In the Tang Dynasty, it was considered outdated for women not to wear large flowers in their hair. Today, who would dare to wear such big, red flowers? The Tang people's preference for peony hairpins was inseparable from their love for peonies. Because peonies were sufficiently luxurious and gorgeous, and some rare varieties were even more precious, it was necessary to wear a whole flower to display one's status. Moreover, after wearing a peony, other flowers could not be worn, hence the popular custom of wearing a single large flower on the head. Additionally, the Tang Dynasty's "big head" hairstyle left some blank space, making a large flower appear less "flashy." The most famous example is the "Court Ladies Wearing Flowers" painting, which perfectly illustrates this adornment. This custom of wearing flowers reached its fashion peak during the High Tang period. However, as peonies were not easy to obtain, women also adorned their hair with lotus flowers, crabapple flowers, gardenias, and peonies as symbols of wealth and status. Not only women but also men wore flowers, often on their turbans. Some opted for modest small flowers, while others flaunted large blooms. How much did the Tang people love peonies? Every…

Tencent Video and Tencent Animation have become hubs for China's animation gems, blending ancient myths, futuristic sagas, and everything in between. Here are 10 must-watch Chinese anime series that redefine what Donghua can be. Battle Through the Heavens 斗破苍穹 At first glance, Battle Through the Heavens fits squarely into the classic cultivation formula: a fallen genius named Xiao Yan sets out to regain his status and surpass his former self. But unlike many shows where power-ups come too easily, BTTH is unusually committed to making every stage of Xiao Yan's progress feel earned—and hard-won. The early loss of his talent isn't just a narrative hook; it forces him to rely on intellect and resourcefulness rather than sheer force. When he gains a mysterious old mentor, Yao Lao, their relationship doesn't just serve as a shortcut for instant power. Yao Lao is more like a chessmaster, constantly reminding Xiao Yan that in this world, raw power alone won't keep you alive—reputation, alliance, and careful timing matter just as much. One of the most distinctive features of this show is its emphasis on alchemy. In many xianxia stories, alchemy is just background dressing—here, it becomes a central tool of conflict and control.…

Bilibili has become a hub for high-quality Chinese animation, offering diverse genres and fresh storytelling. This list highlights standout titles that resonate with both casual viewers and anime enthusiasts, prioritizing engaging plots and unique styles over abstract praise. The Outcast 一人之下 The Outcast (2016-present) is a Chinese animated series blending urban fantasy, dark comedy, and martial arts. With 5 seasons so far, it follows Zhang Chulan, a college student dragged into the hidden world of "Heteromorphs"—people with supernatural abilities—after his estranged grandfather’s death. Teaming up with the enigmatic, deadpan Feng Baby (who wields kitchen knives and an immortal past), he uncovers family secrets while dodging rival factions seeking ancient power. The show stands out for balancing gritty action with quirky humor. Fight scenes mix traditional Chinese martial arts (like Baguazhang) with creative superpowers—a villain manipulates chess pieces as weapons; another controls paper. The animation, while not ultra-polished, delivers kinetic choreography and distinct character designs, especially in later seasons. Character dynamics drive the story. Zhang Chulan evolves from a cynical slacker to a cunning strategist, using wit rather than brute strength. Feng Baby’s emotionless demeanor hides tragic depth, and villains like the scheming Wang Ye feel layered—driven by ambition, not pure…

Sixteen years. A mysterious return. A flute that summons the dead. The Untamed isn't just another xianxia drama—it's a layered story of loyalty, injustice, and love in a world where righteousness is often just a mask. If you're new to the series, or just trying to figure out why everyone online is crying about rabbits and swords, here's your complete guide through the twists and turns of The Untamed. Chapter 1: Bright Beginnings (Ep 1–5) Setting the stage: a world of cultivation, clans, and quiet bonds in bloom. At first glance, The Untamed opens like many fantasy dramas—a beautiful, intricate world of magic, sects, and sword-wielding disciples in flowing robes. But behind the lush aesthetics is a tightly-woven story of friendship, fate, and the beginning of something much deeper. The first five episodes introduce us to Wei Wuxian, the charismatic, mischievous adopted son of the Jiang clan. He's skilled, clever, and always smiling—the kind of guy who laughs off danger and breaks rules with charm. But there's more to him than the prankster image. He's loyal, kind-hearted, and deeply protective of those he loves. His journey begins with a visit to the Cloud Recesses, the strict and serene home of…

A dead man returns, not with a sword—but with a plan. Nirvana in Fire isn't just about revenge. It's about truth, loyalty, and rewriting fate in a world where justice has long been buried. Chapter 1: The Phoenix Rises in Disguise (Episodes 1–12) The first chapter of Nirvana in Fire introduces us to one of the most intriguing characters in the drama, Mei Changsu. A man who seems ordinary at first glance—refined, composed, and unassuming—but his eyes tell a different story. Mei Changsu is no ordinary strategist; he is Lin Shu, a young man who once led the mighty Chiyan Army, thought to be dead after a brutal massacre. Sixteen years ago, Lin Shu's family and soldiers were slaughtered under the orders of the corrupt Emperor and his factions. Lin Shu himself was gravely injured and left for dead, but through sheer determination, he survived—albeit with a body that now barely holds together. His body may have been broken, but his mind, his resolve, and his thirst for justice have only grown stronger. Under the guise of Mei Changsu, he enters the capital with one clear goal: revenge. In the opening episodes, Mei Changsu's true identity is hidden, and he…

Before Michelle Yeoh—Michelle Yeoh (杨紫琼)—became a global icon, she was already a standout presence in Chinese-language costume films. While most international fans know her from films like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, her roles in historical TV films are just as revealing. These films show a different side of Yeoh: not just a martial artist, but a storyteller navigating dynastic intrigue, loyalty, and sacrifice. Her work in costume films isn't extensive, but it's meaningful. Each project—whether based on classic wuxia novels or original scripts—places her in morally complex roles shaped by tradition, power, and personal duty. She's played warriors, nobles, and strategists, all grounded in different periods of Chinese history. This article highlights some of her most notable films—both mainstream and lesser-known—where history meets performance with striking results. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 卧虎藏龙 Released: 2000 Period Background: Set during the Qing Dynasty, but in a fictionalized jianghu world Genres: Wuxia, Historical Fantasy, Action, film Main Roles: Michelle Yeoh as Yu Shu Lien; Chow Yun-fat as Li Mu Bai; Zhang Ziyi as Jen Yu Adapted From: The fourth novel in the Crane-Iron pentalogy by Wang Dulu The film tells the story of Li Mu Bai, a legendary swordsman who plans to retire…

Yu Shuxin's (虞书欣) costume dramas redefine charm and grit in historical fantasy. With a career spanning quirky heroines, cunning spies, and soul-stirring immortals, she crafts characters that linger long after the credits roll. What sets her apart? A rare blend of authenticity and versatility. Whether navigating slapstick comedy or tragic love, Yu avoids overacting traps, grounding even the most fantastical roles in relatable humanity. This isn't accidental. Trained at Huace Film Academy, Yu meticulously dissects character motivations. For Love Between Fairy and Devil, she studied orchid symbolism to embody Xiao Lanhua's purity; in The Ingenious One, she trained in martial micro-expressions to portray a spy's calculated restraint. Yet she never loses her signature spark—the wit and warmth that make her heroines feel like friends. Love Between Fairy and Devil 苍兰诀 Aired: 2022 Period Background: A mythical realm divided between celestial beings, demons, and mortals. Genres: Xianxia, Romance, Adventure Main Roles: Yu Shuxin as Xiao Lanhua, Wang Hedi as Dongfang Qingcang Adapted From: The novel Cang Lan Jue by Jiu Lu Fei Xiang. The fantasy drama centers on Xiao Lanhua (Yu Shuxin), a low-ranking fairy tasked with repairing fate records in the celestial realm. Her life takes a dramatic turn when…

Fan Bingbing (范冰冰) , known for her magnetic presence in historical dramas, Fan doesn't just act—she resurrects legends. Take The Legend of Wu Mei Niang, where she transforms into Wu Zetian, the Tang Dynasty's ruthless empress. In one scene, Fan's character coldly outmaneuvers a rival, her gaze sharp as the ceremonial dagger she wields. Moments like these—raw, tense, and steeped in history—define her roles. From mischievous maids to cunning monarchs, Fan's performances bridge centuries, offering viewers not just entertainment but a visceral connection to China's dynastic sagas. The Legend of Wu Mei Niang 武媚娘传奇 Aired: 2014–2015 Period Background: Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) Genres: Historical, Political Drama Main Roles: Fan Bingbing as Wu Zetian (武则天), Zhang Fengyi as Emperor Taizong Adapted From: Historical accounts of China's only female emperor Spanning 80 episodes, the series chronicles Wu's ascent from a curious palace maid to China's only female emperor, a journey Fan embodies with striking nuance. Her performance captures both the vulnerability of young Wu Ruyi, who defies court norms by refusing to kneel during her first encounter with Emperor Taizong, and the calculated ruthlessness of the ruler who later dismantles political rivals. A standout moment occurs when Fan's Wu, wielding a ceremonial…

Jackson Yee (易烊千玺) isn't just a pop idol turned actor—he's a master at breathing life into historical roles. From strategists to poets, his costume dramas blend sharp storytelling with meticulous period details, making history feel urgent and relatable. Take The Longest Day in Chang'an, where he plays Li Bi, a Tang Dynasty genius racing against a 12-hour terrorist plot. The series doesn't just showcase palace politics; it thrusts viewers into dusty market alleys and smoke-filled war rooms, with Yi's calm intensity anchoring every scene. Or consider Hot Blooded Youth, where his character A Yi evolves from a revenge-driven orphan to a revolutionary hero, mirroring China's turbulent shift from dynasty to republic. These roles aren't pageantry—they're about flawed, thinking characters navigating crises that still echo today: corruption, identity, and sacrifice. Here are 3 Historical Series with Jackson Yee that you'll love watching over and over again. The Longest Day in Chang'an 长安十二时辰 Aired: 2019 Period Background: Tang Dynasty, during the Tianbao era under Emperor Xuanzong's reign, a golden age marked by cultural prosperity and political intrigue. Genres: Costume suspense, political thriller, action Main Roles: Lei Jiayin as Zhang Xiaojing, a disgraced detective-turned-prisoner; Jackson Yee as Li Bi, a prodigious young strategist.…

Under the Moonlight (锦囊妙录) offers a refreshing take for viewers tired of over-the-top fantasy romances in historical dramas. This Ming Dynasty-set mystery series combines crime-solving with a grounded, emotionally complex love triangle—a rare feat in a genre often dominated by clichés. With no flashy special effects or exaggerated power dynamics, the show focuses on relatable characters navigating personal growth, moral dilemmas, and realistic relationships. Breaking Stereotypes The story follows Luo Shu (Hu Bingqing), a former music courtesan turned detective, as she works to clear her name and gain freedom from her "low-status" identity. Her partners in crime-solving are Qi Menglin (Zhai Zilu), the impulsive yet well-meaning son of a high-ranking official, and Han Muzhi (played by an understated but compelling actor), a pragmatic county magistrate. What sets the love triangle apart is its avoidance of typical tropes: No "Chosen One" Nonsense: Luo Shu isn't a flawless genius. Her strength lies in sharp observation and emotional intelligence, particularly when interacting with female victims. Realistic Conflicts: Han Muzhi, engaged to a governor's daughter, initially prioritizes career over love. When he falls for Luo Shu, their relationship faces tangible barriers—class differences and existing obligations—not mythical curses. Growth Over Grand Gestures: Qi Menglin evolves…

Mystery dramas often serve as the biggest breeding ground for innovation among all TV genres. After all, a plot twist can only surprise the audience once—there's no selling the same mystery twice. But in recent years, even Chinese mystery dramas have started falling into a pattern. Traditional puzzle-solving has taken a backseat, while social realism has taken the wheel. In this style of storytelling, the "how" of the crime matters less than the "why." And in most Chinese series, those motives boil down to just three familiar categories: money, revenge, or the moral decay brought on by changing times. It's starting to feel like we've hit a ceiling. So what's the workaround? Instead of digging deeper into motives, newer Chinese mystery shows have started experimenting with world-building—new settings, new character dynamics, and more diverse perspectives. More and more series are moving beyond cookie-cutter cityscapes and male-centric narratives, embracing fresh geography and underrepresented voices. In 2025, we're likely to see this trend continue. Expect more mysteries set outside the usual suspects of big cities, more women-led storylines, and more genre-defying, format-bending experiments. With this expansion in scope might just come the kind of depth that the genre has been missing. Rethinking…

iQiyi's latest historical drama When the Clouds Rise has quickly become a standout in the crowded landscape of period epics. Adapted from the beloved Japanese anime The Story of Saiunkoku, the series reimagines its source material with a focus on political scheming, nuanced character arcs, and a female protagonist whose grit overshadows romantic tropes. While the star-studded cast initially drew attention, it's the unexpected depth of its storytelling and performances that have audiences hooked. Li Yitong Steals the Spotlight At the heart of the drama is Li Yitong's portrayal of Fan Yun, a role that defies expectations. The 33-year-old actress, often praised for her ethereal beauty, delivers her most compelling performance yet. Fan Yun begins as a humble village teacher, her wardrobe of faded blues and greys reflecting her modest life. But when recruited to mentor the seemingly apathetic Emperor Zi Liu Hui (played by Zeng Xuxi), her journey transforms into one of quiet revolution. Li masterfully navigates her character's evolution—from a woman cautiously navigating palace politics to a reformist challenging gender norms. A standout moment occurs in Episode 12, where Fan Yun debates court officials on allowing women to sit for imperial exams. Her delivery—firm yet devoid of theatricality—turns…

On April 18, the fantasy drama Ode to Ancient Melodies (古乐风华录), starring Li Yitong and Chen Xinhai, officially announced its full cast. This Chinese xianxia series blends traditional music with mythology, offering a fresh take on the genre. But can it avoid the pitfall of many xianxia dramas—visually rich yet narratively hollow? Destiny Between Musician and Spirit The story follows Yue Yangyang (Li Yitong), an ordinary musician, and Shao Yi (Chen Xinhai), a mysterious spirit born from an ancient instrument who awakens with no memories. Together, they journey to resolve the inner conflicts of twelve musical spirits and restore the divine music compendium, Ode to Ancient Melodies. What begins as a partnership of convenience evolves into mutual understanding, as they use the power of music to bring peace to their world. And yes, the male lead is literally the spirit of a guqin. Personifying Ancient Instruments with a National Aesthetic 1. "Instruments with Souls" – A Fantastical Premise The drama features twelve traditional Chinese instruments—guqin, pipa, xiao, etc.—each embodied by a character known as a "musical spirit." Musicians must train in harmony with these spirits, drawing power only when their hearts align. This personification breathes life into ancient objects, making…

Recently, netizens noticed something special about Liu Shishi's costume in her new drama. It looked surprisingly like a modern short-sleeved T-shirt. However, this is actually a traditional Tang Dynasty garment known as Tanling Banbi (坦领半臂). Let's break down the name. Tanling refers to the neckline style, while Banbi  indicates the sleeve length. Combined, they describe a specific type of clothing popular during the Tang Dynasty. The Tanling Neckline The Tanling neckline resembles modern pullover shirts. This style dates back to the Shang and Zhou dynasties, though its exact structure remains unclear. It became particularly fashionable in the early Tang Dynasty. Compared to the round neckline, Tanling features a wider opening, often extending to the chest. Some designs even include a pointed center, earning it the nickname "chicken heart neckline". The resemblance to T-shirts comes from this broad neckline, similar to today's fashion pullovers. However, unlike modern T-shirts, Tanling garments usually have buttons or ties at the front or side for fastening. This design allowed wearers to change clothes without disturbing their elaborate hairstyles. The Banbi Sleeves The Banbi sleeves, often seen in period dramas, are typically associated with maids due to their practicality. However, they were not exclusive to any social…

Have you ever wondered why women in Tang Dynasty-themed films and TV shows often appear 'top-heavy'? It's not an illusion! In classical makeup and styling, the hairstyles of the mid to late Tang Dynasty are famously referred to as 'big heads.' But why? Just take a look at the number of hair buns atop their heads. The trend of 'big heads' actually began to emerge as early as the late Eastern Han Dynasty, when noblewomen started favoring high buns, considering them a mark of beauty. The Tang Dynasty took this trend to its peak, leading to the creation of various types of artificial hairpieces (Yiji) specifically for high buns. What did women do if they wanted to achieve this look but lacked enough hair? They simply wore artificial hairpieces. Common materials for Yiji included real hair or wooden substitutes. For example, this spiral-shaped Yiji was made from 'fake hair,' lined with hemp cloth, wrapped with palm fibers, and dyed to create a spiral shape. It could be easily pressed onto the head, showcasing both antiquity and craftsmanship. The materials for Yiji were diverse, not limited to real hair. Thin wooden pieces were also used. One such example is the lacquered…

In many historical dramas, the veiled hat, known as Weimao (帷帽), is an indispensable element. A classic scene often features the heroine making her first appearance, with the wind lifting the delicate veil to reveal her breathtaking beauty. This accessory has earned the playful nickname "beautiful yet useless" among netizens, highlighting its aesthetic appeal over practicality. Origin and Features The Weimao originated as a decorative item in Hu (胡) attire. Before its emergence, another style called Mili (羃篱), made of bamboo, was prevalent. Typically crafted from cloth or gauze, the Weimao features a wide brim with hanging silk nets or thin silk panels that extend to the neck, serving as a face cover. During the Sui and Tang dynasties, the hanging nets were shortened, earning it the name "Qianlu" (浅露). Unlike the Mili, which covered the entire body, the Weimao's veil only concealed the upper body. Early Usage Historical records, such as those in the "Book of Jin," note that both men and women initially wore the Mili to shield themselves from wind and sand. Over time, it became predominantly a women's accessory, used to obscure their faces from public view during outings. Some humorously suggest that introverts might have…

During the Song Dynasty, pearl embellishments were a widespread fashion trend, but contrary to popular belief, the number and placement of pearls did not signify social status or rank. While official attire for noblewomen and imperial consorts had strict regulations regarding patterns and motifs—such as the number of dragons or phoenixes on headdresses—pearl adornments were never subject to such hierarchical rules. Online claims suggesting that the quantity of pearls indicated one's rank are simply unfounded interpretations. Pearls were a universal fashion statement. Even the empress wouldn’t cover her entire face in pearls, as there were only a few suitable spots for application: between the eyebrows, from the corners of the eyes to the temples, and on the dimples. Though the number of pearls didn’t reflect social rank, using more pearls naturally hinted at a wealthier background. Affluent families didn’t just wear pearls on their faces or as jewelry; they also embellished collars, cuffs, carpets, and even furniture with pearls, turning them into a ubiquitous decorative element. One popular style was the 'Zhuluo' (珠络), where pearls were sewn along collars, hems, and seams to accentuate the wearer’s status. Princesses’ dowries included pearl-adorned formal gowns and long coats, as well as 'Pearl…

In the ancient costume drama 'The National Beauty and Fragrance,' these two grand wedding crowns have sparked much discussion, primarily due to their extravagance and intricate details. From a cultural relic perspective, they seem to reference certain prototypes, appearing quite authentic at first glance. However, upon closer inspection, something feels off. Why is that? Previously, we discussed the 'sky-high' crown of Princess Xianzhu, Li Chui. For those interested, you can refer to another article. Today, we’ll focus on the crown worn by Yang Zi’s character, He Weifang, during her wedding. It’s worth noting that the crowns in these dramas are becoming increasingly lavish. Interestingly, what’s referred to as a 'crown' here is more akin to a set of accessories in Tang Dynasty style. Let’s delve deeper. To start with a conclusion, this crown’s original prototype likely stems from the crown of Empress Xiao of the Sui Dynasty. Although it underwent some stylistic changes during the Sui and Tang Dynasties, it retained elements like hairpins (Chaidian) and side ornaments (Bobin) as markers of status. Regardless of these changes, the number of Bobin and floral decorations (Huashu or Huadian) was still determined by the rank of noblewomen or female officials. According to…

In the recent TV series "The Purple Hairpin," actor Ye Zuxin's portrayal of a crown prince has sparked discussions among viewers, particularly regarding the authenticity of his costume. A key point of contention is why a crown prince would wear a robe adorned with five - clawed dragons. To clarify, the gunlongpao (衮龙袍), a round - collared robe featuring circular dragon motifs, was a common attire for Ming Dynasty emperors, crown princes, and imperial relatives. This garment, paired with the yishanguan (翼善冠) hat, was worn during various court activities, lectures, and ceremonies. Contrary to popular belief, the five - clawed dragon design was not exclusive to the emperor but was shared among the imperial family, with variations in the number of dragon motifs. The misconception that only the emperor could wear five - clawed dragons stems from Qing Dynasty dress codes, not Ming traditions. Over time, the gunlongpao evolved, incorporating more elaborate designs for formal occasions, such as the addition of twelve symbolic patterns during the reign of Emperor Yingzong. These patterns, representing elements like the sun, moon, and stars, were reserved for grand ceremonies, making the robes more ornate than everyday wear. The series, while attempting to recreate Ming…

Dreaming of magical mornings at the Magic Kingdom and unforgettable nights at Epcot? A Disney Vacation Club (DVC) membership can make that dream more than a wish-it can make it your new reality. DVC provides savings, flexibility, and unique perks. Whether you've loved Disney for years or are just beginning, you'll have access to benefits that regular guests won't find. The key lies in knowing how to make the most of it. From smarter point-of-planning to unlocking hidden benefits, there's a world of opportunity waiting. Ready to discover how to stretch every point and maximize every moment? Keep reading-you're about to unlock the magic. Understanding Your Points and When to Use Them A Disney Vacation Club membership's key aspect is using points effectively, as you receive a set number each year. You can bank or borrow points for flexibility and consider planning trips during peak seasons to maximize their value. Opting for less popular booking times, like late summer or early fall, can help you save points and enjoy lower crowd levels. Take Advantage of Member Discounts DVC members enjoy valuable perks beyond accommodations, including discounts on dining, merchandise, and events, making trips more cost-effective. The DVC website often updates offers,…