Yuliya Geikhman
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Discover Donghua: The 17 Best Chinese Anime to Jump-start Your New Obsession
Whether you’re already a fan of anime or just looking to get into animations, don’t sleep on Chinese anime!
Chinese anime, also known as donghua, is a perfect fusion of art, culture and storytelling.
In this guide to the best Chinese anime, you’ll discover everything from classic tales of myth and legend to modern-day epics full of action, adventure and romance.
Discover the world of donghua with the 17 best Chinese anime you’ll want to binge-watch.
Contents
- A Brief History of Chinese Anime/Donghua
- “Link Click”
- “God Troubles Me”
- “Spare Me, Great Lord!”
- “The Daily Life of the Immortal King”
- “Heaven Official’s Blessing”
- “Swallowed Star”
- “A Will Eternal”
- “Fairies Album”
- “Fog Hill of Five Elements”
- “The Demonic King Who Chases His Wife”
- “Battle Through the Heavens”
- “Soul Land”
- “Scissor Seven”
- “The Founder of Diabolism”
- “Psychic Princess”
- “Cinderella Chef”
- “Beryl and Sapphire”
- “Spiritpact”
- “Rakshasa Street”
- “Full Time Magister”
- “Monster List”
- And One More Thing...
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A Brief History of Chinese Anime/Donghua
Anime, by definition, is animation created in Japan.
But ever since it first spread to the rest of the world, anime has become a type of animation that’s made all over the world, including American productions like “Yasuke” and “Castlevania.”
The anime style is characterized by a stylized art style with flat shading, expressive but simplified facial features, exaggerated proportions and bright, vibrant colors. Of course, this is all a huge generalization, as anime comes in many different styles and doesn’t always follow these conventions.
No matter what, though, you can usually identify when something is “anime.”
When anime is made in China, it’s known as donghua ( 动画 ). Much like “anime” in Japan, the word “dongua” in China is used to refer to any type of animation by Chinese speakers, and to anime made in China by the rest of the world.
The history of donghua dates back to the early 20th century, with the production of the first Chinese animated film, “Uproar in the Studio,” in 1926. Early donghua often featured simplistic animation techniques but with the advent of modern technology, contemporary donghua has become increasingly sophisticated, incorporating techniques such as digital animation and CGI.
Chinese anime isn’t as popular around the world as Japanese anime because it’s not dubbed or subbed as often. There’s also a stigma against the medium, since the industry has been plagued by low-budget productions in the past.
However, recent years have seen a few hits emerge from China, and you may even recognize some of the titles on this list. As its popularity around the world grows, get ahead of the curve by checking out some of the best Chinese anime the country has to offer!
And if you love to learn with videos like anime and other authentic media, the FluentU program might be right for you.
“Link Click”
Chinese title: 時光代理人 (shí guāng dài lǐ rén)
Started airing: 2021
Genre: Drama
Seasons: 2
This Chinese donghua series is called “Time Agents” in Chinese. It follows Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang, two employees of a seemingly ordinary photo studio named “Time Photo Studio.” However, their work is far from ordinary: They possess special abilities that allow them to enter photographs and relive the last moments captured within them.
Each episode presents a new client with a personal request, be it revisiting a lost memory, fixing a past regret or understanding a loved one’s actions. the two protagonists navigate these sensitive situations, witnessing profound moments of joy, sorrow and reflection. While they try to fulfill their clients’ desires, they grapple with the ethical implications of altering the past and the emotional consequences of meddling with time.
“God Troubles Me”
Chinese title: 汉化日记 (hàn huà rì jì)
Started airing: 201
Genre: Comedy, slice-of-life
Seasons: 3
Su Moting is an ordinary office worker with a not-so-ordinary secret—she’s half-immortal, half-demon. The donghua follows Su as she navigates the human world with her two otherworldly roommates, a clumsy god and a mysterious cat demon.
This hilarious and dysfunctional family tackles everyday challenges with a supernatural twist, sometimes even saving the world. Expect witty humor, funny misunderstandings and endearing characters.
“Spare Me, Great Lord!”
Chinese title: 大王饶命 (dà wáng ráo mìng)
Started airing: 2021
Genre: Adventure
Seasons: 1
Meet Lu Shu, an ordinary high schooler thrust into an extraordinary world. After a strange car accident, Lu Shu acquires a unique ability called “Negative Emotions Feedback”: The more someone dislikes him, the stronger he becomes!
This unexpected power sets him on a path of unexpected adventures and hilarious encounters. Despite his laid-back personality and desire to avoid trouble, he finds himself entangled in larger conflicts and conspiracies.
“The Daily Life of the Immortal King”
Chinese title: 仙王的日常生活 (xiān wáng de rì cháng shēng huó)
Started airing: 2020
Genre: Adventure
Seasons: 4
Don’t be fooled by the seemingly mundane title—Wang Ling’s daily life is anything but ordinary. At the tender age of six, he vanquished a powerful demon king, giving him immense power.
All Wang Ling wants is a normal high school life but his extraordinary abilities keep causing chaotic situations, attracting supernatural threats and unwanted attention. With the help of his friends, Wang Ling hilariously tries to blend in while secretly dealing with these fantastical occurrences. Imagine trying to pass exams while accidentally creating magical explosions!
“Heaven Official’s Blessing”
Chinese title: 天官赐福 (tiān guān cì fú)
Started airing: 2020
Genre: Romance
Seasons: 2
Prepare to soar through a dazzling world of deities and demons! Xie Lian, once a beloved prince, ascends to godhood three times, only to face exile and scorn each time. Now disgraced and heavily in debt, he’s banished to the mortal realm for mysterious reasons.
On his latest banishment, fate throws him into the path of Hua Cheng, a powerful ghost king shrouded in secrets. Despite their contrasting appearances, an unlikely bond forms between them. Together, they delve into mysteries that shake the very foundations of Heaven, uncovering conspiracies and hidden truths.
“Swallowed Star”
Chinese title: 吞噬星空 (tūn shì xīng kōng)
Started airing: 2020
Genre: Adventure
Seasons: 1
“Swallowed Star” takes viewers on a thrilling journey through a universe ravaged by terrifying “monsters” birthed from an alien virus. The story follows Luo Feng, an ordinary man who just wants to protect his loved ones. His desire to keep those dear to him safe prompts him to secretly undergo genetic enhancements and embark on a path to become a powerful warrior.
Luo Feng faces constant challenges, both from the monstrous threats and internal conflicts within himself. Through rigorous training and perilous missions, he hones his skills, unlocks unimaginable power and uncovers the secrets behind the sudden appearance of monsters.
“A Will Eternal”
Chinese title: 一念永恒 (yí niàn yǒng héng)
Started airing: 2020
Genre: Action
Seasons: 2
Meet Bai Xiaochun, a mischievous young man driven by a singular fear: death. In his relentless pursuit of eternal life, Bai Xiaochun stumbles upon a powerful sect and embarks on a hilarious and chaotic journey.
He’s far from your typical hero. Despite his fear, Bai Xiaochun’s cunning schemes and inventive alchemy often land him in trouble, earning him the nickname “Number One Scoundrel.” However, beneath his mischievous ways lies a deep loyalty to his friends and a surprising well of courage when faced with true danger.
“Fairies Album”
Chinese title: 百妖谱 (bǎi yāo pǔ)
Started airing: 2020
Genre: Fantasy
Seasons: 2
In a world where spirits and humans exist side-by-side, one spirited young woman named Tao Yao travels around the world as a spirit doctor. She’s accompanied by Moya, a young monk, Gungun, a mischievous fox spirit and Prince Liu, a snake demon with a hidden past.
Their journey takes them on episodic adventures, encountering various “fairies” (usually creatures from Chinese mythology) with unique problems. Tao Yao uses her unorthodox methods to diagnose and cure their ailments. However, beneath the surface, each case often brings deeper conflicts and reveals hidden truths about the spirit world. It’s a delightful anime with memorable characters, intriguing tales and a touch of Chinese mythology!
“Fog Hill of Five Elements”
Chinese title: 雾山五行 (wù shān wǔ xíng)
Started airing: 2020
Genre: Action
Seasons: 1
Long ago, powerful Beasts rampaged the land but heroes wielding the power of the five elements (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth) defeated them and imprisoned them in the perilous Fog Hill. Centuries later, young Xuan, envoy of the Fire clan, disrupts the balance by accidentally releasing the Qilin, a mighty Beast.
Xuan, now burdened with immense responsibility, embarks on a perilous journey to recapture the Qilin. He encounters a diverse cast of characters, each representing a different element and harboring their own secrets and motives. Expect stunningly choreographed martial arts battles, beautifully showcasing the unique abilities of each element.
“The Demonic King Who Chases His Wife”
Chinese title: 邪王追妻 (xié wáng zhuī qī)
Started airing: 2019
Genre: Fantasy
Seasons: 1
The story of this donghua revolves around Mo Qingcheng, a powerful and feared demonic king, and Su Su, a kind and compassionate goddess who chooses to live among mortals under the alias Liu Li. Their paths collide when Liu Li accidentally becomes Mo Qingcheng’s contracted servant.
Despite their initial differences, a spark ignites between them. Mo Qingcheng finds himself drawn to Liu Li’s gentle spirit, while she discovers kindness and vulnerability beneath his fearsome exterior. However, their budding romance faces a formidable obstacle—Su Su’s true identity.
As a goddess, she belongs to a realm sworn to oppose demons like Mo Qingcheng. Will they manage to confront their conflicting backgrounds, or give in to their hidden desires?
“Battle Through the Heavens”
Chinese title: 斗破苍穹 (dòu pò cāng qióng)
Started airing: 2018
Genre: Fantasy, romance
Seasons: 1
In “Battle Through the Heavens,” Xiao Yan, a once celebrated prodigy, loses his powers mysteriously at the age of 12. Shunned by his family and ridiculed by his peers, he falls into despair. However, a hidden ring unlocks a powerful mentor: the fiery spirit Yao Lao.
With Yao Lao’s guidance and hidden techniques, Xiao Yan embarks on a journey to reclaim his lost glory and surpass his former limits. Fueled by determination and revenge, Xiao Yan faces formidable opponents, treacherous organizations and perilous trials. As he ascends the ranks of power, Xiao Yan confronts not only external enemies but also his own inner demons, striving to become the ultimate Douluo (Battle Master).
“Soul Land”
Chinese title: 斗罗大陆 (dòu luō dà lù)
Started airing: 2018
Genre: Fantasy
Seasons: Ongoing (200+ episodes)
A young genius named Tang San finds himself reincarnated into a world where individuals wield powerful “Martial Souls” to become “Spirit Masters.” Despite possessing the seemingly useless Blue Silver Grass spirit, Tang San perseveres with his unwavering willpower and unique hidden abilities.
As he travels through the realm. he forges strong bonds with fellow Spirit Masters and overcomes challenges that threaten the world’s very existence.
“Soul Land” has transcended its Chinese origins, captivating audiences worldwide with its compelling story, vibrant animation and relatable themes. It’s spawned numerous adaptations, including live-action and animated series, novels, comics and video games, solidifying its place as a global phenomenon. For many fans of Chinese anime, this is the donghua that sparked their adoration for the medium!
“Scissor Seven”
Chinese title: 刺客伍六七 (cì kè wǔ liù qī)
Started airing: 2018
Genre: Action
Seasons: 4
“Scissor Seven,” also known as “Killer Seven,” is a stylized Chinese anime that blends action, comedy and a touch of mystery. It follows the story of Seven, a hairstylist with amnesia and a hidden past as a skilled assassin. Now living under the radar on Chicken Island, he dreams of accumulating “fame, fortune and respect” but his attempts often end in chaotic mishaps.
Seven’s real identity surfaces through his deadly scissor skills, attracting the attention of both allies and enemies. He grapples with memory loss, seeking clues to his past while juggling odd assassination jobs to pay the bills. His life gets further complicated by his loyal bodyguard and their quirky cat assistant.
This wacky trio faces hilarious situations, thrilling battles and even encounters with the Shadow Assassins, who seek to silence Seven permanently. Each season unravels more of Seven’s forgotten past, revealing powerful enemies and uncovering his connection to a larger conflict.
“The Founder of Diabolism”
Chinese title: 墨香铜臭 (mò xiāng tóng chòu)
Started airing: 2018
Genre: Fantasy
Seasons: 3
Also known as “Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation,” this donghua follows Wei Wuxian as he attempts to achieve immortality. He’s known for his unconventional methods, particularly his mastery of demonic cultivation, a powerful but forbidden path. Though initially hailed as a hero for saving countless lives, his methods alienate him from the orthodox sects, ultimately leading to his tragic downfall and presumed death.
Thirteen years later, Wei Wuxian is mysteriously resurrected in the body of a young man named Mo Xuanyu. Driven by revenge and shrouded in his past reputation, he sets out to uncover the truth behind his downfall and face the consequences of his past actions.
“Psychic Princess”
Chinese title: 通灵妃 (tōng líng fēi)
Started airing: 2018
Genre: Romance
Seasons: 1
In “Psychic Princess,” also known as “Qian Yunxi,” we meet a young woman shrouded in mystery and burdened by destiny. Yunxi, ostracized since childhood for possessing supernatural abilities, is sent away to a secluded mountaintop, yearning for acceptance and a normal life. However, fate takes a dramatic turn when she’s summoned back at 16 to marry the cold and ruthless Prince Ye of a rival nation.
Thrust into a court filled with intrigue and danger, Yunxi’s hidden talents come to light. With the help of her loyal maid and a cryptic spirit guide, Yunxi navigates the treacherous court politics, navigating alliances and unraveling hidden agendas.
“Cinderella Chef”
Chinese title: 萌妻食神 (méng qī shí shén)
Started airing: 2018
Genre: Romance
Seasons: 1
This romantic comedy donghua follows the story of Ye Jiayao, a skilled chef from modern times who unexpectedly travels back in time to the Song Dynasty. She’s promptly kidnapped by the leader of a group of bandits, who himself is working undercover to thwart a plot to overthrow the king.
The two form an alliance and arrange a fake marriage. Ye Jiayao then sets out to win over hearts with her cooking and modern-day know-how. The series is known for its lighthearted humor and its focus on food, with each episode highlighting mouthwatering dishes.
“Beryl and Sapphire”
Chinese title: 小绿和小蓝 (xiǎo lǜ hé xiǎo lán)
Started airing: 2018
Genre: Romance
Seasons: 4
“Beryl and Sapphire” is a heartwarming Chinese anime that revolves around the daily lives of two friends, Xiaolu and Xiaolan. Xiaolu, characterized by his green color and calm demeanor, often acts as the voice of reason, while Xiaolan, depicted in blue and brimming with enthusiasm, adds a touch of impulsiveness and excitement to their dynamic.
Their adventures range from navigating everyday situations like making breakfast to confronting philosophical questions about life and destiny. Through these experiences, the charming anime explores themes of friendship, self-discovery and finding meaning in the ordinary.
“Spiritpact”
Chinese title: 灵契 (ling qi)
Started airing: 2017
Genre: Drama
Seasons: 2
As a poverty-stricken descendant of a powerful exorcist family, You Keika already has his hands full with sorrows. Just when he thinks things can’t get any worse, an accident turns him into a ghost, stuck in the land between the living and the dead. This predicament sparks an unexpected partnership with the enigmatic Tanmoku Ki: He’ll help Tanmoki Ki combat evil spirits and in return, he gets to stay tethered to the mortal world.
Their adventures pair humor with pulse-pounding action. Along the way, Keika sheds his initial reluctance, embracing his role as an exorcist and forging a deep bond with Tanmoku Ki. The series introduces a vibrant cast of spirits, exorcists and allies, each with their own intriguing stories and motivations. And, as the story progresses, it delves deeper into the balance between good and evil.
“Rakshasa Street”
Chinese title: 镇魂街 (zhèn hún jiē)
Started airing: 2016
Genre: Fantasy
Seasons: 1
Rakshasa Street is a Requiem Street, a space that serves as a portal between the human and spirit realms. Enter Xia Ling, an ordinary college student whose life takes a shocking turn when she stumbles into Rakshasa Street. There, she encounters Cao Yanbing, a guardian tasked with maintaining order and vanquishing malevolent spirits.
Thrown into this extraordinary world, Xia Ling discovers she, too, possesses a powerful guardian spirit. Together, they face challenges and unravel the hidden truths about Rakshasa Street’s past and their own destinies.
“Full Time Magister”
Chinese title: 全职法师 (quán zhí fǎ shī)
Started airing: 2016
Genre: Action
Seasons: 1
High schooler Mo Fan finds his life unexpectedly turned upside down when a mysterious pendant transports him to an alternate reality. In this new world, magic replaces science and talented individuals train to become Magisters, humanity’s protectors against monstrous creatures lurking in the wild.
Despite being initially clueless about magic, Mo Fan possesses a unique ability—harnessing the power of multiple elements, a feat unheard of in this world. Driven by the need to support his family and a desire to prove himself, he strives to become a powerful Magister. On his path, he faces numerous challenges, from overcoming prejudice against his background to battling formidable magical beasts.
“Monster List”
Chinese title: 妖怪名单 (yāo guài míng dān)
Started airing: 2014
Genre: Fantasy, romance
Seasons: 1
“Monster List” follows the story of Feng Xi, a seemingly ordinary college student who possesses the unique ability to see supernatural creatures. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Su Jiuer, a beautiful yet mysterious classmate who happens to be a fox spirit.
As it turns out, Feng Xi is not just able to see supernatural creatures, but he’s also destined to become a “Monster Hunter,” tasked with maintaining the balance between the human and monster realms. With the help of Su Jiuer and other companions, Feng Xi embarks on a journey to hone his abilities, confront dangerous monsters and unravel the secrets behind his unique gift.
With such a robust catalog of genres and artistic styles, it’s no wonder why Chinese anime is captivating audiences worldwide. Dive into donghua with the 17 excellent titles in this list!
And One More Thing...
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