2025 emerges as a landmark year for Xianxia (仙侠) — a genre blending immortal heroes, ancient mythology, and Taoist-inspired cultivation.
This guide highlights the most anticipated Xianxia anime of 2025. Dive into epic tales of celestial battles, mortal struggles, and philosophical depth, all while immersing yourself in China's historical and mythological heritage.
A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality: Overseas Strife 凡人修仙传：外海风云
A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality: Overseas Strife 凡人修仙传：外海风云
- Aired: January 2025 (ongoing)
- Genres: Cultivation, Adventure, Political Intrigue
- Cultural Themes: Han Dynasty aesthetics, Confucian values, Taoist philosophy
Based on Wang Yu's legendary novel A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality, this highly anticipated arc follows Han Li, a pragmatic mortal navigating the treacherous world of cultivation. The Overseas Strife installment takes the story beyond the familiar sect conflicts and into uncharted maritime territories, where Han Li faces foreign cultivators, demonic sea creatures, and ancient island ruins hiding lost techniques. As an ordinary man relying on intellect rather than destiny, Han Li's journey encapsulates the enduring appeal of the underdog—a mortal striving for ascension in a world dominated by celestial elites.
The animation's hyper-realistic art style, reminiscent of traditional Chinese landscape paintings, breathes life into mist-shrouded mountains, oceanic whirlpools, and intricately designed talismans. The attention to detail in spellcasting animations and martial arts sequences sets a new standard for the cultivation genre.
The series draws from Han-era architecture, weaponry, and calligraphy, maintaining historical accuracy in its depiction of cultivation sects and immortal courts.
The narrative subtly integrates Daoist principles like wu wei (effortless action), demonstrated in Han Li's survival tactics—knowing when to fight, when to retreat, and when to manipulate fate itself.
The Overseas Strife arc expands on Chinese sea legends, featuring creatures akin to the Dragon Kings and lore inspired by the Classic of Mountains and Seas (山海经).
This series is a rare example of a cultivation story that prioritizes strategy over brute force. Unlike many protagonists who rely on fate or divine intervention, Han Li's relentless pragmatism and adaptability make him one of the most compelling characters in Chinese fantasy literature.
The Long Ballad 长歌行
- Aired: February 2025
- Genres: Historical Epic, Revenge, Political Drama
- Cultural Themes: Tang Dynasty history, Silk Road trade, Uyghur-Chinese relations
Adapted from Xia Da's award-winning manhua, The Long Ballad follows Li Changge, a Tang princess whose family is massacred in a coup led by her uncle, Li Shimin (the future Emperor Taizong). Forced into exile, she disguises herself as a male strategist and embarks on a journey across the vast Tang Empire, seeking allies and vengeance. However, as she witnesses the complexities of governance and diplomacy, her black-and-white perception of justice begins to blur.
Her travels take her along the Silk Road, where she encounters tribal leaders, warlords, and merchants, leading to an unlikely alliance—and romance—with Ashina Sun, a Turkic general caught between loyalty to his people and the growing influence of the Tang court.
The anime faithfully reconstructs the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty, known for its cosmopolitan culture, open trade policies, and military conquests. The interactions between Han Chinese, Turkic nomads, Sogdian merchants, and Persian travelers showcase the diversity of the era.
Flowing ruqun robes, elaborate guan headpieces, and embroidered hufu (nomadic attire) reflect meticulous historical research. Scenes set in teahouses and literary gatherings immerse viewers in the intellectual life of Chang'an, where poets like Li Bai and Du Fu flourished.
At its core, The Long Ballad is a story of personal growth and cultural reconciliation. Initially driven by revenge, Li Changge gradually realizes that true leadership requires wisdom and compromise. Her journey challenges traditional gender roles, as she proves herself in military and political spheres traditionally dominated by men.
Unlike typical historical revenge dramas, this series offers a nuanced exploration of justice and leadership, making it both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating.
Stellar Transformations Season 6 星辰变第六季
- Aired: January 2025 (ongoing)
- Genres: Space Fantasy, Cultivation, Multiverse Adventure
- Cultural Themes: Chinese cosmology, interdimensional travel
Based on I Eat Tomatoes' seminal novel Stellar Transformations, this series follows Qin Yu, a mortal who defies cosmic laws in pursuit of ultimate power. Season 6 propels him into the Divine Realm, where deities, celestial emperors, and intergalactic factions wage war over the legendary Meteor Tear, a mysterious artifact said to unlock the highest tier of cultivation.
Unlike previous seasons, which focused on Qin Yu's rise from an ordinary human to a cultivator traversing mortal and immortal planes, this new chapter introduces divine cities, ethereal battlefields, and the politics of godly realms. The shift from classical cultivation to cosmic warfare blurs the lines between wuxia, science fiction, and Daoist metaphysics.
Stellar Transformations blends traditional martial arts with interdimensional physics, creating a unique form of "quantum cultivation" where energy manipulation operates on cosmic scales. Qin Yu's techniques now involve black hole formations, gravitational distortions, and celestial teleportation.
The Book of Changes (I Ching) plays a crucial role in Qin Yu's understanding of the Divine Realm, as the show explores the Daoist principle of universal transformation through celestial phenomena. Traditional sword-fighting techniques are adapted into high-speed aerial battles, where cultivators use space-warping techniques to duel across galaxies.
Stellar Transformations redefines cultivation storytelling by merging wuxia philosophy with cosmic adventure. With unparalleled animation quality and mind-bending battle sequences, Season 6 elevates the donghua to a true multiversal epic.
Ruthless Valiant Season 7 不良人第七季
- Aired: March 2025
- Genres: Wuxia, Political Conspiracy, Martial Arts
- Cultural Themes: Tang-Song transition, Silk Road intrigue
A long-running fan-favorite, Ruthless Valiant returns with its most ambitious season yet, taking protagonist Li Xingyun deep into the Northern Desert. Tasked with uncovering the secrets of the enigmatic Jiang Clan, he finds himself entangled in a web of betrayals, shifting alliances, and long-buried Tang imperial secrets. The narrative delves into the power struggles following the An Lushan Rebellion, a pivotal event that nearly toppled the Tang Dynasty.
The introduction of Ashina, a nomadic warrior from the Western Regions, adds a fresh dynamic to the story. As a descendant of the once-powerful Ashina tribe of the Uyghur Khaganate, his conflicting loyalties between his people and the Tang court create an emotional subplot mirroring real historical tensions.
The series highlights the political turbulence that defined the late Tang period, foreshadowing the eventual decline of the dynasty.
From Chang'an's merchant quarters to the vast deserts where Persian and Uyghur traders meet, the setting immerses viewers in the melting pot of cultures that thrived during this period.
Inspired by traditional Chinese ink paintings, the show's animation intensifies its aesthetic appeal, particularly in desert battle sequences where shifting sands and stylized combat movements blend seamlessly.
Unlike conventional wuxia series that focus solely on martial arts, Ruthless Valiant offers a gripping mix of political conspiracy, historical drama, and stunning action sequences, making it a must-watch for history buffs and martial arts enthusiasts alike.
Ling Cage: Incarnation Season 2 灵笼第二季
- Aired: Mid-2025
- Genres: Post-Apocalyptic Sci-Fi, Survival Horror
- Cultural Themes: Daoist immortality, ecological collapse
Returning after a long hiatus, Ling Cage reimagines the Daoist pursuit of immortality as a cautionary tale of genetic experimentation gone wrong. Season 2 follows Bai Yuekui and her team as they venture into the mysterious Ecological Core, the last bastion of hope in a dying world. However, what they find is not salvation, but the horrifying truth behind the "Ling Lanterns"—biotechnological artifacts that grant longevity at the cost of human essence.
As the survivors battle mutated spiritual beasts and unravel the dark history of the world's downfall, the show explores the consequences of humanity's obsession with power and immortality.
Traditionally, Daoism promotes harmony with nature, yet Ling Cage twists this ideal into a chilling warning about mankind's disruption of the natural order.
Instead of traditional spiritual refinement, characters rely on bio-engineered enhancements, showcasing a futuristic take on neidan (inner alchemy). From ruined skyscrapers overgrown with vines to eerie ghost cities patrolled by biomechanical guardians, the visual design captures the eerie beauty of a world on the brink of collapse.
By blending Xianxia elements with post-apocalyptic survival, Ling Cage offers a unique take on immortality—one that questions whether eternal life is truly a blessing or a curse.
The Curio Cabinet of Myths and Delicacies 风物妖厨
- Aired: March 2025
- Genres: Fantasy Slice-of-Life, Culinary Adventure
- Cultural Themes: Shan Hai Jing monsters, Chinese gastronomy
Imagine a world where legendary creatures from Shan Hai Jing run a restaurant specializing in mystical cuisine! The Curio Cabinet of Myths and Delicacies follows Xiao Wei, a young apprentice cook who stumbles upon a hidden eatery where mythical beasts serve dishes infused with spiritual properties.
The show's heartwarming episodic format introduces a variety of traditional Chinese dishes, each with a backstory rooted in folklore. Whether it's a Phoenix Egg Congee that restores vitality or a Dragonfish Hotpot that grants temporary clairvoyance, each meal ties culinary traditions to supernatural lore.
From Buddha Jumps Over the Wall to Longevity Noodles, the show educates audiences on the history and symbolism behind classic Chinese dishes. By portraying fearsome beasts like Qiongqi (a winged tiger) and Taotie (a gluttonous demon) as comedic or misunderstood characters, the series offers a fresh take on ancient myths.
Hand-Painted Aesthetic: Inspired by classical Chinese food illustrations, the art style enhances the sensory experience, making each meal feel as immersive as it is enchanting. In a market saturated with action-heavy donghua, The Curio Cabinet of Myths and Delicacies offers a delightful mix of humor, food culture, and mythology, appealing to foodies and fantasy lovers alike.
Renegade Immortal 仙逆
- Aired: March 2025
- Genres: Cultivation, Action, Fantasy
- Cultural Themes: Daoist philosophy, rebellion against fate, perseverance in cultivation
Renegade Immortal takes the classic “mortal cultivation” formula and elevates it to new heights with stunning storytelling and visual mastery. The protagonist, Wang Lin, starts as a humble young man but embarks on an arduous journey of power and revenge, where his path is filled with both ruthless battles and deep philosophical dilemmas.
What sets this adaptation apart is its incredible presentation of the “Hua Fan” (Transformation into Mortality) realm. The animation team masterfully blends ink-painting aesthetics with high-end 3D rendering, bringing to life a world that is both ethereal and imposing. The sheer depth of Wang Lin's character arc—his internal struggles, his emotional connections, and his relentless pursuit of strength—adds layers of complexity to the narrative.
Unlike many cultivation series that focus solely on leveling up, Renegade Immortal delves into the themes of fate and free will. Is defying the heavens truly an act of liberation, or does it make one a pawn in an even grander cosmic scheme? This philosophical depth, combined with intense action sequences and top-tier animation, makes Renegade Immortal a standout in 2025.
Shrouding the Heavens 遮天
- Aired: TBA 2025 (PV released in 2024)
- Genres: Epic Fantasy, Martial Arts
- Cultural Themes: Cosmic mythology, ancient clan warfare, Daoist "Nine Secrets"
If Renegade Immortal is the pinnacle of personal cultivation, then Shrouding the Heavens is the embodiment of grand-scale cosmic storytelling. The series begins with one of the most legendary openings in Chinese fantasy—Nine Dragons pulling a mysterious bronze coffin across the stars. The animation team has meticulously recreated this iconic scene with breathtaking detail, immersing viewers in a world where mythology and reality intertwine.
What makes Shrouding the Heavens exceptional is its expansive universe. Protagonist Ye Fan's rise is not just a tale of personal growth but a journey that spans civilizations, forgotten gods, and cosmic entities. The show's meticulous attention to ancient texts, mythical beasts, and divine artifacts makes it feel like an animated Shan Hai Jing (Classic of Mountains and Seas) come to life.
Despite its enormous worldbuilding, the animation studio has skillfully streamlined the story, ensuring that newcomers won't be overwhelmed by its complex lore. Whether you're in it for the thrilling battles, the intricate power systems, or the deep lore rooted in Chinese mythology, Shrouding the Heavens delivers an experience unlike any other.
Perfect World 完美世界
- Aired: 2025 (New Year Specials continuation)
- Genres: Mythological Action
- Cultural Themes: Tribal immortality conflicts, divine beasts, ancestral legacies
As one of the longest-running donghua series, Perfect World has reached new heights in 2025. This season takes us deeper into the protagonist Shi Hao's journey, as he steps onto the battlefield of the Upper Realm, facing his greatest challenges yet.
What truly makes this season shine is its adaptation of legendary battles such as the Dual Shi Showdown and the Upper Realm Wars. The fight choreography has been elevated to cinematic levels, particularly with the introduction of the Kunpeng Divine Technique. The moment Shi Hao summons the primordial Kunpeng—its wings shattering space as it soars through the heavens—is a visual masterpiece and a testament to the animation team's expertise.
Beyond the action, Perfect World sets the stage for the ominous Dark Turmoil, foreshadowing an era of chaos and war that will test Shi Hao's strength and resolve. The combination of high-speed battles, emotional storytelling, and meticulous foreshadowing makes this season one of the most impactful yet.
Battle Through the Heavens 斗破苍穹
- Aired: 2022 (ongoing)
- Genres: Cultivation, Adventure
- Cultural Themes: Alchemy mastery, clan rivalries, redemption arcs
"Thirty years east of the river, thirty years west—do not look down on the young!" This legendary quote has been ingrained in donghua culture, and in 2025, Battle Through the Heavens continues to prove why it remains a fan favorite.
This year's season brings the Central Plains Arc, a turning point in protagonist Xiao Yan's journey. The stakes are higher than ever, as he seeks revenge against the Soul Hall, resurrect his mentor Yao Lao, and dominate the Pill Tower competitions. The dynamic between Xiao Yan, Medusa, and Xun Er is also more refined, with emotional depth replacing the usual over-the-top romantic drama.
Visually, the series has never been better. The elemental clashes between Heavenly Flames are dazzling, with the contrast between the scorching Green Lotus Core Flame and the eerie Bone Spirit Cold Fire creating a spectacular display of power. The animation's use of particle effects and fluid motion capture ensures that each battle is both exhilarating and immersive.
This season of Battle Through the Heavens proves that a series can remain fresh and engaging even after years on air—by refining storytelling, maintaining narrative coherence, and delivering jaw-dropping action sequences.
Sword of Coming Season 2 剑来第二季
- Aired: TBA 2025 Summer (PV released)
- Cultural Themes: Confucian-Daoist sword ethics, mortal vs. immortal realms
While most donghua rely on fast-paced action and flashy battles, Sword of Coming distinguishes itself through a more thoughtful and poetic approach. Protagonist Chen Ping'an's journey is not just about mastering the sword but also about understanding himself and the world around him.
The visual artistry of this adaptation is remarkable. The Sword Qi Wall, inscribed with the wisdom of fallen sages, is beautifully rendered in ink-brush textures, while sword duels unfold like calligraphy strokes on an endless scroll. The series seamlessly integrates Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist philosophies, making it an intellectual delight for those who appreciate deeper storytelling.
Unlike traditional power-driven narratives, Sword of Coming explores themes of destiny, self-discipline, and moral dilemmas, proving that Xianxia can be just as introspective as it is action-packed.
Tale of Herding God 牧神记
- Aired: October 2024 (ongoing)
- Genres: Fantasy, Cultivation
- Cultural Themes: Primordial chaos mythology, human-god power dynamics
What if the gods were not benevolent beings but terrifying entities that must be slain? This is the premise that makes Tales of Herding Gods one of the most intriguing and unsettling donghua of 2025.
The setting, Great Ruins, is an eerie yet mesmerizing place where forgotten deities lurk in the shadows. The animation's use of gothic architecture and cosmic horror elements, combined with Chinese folklore, creates a visual style reminiscent of Bloodborne mixed with ancient mythology.
The protagonist Qin Mu's transformation from a naive boy into a cunning strategist is handled with precision. The most striking moment of the season—Qin Mu's confrontation with the “God within himself”—is an emotional and visual spectacle that questions the very nature of divinity and free will.
For those looking for a darker, more thought-provoking twist on the Xianxia genre, Tales of Herding Gods is a must-watch.
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