Top 10 Chinese Donghua You Must Watch
Donghua, the Chinese term for animation, is experiencing a golden age, with stunning visuals, captivating storylines, and diverse genres. This list explores 10 of the most popular and acclaimed donghua that will leave you wanting more.
1. The King's Avatar (全职高手)
This adaptation of the popular novel follows the story of Ye Xiu, a professional gamer who loses his position in a top-ranked team. He decides to start anew in the virtual world of Glory and climb the ranks once more. The King's Avatar is praised for its intense action scenes, relatable characters, and its exploration of the competitive world of esports.
2. Mo Dao Zu Shi (魔道祖师)
A captivating blend of fantasy and romance, Mo Dao Zu Shi follows Wei Wuxian, a powerful cultivator who is betrayed and killed. He is reborn years later and embarks on a journey to uncover the secrets of his past. The donghua is known for its intricate plot, complex characters, and stunning animation style.
3. Heaven Official's Blessing (天官赐福)
Adapted from the popular novel of the same name, Heaven Official's Blessing tells the story of Xie Lian, a banished god who is forced to return to the mortal realm. He encounters Hua Cheng, a mysterious and powerful ghost king who becomes his unlikely ally. The series is praised for its heartwarming romance, beautiful visuals, and nuanced characters.
4. The Legend of Vox Machina (传奇的沃克斯麦希纳)
Based on the popular Critical Role tabletop RPG campaign, The Legend of Vox Machina follows a group of adventurers who embark on a perilous quest to save the world from a powerful evil. This donghua features a mix of humor, action, and heart, making it enjoyable for fans of fantasy and adventure.
5. Soul Land (斗罗大陆)
Soul Land follows the journey of Tang San, a young boy who enters a world where everyone possesses a "soul" that can be cultivated. He sets out on a path of martial arts training and eventually discovers the secrets of his family's past. The series is popular for its fast-paced action, compelling characters, and world-building.
6. Hitori no Shita: The Outcast (一人之下)
This action-packed donghua follows Zhang Chulan, a seemingly ordinary young man who discovers he has extraordinary abilities. He gets involved in the world of "Qi" cultivation and encounters a variety of intriguing characters. Hitori no Shita is praised for its unique world-building, exciting fight scenes, and its exploration of Chinese mythology.
7. Ling Cage (灵笼)
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has been reduced to living underground, Ling Cage follows the struggle for survival of a small group of survivors. The series is known for its stunning animation, dark themes, and its exploration of human nature in extreme circumstances.
8. The Daily Life of the Immortal King (凡人修仙传)
This donghua follows Han Li, a young man who begins his journey to immortality in a world filled with cultivators and magic. The series is known for its detailed world-building, intricate plot, and long-running storyline.
9. Scissor Seven (刺客伍六七)
Scissor Seven is a comedy-action donghua that follows the misadventures of Seven, a bumbling assassin who dreams of becoming a hairdresser. The series is known for its unique humor, slapstick comedy, and its exploration of the darker side of the assassin's life.
10. The Journey of Flower (花千骨)
This fantasy romance donghua tells the story of Bai Zi Hua, a powerful immortal, and Hua Qian Gu, a young woman who becomes his disciple. The series explores their complicated relationship, the struggle for power, and the sacrifices that must be made for love.
This list is just a starting point for exploring the world of donghua. With its growing popularity and diverse content, you're sure to find something that captures your imagination. So, grab some snacks, settle in, and prepare to be entertained!