Many Chinese dramas are adapted from highly popular web novels, turning established IP into binge-worthy television.
These adaptations span a range of genres - xianxia, historical-political, romance, and more - making them appealing to diverse audiences.
Because the source novels are bestsellers, these shows often benefit from rich storytelling, strong character development, and built-in fanbases.
Web novels have turned into a powerhouse of Chinese pop culture, inspiring countless hit dramas. As media reports have noted, ‘TV contents based on online novels once dominated half the screen,’ indicating how much these IPs are loved. Whether it’s fantasy, palace drama, or contemporary romance, the most binge-worthy Chinese dramas of the last few years have many roots in bestseller web novels.
Here are some exemplary C-dramas based on past best-selling web novels:
A cult-favourite xianxia drama based on the novel Mo Dao Zu Shi by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. The series centers around Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, two cultivators whose pursuit of mystery, romance, and power is overshadowed by emotion and chemistry.
This is not simply a historical drama but an epic of a political and comedic journey with a philosophical flavor based on the web novel Qing Yu Nian by Mao Ni. The protagonist, Fan Xian, wakes in a feudal era, but with the mind of a modern man, wit and courage, he maneuvers through conspiracies, loyalty, and identity.
Nirvana in Fire is adapted from the novel Lang Ya Bang by Hai Yan. This historical drama is one of the best examples of a watched web-novel adaptation with impeccable plotting that features intrigue, strategy, friendship, and revenge.
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Ever Night is a fantasy-historical drama adapted from the popular xianxia novel 将夜 (Jiang Ye) by Mao Ni. Follows the young hero Ning Que who leaves his home, faces danger and power to pursue his dreams of finding immortality, love, and meaning through martial arts, fate, and worldbuilding.
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If you're a fan of web novels, these Chinese dramas will satisfy both worlds - faithful adaptations (or at least thoughtful reinventions) with breathtaking worlds to explore. Whether you love fantasies and swordplay, palace power struggles, or modern romance, these series capture the power of web-novels to create great drama. From The Untamed’s heart-wrenching story of cultivation to Joy Of Life’s satirical potency of political savvy, there is a show here for everyone's drama palette.
Why are so many Chinese dramas based on web novels?
Web novels often have a massive readership, giving producers ready-made, loyal audiences. Adapting them into dramas helps capitalize on that popularity.
Are these dramas faithful to their novels?
It depends. Some (like Joy of Life) remain pretty close to the source, while others make changes for censorship, pacing, or production constraints.
Do I need to read the web novel before watching the drama?
Not necessarily - the dramas are made to be self-contained. But reading the original can deepen understanding of subplots and character motivations.
Which genre is most common in web novel adaptations?
Fantasy (xianxia), historical-political, and romance are prevalent, though adaptations are now found in almost every genre.
Are these dramas available internationally?
Yes, many of them are available on international streaming platforms, so you can often watch with subtitles.