Don't Miss Out on the Top 25 Chinese Martial Arts Films of All Time

Amid a plethora of romance, historical, and fantasy genres, Chinese martial arts films remain the top choice for many movie enthusiasts. The gripping plots and thrilling martial arts scenes have become an essential mental feast. In this article, Mytour Blog brings you the TOP 25 super iconic and captivating Chinese martial arts films you shouldn't miss.

Best Chinese Martial Arts TV Series of All Time

Heavenly Sword and Dragon Slaying Sabre (Demi Gods And Semi Devils) – Exciting Chinese Martial Arts Film 2003

Number of Episodes:  40 episodes

Cast: Hu Quan, Liu Dao, Liu Yifei, Lam Chi Dinh,…

Director: Chu Hieu Van

Genre: Martial Arts, Chinese Historical Drama, Romance

The Chinese historical martial arts film “Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils” narrates the intricate relationships among numerous martial arts heroes. The three main characters are Xiao Feng (Hu Quan), Duan Yu (Lam Chi Dinh), and Hua Zheng (Liu Yifei). Despite their different backgrounds and circumstances, they all aspire to a peaceful and worry-free life.

Fate brings them together, forging a brotherhood as they face challenges in the martial arts world. However, with their exceptional martial arts skills, they unintentionally become entangled in political conflicts and complex romantic entanglements.

The Eagle Shooting Heroes (1994) – The best wuxia martial arts film by Jin Yong

With a total of 35 episodes, this Chinese historical martial arts series introduces us to a captivating tale.

Starring Truong Chi Lam, Chu Nhan, Le Dieu Tuong, Quan Bao Tue, the series is directed by Truong Ky Trung, Vu Man, Vuong Thuy, and Cuc Giai Luong.

Immerse yourself in a world of martial arts, ancient settings, and romance with this epic.

The Smiling, Proud Wanderer – A martial arts masterpiece you shouldn't miss

Enter the enchanting world of Chinese martial arts with this renowned series from 1994. The plot revolves around the fascinating love story and adventurous journey in the martial arts realm between Quach Tinh (Lam Chi Dinh), a seemingly foolish yet supremely skilled martial artist, and Hoang Dung (Chu Nhan), the intelligent and beautiful daughter of the island's master Dao Dao Hoa.

Heavenly Sword and Dragon Slaying Sabre (2000) – The greatest Chinese martial arts film of all time

Total Episodes:  42 episodes 

Cast: Maggie Cheung, Aaron Kwok, Sharla Cheung, Lê Tư,…

Director: Do Ky Phong

Genre: Martial Arts, Historical, Romance

The martial arts period drama Heavenly Sword and Dragon Slaying Sabre from the year 2000, produced in Hong Kong, captivates audiences with its captivating storyline and outstanding martial arts sequences. The plot follows the challenging journey of Zhang Wuji in a martial arts world full of difficulties and challenges. During his adventurous journey, he encounters two remarkable women: Zhao Min – the intelligent princess of Mongolia, and Chu Cheuk Nok – the beautiful disciple of the Nga Mi sect. Due to their different backgrounds and personalities, these two girls create numerous conflicts in Wuji's adventure.

The Smiling Proud Wanderer (2001)

Number of Episodes:  40 episodes

Cast: Alec Su, Alyssa Chia, Tony Leung,…

Director: Nguyen Ban, Hoang Kien Trung

Genre: Martial Arts, Historical, Adventure

The martial arts historical film 'The Smiling Proud Wanderer' tells the epic war for the possession of the supreme martial arts secret. It's a battle between the martial arts sects in ancient China. The main character is Ling Hu Cong, a charming young man from the Hua Shan sect, renowned for his exceptional martial skills, chivalry, and intelligence. Betrayed by his lover and misunderstood by his fellow sect members, Ling Hu Cong embarks on an adventurous journey full of challenges and hardships.

Divine Eagle, Heroic Couple (2006) – The Romance of the Condor Heroes

Number of Episodes:  41 episodes

Cast: Liu Yifei, Huang Xiaoming,...

Director: Vu Man

Genre: Martial Arts, Historical, Romance

This Chinese martial arts film focuses on the relationship between the beautiful and skilled martial artist Xiao Long Nu (Liu Yifei) and her intelligent disciple, Yang Guo (Huang Xiaoming). Their teacher-student relationship faces criticism and obstacles deemed inappropriate for the societal norms of that era. Throughout their journey, Yang Guo and Xiao Long Nu confront numerous challenges and treacherous plots in the ever-changing martial arts world. 

Tran Tinh Lenh – Latest Chinese Martial Arts Film

Number of Episodes:  50 episodes

Starring: Tieu Chien, Wang Yibo,…

Director: Trinh Vi Van

Genre: Martial Arts, Fantasy, Boys' Love

Tran Tinh Lenh falls under the martial arts and fantasy genre, revolving around two main characters, Ngu Vo Tien – a disciple of Van Mong Giang family, and Lam Vong Co – the second son of Co To Lam family. Both have become close friends and companions on a challenging journey, where they undergo the arduous process of cultivating immortal powers, unveiling many secrets, and exposing dangerous plots from the past.

So Kieu Truyen

Number of Episodes:  67 episodes (TV version)

Cast: Triệu Lệ Dĩnh, Lý Thấm, Lâm Canh Tân, Đậu Kiêu,…

Director: Ngô Cẩm Nguyên

Genre: Martial Arts, Historical, Romance

So Kieu Truyen is a film adaptation from a Chinese romantic novel that combines martial arts, historical elements, and romantic drama. The story follows the coming-of-age journey, the fight for freedom, and the challenging love story of the independent and spirited Sở Kiều. Can Sở Kiều break free from the shackles of slavery to attain both freedom and love?

Hien Vien Sword: The Silver Feather – A remarkable Chinese martial arts series

Number of episodes:  32 episodes

Cast: Tuong Kinh Phu, Ho Ca, Duong Yen, Co Luc Na Trat,…

Director:

Genre: Chinese martial arts, fantasy, wuxia

This is a Chinese martial arts series intertwined with elements of fantasy. The storyline focuses on the adventurous journey of Tran Tinh Cuu, the last descendant of the Tran family, in the quest for the Five Great Divine Artifacts. His goal is to restore the nation and revive the current dynasty.

Top-rated Chinese martial arts movies of all time

Spirit of Martial Arts (Fist Of Fury) – Incredibly compelling Chinese martial arts film

Duration:  106 minutes

Starring:  Bruce Lee, Nora Miao,…

Director: Wei Lo

Genre: Action, dubbed, martial arts

Spirit of Martial Arts is considered one of the classic Chinese martial arts films, marking Bruce Lee's introduction of the nunchaku weapon.

The movie follows Tran Chan, a special character who is the disciple of Huo Yuanjia, the founder of the Spirit of Martial Arts. Upon learning about the death of his master, Tran Chan decides to return to pay his respects. However, upon his return, he discovers many mysteries related to the master's death and is determined to investigate to uncover the truth.

Once Upon a Time in China (1991)

Episodes: 1 episode / 1 hour 42 minutes

Cast: Jackie Chan, Jet Li,...

Director: Vien Hoa Binh

Genre: Martial Arts, Action

This is a martial arts masterpiece depicting the life of the renowned martial artist Wong Fei-hung. Set in the late Qing dynasty, Wong Fei-hung embarks on an intense journey of martial arts training and self-sacrifice for the goal of saving the country.

House of Flying Daggers – Ancient Chinese Martial Arts Film

Duration: 1 episode/1 hour 59 minutes

Starring: Zhang Ziyi, Andy Lau, Takeshi Kaneshiro,...

Director: Zhang Yimou

Genre: Martial Arts, Historical, Romance

Chinese Martial Arts Film “House of Flying Daggers” tells a poignant love story between Liu Bodao (Andy Lau), an outstanding court soldier, and Xiao Mei (Zhang Ziyi), a rebellious and beautiful insurgent who disguises herself as a blind, mute courtesan. Alongside emotionally charged scenes, the martial arts sequences are seamlessly integrated, creating thrilling moments that captivate the audience.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

Number of Episodes: 1 episode/120 minutes

Cast: Zhou Xun, Chiu Man-Cheuk, Duong Tu Quynh, Zhang Zhen,…

Director: Li An

Genre: Action, Adventure, Dubbed

If you're a fan of Chinese martial arts films, then you definitely shouldn't miss the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. The setting of this kung fu film is placed in the Qing Dynasty, during the reign of Emperor Qianlong. The main story focuses on the beautiful love between Ngoc Kieu Long and La Tieu Ho. Ngoc Kieu Long, a charming and gentle daughter of a high-ranking official, has to face a challenging love with a skilled thief.

Masterful Kung Fu – The best Chinese martial arts film 

Number of Episodes: 1 episode/99 minutes

Starring:  Stephen Chow, Ng Man-Tat, Lam Tze-Chung, Tran Quoc Khon, Leung Siu-Long,…

Director: Stephen Chow

Genre: Comedy, Action, Martial Arts

Kung Fu Hustle is a martial arts comedy film produced, directed, and starring Stephen Chow. The film is set in the 1940s, a period of social turmoil in China, with the underworld exerting strong influence. The movie will take the audience through continuous surprises as characters they thought were only ordinary and gentle, like the deceptive tailor or the humble noodle shop owner, turn out to be renowned martial artists.

Way of the Dragon – The greatest martial arts film of all time

Episodes:  1 episode/133 minutes

Starring: Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, Nora Miao,…

Director: Bruce Lee

Genre: Action, adventure, dubbed

Way of the Dragon is a unique Chinese martial arts film that focuses on the journey of Tang Lung, portrayed by Bruce Lee. He is an innocent young man from Hong Kong with impressive martial arts skills. Urged by his uncle, he is brought to Italy with the mission to help a girl in distress, facing harassment from a local gang, forcing her to sell her family's restaurant.

In Italy, Tang Lung rises against the gang's plot, challenging a local crime boss, and is determined to protect the girl's restaurant. The film delivers visually stunning segments of a high-stakes martial arts battle at the Colosseum – the ancient Roman arena, full of suspense and drama.

Tai Chi Master Zhang Sanfeng

Episodes: 1 episode/96 minutes

Cast: Jet Li, Michelle Yeoh, Fennie Yuen, Yuen Cheung-yan,...

Directed by: Yuen Woo-ping

Genre: Action, Martial Arts

The film narrates the legend of the martial arts world, Truong Tam Phong. This outstanding Chinese martial arts masterpiece stars Jet Li in the lead role, featuring high-level martial arts sequences. The movie is particularly captivating and thrilling, delving deep into the character's soul, providing an unpredictable cinematic experience.

Master Hoac Nguyen Giap

Number of episodes:  1 episode/ 1 hour 45 minutes

Starring: Jet Li, Tôn Lệ, Nathan Jones,…

Directed by: Ronny Yu

Genre: Martial Arts, Historical

This is a Chinese martial arts film featuring the martial arts star Jet Li (as Hoac Nguyen Giap). The film's story is based on the life of the military commander Hoac Nguyen Giap, a legend of China. Starting with a challenging battle, Hoac Nguyen Giap defeated three Western fighters. These continuous victories made him increasingly arrogant and ruthless over time. The film showcases impressive kung fu performances, profound content, and captivating plot twists.

New Shaolin Temple – A visually stunning Chinese martial arts film

Number of Episodes: 1 episode/ 2 hours 11 minutes

Starring: Jackie Chan, Jet Li, Donnie Yen, Wu Jing,…

Director: Tran Moc Thang

Genre: Martial Arts, Action, Drama

This is a captivating Chinese martial arts film featuring impressive kung fu sequences and a compelling storyline, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. Set during the decline of the Qing Dynasty (1920), when warlords struggled to consolidate power, the film follows Hou Jie – a ruthless warlord who seeks refuge at Shaolin Temple after a crisis. At Shaolin, Hou Jie encounters the abbot Ngok Dao. During his time there, he realizes his mistakes and decides to embark on the path of enlightenment.

Ip Man – Outstanding standalone martial arts film

Number of Episodes: 1 episode/ 108 minutes

Cast: Donnie Yen, Hiroyuki Ikeuchi, Simon Yam, Lynn Hung, Fan Siu-Wong,...

Director: Wilson Yip

Genre: Action, Martial Arts, Drama

This is the first kung fu film based on the life of Ip Man (1893 – 1972), one of the renowned masters of the Wing Chun martial art. Ip Man Part 1 was released in 2008 and is set in the 1930s when Ip Man lived in Foshan with his family. The story unfolds up to the outbreak of the Sino-Japanese War.

SPL: Sha Po Lang

Episodes: 1 episode/1 hour 33 minutes

Cast: Donnie Yen, Sammo Hung, Simon Yam, Lynn Hung,...

Director: Wilson Yip

Genre: Martial Arts, Crime, Action, Drama

The film SPL: Sha Po Lang focuses on the tense confrontation between the police investigative team and the cunning crime boss, Po (Hung Kim Bao), along with his ruthless and dangerous henchmen. The task of capturing this notorious underworld figure falls on the shoulders of retiring cop Chan (Nham Dat Hoa), who must collaborate with his replacement, Ma (Donnie Yen). SPL: Sha Po Lang not only delivers visually stunning scenes but also creates tense situations and intense action sequences.

Hong Kim Bao – the main actor in SPL: Sha Po Lang (Source: Internet)

Enter the Dragon (1978) – Legendary Martial Arts Film Starring Jackie Chan

Number of Episodes:  1 episode/1 hour 42 minutes

Starring: Jackie Chan, Sammo Hung,…

Director: Jackie Chan

Genre: Martial Arts, Action

The Chinese martial arts film “Drunken Master” revolves around Wong Fei-Hung (Jackie Chan), a young man with a quirky personality and high morals. Due to his mischievous nature, Fei-Hung is sent by his father to Master So Hi De (Sammo Hung) – a passionate martial artist who loves drinking, to learn martial arts and undergo kungfu training. Here, the master puts Fei-Hung through rigorous training, helping him become a master of kungfu.

Drunken Master (1978) – Iconic Jackie Chan Martial Arts Film (Source: Internet)

Half a Loaf of Kung Fu (1999) – Metade Fumaca

Number of Episodes:  1 episode/101 minutes

Starring: Tang Chi Wai, Stephen Tung, Trần Huệ Mẫn, Thư Kỳ,…

Director: Kam-Hung Yip

Genre: Martial Arts, Comedy, Triad

Ban Chi Yen, a Chinese martial arts film released in 1999, made its mark in cinematic history with a unique blend of martial arts, humor, and the triad. The story revolves around three close friends reuniting in Hong Kong after years of separation. Lion (Tang Chi Wai) seeks the help of Smokey (Stephen Tung) to rekindle the relationship with their mutual friend Nine Dragons (Tran Huy Man). At the same time, Lion also searches for his mysterious first love (Thuy Ky), whom he and Nine once cherished.

Ban Chi Yen marks the appearance of the renowned actress Thuy Ky (Source: Internet)

Best Chinese Martial Arts Films of 2022

Debating the Worthy Heroes – Latest and Greatest Chinese Martial Arts Swordplay Film

With 38 episodes in its saga, this captivating Chinese historical drama unfolds a tale of adventure, mythology, and martial arts. Starring Dương Siêu, Việt Lưu, Vũ Ninh Mạnh, Tử Nghĩa Tằng, Thuấn Hy, the series, directed by Lý Mộc Qua, delves into the realms of Ancient China, combining elements of fantasy, emotion, and profound martial arts.

Experience the performances of Dương Siêu, Việt Lưu, Vũ Ninh Mạnh, Tử Nghĩa Tằng, Thuấn Hy in this enthralling journey (Source: Internet)

Top Ancient Chinese Dramas to Watch

Martial Arts, Mythology, and Adventure – A Blend in Ancient Chinese Drama

“Debating Who Deserves the Title of Hero” is hailed as one of the most outstanding Chinese martial arts films of 2022 in the world of Chinese cinema. The story revolves around Vương Tiểu Thạch, a gentle young man who has spent a long time living in the mountains. Determined to leave the mountain life behind, he embarks on a journey to explore the world beyond.

Embark on the adventure with Vương Tiểu Thạch in this impactful Chinese martial arts film (Source: Internet)

Top Chinese Martial Arts and Wuxia Dramas of 2022

Number of Episodes: 14 episodes

Starring: Trần Triết Viễn, Hồ Nhất Thiên, Lương Khiết, Lương Tịnh Nhàn,…

Directed by: Trâu Tập Thành, Lưu Phương

Genre: Chinese Historical Drama, Wuxia, Romance, Comedy

“The Magnificent Twin Heroes” tells the story of the wife of Giang Phong who gave birth to a pair of twins 17 years ago. However, before having the chance to enjoy family happiness, tragedy strikes. One of the twin siblings is brutally attacked, with a face scarred and banished to the Evil Human Gorge. The other is taken to the Di Hoa Palace, a forbidden place in the martial arts world. Starting from here, the destiny of the twin siblings is shaped by both compassion and enmity.

The film 'The Magnificent Twin Heroes' boasts a captivating storyline (Source: Internet)

Latest Chinese Martial Arts Movies 2023

Cloud's Dance – Hottest Chinese Martial Arts Film 2023

Number of Episodes:  24 episodes 

Starring: Ngu Thư Hân, Trương Lăng Hách, Thừa Lỗi, Lư Dục Hiểu,…

Director: Quách Kính Minh

Genre: Historical, Legendary, Wuxia

The highly anticipated 2023 historical drama 'Cloud's Dance' follows the unconventional love story and coming-of-age journey of undercover agent Cloud Vi Sam (Ngu Thư Hân) yearning for freedom, and the young master Cung Tử Vũ (Trương Lăng Hách), somewhat 'rebellious.' The story's expansive backdrop unfolds in a simple yet decisive manner. Vân Vi Sam, pretending to be a bride, carries out the mission for Vô Phong. As rumors spread, Cung Môn is forced to uncover the assassin among the brides to avert disaster. Intertwined with dramatic twists, the martial arts scenes are captivating, keeping the audience hooked.

'Cloud's Dance' (Source: Internet)

Cloud's Mirage Chronicles – 2023's epic Chinese martial arts series

Number of Episodes:  36 episodes 

Starring: Trần Hiểu, Mao Hiểu Đồng,…

'The Wandering Tale' directed by Do Dat Chi (Source: Internet)

Genre: Historical Drama, Martial Arts

“The Wandering Tale” is a multi-genre masterpiece combining historical drama, martial arts, detective, and romance. The story revolves around the journey of Vân Tương (Trần Hiểu), a disciple of Vân Đài, as he decides to venture out and explore the world after ten years of martial arts cultivation. During this journey, Vân Tương encounters Thư Á Nam (Mao Hiểu Đồng), a clever and lively young woman. This encounter not only changes their romantic relationship but also unravels a horrifying mystery related to the dark past of Vân Đài sect.

The TV series 'The Wandering Tale' (Source: Internet)

Above are 25 classic Chinese martial arts movies that film enthusiasts should not miss. Each film contains a humane script, captivating plot intertwined with thrilling martial arts scenes. Also, don't forget to visit Mytour for purchasing quality household products, electronics, or books at preferential prices!