Top 13 Chinese TV Dramas That Shaped the 80s and 90s Generations

Set in 1930s Shanghai, this drama features a star-studded cast including Zhao Wei, Ruby Lin, and Su Youpeng, who had gained massive popularity after the success of Princess Pearl. The New Legend of the Condor Heroes made a huge impact when it first aired, earning widespread love from audiences.

The heart-wrenching love story of Y Bing and Shu Huan (played by Zhao Wei and Guo Juyun), along with numerous intriguing side stories, kept many viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting each episode during its run.

DETAILS:

Director: Liu Liping

Episodes: 49

Much like Bao Thanh Thiên (1993), The Legend of the Condor Heroes (1995), directed by Li Tim-shing, is a timeless classic for many, despite numerous remakes over the years. The series, broadcast by TVB Hong Kong, is based on the famous novel by Jin Yong.

The captivating love story between Yang Guo, who walks a fine line between good and evil, and the pure and graceful Xiaolongnü, portrayed by Louis Koo and Michelle Ye, deeply touched audiences and won their hearts.

DETAILS:

Director: Li Tim-shing

Episodes: 41

The drama Wrong Palanquin, Right Husband, directed by Cheng Zi’en, tells the story of two women from Yangzhou with completely opposite personalities who are forced to marry on the same day. As they travel to their wedding, a sudden downpour forces them to take shelter at an abandoned temple, where they become sworn sisters. In a twist of fate, they accidentally switch palanquins, leading to a mix-up of brides.

Through many ups and downs, both women develop feelings for their respective husbands, and the show is remembered for its humor, heartwarming moments, and deep moral lessons.

DETAILS:

Director: Cheng Zi’en

Episodes: 20

Princess Huaiyue is one of the most beloved dramas that resonates deeply with the 80s and 90s generations. The story revolves around the bittersweet romance of the Qing Emperor Kangxi and the mischievous princess Huaiyue, the daughter of a Ming dynasty queen secretly raised by a Qing general.

Viewers are treated to moments of laughter from the princess's playful antics, while also reflecting on the political intrigues and rivalries of the royal court. The tragic yet tender love story between the lead characters touches the hearts of many.

DETAILS:

Director: Feng Kai

Episodes: 115

The Romance of the Three Kingdoms (1996) is a renowned television adaptation based on the classic historical novel by Luo Guanzhong. It tells the epic tales of legendary Chinese figures such as Liu Bei, Zhuge Liang, and Cao Cao, and showcases the grand, historical battles that shaped China's history. The series is particularly appealing to male audiences due to its focus on heroic figures, strategic battles, and intellectual duels.

With its intricate battle sequences, impressive action scenes, and meticulous attention to detail in production, this series stands as a monumental portrayal of ancient Chinese warfare and heroism.

DETAILS:

Director: Wang Fulin

Episodes: 41

The Humble Prime Minister (1998) follows the story of a young man named Liu Dong, who has a hunchback but possesses an exceptional intellect and a compassionate heart for the common people. Despite his physical condition, Liu Dong rises to the position of prime minister, tasked with governing the nation. His primary antagonist is the corrupt and opportunistic Ho Shen, who exploits the common people’s wealth while fawning over the emperor.

The show depicts the intense clashes between these two characters: the clever and resourceful Liu Dong, who uses wit and humor to overcome adversity, and the manipulative Ho Shen. Each episode is filled with sharp intellectual battles, moments of laughter, and heartfelt drama.

DETAILS:

Directors: Shi Ling, Zhang Zi En

Episodes: 40

Snow Mountain Flying Tiger (1999) is a television drama adapted from a novel by the famous author Jin Yong. The story is set in ancient times when General Ho, a respected military leader, was killed by rivals Miao, Pham, and Dien, leading to a series of tragic massacres among warring clans. Miao Renfeng, falsely accused by Dien Quynong of killing the family of Ho Nhat Dao, creates a deep-seated grudge in Ho Phi, the son of Ho Nhat Dao.

As Ho Phi grows older, he sets out to seek revenge on Miao Renfeng. Along the way, he meets Miao Ruolan, the gentle, delicate, and beautiful daughter of Miao Renfeng. Although they develop feelings for each other, the unresolved hatred between their families remains. A fierce battle unfolds at the top of Snow Mountain, as old grudges are finally confronted.

DETAILS:

Episodes: 40

The Legendary Lyu Xiaofeng (2000) is a character renowned not only for his extraordinary martial arts skills but also for his exceptional intellect and almost supernatural ability to solve complex mysteries. With his unmatched wits, Lyu Xiaofeng uncovers the truth behind seemingly unsolvable cases.

Partnering with the greatest swordsman of the time, Ximen Xuyue, and many other prominent figures of the martial world, Lyu Xiaofeng journeys through the land, helping the innocent and upholding justice. This series is not just about martial arts but also captivates the audience with its thrilling and intricate mysteries.

DETAILS:

Director: Daniel Lee Yan-Kong

Episodes: 20

The Smiling, Proud Wanderer centers around the power struggles between martial arts sects in the Jianghu world. Linghu Chong, a naturally gifted and free-spirited disciple of Mount Hua, falls in love with the beautiful and distant Yue Ling Shan, who, however, has her heart set on another man, Lin Pingzhi.

Throughout his journey of martial arts training and forming lasting friendships, Linghu Chong earns the respect of many elders and is entrusted with secret techniques. Later, the Saintess of the Demon Sect even helps him heal the wounds left by his unrequited love for Yue Ling Shan.

DETAILS:

Director: Wong Kin, Zhong Yuan Bin

Episodes: 40

Hung Ba aims to rule the world and is determined to gather the finest subordinates. Fate brings him to meet Nie Feng and Bu Jingyun, who become his most trusted allies. Hung Ba teaches each of them a unique martial art: Nie Feng learns the Fengshen Kick, and Bu Jingyun masters the Baiyun Palm. With the help of this formidable duo, Hung Ba achieves his dream of domination. However, his paranoia leads him to hatch a plot to eliminate his disciples to prevent them from challenging his power, causing deep rifts between Nie Feng and Bu Jingyun. Despite the betrayal, the duo discovers his treachery and fights back, ultimately killing Hung Ba.

But a new conflict soon arises. Due to past grudges, Nie Feng and Bu Jingyun must unite to face another dark force. However, Nie Feng, driven by desperation, resorts to using demonic powers, leading to a great victory over the enemy but at a great personal cost. Now, Bu Jingyun faces the toughest decision of his life: whether to kill his old friend, Nie Feng.

DETAILS:

Director: Tu Jinliang

Episodes: 41

Adapted from the classic literary work by Wu Cheng'en, Journey to the West has captivated generations and remains a beloved childhood memory for many. Filming began in 1982 with a substantial budget of 6 million yuan, and the series was completed in 1986. It became a cultural phenomenon, airing not only in Asia but also in many other countries worldwide.

Audiences were enchanted by the story of the monk Xuanzang and his three disciples, as they journeyed to the West to retrieve sacred scriptures, facing countless trials and challenges along the way. Even after 30 years, many Vietnamese TV channels continue to air this series every summer, always drawing large viewerships.

DETAILS:

Director: The late Director Yang Jie

Episodes: 48

Based on the famous legend of Emperor Qianlong's undercover journey, the script for My Fair Princess was written by the celebrated author Quyen Dao. The show created a storm when it first aired. During that time, it became a national sensation, with audiences eagerly awaiting each new episode—especially students who were the most avid fans.

Many people in the '80s even had small notebooks dedicated to the show, where they collected images of the characters and wrote down the lyrics to the iconic songs. The series also catapulted previously unknown actors like Zhao Wei, Ruby Lin, and Su Youpeng to stardom, making them household names.

DETAILS:

Director: Son Shuibai

Episodes: 24

The character Bao Zheng, known as Justice Bao, with his dark complexion and crescent-shaped birthmark on his forehead, has become a symbol of childhood memories for many. This upright and intelligent official, who solved thrilling and mysterious cases, captivated countless '80s and '90s kids, leaving them eagerly waiting for each new episode of the show.

Though many remakes have been made, the 1993 version of Justice Bao remains irreplaceable and continues to hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up watching it.

DETAILS:

Directors: Chen Junliang and several other directors

Episodes: 61