Learning the Chinese language is often deemed challenging by many, but every language-learning journey is worth it.
Mastering Chinese opens doors to a whole new world and culture. However, the intricacies of Chinese characters and tones can seem daunting.
But fear not, because there's a fun way to delve into this linguistic adventure. How? By watching Chinese TV shows, of course.
Chinese TV shows not only offer a glimpse into the diverse culture and society of China but also provide an engaging way to learn the language.
In this guide, we'll explore the 10 best Chinese TV shows that will not only help you improve your language skills but also show you the world of Chinese entertainment and storytelling.
Whether you're a beginner or an advanced learner, these shows cater to various levels of proficiency, making your language learning journey more accessible and enjoyable.
Best Chinese Tv Series on Netflix
1. Accidentally in Love
Accidentally in Love" is a delightful romantic comedy that tells the story of a wealthy heir who crosses paths with a charismatic singer. Their worlds collide when they find themselves in an arranged marriage, leading to a series of comedic and romantic events. As a viewer, you will be exposed to a wide range of vocabulary and expressions related to love, relationships, and everyday life in a contemporary Chinese setting.
2. Wave Makers
"Wave Makers" is a reality series that takes you into the lives of individuals who are making significant impacts in their respective fields. From entrepreneurs to artists, each episode provides a unique insight into the journeys of these wave makers. Watching this series will not only inspire you but also help you learn business and professional vocabulary in Mandarin.
3. A Thousand Goodnights
"A Thousand Goodnights" is a touching drama that follows a woman who embarks on a journey to fulfill her late father's last wish. The series beautifully captures the themes of love, loss, and family. The dialogues and interactions between characters provide a great opportunity to learn Mandarin vocabulary and expressions related to emotions and familial relationships.
4. Meteor Garden
"Meteor Garden" is a modern adaptation of a classic story where a poor girl enters a prestigious university and encounters a group of four handsome but arrogant students. The series is filled with drama, romance, and the complexities of youth. It provides a rich source of vocabulary and expressions related to school life, friendships, and youthful romance in Mandarin.
5. Copycat Killer
"Copycat Killer" is a gripping crime drama that follows a detective as he tries to solve a series of murder cases that eerily resemble past cases. The series is a thrilling ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat while also expanding your Mandarin vocabulary related to crime, investigation, and law enforcement.
6. Scissor Seven
"Scissor Seven" is an animated series that combines humor and action in a unique way. It revolves around a hairdresser who moonlights as a contract killer, leading to a series of hilarious and thrilling events. The series will not only entertain you but also help you learn Mandarin expressions and phrases used in humorous and action-packed contexts.
7. Handsome Siblings
"Handsome Siblings" is a martial arts drama that tells the story of two brothers who are destined to oppose each other on the battlefield. The series is filled with action, drama, and the nuances of traditional Chinese culture. Watching this series will enhance your understanding of Mandarin vocabulary related to martial arts, culture, and traditional values.
How to Learn Chinese With Lingopie
Consider Lingopie as your ultimate tool for learning languages, merging the joy of entertainment with effective learning strategies. It boasts an extensive collection of Chinese movies and TV shows, all handpicked to assist you in mastering the language while being engrossed in engaging content.
Think of Lingopie as the secret ace up your sleeve in your quest to master Chinese! Say goodbye to dull textbooks and repetitive lessons. With Lingopie, you'll plunge into the depths of the Chinese language and culture through your preferred TV shows and films. It's akin to a Netflix for language enthusiasts, but with an emphasis on learning, not just marathoning shows. You'll experience a range of emotions with Chinese characters, all while naturally absorbing the language. Moreover, Lingopie provides subtitles in both Chinese characters and pinyin, allowing you to learn at a comfortable pace. It's akin to having a personal language coach in your own home. So, if you've had enough of conventional learning methods, give Lingopie a try and discover a fun and immersive approach to learning Chinese that you'll find irresistible!
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Other Chinese Cdramas
1. Nirvana in Fire (琅琊榜)
"Nirvana in Fire" offers a great way to learn Chinese. It is a Chinese historical drama that will not only transport you to ancient China but also enhance your Mandarin language skills.
Set against the backdrop of political intrigue and revenge in the Liang Dynasty, this series tells the story of a young man, Lin Shu, who seeks justice for his family's tragic downfall.
In this tv show, you'll encounter essential Chinese historical and cultural themes. The dialogues, rich with traditional expressions and formal language, provide an excellent opportunity to improve your Chinese vocabulary and comprehension.
What You'll Learn
In "Nirvana in Fire," you'll discover historical vocabulary, such as titles, ancient customs, and martial arts terminology which can be very useful on your language-learning journey.
This series will help you build your listening skills while enjoying a thrilling historical narrative, making it an excellent choice for language learners interested in Chinese history and drama.
Where To Find This TV Show
Check Amazon Prime Video in your region. If you don't have access, you can also find it on Viki (a popular platform for Asian dramas), YouTube, WeTV, occasionally on Netflix and even on DramaFever (if available in your region).
2. The Story of Ming Lan (知否知否应是绿肥红瘦)
"The Story of Ming Lan" is a beloved Chinese TV show that blends elements of historical drama, romance, and family intrigue.
This popular series tells the story of the intelligent and resilient Ming Lan as she navigates the complexities of the Song Dynasty.
With its interesting narrative and well-developed characters, "The Story of Ming Lan" offers an opportunity for language learners to engage with Chinese subtitles while enjoying a story filled with love, drama, and political machinations.
What You'll Learn
As you watch "The Story of Ming Lan" with Chinese subtitles, you'll not only enhance your listening skills but also build your Mandarin Chinese vocabulary.
The rich dialogues and interactions will expose you to various aspects of historical and everyday language, making it an ideal choice for learners seeking both entertainment and language practice.
Where To Find This TV Show
You can find "The Story of Ming Lan" on streaming platforms that offer Chinese dramas like Viki, and availability may vary by region. You can also find it on YouTube.
3. Love O2O (微微一笑很倾城)
This is a very popular Chinese TV show that beautifully combines elements of romance, gaming, and modern college life.
This series follows the story of Bei Wei Wei, a top-tier university student and expert in an online role-playing game, and Xiao Nai, a popular fellow student and gaming genius.
If you're on a journey to learn Chinese, "Love O2O" offers a fun and interesting way to improve your language skills.
By exploring modern romance and university life, you'll encounter everyday conversations and contemporary expressions.
What You'll Learn
By watching "Love O2O," you'll have the opportunity to hear and practice conversational Chinese.
This show is an excellent resource for learners who want to enhance their language skills while enjoying an entertaining love story set in a contemporary Chinese university.
Where To Find This TV Show
You can find "Love O2O" on various streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video as well as platforms that offer Chinese TV shows like Viki and WeTV
4. Eternal Love (三生三世十里桃花)
This TV series weaves together elements of fantasy, romance, and Chinese mythology. Eternal Love is a drama that tells the story of Bai Qian, a goddess, and Ye Hua, a prince, whose love transcends three lifetimes.
For those looking to watch Chinese TV shows and explore Chinese culture, "Eternal Love" offers a window into traditional Chinese legends and beliefs.
This is great if you wish to learn more about their culture. Through its narrative, you'll be introduced to aspects of Chinese mythology, immortals, and reincarnation.
What You'll Learn
By watching regularly "Eternal Love," you'll not only witness a compelling love story but also learn about Chinese culture and mythology.
This series is also a great choice for Chinese learners interested in broadening their understanding of traditional Chinese stories and legends.
Where To Find This TV Show
You can find "Eternal Love" on streaming platforms that offer Chinese TV series as well as YouTube, and it's an ideal choice for both language learners and enthusiasts of Chinese culture and mythology.
5. The Untamed (陈情令)
"The Untamed" tells the story of Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, two young cultivators navigating a world filled with magic, martial arts, and deep connections.
While their journey is steeped in fantasy and adventure, the core of the series revolves around their profound bond and their quest for justice.
"The Untamed" also explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the power of perseverance. It provides a unique blend of action and emotional depth.
What You'll Learn
Watching Chinese TV series like this one allows you to explore Chinese culture, martial arts, and the art of storytelling in a captivating fantasy setting.
It's not just a martial arts epic; it's a journey into the hearts and minds of its characters, offering valuable insights into Chinese mythology and ancient traditions.
Where To Find This TV Show
This show can occasionally appear on Netflix and Amazon Prime, and there is a decent quality video on YouTube but as with the series above it is always a good idea to head out to WeTV and Viki.
6. Princess Agents (楚乔传)
"Princess Agents" tells us the story of Chu Qiao, a young woman who, in the face of adversity, transforms into a remarkable agent with formidable skills in espionage and martial arts.
Set against the backdrop of ancient China, this series combines elements of historical drama, action, and romance.
The overarching theme of the show revolves around power, as well as struggles and espionage.
It also offers moments of romance and personal growth that provide a welcome contrast. Chu Qiao's resilience and determination shine through even in the most challenging situations.
What You'll Learn
Watching "Princess Agents" will teach you a lot about Chinese history, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of its characters.
Besides learning new phrases you will also be able to learn about historical Chinese culture, traditions, and the dynamics of ancient society.
Where To Find This TV Show
Right now, this TV show can only be found on YouTube and Viki. From time to time, you can also catch it on Netflix.
7. Go Go Squid! (亲爱的，热爱的)
This is one of the popular Chinese shows that combines elements of romance, competitive gaming, and modern relationships.
Go Go Squid! introduces viewers to Tong Nian, a talented computer science student, and Han Shangyan, a renowned esports champion.
Their intersecting worlds form the backdrop for a captivating love story amidst the thrilling world of competitive gaming.
What You'll Learn
For those looking to explore popular Chinese TV shows, "Go Go Squid!" offers an engaging portrayal of modern Chinese culture, esports, and the dynamics of interpersonal relationships.
The series weaves together romance and the excitement of competitive gaming, making it a favorite among viewers of all ages.
Where To Find This TV Show
Check if "Go Go Squid!" is available in your region on Amazon Prime Video, and if not you can find it on Viki and maybe even on YouTube.
8. "The Long Ballad" (长歌行)
"The Long Ballad" (长歌行) is a Chinese historical drama based on a novel by Xia Da. Set during the Northern Wei period, the series follows the journey of Li Changge, a young woman who disguises herself as a man and embarks on a quest for revenge and justice.
As she navigates a world of political intrigue and battles, Li Changge's character undergoes a profound transformation, showcasing themes of strength, resilience, and determination.
The show combines elements of history, action, and romance, making it a must-watch for those interested in Chinese historical dramas.
What You'll Learn
You will be able to hear a lot of romantic phrases, expand your vocabulary, and learn more about Chinese politics.
Where To Find This TV Show
You can find it on Tencent Video (Tencent Video is a popular Chinese streaming platform) and on iQIYI (iQIYI is another major Chinese streaming platform that often features Chinese dramas).
9. Love Me If You Dare (他来了，请闭眼)
This TV series combines elements of crime, suspense, and romance. The story revolves around Simon Bo, a brilliant criminal psychologist, and Jenny Jian, a talented criminal profiler.
Together, they form an unconventional but highly effective team that solves complex cases.
For those looking to watch an engaging Chinese TV series, "Love Me If You Dare" offers an exploration of criminal psychology, investigations, and the complex dynamics of the human mind.
It provides a blend of suspenseful storytelling and a deep dive into the mysteries of the criminal world.
What You'll Learn
You will be able to hear a lot of modern phrases and even some medical terms. Chinese language learners seem to really like this TV show, so be sure to check it out.
Where To Find This TV Show
You will be able to find it on YouTube, Viki and iQIYI. Sometimes you can find it on Netflix also depending on your region.
10. Nothing But Thirty (三十而已)
"Nothing But Thirty" is a Chinese drama series that provides a refreshing and relatable portrayal of the lives of three women as they navigate the complexities of turning thirty.
The story delves into the challenges and triumphs of career, family, and personal growth.
For those seeking Chinese TV series that resonate with the experiences of modern adults, "Nothing But Thirty" presents a realistic and heartfelt narrative.
It explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness in one's thirties.
What You'll Learn
You will be able to hear modern jargon as well as romantic phrases and learn more about today's events.
And of course, this series is not just for women; it's a great show for all Chinese learners.
Where To Find This TV Show
You can find this TV show on iQIYI, Viki and WeTV.
FAQs: The Best TV Shows to Learn Chinese
Welcome to our FAQ section regarding the "10 Best TV Shows to Learn Chinese." Here, we address common queries and provide valuable insights to enhance your language-learning experience.
Can you learn Chinese from watching TV?
Yes, you can learn Chinese from watching TV. Subtitles are also a great way to learn Chinese characters. Watching Chinese TV shows helps to improve listening skills, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Always combine this with other language-learning methods for a comprehensive approach.
What should I watch to learn Mandarin?
To learn Mandarin, watch a variety of Chinese shows, including dramas, sitcoms, and documentaries. Choose content that aligns with your interests and proficiency level. Check out Lingopie to find an extensive library of Chinese TV shows.
Does watching Chinese shows improve Chinese?
Watching Chinese shows can significantly improve your Chinese language skills, particularly in listening and comprehension. It exposes you to natural conversations, accents, and real-life contexts.
What is the most effective way to learn Chinese?
The most effective way to learn Chinese is through a combination of methods, including classes, immersion, language apps, and watching Chinese content. Consistency and practice are key to success.
Summing Up: The Best TV Shows to Learn Chinese
With this list, we've shown you a range of diverse content that showcases the richness of the Mandarin Chinese language.
From historical dramas to modern romances, each series offers a unique perspective on Chinese culture and society. We strongly recommend delving into this varied selection to gain insights from different angles.
Sign up to the Lingopie platform to access an extensive library of Chinese movies and TV shows, and start your path to fluency in Mandarin Chinese today.
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