial arts and fantasy fans. However, if you favor action and adventure, you may enjoy watching “Swords of Legends.”

8. Story of Yanxi Palace (延禧攻略, 2018) | Episodes – 70

“Story of Yanxi Palace” is a Chinese historical drama series that tells the story of Wei Yingluo, a clever and determined concubine who fights for her place in the Qing Dynasty’s imperial palace. The series is set in the Qing Dynasty and is based on actual events and historical figures.

The series is known for its strong female lead and engaging plot. In addition, it has received praise for depicting life in the Qing Dynasty and portraying women’s lives in ancient China.

If you are a fan of historical dramas, you may enjoy watching “Story of Yanxi Palace.” This historical drama tells the story of a clever and determined concubine who fights for her place in the Qing Dynasty’s imperial palace.

9. The Untamed Special Edition (陈情令特別剪辑版, 2019-20) | Episodes – 20

“The Untamed Special Edition” is an extended version of the Chinese fantasy series “The Untamed.” It includes additional scenes and storylines that were not included in the original series and provides a more in-depth look at the characters and events of the show.

If you have already watched the original series and want to learn more about the characters and plot, or if you are a massive fan of “The Untamed” and want to see more of the show, you may enjoy watching “The Untamed Special Edition.”

It is a great way to explore the series’ world and characters further and better understand the story.

10. The Way We Were (歸去來, 2018) | Episodes – 50

“The Way We Were” is a Chinese romantic drama series that follows the relationship between two college students, Lin Jingxuan and Liang Jingkang, who are reunited after many years apart.

The TV series is based on the novel “The Way We Were” by Jiu Yehui and explored themes of love, friendship, and family.

Chinese TV shows on Netflix

The series is known for its relatable and likable characters and its portrayal of the joys and challenges of modern romance. If you are a fan of romantic dramas, you may enjoy watching “The Way We Were.”

11. The Destiny of White Snake (天乩之白蛇传说, 2018) | Episodes – 60

“The Destiny of White Snake” is a Chinese fantasy series about a white snake spirit falling in love with a human and their challenges.

The series is based on the Chinese folklore tale of the “Legend of the White Snake,” set in a world of deities and supernatural beings.

The series is known for its beautiful cinematography, engaging plot, and convincing performances by its lead actors. If you like fantasy and romance, you may enjoy watching “The Destiny of White Snake.”

12. The Lost Tomb (盗墓笔记, 2015) | Episodes – 12

The Lost Tomb” is a Chinese action series that follows the story of Wu Xie, a young man drawn into a world of treasure hunting and ancient secrets. The series is based on the novel “Grave Robbers’ Chronicles” by Xi Da and is set in a world of adventure and danger.

The series is known for its action-packed fight scenes, engaging plot, and well-developed characters. If you enjoy action and adventure, you may enjoy watching “The Lost Tomb.”

This action series follows a group of treasure hunters as they search for ancient artifacts and uncover hidden secrets.

13. The Duke of Mount Deer (小宝与康熙, 2000) | Episodes – 48

“The Duke of Mount Deer” is a Chinese kung fu series based on the novel “The Deer and the Cauldron” by Jin Yong.

The series follows the story of a group of young martial artists who fight for justice and defend the innocent.

The series is known for its fast-paced move and engaging characters and has gained a large following among martial arts fans. If you enjoy kung fu and action, you may enjoy watching “The Duke of Mount Deer.”

14. The Journey of Flower (花千骨, 2015) | Episodes – 58

“The Journey of Flower” is a Chinese fantasy series that follows the story of Hua Qian Gu, a young woman who embarks on a journey to become a powerful cultivator and avenge her family.

This TV show is based on the novel “The Journey of Flower” by Fresh Guoguo and is set in a world of cultivation and martial arts.

The series is known for its beautiful cinematography, engaging plot, and strong performances by its lead actors. If you are a buff of fantasy and action, you may enjoy watching “The Journey of Flower.”

15. The Joy of Life (庆余年, 2019) | Episodes – 46

“The Joy of Life” is a Chinese historical drama series that tells the story of Fan Xian, a young man falsely accused of a crime, and his journey to clear his name and restore his family’s honor.

Best Chinese dramas on Netflix

The Chinese drama is based on the novel “The Joy of Life” by Jin Yong, set in the Ming Dynasty. The series is known for its engaging plot and well-developed characters. It has also received praise for its historical accuracy and portrayal of people’s lives in ancient China.

If you are a fan of historical dramas, you may enjoy watching “The Joy of Life.” The Legend of Zu – This fantasy series follows a group of martial artists as they defend the world against demons and other supernatural threats.

16. The Princess Weiyoung (锦绣未央, 2016) | Episodes – 54

“The Princess Weiyoung” is a Chinese historical drama series that tells the story of Li Weiyoung, a princess who seeks revenge against those who betrayed her family and helped to bring down the Northern Liang Kingdom.

The Chinese TV series is based on the novel “The Princess Weiyoung” by Fei Wo Si Cun and is set in the Northern and Southern Dynasties period.

The series is known for its strong lead and engaging plot. It also has received praise for its historical accuracy and portrayal of women’s lives in ancient China. If you are a fan of historical dramas, you may enjoy watching “The Princess Weiyoung.” 

17. The Romance of Tiger and Rose (传闻中的陈芊芊, 2020) | Episodes – 24

“The Romance of Tiger and Rose” is a Chinese romantic comedy series that follows the story of Chen Xiao and Han Yunxi, two young people forced to marry and navigate their relationship while trying to achieve their goals.

The series is based on A Qi’s novel “Tiger and Rose” and is set in a fantasy and adventure world.

The series is known for its likable characters and its portrayal of the joys and struggles of modern romance. If you enjoy romantic comedies, you may enjoy watching “The Romance of Tiger and Rose.”

18. The Story of Minglan (知否?知否?应是绿肥红瘦, 2018) | Episodes – 73

“The Story of Minglan” is a Chinese historical drama series that follows the life of Minglan, a young woman who navigates life’s challenges in the imperial court and fights for her happiness.

The TV series is based on the novel “The Story of Minglan” by Guanxin Zeluan and is set in the Song Dynasty.

The series is known for its strong lead and engaging plot. Also, it got praise for depicting life in the Song Dynasty and portraying women’s lives in ancient China. If you are a fan of historical dramas, you may enjoy watching “The Story of Minglan.”

19. The Wolf (狼殿下, 2020) | Episodes – 49

The Wolf” is a Chinese action series that follows the story of a group of young martial artists who fight against a powerful and mysterious organization known as the “Wolf Group.”

The Chinese series is based on the novel “The Wolf” by Mo Bao Fei Bao and is set in a world of martial arts and adventure.

The series is known for its fast-paced action and engaging plot and has gained a large following among martial arts fans. If you enjoy action and adventure, you may enjoy watching “The Wolf.”

20. The Legend of Zu (蜀山战纪之剑侠传奇蜀, 2015) | Episodes – 56

“The Legend of Zu” is a Chinese fantasy series that follows the story of a group of young martial artists who fight against a powerful and ancient evil force known as the “Demon King.”

Netflix TV series from China

The Chinese series is based on the novel “The Legend of Zu” by Liang Yusheng and is set in a world of martial arts and supernatural beings.

The series is known for its fast-paced action and engaging plot and has gained a large following among martial arts and fantasy fans. If you enjoy action and adventure, you may enjoy watching this Chinese TV series on Netflix.

21. Use for My Talent (我亲爱的小洁癖, 2021) | Episodes – 24

“Use for My Talent” is a Chinese television drama aired in 2021. The show revolves around the story of an obsessive-compulsive man named Gu Renqi, who has an incredible talent for cleaning and organizing but struggles to form meaningful relationships with others.

Throughout the series, Gu Renqi meets a woman named Shuang Jiao, who helps him learn to navigate social interactions and overcome his challenges. Together, they form a strong bond and eventually fall in love.

The show explores themes of love, friendship, and personal growth. It highlights the essence of accepting and embracing one’s unique talents and quirks. It also sheds light on the challenges faced by those who suffer from mental health conditions such as OCD.

22. Word Of Honor (山河令, 2021) | Episodes – 37

“Word of Honor” is a Chinese web series aired in 2021. It is based on the famous wuxia novel “Faraway Wanderers” by Priest. It tells about two martial arts experts, Zhou Zishu and Wen Kexing, who form an unlikely alliance to uncover a conspiracy that threatens the martial arts world.

As they journey together, Zhou Zishu and Wen Kexing face many challenges and encounter a cast of colorful characters, including other skilled fighters and influential sect leaders. Along the way, they develop a deep bond and rely on each other in ways they never imagined.

This is known for its stunning action sequences, intricate plot, well-drawn characters, and themes of loyalty, redemption, and friendship. In addition, viewers have been praised for its attention to detail and ability to capture the spirit of wuxia storytelling while updating it for modern audiences.

Overall, this Netflix Chinese drama is a must-watch for fans of the wuxia genre and anyone who enjoys epic storytelling, complex characters, and high-stakes action.

23. The Rational Life (理智派生活, 2021) | Episodes – 35

“The Rational Life” is a 2021 Chinese drama series. It revolves around the life of a highly successful and ambitious career woman named Su Mingyu. She is forced to reevaluate her priorities and confront her past traumas after experiencing many setbacks in her personal and professional life.

As Su Mingyu navigates the challenges of her career and relationships, she learns to let go of her perfectionism and embrace a more balanced and fulfilling life. She also develops deep connections with the people around her, including her colleagues, friends, and family.

This Chinese TV show is notable for its exploration of modern women’s pressures in the workplace and its emphasis on personal growth and self-discovery. It also features strong performances from its cast, including Qin Lan, who portrays Su Mingyu with depth and nuance.

24. The Ghost Bride (彼岸之嫁, 2020) | Episodes – 6

“The Ghost Bride” is a Netflix 2020 Malaysian Taiwanese supernatural horror drama series based on the novel of the same name by Yangsze Choo. It is set in 19th-century Malacca, a historical port city in Malaysia.

The series follows the story of Li Lan, a young woman from a bankrupt family who is approached with a strange proposition: to become a “ghost bride” and marry a wealthy family’s deceased son to secure financial stability for her family.

As Li Lan delves deeper into the supernatural world and uncovers the truth behind her family’s past, she must confront powerful forces and make life-altering decisions.

Best Mandarin TV series on Netflix

This series is famed for its unique historical drama, supernatural horror, and romance blend. It features stunning visuals and costumes that transport viewers to another time and place and a talented cast led by Huang Peijia, who delivers a compelling performance as Li Lan.

Across the board, this captivating and suspenseful series offers a fresh take on horror and explores family, love, and destiny themes. It is a must-watch for fans of supernatural dramas and historical fiction.

25. Meteor Garden (流星花园, 2018) | Episodes – 50

“Meteor Garden” is a 2018 Chinese tv series and a remake of the popular Taiwanese 2001 drama of the same name. Like its predecessor, it bases on the Japanese manga series “Boys Over Flowers” by Yoko Kamio.

The series follows the story of a working-class girl named Shan Cai who attends an elite university populated by wealthy and privileged students. There, she catches the attention of a group of handsome and famous boys known as the F4, who rule the school with their wealth and power. 

Shan Cai eventually earns their respect and admiration despite their hatred towards her. She is drawn to one of them, mainly the brooding and enigmatic Dao Ming Si.

This is known for its dramatic plot, stylish visuals, and charismatic cast, which includes Shen Yue as Shan Cai and Dylan Wang as Dao Ming Si. It explores class, privilege, identity, and the complexities of young love and relationships.

26. Ashes of Love (香蜜沉沉烬如霜, 2018) | Episodes – 63

“Ashes of Love” is a Chinese TV show of 2018 based on the novel “Heavy Sweetness, Ash-like Frost” by Dian Xian. The series combines elements of fantasy, romance, and mythology to create a captivating story that has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide.

The series follows the story of a fairy named Jin Mi, who is born from a flower and can control the weather. She falls in love with the Crown Prince of the Heavenly Realm. Still, their relationship is complicated by their different backgrounds and a prophecy that foretells their tragic fate.

As Jin Mi navigates the challenges of her love life and confronts powerful forces, she learns the importance of sacrifice, loyalty, and forgiveness. It features a rich cast of supporting characters, including gods, demons, and other mythical creatures, who add depth and complexity to the story.

27. Handsome Siblings (绝代双骄, 2020) | Episodes – 44

“Handsome Siblings” is a 2020 Chinese TV series based on the novel “Juedai Shuangjiao” by Gu Long. The series is a remake of the 1992 Hong Kong series of the same name. It follows the story of two twin brothers who are separated at birth and raised in unique environments.

The brothers, played by Hu Yitian and Chen Zheyuan, grew up to become skilled martial artists, each with his own unique fighting style. Yet, when they are reunited as adults, they must confront their complicated past and work together to uncover the truth about their family and the forces that seek to harm them.

This Netflix Chinese TV series is known for its fast-paced action sequences, intricate plot, and vibrant characters. It features a talented ensemble cast, including Liang Jie, Liang Jingxian, and Vicky Liang, who deliver dynamic and memorable performances.

28. Well-Intended Love (奈何BOSS要娶我, 2019) | Episodes – 36

This is a 2018 Chinese romantic comedy TV series that follows a story of a struggling actress named Xia Lin, who is diagnosed with leukemia and needs a bone marrow transplant.

In a twist of fate, she meets a wealthy CEO, Ling Yi Zhou, a potential donor match. So Ling Yi Zhou offers to donate his bone marrow on one condition: Xia Lin must marry him.

must watch Mandarin dramas on Netflix

Although Xia Lin initially refuses, she eventually agrees to save her life. As she and Ling Yi Zhou navigate their new relationship, they must confront the challenges of their different backgrounds and work to overcome the obstacles that threaten to keep them apart.

“Well-Intended Love” is a light-hearted, humorous tone with an engaging cast. It has an entertaining take on the classic “marriage of convenience” trope and explores love, family, and personal growth.

29. A Touch of Green (把青, 2015) | Episodes – 31

A Taiwanese drama depicts the horrors of forced emigration, war, and forced emigration faced by Guomingtang air force pilots and their families and relatives from 1945 to 1971.

Military families commonly support each other despite continuous atrocities and hardships.

This Netflix Chinese TV series won 6 awards at the 2016 Golden Bell Awards, including Best TV Series, Best Actor (Wu Kang-jen), and Best Directing (Tsao Jui-yuan).

30. Detention (返校, 2020) | Episodes – 8

The story begins in the 1990s when transfer student Yunxiang Liu wanders into a forbidden campus area and encounters the ghost of Ruixin Fang.

The two high school students, Fang Ray-Shin and Wei Chung-ting are caught in their school after hours during a typhoon. They soon discover that evil spirits have taken over the school. They must work together to survive and uncover the truth behind the school’s dark history.

It reveals the hidden traumas of young teachers and students who have struggled for freedom under the censorship system for 30 years. Ghost stories haunt the school, waiting to be told and uncovered.

31. The Fierce Wife (犀利人妻, 2010) | Episodes – 23

After Xie An Zhen’s marriage was shattered by her husband’s affair with her cousin, the term Xiaosan (little third) became a popular euphemism for “the other woman.” The ensuing divorce caused her to reevaluate everything in her life.

The Fierce Wife” is known for its compelling plot, strong cast performances, and exploration of the complexities of marriage and infidelity. The series offers a nuanced portrayal of the emotional impact of betrayal, forgiveness’s power, and the importance of self-discovery.

Overall, it is a gripping and emotional c-drama that explores the human experience. It is a must-watch for fans of relationship dramas. It offers a thought-provoking look at the challenges and rewards of love and forgiveness.

32. Unrequited Love (暗恋橘生淮南, 2019) | Episodes – 38

“Unrequited Love” is a 2019 Chinese TV show series based on the novel “An Incomplete Life” by Ba Yue Chang An.

It is about a high school girl named Luo Zhi who has a secret crush on the talented student Sheng Huai Nan. Despite her feelings, Luo Zhi never confesses her love to Sheng Huai Nan and instead focuses on her studies.

Luo Zhi and Sheng Huai Nan reconnected at the same university years later. Luo Zhi’s feelings for Sheng Huai Nan are rekindled as they spend more time together. Still, she must navigate the challenges of his complicated past and the competition from other love interests.

The series explores themes of unrequited love, friendship, self-discovery, and the complexities of navigating romantic relationships in a university setting. It is known for its engaging plot, relatable characters, and strong performances by its cast.

When you are immersed in these TV series, I believe you will be deeply attracted by the charm of the Chinese people and the characters in the TV series. If you want to express your love for Chinese culture or TV show characters, you can customize TV series-related pins to express your attitude. Let us have the best and most unique Custom Pins.

Final Words on Netflix’s Top Chinese TV Series

Best Netflix Chinese drama

Learning a hard language like Chinese through TV series can be an enjoyable and practical way to improve your language skills.

This is effective if you consistently practice and supplement your learning with other resources. You can combine with other language-learning resources and activities to accomplish meaningful fluency in Mandarin.

If you love C-dramas, these 32 best binge-worthy Chinese TV series are on Netflix for your viewing pleasure. This list of the best Chinese shows offers a crucial starting point to help you dive deep into Chinese cinema!

These 32 Chinese TV shows on Netflix cover various genres and offer something for everyone. It provides a rich and immersive experience for those interested in learning Mandarin.

Do you have any recommended Chinese flicks on Netflix that could be added to the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Vikash Gupta
Vikash Gupta

I’m a linguist, lifelong learner, blogger, and fun-loving guy. I write at studyfrenchspanish.com, languagenext.com, joyofjapanese.com, joyofchinese.com, and joyofkorean.com.

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