Chinese dramas have gained immense popularity worldwide, captivating audiences with their rich storytelling, stunning cinematography, and unforgettable performances. Netflix has become a key platform for streaming some of the best Chinese dramas, offering a mix of historical epics, heartwarming romances, thrilling mysteries, and fantasy adventures.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or just starting your journey into C-dramas, this list of the top 20-rated Chinese dramas on Netflix will introduce you to some of the most highly acclaimed series that have left a lasting impact on viewers.

Main Casts: Xiao Zhan, Wang Yibo

Number of Episodes: 50

Date of Release: June 27, 2019

Network/Streamer: Tencent Video, Netflix

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Mystery

Synopsis: Set in a world of martial arts and magic, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, two talented cultivators from different clans, join forces to solve a series of mysteries involving the demonic realm. As they uncover dark secrets, they confront their pasts and the complex relationships that bind them.

Trivia: Based on the novel “Mo Dao Zu Shi” by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, the series gained international acclaim for its intricate plot and strong chemistry between the leads.

Main Casts: Yang Mi, Mark Chao

Number of Episodes: 58

Date of Release: January 30, 2017

Network/Streamer: Dragon TV, Zhejiang TV, Netflix

Genre: Fantasy, Romance

Synopsis: The series chronicles the love story between Bai Qian, a goddess and monarch from the Heavenly Realms, and Ye Hua, a crown prince. Spanning across three lifetimes and facing numerous trials, their love is tested by misunderstandings, sacrifices, and celestial wars.

Trivia: Also known as “Three Lives, Three Worlds, Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms,” the drama is adapted from the novel of the same name by Tang Qi Gong Zi.

Main Casts: Xing Fei, Lin Yi

Number of Episodes: 24

Date of Release: April 10, 2019

Network/Streamer: Tencent Video, Netflix

Genre: Romance, Comedy

Synopsis: Si Tu Mo, a graduating student uncertain about her future, unexpectedly becomes roommates with the genius physics student Gu Wei Yi. As they navigate daily life together, their relationship evolves from awkward cohabitation to heartfelt romance.

Trivia: The drama is adapted from the novel by Zhao Qianqian and has been praised for its lighthearted and relatable portrayal of young love.

Main Casts: Huang Peijia, Wu Kang-jen

Number of Episodes: 6

Date of Release: January 23, 2020

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Supernatural, Mystery, Romance

Synopsis: Set in 1890s Malacca, Li Lan is approached with a proposal to become a “ghost bride” to a wealthy family’s deceased son. As she delves deeper into the family’s secrets, she becomes entangled in a supernatural mystery that blurs the lines between the living and the dead.

Trivia: Based on the novel by Yangsze Choo, this series is a unique blend of Malaysian culture and supernatural elements.

Main Casts: Tiffany Tang, Luo Jin

Number of Episodes: 54

Date of Release: November 11, 2016

Network/Streamer: Dragon TV, Beijing TV, Netflix

Genre: Historical, Romance, Drama

Synopsis: After her kingdom is overthrown, Princess Feng Xin’er assumes a new identity as Li Weiyoung to infiltrate the enemy’s palace. Navigating treacherous political waters, she seeks revenge while unexpectedly finding love.

Trivia: The drama is adapted from the novel “The Poisonous Daughter” by Qin Jian and was well-received for its compelling storyline and strong performances.

Main Casts: Yang Yang, Zheng Shuang

Number of Episodes: 30

Date of Release: August 22, 2016

Network/Streamer: Jiangsu TV, Dragon TV, Netflix

Genre: Romance, Comedy

Synopsis: Bei Weiwei, a top computer science student and avid online gamer, catches the attention of the game’s number one player, Xiao Nai. Their virtual partnership blossoms into real-life romance as they navigate university life and personal ambitions.

Trivia: The series is based on the novel “Just One Smile is Very Alluring” by Gu Man and highlights the intersection of online gaming and real-world relationships.

Main Casts: Zhang Zhehan, Gong Jun

Number of Episodes: 36

Date of Release: February 22, 2021

Network/Streamer: Youku, Netflix

Genre: Wuxia, Adventure, Mystery

Synopsis: Zhou Zishu, a former leader of a secret assassin organization, leaves his past behind and embarks on a journey of redemption. He disguises himself as a wandering drunkard, hoping to live out his remaining days in peace. However, he crosses paths with Wen Kexing, the enigmatic and charming leader of the Ghost Valley. As they unravel a conspiracy involving martial arts sects and a powerful artifact, their growing bond is tested by hidden secrets and personal vendettas. Amid the chaos of the jianghu, they discover the true meaning of honor, loyalty, and love.

Trivia: The drama is adapted from the novel Faraway Wanderers (Tian Ya Ke) by Priest. Despite China’s restrictions on LGBTQ+ themes, the drama gained massive popularity for its strong danmei (BL) undertones. It became one of the highest-rated danmei-inspired dramas in China and achieved international success on Netflix.

Main Casts: Yang Yang, Jiang Shuying

Number of Episodes: 40

Date of Release: July 24, 2019

Network/Streamer: Tencent Video, Netflix

Genre: E-sports, Drama

Synopsis: Ye Xiu, a top-tier professional player in the online game “Glory,” is forced to retire from his team. He takes up a job at an internet café, where he befriends the owner, Chen Guo. With her support, Ye Xiu decides to return to the gaming world, building a new team from scratch to reclaim his former glory.

Trivia: The series is adapted from the popular web novel “Quan Zhi Gao Shou” by Hu Dielan and has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the e-sports industry.

Main Casts: Qin Lan, Dylan Wang

Number of Episodes: 35

Date of Release: March 31, 2021

Network/Streamer: Hunan TV, Netflix

Genre: Romance, Drama

Synopsis: Shen Ruoxin, a career-driven woman in her 30s, faces societal pressures regarding marriage and career advancement. She finds herself entangled in a love triangle between her younger assistant, Qi Xiao, and her older boss, Xu Mingjie, challenging her perceptions of love and societal expectations.

Trivia: The drama delves into themes of workplace dynamics and the challenges faced by women in modern society, resonating with many viewers.

Main Casts: Shen Yue, Jasper Liu

Number of Episodes: 24

Date of Release: May 9, 2021

Network/Streamer: Mango TV, Netflix

Genre: Romance, Comedy

Synopsis: Gu Renqi, a germophobic and introverted man, meets Shi Shuangjiao, a carefree and messy woman. Despite their contrasting personalities, they develop a close bond, helping each other heal from past traumas and discover love.

Trivia: This series is a Chinese adaptation of the Korean drama “Clean with Passion for Now.”

Main Casts: Shen Yue, Dylan Wang

Number of Episodes: 49

Date of Release: July 9, 2018

Network/Streamer: Hunan TV, Netflix

Genre: Romance, Youth, Drama

Synopsis: Dong Shancai, a strong-willed girl from a modest background, enrolls in a prestigious university where she encounters F4, a group of four wealthy and handsome boys. Initially clashing with their leader, Dao Ming Si, Shancai gradually finds herself entangled in a complicated romantic relationship with him.

Trivia: This is a remake of the 2001 Taiwanese drama of the same name, which was based on the Japanese manga “Hana Yori Dango.”

Main Casts: Chen Kun, Ni Ni

Number of Episodes: 70

Date of Release: August 14, 2018

Network/Streamer: Hunan TV, Netflix

Genre: Historical, Political, Romance

Synopsis: Set in the fictional kingdom of Tiansheng, the story follows Ning Yi, a calculating prince, and Feng Zhiwei, a woman who disguises herself as a man to seek revenge. As they navigate the treacherous political landscape, they form a complex relationship filled with deception and love.

Trivia: The series is loosely based on the novel “Huang Quan” by Tianxia Guiyuan and was acclaimed for its intricate plot and high production values.

Main Casts: Yang Yang, Zhao Lusi

Number of Episodes: 40

Date of Release: April 18, 2022

Network/Streamer: Tencent Video, Netflix

Genre: Wuxia, Fantasy, Romance

Synopsis: Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi are two martial artists with contrasting personalities but equal prowess. As they traverse the martial arts world, they become entangled in political intrigues and wars, all while their mutual admiration evolves into love.

Trivia: The drama is adapted from the novel “Let’s Try The World” by Qing Lengyue and was praised for its choreography and chemistry between the leads.

Main Casts: Zhao Lusi as Sang Zhi, Chen Zheyuan as Duan Jiaxu

Number of Episodes: 25

Date of Release: June 20, 2023

Network/Streamer: Youku, Netflix

Genre: Romance, Youth

Synopsis: Sang Zhi, a spirited young girl, develops a crush on her older brother’s charming friend, Duan Jiaxu, during her middle school years. As time passes, their paths diverge, but fate brings them together again when Sang Zhi enrolls in a university in Duan Jiaxu’s city. Reconnecting in a new phase of life, their relationship deepens, evolving from a youthful infatuation into a profound and genuine love. Together, they navigate the challenges of adulthood, personal growth, and the complexities of their feelings.

Trivia: The series is adapted from the novel “Secretly, Secretly; But Unable to Hide It” by Zhu Yi.”Hidden Love” achieved significant popularity both domestically and internationally, receiving praise for its relatable storyline and the palpable chemistry between Zhao Lusi and Chen Zheyuan.

Main Casts: Xiao Zhan, Ren Min

Number of Episodes: 40

Date of Release: July 2, 2023

Network/Streamer: Tencent Video, Netflix

Genre: Fantasy, Romance

Synopsis: Set in the mythical land of Kong Sang, the story follows Shi Ying, a prince who becomes a monk after a tragic event, and Zhu Yan, a passionate princess of the Chi Yi Tribe. Their destinies intertwine as they navigate love, duty, and the challenges posed by their respective clans.

Trivia: The drama is adapted from the novel “Mirror: Zhu Yan” by Cang Yue and showcases intricate world-building and character development.

Main Casts: Zhao Liying, Hans Zhang

Number of Episodes: 33

Date of Release: July 8, 2014

Network/Streamer: Jiangsu TV, Netflix

Genre: Romance, Comedy

Synopsis: Shan Shan, a kind-hearted and cheerful employee at a large conglomerate, often finds herself at odds with her aloof and demanding boss, Feng Teng. However, after a series of misunderstandings and shared experiences, their relationship evolves from employer-employee to a heartfelt romance.

Trivia: The series is based on the novel “Shan Shan Comes to Eat” by Gu Man and was praised for its lighthearted narrative and the chemistry between the leads.

Main Casts: Zhang Yuxi, Zhu Zixiao

Number of Episodes: 45

Date of Release: March 20, 2021

Network/Streamer: iQiyi, Netflix

Genre: Historical, Romance, Drama

Synopsis: Set during the Ming Dynasty, the drama follows the life of Zhu Yingtai, a talented and intelligent woman who disguises herself as a man to pursue education. She befriends Liang Shanbo, and their deep bond faces societal challenges, leading to a poignant love story.

Trivia: The series is a retelling of the classic Chinese folklore “The Butterfly Lovers,” often regarded as the Chinese equivalent of “Romeo and Juliet.”

Main Casts: Li Yifeng, Yang Zi

Number of Episodes: 24

Date of Release: October 15, 2022

Network/Streamer: Youku, Netflix

Genre: Thriller, Romance

Synopsis: The story centers on a renowned psychologist, Dr. Shen Yi, who becomes entangled in a complex case involving a woman with dissociative identity disorder. As he delves deeper into her psyche, he uncovers hidden truths and confronts his own past traumas.

Trivia: The drama was lauded for its suspenseful plot and the compelling performances of the lead actors.

Main Casts: Wang Yibo, Dilraba Dilmurat

Number of Episodes: 30

Date of Release: January 10, 2024

Network/Streamer: Tencent Video, Netflix

Genre: Mystery, Thriller

Synopsis: Detective Li Wei is assigned to investigate a series of murders where each victim has an identical doppelgänger. Teaming up with forensic expert Zhao Min, they unravel a conspiracy that challenges their understanding of identity and reality.

Trivia: The series gained attention for its intricate plot and was highlighted in various cultural discussions in 2024.

Main Casts: Ren Jialun, Janine Chang

Number of Episodes: 36

Date of Release: September 5, 2020

Network/Streamer: iQiyi, Netflix

Genre: Historical, Mystery

Synopsis: Based on the legendary Tang Dynasty official, the series follows Judge Dee as he solves complex cases, uncovering corruption and delivering justice, all while navigating the intricacies of the imperial court.

Trivia: The character of Judge Dee is inspired by the historical figure Di Renjie, who has been the subject of numerous adaptations in Chinese literature and media.

With their compelling narratives, breathtaking visuals, and talented casts, these top-rated Chinese dramas on Netflix offer something for every viewer. From heart-pounding historical sagas to modern romantic tales and action-packed thrillers, each series brings a unique blend of emotions and storytelling mastery. Whether you’re looking for a drama filled with intense action, sweet romance, or thought-provoking themes, this list provides an excellent starting point for your next binge-watch. Dive into the world of Chinese dramas and experience the magic of these unforgettable stories today!