Top 50 Best Chinese Anime Of All Time

 

If you’ve been living under a rock and didn’t know that a certain kind of ‘Chinese Donghua’ or Chinese Anime existed.

 

Well, we are here to tell you that it very much exists! Quite literally the term ‘Donghua’ is used to reference any kind of animation in Chinese originating from no particular country.

 

The advent of animation in China began in 1935 with the film titled, The Camel’s Dance making an appearance.

 

Since then, a lot of animated films and webtoons have been released by various Chinese studios.

 

Our list today features a mix of 2D animated, CG with 2D animation, and complete CG animated titles that look like they mashed a bunch of game cutscenes together.

 

With immersive storylines emphasizing their vast heritage and also their current way of life, Chinese anime has a different flair from the Japanese anime we are normally used to.

 

The source material for creating certain if not all donghua is known as ‘manhua’ which refer to Chinese comics produced in China.

 

Some donghua get made by using web novels as well. The duration for a donghua ranges between 9 minutes to 13 minutes to 25 minutes.

 

It doesn’t matter if the show is information-heavy or not, the duration could be 9 minutes for even a historical drama or even a harem donghua.

 

This could be due to the restrictions of airing time of domestic cartoons of only 2 hours a day while giving foreign programs a decent amount of time.

 

Most of the titles on the list are ONAs that are Original Net Animations or movies.

 

There are a few titles that are Chinese and Japanese-made as well. Most of the titles seem to be available on YouTube and some other anime streaming websites.

 

Let’s get to exploring something new today.

 

 

50. Shen Qi Huan Qi-Tan: The Legend of Ancient Soul

 

 

[24 Episodes – Airtime: Oct 2017 – May 2018]

 

Keeping with the rich cultural history, Shen Qi Huan Qi-Tan too amalgamates a bit of their culture in this anime series.

 

Before being sealed away, Gods fought each other in an attempt to achieve power. However, the Hua Xia clan was bound into a contract by these Gods to remain in the souls of the clan members as artifacts.

 

The Gods hope to regain form and battle each other using the artifacts. This donghua is also based on the manhua or Chinese comic by the name L. DART.

 

The Chinese donghua don’t all feature the usual animation; they also rely heavily on CGI animation as well.

 

So does this anime, featuring intricately drawn characters and an interesting storyline. The visuals are beautiful and the animation style looks effortless. 

 

 

49. Zhanguo FAN: The Seven

 

 

[15 Episodes – Airtime: August 2016 – November 2016]

 

A story that takes place in Imperial China, we follow the lives of seven individuals who are known for mixing technology with magic to help each of their kingdoms win the war!

 

The animation on this one is a modern style helping you relate to the world during the Imperial War.

 

This ONA series currently has 15 episodes with only 13 minutes of run time. The anime makes for a great watch and there’s a possible Season 2 on the cards as well!

 

The story is fun and it makes a great anime for weekend binging sessions. 

 

 

 

48. Jian Wangchao: Sword Dynasty

 

 

[24 Episodes – Airtime: April 2017 – December 2017]

 

We follow the journey of a brave man who set out to create his dynasty. In a world where the Qin Dynasty has to come to power ending the years of blood and unrest.

 

But many are not happy with their ascend to the throne. The brave man, Dingning wants to dismantle the Qin Dynasty and create the Sword Dynasty.

 

The donghua is a pretty popular series in China with both seasons released in the same year.

 

This Action and Historical-themed ONA series also have a live adaptation television series as well. This series provides its viewers with everything. Action, adventure, drama, thrill, and mystery. It is a perfect blend of all elements that make this series a hit. 

 

 

 

47. Dongguo Xiaojie: Karma

 

 

[15 Episodes Airtime: December 2016 – April 2017]

 

Ah, this title is one for the family-minded folks. In a sad turn of events when Dongguo turns 16, her mother contracts a deadly illness known as ‘Grave Illness’.

 

To search for the cure for her beloved mother, Dongguo accompanied by her big brother Mo Zixuan and a mysterious being known as, Life’s Hardship tread an unknown path.

 

The trio is repeatedly attacked by the people they encounter on their journey, are the three onto uncovering a conspiracy here?

 

Those who have seen the ONA series loved it, however, the end was so well received but it hasn’t dampened the overall popularity of the show.

 

It is a story of a young woman exploring the world and fighting all the odds just to save her mother and keep her happy. 

 

 

 

46. Ken en Ken: Aoki Kagayaki: Xuan Yuan Sword Luminary

 

 

[13 Episodes – Airtime: October 2018 – December 2018]

 

Sisters, Yin, and Ning’s village gets destroyed by the evil Taibai Empire. Whilst their childhood friend, Zhao has been enslaved by Emperor Taibai himself.

 

As Yin and Ning begin to pave their pave through difficult times, Yin accidentally discovers a legendary sword granting her amazing abilities in combat.

 

The sword also allows her to summon a mechanical fox called, Yun.

 

We now see Yin, Ning, and Zhao caught up in the battle for supremacy of their land who have to give it their all to save themselves and their land.

 

Now this series is entirely made in China but the premises of the story is completely based on the Chinese historical period of Spring and Autumn.

 

Ken en Ken: Aoki Kagayaki was originally a Taiwanese RPG game known as Xuan Yuan Sword Luminary: The Millennial Destiny.

 

The anime series is made in Japan by Japanese producers and is currently being streamed on Crunchyroll except in the Asian sub-continent.

 

 

 

45. Jie Mo Ren: The Devil Ring

 

 

[14 Episodes – Airtime: April 2016 – July 2016]

 

As the title goes, it’s pretty easy to understand the plot of the series. Zhou Xiaoan wears a ring without learning of its origins.

 

Within no time, a Blood Devil emerges from his mouth, calling himself ‘King Zhou of Shang’.

 

The devil belongs to a race of heart-eating zombies revealing surprising historical truths that Zhou has to deal with.

 

Zhou eventually learns of a secret group of Taoist Priests who fight against these Blood Devils and also being belonging to a mysterious world that can blend into human society seamlessly.

 

Phew, as interesting as that sounds, these 13-minute episodes don’t exactly manage to pack a punch due to their pacing but if you’re keen on watching some Chinese anime, go for it!

 

 

 

44. Mo Ri Shu Guang: Dawn of the World

 

 

[20 Episodes – Airtime: May 2018 – September 2018]

 

If you’ve enjoyed, High School of the Dead, Attack on Titans, or Kabaneri of The Iron Fortress, you may enjoy this one as well.

 

The anime takes place in a post-apocalyptic China where most of the population has been infected by a virus turning them into zombies, while there are a few who are trying to survive in this grim situation.

 

Mo Ri Shu Guang focuses on two main characters, Meng Feng, who is a fighter, and Liu Yan an engineer and strategist.

 

With the help of the two and the surviving population, a new dawn of hope emerges once again. It is action-filled and full of cool fighting scenes.

 

 

 

43. The Silver Guardian

 

 

[18 Episodes – Airtime: April 2017 – Feb 2018]

 

This Chinese-Japanese anime series is based on a manhua of the same title.

 

The story follows a high school student and gamer, Suigin Riku who is making ends meet while he attending the prestigious Shinryou Private Academy.

 

While trying to save a drowning kitten from the pool, Suigin who doesn’t know how to swim is rescued by the beautiful Rei Riku.

 

Rei incidentally happens to be the daughter of his favorite games’ director.

 

In a sudden turn of events, the game gets canceled leaving Suigin heartbroken but when a new game arrives and Rei gets kidnapped in the game.

 

Suigin gets sucked into the game now returning the debt to her.

 

This anime series has been viewed over 418 million times; you could add to that number too!

 

 

 

42. Heibai Wushang: Black & White Warriors

 

 

[24 Episodes – Airtime: July 2015 – Oct 2017]

 

Two young demons who are slacking off at work. A workplace that helps maintain the balance between the living and dead by killing all the humans!

 

Black and White ghost messengers collect spirits from the living realm. An adaptation from the manhua of the same name, this comedy shounen series is surprisingly an enjoyable story!

 

The animation style is pretty modern but does seem lackluster at times. But the action sequences can make an interesting watch!

 

 

 

41. Nuwa Chengzhang Riji: Nuwa Growth Diary

 

 

[30 Episodes – Airtime: April 2016 – November 2016]

 

Nuwa Chengzhang Riji follows the story of Xiao Xiao Feng, a ditzy young orphan girl who is touted as the ‘Goddess of Creation-Nuwa’ in ancient Chinese mythology.

 

Li Chang makes her realize that she is a Nuwa and asks her if she could help train the lost souls and repopulate heaven!

 

Although she is reluctant at first, she manages to help Li Chang in her quest and learns the ways of becoming a goddess.

 

Now if you must watch these 30 episodic series, you have to know that each episode has a run time of, wait for it!

 

ONLY 9 minutes! But it’s a fun light watch for when you have a small break to take.

 

 

 

40. Zhongguo Jingqi Xiansheng: Chinese Mystery Man

 

 

[63 Episodes – Airtime: February 2014 – May 2016]

 

As dangerous man-eating monsters lurk on the streets, a lost form of magic gets revived from the Eastern Han dynasty could help stop the terror.

 

We follow Li Xue a cop and Wang Xiaoer who does get mistaken for a monster.

 

But in fact, Xiaoer is a magic user who has been trying to eliminate the monsters all by himself.

 

As they uncover the gruesome mysteries of the monsters. This 10-minute episodic packs intrigue and a lot of fanservice as well.

 

 

 

39. Di Wang Gong Lue: The Emperor's Strategy

 

 

[20 Episodes – Airtime: April 2018 – September 2018]

 

This martial arts, drama, and historical title talks about the story of Chu Yuan.

 

He is in line to become a good emperor in the Chinese Imperial Court while Duan Baiyue who many mistakes as his opposition are going to be Cu Yuan’s assistant!

 

Its theme explores the struggles, corruption taking within the court walls, and one-upmanship for power in a very important country like China.

 

Its original novel makes for a great read and manhua as well. However, the anime did not fare too well amongst the fans of the source material.

 

However, the music and the detailing done for the series are commendable.

 

 

38. Kitsune no Koe: Voice of Fox

 

 

[12 Episodes – Airtime: October 2018 – December 2018]

 

This Japanese adaptation from the Chinese manhua series known as ‘Huli Zhi Sheng’, Kitsune no Koe is a great example of a music anime. 16-year-old Hu Li wants to become a popular idol.

 

But since he cannot afford to be one nor does he possess the looks of one either, Hu Li begins posting his singing videos online using his fox avatar.

 

The anime series despite being 13 minutes of runtime, leaves a cliffhanger in each episode keeping you hooked to the series.

 

But you have to know, he does sing the same song for most of the series.

 

 

37. Bai Ye Ling Long: Whited Nighttime

 

 

[25 Episodes – Airtime: June 2018 – November 2018]

 

Ling Long is an introvert who has trouble making friends in real life. She had one online friend who stopped responding to all her texts, leading to her sad daily life now.

 

But in a turn of events, Ling Long suddenly can see ghosts and monsters turning her life upside down.

 

She can find friendship among these spirits while trying to save the lives of friends from the evil spirits.

 

The donghua is a reverse-style harem which is great. The pacing of the show is a little slow but the fans are hoping for another season soon!

 

 

36. Duan Nao: Die Now

 

 

[16 Episodes – Airtime: November 2014 – July 2015]

 

Do you want a show which has a gaming backdrop with suspenseful elements and you can’t seem to figure out what the character’s thinking?

 

That’s Duan Nao for you. Based on the manhua by the same name, the premise of the story is based on a high-tech society where a group of blood-thirsty gaming community members is thrown into alternate and utterly wacky scenarios.

 

Cerebrum universe, a compounded collision of universes where mankind uncovers galaxy wars and conspiracies from anti-human betrayals.

 

Sounds just the right amount of odd, doesn’t it? Season two of the series was to be released too but the show was either canceled or is on hiatus.

 

 

35. Wo De Ni Tian Shen Qi: My Holy Weapon

 

 

[16 Episodes – Airtime: April 2018 – August 2018]

 

While getting attacked, Chang Tian summons his servant to save himself from dying called Xiao Bai.

 

Chang is then able to fight alongside others who can invoke artifacts themselves on the battlefield.

 

Now if you’ve watched the Fate Series, you’ll know the similarities, from the summoning to the war and most of the characters are literal replicas of various shounen anime characters as well.

 

You could watch this title if you want to find a Chinese version of the Fate series which you probably never knew you needed.

 

 

34. Lan Mo De Hua: Lan Mo's Flower

 

 

[9 Episodes – Airtime: July 2017 – August 2017]

 

When Lan Mo, a tomboyish young girl picks up a mystical hair clip from a trinket shop, which incidentally disappears the next day.

 

When she wears the hair clip, Lan Mo can transform into a beautiful young lady who manages to catch the eye of her childhood crush, Liu Yifeng.

 

What Lan Mo is unaware of is the consequences of possessing the clip, including a mysterious stranger.

 

This high school romance that has only 9 episodes of 13 minutes each is a great light watch!

 

 

33. Wo De Tian Jie Nuyou: My Cultivator Girlfriend

 

 

[15 Episodes – Airtime: September 2017 – January 2018]

 

In the world of modern cultivation, the stronger cultivators hunt the weaker ones to rise to the top making the world a calculative one.

 

A mere security guard, Ma Yingxiong, accidentally starts his cultivation journey when he saves a cultivator girl, Lu Zi, and steals her powers.

 

Even though this happens accidentally, he has to get into a contract to be a cultivator or simply die.

 

The two are then hunted by an evil sage who wishes to possess the powers Ma and Lu possess.

 

All of this heavy stuff is coupled with quite a bit of ecchi scenes as well.

 

Overall, it’s a pretty enjoyable show.

 

 

32. Huan Jie Wang: Eudemon Quest

 

 

[20 Episodes – Airtime: May 2018 – October 2018]

 

A demon king by the name of Ku Longwang tried to overtake the with his dark powers, however, he failed and was sealed forever.

 

Chu Lingxiao, a boy who dreams of becoming the world’s best martial artist heads on a journey to enroll himself in the academy of magic and martial arts.

 

On his way, he encounters a damsel in distress, whom he manages to save from the bad guys.

 

But in a plot twist, the Lan Ruobing is actually on a mission to revive the demon king.

 

During this whole ordeal, Chu ends up unleashing the demon king and takes over him.

 

 

31. The King of Fighters Series

 

 

The King of Fighters: Destiny, is a Japanese – Malaysian – Chinese CG animated series with a sequel and multiple spin-offs based on the gaming franchise.

 

If you’ve played the game, you know the story already. Kyo the lead character has to travel to the South.

 

Once there, he runs into an intimidating fighter, and painful memories of the past begin to unfurl changing the face of the tournament.

 

The series is a fun ride, has a bit of humor in it, and great action sequences, enough to invoke the nostalgic times from the 90’s era.

 

 

30. Ling Yu: Spiritual Domain

 

 

[Season 1 – 10 Episodes – Airtime: October 2015 – December 2015]

 

In a whimsical continent known as Chilan (Red Tide) in the Ling Yu (Spiritual Field), warriors are classified on different levels as Spirit Weapons.

 

Under the leadership of the Xuantian Union, the Human race and many others have been engaging in bloody ruthless battles for hundreds of years now.

 

Qin Lie, a young man from Ling Town, harnesses the blood of Heaven’s Fighting Race.

 

But he is currently being fostered in an insignificant household. With the situation getting grim outside, Qin has to wait, until he can see the day his bloodline awakens and overthrow the unjust powers.

 

 

29. Shi Xiong: Zombie Brother

 

 

[80 Episodes – Airtime: November 2014 – March 2016]

 

One of the most influential Chinese anime, Shi Xiong is an action, comedy, and horror genre donghua.

 

Bai Xiaofei is the main protagonist of the show. When the water of City H gets polluted with a virus that turns ordinary citizens into zombies, he must save himself and find his way to his girlfriend.

 

The zombie trope in the series is pretty ordinary but the writer of the series has added his own, “human” touch to them as well.

 

Overall, Zombie Brother is a fun show if zombie apocalypse, gore, and sheer weirdness are your jam.

 

 

28. Wangpai Yushi: Ace Censorate

 

 

[39 Episodes – Airtime: June 2014 - Jan 2016]

 

Imagine a world where the yin and yang have completely lost their balance. This has created the world to live with humans and monsters.

 

Two censorates protect the weak by fighting and taming the unruly monsters in this series.

 

Wangpai Yushi also has a prequel of the same name and is adapted from the manhua by the same name as well.

 

The story is joyful, comic, and fun to watch. It also has copious amounts of fanservice as well!

 

 

27. Xiang Ling Ji: Tales of Exorcism

 

 

[15 Episodes –  Airtime: March 2017 – August 2017]

 

In this fun and pleasant series, we follow a female warrior by the name of Hua Jiu, who offers her services as an exorcist instead of money.

 

She encounters the spirit of Qi Ye who forces Hua Jiu to become his servant.

 

Hua and Qi then go on a ranting journey whilst also cleansing spirits. But for Hua Jiu, an underlying threat lies with an enemy planning an insidious plot against her.

 

The show is a great light watch for when you just want to keep your brain aside and enjoy nonsensical scenarios.

 

As much as the title may sound dark and gloomy, it’s the complete opposite of that.

 

 

26. Sheng Shi Zhuang Niang: The Beauty Blogger

 

 

[20 Episodes – Airtime: July 2018 – November 2018]

 

Lovers of all things make-up, this one is for you! A beauty blogger goes through a traumatic accident.

 

While she is recovering from her injuries, her soul can only survive in a gaming environment.

 

She then gets whisked away to a VR game inside the world of Imperial China.

 

Now, the only way she can return to her body is by completing quests and missions using only and only makeup and cosmetics!

 

As the series progresses, the levels she has to cross keep getting harder but she is resilient.

 

Another sweet anime to watch when you’re just in the mood for something light.

 

 

25. Xiyouji Zhi Dasheng Guilai: Monkey King: Hero is Back

 

 

Animals in Chinese culture play a massive significance in Chinese New Year’s.

 

So, for them to inculcate it into an anime was just expected, Monkey King is exceptionally talented in combat and walked freely through all the realms.

 

However, the King was known for breaking the rules of the Gods for which he was imprisoned in an ice cage under the mountains.

 

Now without the King, China is in shambles and rampant with monsters and evil beings.

 

However, one young child while trying to escape from the clutches of an evil monster, happens on chance upon a unique icy pillar, he accidentally releases the Monkey King.

 

We now follow, the Monkey King trying to regain his assertion and save China along with the little boy from the evil powers befallen their land.

 

The movie is an interesting watch and the imagery and animation are great!

 

 

24. Hitori No Shita: The Outcast

 

 

[36 Episodes – Airtime: July 2016 – May 2018]

 

We follow the footsteps of Chou Soran, he comes from a powerful family. After learning that his grandfather’s grave was pillaged, Soran must find out why.

 

On his way there, Soran sees zombies who begin to attack him. He is then saved by a beautiful girl, Fuu Houhou.

 

Now, here we learn that just like Fuu and Soran, who are supernatural beings and can use their Ki and Martial Arts as weapons are known as the ‘outcast’.

 

Soran is now being headhunted by people from evil organizations but Fuu helps Soran find his way.

 

This isn’t your usual zombie anime, this is a slapstick comedy, shounen, and features tonnes of dry humor.

 

 

23. Ze Tian Ji: Way of Choices

 

 

[49 Episodes – Airtime: July 2015 – May 2020]

 

When a mysterious meteor crashed onto the earth, pieces of it landed on the Eastern Continent.

 

As people gathered around it to assess the mystical totems carved on the meteor. They began understanding its purpose and discovered the Way and also established the Tradition.

 

Much later, a young orphan Chen Chang Shang treads on a journey that will change his fate.

 

The pacing of these 13 minutes episodes seems a little slow but helps create the world and understand the plot giving an in-depth perspective.

 

The character designs are pretty unique, and while some seem to like some don’t find it quite appealing.

 

 

22. Feng Li Yu Xiu: Spirit Wind Elegance

 

 

[12 Episodes – Airtime: March 2017 – Feb 2021]

 

This series actually might be a good place to start with introducing yourself to Chinese Anime.

 

Feng Li Yu Xiu, a wuxia martial arts action-adventure story explores the journey of a powerful and mysterious white-haired martial artist named Bai Yu Xiu who along with a petty thief Feng Ling Er travels the world without any care in the world.

 

With rumors of Bai Yu Xiu being exceptionally well-gifted in martial arts and undefeatable, the two face many a precarious situation leading up to a conspiracy against them.

 

The world is beautifully animated and the main characters are well-fleshed out. Overall, you could binge-watch this show with just 20 minutes of each episode and a great storyline.

 

 

21. Yaoguai Mingdan: Monster List

 

 

[39 Episodes – Airtime: December 2014 – December 2017]

 

When Feng Xi, our protagonist’s life changes when he meets his girlfriend, Su Jiuer who is a monster wolf girl.

 

Su must protect Feng from other monster girls like Hehuan, who absorbs the life force out of people and ends up killing them.

 

Guo Shang, a girl priest disciple, has been sent to watch over Feng as he is surrounded by monsters.

 

Feng now stuck in a trio must help maintain the balance between the three as he holds the key to maintaining the peace of the world.

 

It’s a romance /harem /adventure /action-comedy show with a good dose of fanservice as well.

 

 

20. Aishen Qiaokeli -ing: Cupid's Chocolate

 

 

[30 Episodes – Airtime: December 2015 – April 2018]

 

Like any other harem story, Aishen Qiaokeli -ing too features a loner/average male protagonist who goes by the name of Jiang Hao Yi.

 

He suddenly becomes the Harem King of his school after eating some cursed chocolate and is surrounded by girls vying for his attention and touch.

 

Jiang doesn’t know any of the girls who are confessing to him! Pretty sure, many people out there would love to get some of these cursed chocolates too.

 

The only way he can lift the spell is by fulfilling the girl’s wishes. The animation is beautiful and the heroines look amazing!

 

The series is fun fanservice series for you to gorge on.

 

 

19. Feng Yu Zhou: The Wind Guardians

 

 

When Xiaoyanggang gets attacked by Rakshasa, a young blind man, Lang Ming, who dreams of martyrdom ends up losing his mother who suddenly disappears in the attack.

 

She was dependent on him for surviving even though he only earned by swindling in the market.

 

Lang Ming must now embark on a journey to find his mother and uncover hidden truths as beasts, gods and even the legendary chivalrous appear before him.

 

The movie Feng Yu Zhou released in 2018 was also screened at the Pingyao Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon International Film Festival.

 

 

18. Reikenzan: Hoshikuzu-tachi no Utage: Spirit Blade Mountain

 

 

[24 Episodes – Airtime: January 2016 – March 2017]

 

An adaptation from the manhua, Congqian Youzuo Lingjianshan, Spirit Blade Mountain takes you on a fantastical journey whilst exploring Chinese Culture.

 

In the nine provinces of Kyushu, a prophecy existed that foretold the exhaustion of the spiritual energies of the heavens and the lands due to falling comets.

 

However, the comet passes causing no trouble but a boy named, Ouriku who seems to possess a mystical soul takes birth in the remote village of the Sokei region.

 

Later, the Reikenzan clan, a supreme sect of the nine provinces, decide to hold examinations to find talented individuals and deem them fit to become sages.

 

Ouriku sets on a journey to become a part of the examinations, but fate has something else planned for him.

 

It’s sort of different from your usual donghua so you must give this a shot!

 

 

17. Ling Qi: Spiritpact

 

 

[32 Episodes – Airtime: June 2016 – May 2018]

 

You Keika tries to make ends meet by doing some odd jobs around the city.

 

After he has a chance encounter with a white-haired man in a junkyard, he ends up dying under mysterious circumstances and finds himself in the spirit world as a spirit.

 

The man he met was Tanmoku Ki, the 13th Youmeshi of the Tanmoki clan of exorcists.

 

He comes across You as a spirit and decides on helping him but on a condition.

 

He asks him to make a pact with him, you will be offered protection from humans by Tanmoku, and You must become his spirit shadow, keeping him guarded at all times.

 

As the story progresses, the roles of master and servant soon turn to this veiled emotion of admiration.

 

This is a shounen-ai anime series picked up from the manhua by the same name, it makes for a pretty decent watch.

 

The animation, character designs, and world-building are great. There is also a Japanese version of this anime series under the title Spiritpact with a few tweaks.

 

 

16. The Daily Life of the Immortal King

 

 

[15 Episodes – Airtime: January 2020 – March 2020]

 

The Daily Life of the Immortal King follows the story of Wang Ling. Wang Ling is a cultivation genius who was able to achieve new realms every two years since the time of his birth.

 

He’s leading an extremely low-key life being a cultivator, but now that he’s 16 years old, he has to face his toughest fight yet.

 

Senior High School. With hurdles coming his way, Wang Ling tries to fight through them and keep his daily life as a cultivator under wraps, but it seems difficult to do so.

 

The anime is fun and the plot is very interesting to watch. A season two is on the cards as well as was to release in 2021 as well.

 

That’s how popular this show is!

 

 

15. Wo Shi Jiang Xiaobai: I'm Joybo

 

 

[24 Episodes – Airtime: November 2017 – January 2019]

 

Wo Shi Jiang Xiaobai is a beautiful love story following two main protagonists, Jiang Xiaobai and Tong Li.

 

Jiang loses his memories in a freak accident and cannot remember anyone. However, he does have a recurring dream of a girl whose face he can’t see clearly.

 

As he works as a trainee in Editorial Office No.2 of Weng Zheng Magazine, he quickly progresses and starts his job as an editor.

 

There he meets with Tong Li, an author who is in town to launch her new novel.

 

He becomes her editor and they eventually lovers. As the story progresses into a new season, the lovers are at a crossroads where Tong Li suffers from a creative block and Jiang recollects memories of wanting to play music.

 

It’s a sweet, slice-of-life love of two individuals with a great setting. The anime series is much loved!

 

 

14. Huyao Shao Hongniang: Fox Spirit Matchmaker

 

 

This is an ongoing series with an exhaustive 11 seasons featuring the story of a Fox Spirit Matchmaker, who can make humans and youkai who are in love stay together using magic.

 

Tushan Susu is an innocent fox who wants to become a famed matchmaker, but she is a ditzy matchmaker who’s hadn't any luck as such.

 

When Susu has an unimaginable encounter with Yuechu, who then ends up getting dragged into aiding her to bring two estranged lovers together.

 

Now on a journey together, Susu and Yuechu find out who they are and who they were.

 

It is a heartwarming story of couples who are deeply in love. Some even find this story as being very underrated given that it has so many seasons.

 

Japanese dub of the series is available as well.

 

 

13. Shuangsheng Lingtan: Twin Spirit Detectives

 

 

[20 Episodes – Airtime: August 2016 – January 2017]

 

Twin brothers Sun Xiaotu and Sun Xiaohu are paranormal investigators.

 

Their usual day of work handling some pretty weird cases however one bizarre haunting set off a series of odd events challenging their perception of the otherworld.

 

The twins must now uncover new secrets and face ghosts charting a difficult path for them.

 

Originally based on a manhua of the same name, which already had a decent following.

 

This donghua is worth a watch since it has just the right amount of suspense, action, and psychological play.

 

 

12. Meng Qi Shi Shen: Adorable Food Goddess

 

 

[12 Episodes – Airtime: December 2018 – March 2019]

 

Based on a Chinese web novel by the same name, Ye Jiayao who belongs to another time finds herself in the body of Ye Jinxuan.

 

With a dream to open up her restaurant in Huai Song, Ye thinks she can finally achieve her dream and aims for the stars.

 

But some villains don’t want to see her reach the top with her cooking and plant controversies against her.

 

There are hints of romance in it and of course, it’s a food-based anime so the animation and character designs are amazing and drool-worthy.

 

Fans of the show are eagerly waiting for a new season to arrive!

 

 

11. Quanzhi Fashi: Full-time Magister

 

 

Mo Fan, the son of a poor laborer who has a crippled sister, must find odd jobs to make ends meet.

 

However, he gets transported to another universe that seems much like his but only that magic is above science.

 

In this realm, magic students are taught to use spells and build their skills to fend off scary beasts lurking in the forest on the outskirts of the city.

 

He dreams of being a magician too and even gets accepted into the prestigious academy.

 

Nothing can bring him down even though he gets bullied for being the son of a poor man.

 

Mo Fan harnesses the ability to ignite the fire element and also the lightning element! The show has a great rating and overall fun to watch.

 

 

10. Mi Yu Xing Zhe: Uncharted Walker

 

 

[12 Episodes – Airtime: February 2018 – April 2018]

 

A group of misfits gets trapped on a desolate island after they wake up from sleep.

 

Now surrounded by viruses, tribal people, and tons of other hurdles, how will this group survive?

 

This is a very highly rated anime by the fans, the characters are bang on including getting the character traits and mannerisms right.

 

The plot has a lot of twists and obscure turns. The animation style is slightly mediocre, but overall, the show takes you on a fun ride.

 

However, the season ends with a weird cliffhanger and an eagerness for a season two is prevalent amongst the fans.

 

 

9. Yao Shen Ji: Tales of Demons & Gods

 

 

[80 Episodes – Airtime: May 2017 – May 2018]

 

Now now, don’t get put off by the CG animation, this is great donghua if you can excuse the horrid animation.

 

Based on the novel of the same name, Nie Li, the protagonist of the series was a weak demon spiritist at first.

 

However, with grave determination, Nie manages to become a force to be reckoned with and stands at the pinnacle of the martial arts world.

 

During a fight with the Sage Emperor and deity-ranked beasts, Nie Li ends up losing his life.

 

Now his soul is sent back to the 13-year-old boy that he was and goes back to being the weaker one in class.

 

Yet again, Nie displays great drive and aims to help those in need and protect his city and destroy the Sacred Family who destroyed the city in his past life.

 

 

8. Xiao Lu He Xiao Lan: Beryl and Sapphire

 

 

[72 Episodes – Airtime: August 2018 – Feb 2019]

 

Maybe one of the most unique shows on the list, Xiao Lu He Xiao Lan features a good-hearted Beryl and a shy Sapphire.

 

Beryl and Sapphire, can go from being the best of friends to being arch-enemies at their will.

 

Each episode is set in a different world where they generally greet each other with angst.

 

Using the main characters as the pivots to the storyline, the storyline keeps getting intriguing as you progress ahead.

 

It delves into quite a few sci-fi concepts but the crux of it all is the relationship Beryl and Sapphire share, which is amazing to watch.

 

You must know this is a shounen-ai series yet it’s not in your face and overtly BL.

 

This title should be on your watch list!

 

 

7. Da Yu Hai Tang or Big Fish & Begonia

 

 

 

The movie Da Yu Hai Tang or Big Fish & Begonia is an absolute delight to watch.

 

Based on the concept of reincarnation, Big Fish & Begonia is set in a mystical world where spirits reside overlooking the natural order of the human world.

 

A girl named Chun has to now explore the rite of passage by experiencing the human world all by herself.

 

But when she goes through a bad experience, a young boy tries to save her but ends up drowning in the incident.

 

Chun now feeling guilty meets the Soul Keeper and asks to revive the young boy instead of her lifespan.

 

But messing with the way of the spirit world has its repercussions on the natural order.

 

The movie takes a dark turn where she must decide if she should sacrifice everything to save him or let go of her obligation to the natural order.

 

This is an exceptionally well-made movie with an even better plot. This is an absolute must-watch.

 

 

6. Tong Ling Fei: Psychic Princess

 

 

[16 Episodes – Airtime: November 2018 – April 2019]

 

Now the show is classified as a comedy, or romance drama but the story is anything but.

 

Qian Yunshang’s marriage to Ye Youming is fixed by the emperor. But Ye is worried that she may be treated badly due to the tensions between the two families.

 

Qian Aotian then decides that he will put forth his hidden daughter, whom they banished due to her unusual powers, Qian Yun Xi.

 

Qian agrees despite having been treated badly by her own family only to be rejected by Qian Yunshang.

 

However, Qian Yun Xi is extremely adorable and he cannot resist her charm. She is extremely powerful and leads the story on her shoulders.

 

It’s a fun anime to watch after she enters the frame making it comedic yet tasteful.

 

 

5. Zhen Hun Jie: Rakshasa Street

 

 

Requiem Street, is a place where all spirits and humans co-exist. However, not every human can just walk into these bustling streets.

 

Xia Ling, who becomes a rare soul user after a chance encounter gets his guardian spirit.

 

But it’s not all like it seems. We now follow Xia Ling's walk on journey to understand why he was chosen to be one as well as his guardian spirit.

 

The anime is based on the manhua by the name of Requiem Street.

 

Now the story is quite a bit of a hit amongst the fans but the animation which is some CG infused with 2D animation just doesn’t sit well with too many.

 

The plot is pretty generic but it is quite popular amongst the donghua-loving community.

 

 

4. Quan Zhi Gao Shou: The King's Avatar

 

 

[24 Episodes – Airtime: April 2017 – Dec 2020]

 

One of the more popular donghua from the list, Quan Zhi Gao Shou, is a sure-shot favorite in the Chinese anime community.

 

Ye Xiu, was an acclaimed gamer and a top-tier professional player in the MMOPRG game, Glory.

 

He was dubbed the “Battle God” due to the skills and stats he had developed over the years.

 

But in due course, Ye gets asked to quit the game with his team and leave his career as a gamer behind.

 

Now that Ye works at an internet café, he knows that the tenth server of the game has been released, he dives straight back into the game with a new character, ‘Lord Grim’.

 

With years of experience, Ye can perform better than most and aims to achieve his dream of becoming the first to reach Glory’s summit.

 

 

3. Douluo Dalu: Soul Land

 

 

The ongoing series Douluo Dalu or Soul Land. In the Douluo, every resident possesses an innate spirit, some of them can harness their spiritual powers and become Spirit Masters, which looked like a noble profession.

 

Tang who was a disciple of the most prestigious Tang Sect’s martial arts clan, was their ace student in using hidden weapons.

 

However, Tang forsakes his current life to achieve the clan’s forbidden lore. Tang leaps Hell’s Peak but only to find him reincarnated in a strange world.

 

A world where he is a blacksmith’s son. Now at the ripe age of 6, Tang participates in the Spirit Master ceremony only to discover that he has a useless spirit.

 

But his powers are some of the most formidable amongst the rest. Even though this title is a hit or miss amongst many, mainly due to the animation style, the story keeps you hooked.

 

 

2. Doupo Cangqiong: Battle Through the Heavens

 

 

Xiao Yan, is a young boy who possessed great power that no one could comprehend. He and his family were feared and respected due to his powers.

 

He even gets engaged to a girl from a powerful family, Yan Ran Na Lan.

 

After he turned 11, his powers began to diminish under mysterious circumstances. Three years later, he was deemed useless and his family was looked down upon.

 

Yan Ran now wants to break her engagement with him since she doesn’t want a useless husband.

 

Xiao then challenges her to a duel in 3 years, in which if he wins, he gets to do whatever he wants with her and if she wins, she gets to break the engagement.

 

The initial season of the anime is a bit drab in world-building and character arcs but it becomes very interesting as your progress on to the further seasons.

 

The animation style is 3D animation and that is something you will have to get used to if you’re intending on watching Chinese animation.

 

Despite all of that, the show is highly rated.

 

 

1. Mo Dao Zu Shi: Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation

 

 

[23 Episodes – Airtime: July 2018 – Sept 2019]

 

A state of immortality known as Xian is something that all cultivators strive to achieve.

 

Yet to every yin there’s a yang and there is a forbidden demonic path or Mo Dao that cultivators must evade.

 

Cultivator, Wei Wuxia, accidentally walks the demonic path during his experiments and is then accompanied by chaos and destruction leading to his demise by only his closest ally.

 

Much later, Wuxia is reincarnated as a lunatic and his former classmate, Lang Wangji.

 

As they set out on a supernatural journey plagued with intrigue and hurdles, the two end up forming a very unexpected bond.

 

This is the current top-ranking donghua that all fans love. Season 3 is due to be released as well. the animation style is flawless, and the music is amazing.

 

It’s a beautiful show overall. Oh not to mention, it’s a shounen-ai!