2026 has already proven to be an exceptional year for Chinese historical dramas. With several major productions premiering in the first quarter alone, viewers are spoiled for choice. Here are our top picks for the best historical cdramas of 2026 so far, ranked by overall quality. Note that this list focuses on historical and period dramas — pure xianxia and modern dramas are excluded.
1. Pursuit of Jade (逐玉)
Topping our list is Pursuit of Jade, a drama that combines political intrigue, domestic warmth, and slow-burn romance into a deeply satisfying 40-episode package. Zhang Linghe's physical transformation and Tian Xiwei's spirited performance anchor a story that respects its audience's intelligence. The drama's willingness to let scenes breathe, to prioritize character development over plot mechanics, and to treat its historical setting with genuine care sets it apart from the competition. Read our full review for a detailed breakdown.
2. The Gilded Pavilion (锦阁谣)
A sumptuous Tang Dynasty-set drama about a female architect who designs buildings for the imperial court while navigating a dangerous world of political patronage. The production design is extraordinary — every set piece feels like stepping into a Tang Dynasty painting. The female lead's expertise in architecture provides a unique angle that distinguishes it from other court dramas. The romance is secondary to the professional and political storylines, which will either be a pro or con depending on your preferences. A solid 8/10.
3. Rivers of Red Dust (红尘万里)
An ambitious historical epic spanning three generations of a merchant family during the late Ming Dynasty. This drama excels in its sweeping scope and its detailed portrayal of Silk Road trade networks. The ensemble cast is uniformly excellent, and the drama's willingness to show the unglamorous realities of historical commerce — taxation disputes, cargo insurance, and warehouse management — gives it an authenticity rarely seen in the genre. Occasionally slow-paced but rewarding for patient viewers.
4. The Jade Mirror (玉镜台)
A mystery-driven drama set in the Southern Song Dynasty, following a female magistrate who solves crimes using forensic methods ahead of her time. Think ancient Chinese detective fiction meets feminist revisionism. The mysteries are cleverly constructed, the historical detail is impressive, and the lead actress brings quiet authority to a role that could easily have been played as anachronistically modern. Loses points for a somewhat uneven final act.
5. Autumn in Chang'an (长安秋)
A melancholic, beautifully shot drama set during the An Lushan Rebellion. Rather than focusing on the military conflict, it follows ordinary citizens whose lives are upended by the chaos. The cinematography is arguably the best of any drama on this list — every frame is composed with painterly precision. The emotional tone is heavy, making it a challenging but ultimately rewarding watch.
6–10: Honorable Mentions
6. Wind Across the Steppe (草原长风) — A refreshing departure from court-based dramas, set among the nomadic peoples of the northern grasslands. Beautiful location shooting and a compelling cross-cultural romance. 7. The Chancellor's Daughter (相府千金) — A lighthearted political comedy with sharper teeth than it initially lets on. The humor is genuinely funny, a rarity in the genre. 8. Ink and Sword (墨剑录) — A wuxia-historical hybrid with outstanding martial arts choreography and a surprisingly thoughtful meditation on the nature of loyalty. 9. The Last Eunuch (末代太监) — A daring drama that humanizes one of Chinese history's most marginalized figures. Exceptional lead performance. 10. Phoenix Ascending (凤鸣朝阳) — A female-emperor drama that avoids the usual clichés through smart writing and a standout villain.
2026 is shaping up to be a vintage year for the genre. With several major productions still scheduled for later in the year, this list will likely evolve — but for now, these ten dramas represent the best that Chinese historical television has to offer.