Top 5 Must-Watch Chinese Dramas This Summer: Emotional, Suspenseful, and Historical Picks

Hot weather, long days, and the perfect excuse to slow down—what better time to indulge in a well-crafted Chinese drama? With richer storytelling and higher production value than ever, today’s Chinese series offer something for everyone. Whether you're into intense emotions, gripping mysteries, or feel-good stories, these five standout dramas will deliver. Choose one and start your personal summer story journey. 

1. Flourished Peony — A Woman’s Journey in Turbulent Times 

Genre: Historical Drama / Female Empowerment 

Premiere: July 31, 9:00 PM on KTSF 26 

Set in early Republican-era China, this emotional tale follows a young woman from a prestigious textile family in Suzhou. As her world unravels due to political chaos, family decline, and societal constraints, she must choose between duty and independence. Rich in cultural detail, costume design, and emotional depth, the series explores themes of identity, tradition, and resilience—offering powerful female narratives rarely seen on screen. 

Watch Tip: Tune in every Monday to Friday at 9:00 PM starting July 31 on KTSF 26. 

2. The Best Is Yet to Come — The Truth Behind the Headlines 

Genre: Workplace Drama / Social Realism 

Follow a rookie investigative journalist as he delves into a labor dispute case that turns out to be far more complex than expected. Set against the backdrop of modern media, the show tackles themes like systemic injustice, ethical journalism, and emotional burnout. With layered characters and tense storytelling, The Best Is Yet to Come challenges viewers to consider what truth really means in a gray world. 

Best For: Viewers who enjoy emotional depth and thought-provoking realism. 

3. Welcome to Milele — Urban Escape Meets Rural Healing 

Genre: Light Comedy / Community Life 

City life too stressful? This heartwarming dramedy follows several young professionals who escape urban chaos to form a co-living community in the "happiest village" in China. Through daily squabbles, cultural clashes, and gradual bonding, they rediscover human connection and simpler joys. Filled with humor, quirky characters, and tender moments, it’s perfect for anyone needing a hopeful reset. 

Best For: Audiences looking for warmth, charm, and emotional comfort. 

4. The Long Season — A Multi-Timeline Mystery Unfolds 

Genre: Suspense / Family Drama / Nonlinear Narrative 

Dubbed a "masterpiece of modern Chinese television," this series follows a retired taxi driver who reopens a cold murder case from 20 years ago. Set across three decades, it connects past industrial decline, family tension, and one man’s painful pursuit of redemption. Emotionally restrained yet deeply moving, The Long Season is as much about truth as it is about memory and dignity. 

Best For: Fans of layered mysteries and emotionally rich storytelling. 

5. She and Her Girls — A True Story of Hope and Education 

Genre: Inspirational / Real-Life Adaptation 

Based on the life of principal Zhang Guimei, this drama chronicles her creation of China’s first tuition-free all-girls high school in a remote mountain region. Facing a lack of funding, resources, and student enrollment, she devotes her life to empowering girls through education. With every hardship, the series reveals how determination and compassion can change futures—especially for those who need it most. 

Best For: Families, educators, and anyone moved by stories of real-life courage and sacrifice. 

Let Chinese Dramas Tell Your Story 

Each of these dramas offers more than just entertainment—they're reflections of identity, history, and hope. Whether you're watching solo or with loved ones, these shows can bring introspection, inspiration, and emotional healing. This summer, let the screen take you on a journey that just might feel personal.