Step aside, K-dramas. Despite our enduring affection for our oppas, it’s high time we acknowledge the rising star in the entertainment scene. Chinese dramas have taken the spotlight, captivating audiences worldwide with their range from action-packed historical sagas to heartwarming modern romances. Whether you’re a newcomer to C-dramas or a devoted fan seeking fresh titles, here’s a curated list of the best Chinese dramas in 2023 that are sure to grab your attention! And, just between us, we’ve thrown in a bonus list of the top Chinese dramas worth a rewatch. Before we get into it a note for novices:)
What Are Wuxia and Xianxia?
You’ll note below that I list the genre for each series (e.g., romance, adventure, fantasy, etc.). You’ll also find a couple of mentions of wuxia and xianxia, which are terms you may not be familiar with.
- Wuxia: Genre of Chinese fiction regarding martial artists and their adventures.
- Xianxia: Genre of Chinese fantasy that is based on Chinese mythology, Taoism, Buddhism, martial arts, and other traditional Chinese cultural elements.
Best CDramas of 2023
1. Till The End of the Moon
Fans of the 2020 Chinese drama, Love Is Sweet and its CP are going to enjoy this new xianxia drama, Till The End of the Moon. Actors Luo Yunxi and Bai Lu reunite in one of 2023’s most highly-anticipated Chinese fantasy dramas, which brings us a new take on the “three lives three worlds” format that we’re now familiar with. From heart-clenching plotlines to ethereal CGI and period costumes, Till The End of the Moon is one of the best new Chinese dramas to watch!
Synopsis: In a last ditch effort to save men from the rule of demons, cultivators decide to send Li Susu (Bai Lu) back in time to prevent the resurrection of the Demon Lord, Tantai Jin (Luo Yunxi). Li Susu travels back 500 years in time, where she becomes Ye Xiwu and is married to then-mortal Tatai Jin. However, in Su Su’s attempt to kill Tatai Jin, she becomes witness to his past life and begins to develop feelings for him, complicating her mission.
Cast: Luo Yunxi, Bai Lu, Chen Duling, Deng Wei, Sun Zhenni, Eddy Geng
Genre: Romance, Wuxia, Fantasy
Episodes: 40
Available on: Youku, Netflix, Viki
Release Date: April 6, 2023
2. Back From The Brink
Back from the Brink is a 2023 adaptation of the Chinese novel of the same name, Hu Xin (护心) by Jiu Lu Fei Xiang. Up-and-coming actors Hou Minghao and Zhou Ye star in this new fantasy Chinese drama, which follows the story of an ancient dragon who was once betrayed by his lover. Back from the Brink is one of the best Chinese dramas in Singapore that combines angst, mystery, and romance – all in one package!
Synopsis: Tian Yao (Hou Minghao) is an ancient dragon who was betrayed by a woman he loved. She had dismembered him and stripped him of his dragon scales, before sealing them in various places. After being reborn, he sets out to retrieve them but meets Yan Hui (Zhou Ye) in the process. Knowing that she possessed his heart protection scale, which was the key to breaking the seal, he holds her captive and brings her on his quest.
Cast: Hou Minghao, Zhou Ye, Yang Rong, Riley Wang, Chen Xinyu, Zuo Ye
Genre: Romance, Wuxia, Fantasy, Mystery
Episodes: 40
Available on: Youku, Viki
Release Date: May 9, 2023
3. My Journey to You
My Journey to You is yet another new fantasy Chinese drama to look out for in 2023. Not only does it have a dashing and star-studded cast, but its dark and mysterious teasers have also piqued the attention of netizens. The romantic-thriller series is said to be one of the best new Chinese dramas to look out for in Singapore this 2023, as viewers will get to see Yu Shuxin and Zhang Linghe in roles contrasting to their typical bright and youthful image.
Synopsis: Gong Ziyu (Zhang Linghe) is a rebellious and aloof prince who encounters Yun Weishan (Yu Shuxin), an undercover agent in disguise. Weishan was sent to the rich and powerful Gong family, where she hopes to secure her freedom, but ultimately ends up having to choose between that and love.
Cast: Yu Shuxin, Zhang Linghe, Cheng Lei, Lu Yuxiao, Jolin Jin, Sun Chenjun
Genre: Romance, Wuxia, Thriller, Mystery, Fantasy
Episodes: 24
Available on: iQiyi
Release Date: 2 September 2023
4. Story of Kunning Palace
Zhang Linghe and Bailu really seem to be on a roll this year, with major drama projects lined up one after the other! This time, both actors will be participating in a drama filled with political strife, action, and angst-filled romance. If you’re looking for a new Chinese drama that’s going to keep you on the edge of your seats, this royal-palace-meets-fantasy drama is one you should check out.
Synopsis: Jiang Xuening (Bai Lu) was a fallen queen who was driven by greed and ambition during her rule, but was later sentenced to be buried with the late emperor. By a stroke of luck, Xuening was reborn and given another chance to right her wrongs, and she was determined not to enter the palace this time around. However, she ends up becoming entangled with the rebel and main antagonist, Xie Wei (Zhang Linghe).
Cast: Bai Lu, Zhang Linghe, Wang Xingyue, Zhou Junwei, Liu Xiening, Wang Ziteng
Genre: Romance, Fantasy
Episodes: T
Available on: iQiyi
Release Date: 7 November 2023
5. The Starry Love
The Starry Love is said to be one of 2023’s best new Chinese dramas in Singapore, bringing a new take on xianxia dramas to the table. The drama revolves around the story of twin sisters who were mistakenly involved in a case of switcheroo – but at their wedding! Coupled with the classic “three lives” element, the palpable chemistry between the main CPs will leave viewers extremely satisfied.
Synopsis: The drama follows the story of twin sisters, Li Guang Qing Kui (He Xuanli) and Li Guang Ye Tan (Li Landi); one is gentle and loved by her subjects, while the other is rebellious and shunned by all. However, in a twist of fate, both sisters were involved in a mixup at their betrothal and had to keep it a secret. Now, Qing Kui is wedded to the demon prince, while Ye Tan is betrothed to the heavenly prince.
Cast: Chen Xingxu, Li Landi, Chen Muchi, He Xuanlin
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Action, Comedy
Episodes: 40
Available on: Youku, Viki
Release Date: February 16, 2023
6. The Longest Promise
Can two people who adore each other truly set aside their striking differences in the name of love? This is one of the greatest trials that our two main protagonists have to face in The Longest Promise. Aside from realistic computer graphics and beautiful costumes, we are thrilled to see the multi-talented Xiao Zhan in yet another wuxia drama — especially a fresh collaboration with Ren Min!
Synopsis: Despite being a royal prince, Shi Ying (Xiao Zhan) is banished to the Jiu Yi Mountain to cultivate after his mother was framed for a crime she did not commit. Here, Shi Ying’s martial arts grew leaps and bounds as he focused on nothing but cultivation. He eventually took in a disciple, Zhu Yan (Ren Min), who is the princess of the Chi Yi tribe. While the two develop feelings for each other, they do not speak of it because of their master and disciple relationship. To make things worse, how can a banished prince and an esteemed princess ever see eye to eye when it comes to the politics of the Kong Sang continent?
Cast: Xiao Zhan, Ren Min, Wang Chu Ran, Alen Fang, Han Dong, Wang Zi Qi
Genre: Historical, wuxia (martial heroes), romance, fantasy
Episodes: 50
Available on: WeTV, Netflix
Release Date: 2 July 2023
7. Lost You Forever
The hype and praise surrounding Immortal Samsara has barely dipped and Yang Zi is already geared up for another show. Not only is Yang Zi one of the hottest actresses in the C-drama scene, many of her xianxia and modern romance series have also been dubbed some of the best Chinese dramas in Singapore. If you’re a fan of her work, keep Lost You Forever in view as it is set to come out soon!
Synopsis: In an unfortunate incident, Princess Jiu Yao (Yang Zi) of Gao Xin loses her identity and appearance, and decides to disguise herself as physician Wen Xiao Liu. After settling in Qing Shui Town, she meets the future leader of the Tu Shan Clan Tu Shanjing, the nine-headed demon Xiang Liu, and her cousin and Prince Qiang Xuan. Together, they brave various struggles and tragedies that they are met with.
Cast: Yang Zi, Zhang Wanyi, Deng Wei, Tan Jianci, Dai Luwa, Wang Hongyi
Genre: Romance, Wuxia, Fantasy
Episodes: 40
Available on: Tencent
Release Date: 14 July 2023
8. Hidden Love
Another idol show that’s set to be one of the best Chinese dramas of 2023 is Hidden Love – a new upcoming Chinese drama that stars Chen Zheyuan and Zhao Lusi. But while Hidden Love might seem like a typical idol romance drama, viewers still eagerly anticipate this drama’s release. It’s no wonder – the two are essentially the perfect picture of a university power couple!
Synopsis: Sang Zhi (Zhao Lusi) develops feelings for Duan Jiaxu (Chen Zheyuan), a young man who frequently visits her home to play games with her older brother. Despite a seven-year age gap, Sang Zhi had a childhood crush on him. After reuniting in the same city during university, their close and intimate interactions gradually lead to a blossoming love between them.
Cast: Zhao Lusi, Chen Zheyuan, Victor Ma, Zeng Li, Qiu Xinzhi, Guan Zijing
Genre: Romance, Youth, Comedy
Episodes: 25
Available on: Youku, Netflix
Release Date: 20 June 2023
9. Only For Love
Experience a captivating tale of love and ambition in this upcoming modern romance drama, Only for Love. With stars like Bai Lu and Wang Hedi leading the cast, expect them to deliver a remarkable story of self-discovery and love. Get ready to be swept away by their undeniable chemistry in what is probably the next best Chinese romance drama of 2023!
Synopsis: The promising and ambitious reporter, Zheng Shu Yi (Bai Lu) is determined to secure an exclusive interview with influential financial executive Shi Yan (Wang Hedi). After an unexpected encounter due to a mishap, Shi Yan allows Zheng Shu Yi to write a series of reports on their company, leading them to discover new career opportunities, as well as a deepening romance.
Cast: Bai Lu, Wang Hedi, Wei Zheming, Shen Yujie, Liu Dongqin, Jiang Peiyao
Genre: Romance
Episodes: 36
Available on: Hunan TV, Mango TV
Release Date: 3 November 2023
10. Love Between Fairy and Devil
As cliche as the title sounds, Love Between Fairy And Devil is one of the best Chinese dramas of 2023 if you’re looking for an easy watch. It is adapted from the famous novel Cang Lan Jue and talks about the unfaltering love between the demon lord and a lowly immortal. We’re excited to see the playful and cheeky Dylan Wang (you may remember him as Dao Ming Si from Meteor Garden 2018) act as the ruthless anti-hero! Psst, you will get your fair share of overbearing powerful male lead (霸道总裁) and cheesy damsel in distress moments – if that’s your cup of tea!
Synopsis: Dong Fang Qing Cang (Dylan Wang) is the fearsome demon lord who wiped out an entire Po Xin tribe before being trapped in the Hao Tian Tower. One of the immortal girls in the tribe is reborn after 10,000 years and goes by the name of Xiao Lan Hua (Yu Shu Xin). By accident, Xiao Lan Hua releases Dong Fang Qing Cang, unaware of the bloodshed in her previous lifetime. Harbouring ill intentions to sacrifice Xiao Lan Hua’s immortal soul to undo a curse placed on him, Dong Fang Qing Cang keeps Xiao Lan Hua close to him. However, the heartless demon soon finds himself falling in love with the sweet and innocent Xiao Lan Hua.
Cast: Yu Shu Xin, Dylan Wang, Xu Hai Qiao, Cristy Guo, Zhang Ling He, Charles Lin
Genre: Historical, wuxia (martial heroes), romance, fantasy
Episodes: 36
Available on: Netflix
11. Love Like The Galaxy
The pairing of Leo Wu and Zhao Lu Si isn’t exactly new considering both actors were part of the main cast in The Long Ballad. However, this will be the first time the two stars act as lovers and it’s making the C-drama fandoms go wild! It’s no wonder Love Like The Galaxy was one of the best Chinese dramas in Singapore this 2023!
Synopsis: Zhao Lu Si plays Cheng Shao Shang, the ill-fated girl who’s left behind by her parents due to war. Living under the shelter of her nasty aunt, Shao Shang has no choice but to put on a pretence to avoid being punished. But this has taken a toll on her emotional and mental health, and Shao Shang grows up to be both pragmatic and insecure. This hinders her when she’s looking for a partner for marriage. The three men in her life — Ling Bu Yi (Leo Wu) who’s the emperor’s adopted son, Yuan Shen (Li Yun Rui) of the esteemed Bailu Mountain, and Lou Yao (Yu Cheng En) the aristocrat — have their own strengths and weaknesses, and it’s up to Shao Shang to decide who she wants to hand her heart to.
Cast: Leo Wu, Zhao Lu Si, Li Yun Rui, Yu Cheng En
Genre: Historical, mystery, romance, political
Episodes: 56
Available on: WeTV, Viu
12. Immortal Samsara
After Eternal Love (三生三世十里桃花), we haven’t quite found an equally good historical drama that left a hole in our hearts. That’s until Immortal Samsara aired this summer! Starring Yang Zi, one of the most popular Chinese actresses right now, and Cheng Yi (how can we forget his amazing acting as Yu Si Feng in Love and Redemption?), there’s no way Immortal Samsara won’t make it to our list of the best Chinese dramas in Singapore this 2023. Brace yourself for a roller coaster of emotions as we navigate trials and tribulations with our two gorgeous main characters!
Synopsis: As the sole descendant of the sacred Four-Leaved Lotus tribe, Yan Dan (Yang Zi) finally transforms into human form. However, she is about to face the greatest trial of her life – falling head over heels for Lord Ying Yuan (Cheng Yi), the Supreme Lord of the Nine Heavens. The biggest obstacle in their relationship? A strict rule that forbids love within the realm. And to add on to that, Lord Ying Yuan’s scheming and cold hearted personality is a hard nut to crack – or is he? Braving through obstacles and challenges, the pair develops a love so deep, it is unforgettable and indestructible even after 900 years.
Cast: Yang Zi, Cheng Yi, Ray Chang, Meng Zi Yi, Lin Yuan, Zhu Yong Teng
Genre: Romance, wuxia (martial heroes), fantasy
Episodes: 59
Available on: Youku, Viu
13. Word Of Honor
Adapted from the famous novel, Faraway Wanderers, this 2021 best Chinese drama is a must-watch for those who are into martial arts action scenes, bromance and same-sex romance! Despite China’s stringent censorship, Word Of Honour is still available on Netflix. So be sure to catch this hit drama as soon as possible before you lose the chance!
Synopsis: Do you see the world in black and white? This is the question that many ask themselves when they meet Zhou Zi Shu (Zhang Zhe Han) and Wen Ke Xing (Gong Jun) in Word Of Honour. Zi Shu is the ultimate leader of the Window Of Heaven, a renowned assassin organisation working for the royal court. Wanting to end this blood-tainted journey in his life, he performs an obligatory departure ritual that leaves him with three years to live. He puts on a disguise and wanders the martial arts world as a drunk beggar while he waits for his last breath. Meanwhile, Ke Xing, although dressed up as an honourable swordsman, hides a dark secret (Highlight for spoiler: He is the infamous evil master of the Ghost Valley) as he seeks revenge for his parents. The two met by coincidence and embark on an adventure as they uncover the conspiracy behind the Glazed Armour, a key that unlocks a powerful armoury.
Cast: Zhang Zhe Han, Gong Jun, Zhou Ye, Asher Ma, Sun Xi Lun, Huang You Ming
Genre: Historical, mystery, wuxia (martial heroes), fantasy
Episodes: 36 + 1 alternative final episode
Available on: Netflix
14. The Long Ballad
The Long Ballad is perfect for those looking for a solid plot with realistic war and action scenes. Although not a lighthearted drama, the story unfolds at a fast pace with unpredictable twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Character development is excellent in this best Chinese drama of 2021 as we watch Chang Ge, Ashile Sun and other side characters grow with the hardships they experience. It’s a coming-of-age story that’s well constructed from start to finish.
Synopsis: While we’re used to seeing Dilraba Dilmurat as a cheeky yet innocent young fox in the Eternal Love series, this talented actress has outdone herself again in The Long Ballad. This time she takes on the role of an ill-fated yet tough Li Chang Ge. Chang Ge was once a princess until a coup d’etat, led by her uncle, wiped out her entire family. With her mind firmly set on revenge, she ventures out into the dangerous world of politics and war. Before she manages to overthrow the emperor, Chang Ge is defeated by Ashile Sun (Leo Wu), the general of Eastern Turkic Khaganate. Taken away as a prisoner of war, Change Ge impresses Sun with her witty war strategies and becomes the military strategist of the tribe. Under Ashile Sun’s protection, the duo forms a formidable partnership and Chang Ge finds herself falling in love with her captor.
Cast: Dilraba Dilmurat, Leo Wu, Liu Yu Ning, Zhao Lu Si, Alen Fang
Genre: Historical, romance, war, action
Episodes: 49
Available on: Viu, YouTube
15. The Untamed
In a land dominated by the mighty Wen clan, a young man named Wei Wu Xian (Xiao Zhan) strikes up an unconventional friendship with justice-loving Lan Wang Ji (Wang Yibo of boyband Uniq). The duo unexpectedly stumbles across evidence implicating the Wen clan’s chief in a plot to bring mayhem to the inhabitants of their land, Wei Wu Xian and Lan Wang Ji decide to intervene.However, the pair’s attempts to foil the Wen clan boss’s wicked plans go wrong. In the confusion that follows, Wei Wu Xian disappears – with many fearing the worst for him.
Sixteen years later, Wei Wu Xian returns out of the blue. He is soon reunited with Lan Wang Ji, just as a spate of mysterious murders has broken out. The duo joins forces once more to investigate, determined not to fail this time…
Can the pair get to the bottom of the intrigue? Will they solve the murder cases? And just who is the dastardly secret figure pulling the strings behind the evildoings now blighting the land?
This drama is based on the hit novel “Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation,” by BL author Mo Xiang Tong Xiu – the writer of “Scum Villain.” “The Untamed” is a 2019 Chinese drama directed by Steve Cheng and Chan Ka Lam.
Cast: Wang Yibo, Xiao Zhan
Genre: Wuxia, Drama, Costume, action
Episodes: 49
Available on: Netflix, YouTube
