The dramatic genre of historical detective holds a revised place in the history of Chinese television. These series combine the compelling mysteries with details rich in the period, philosophical themes and cultural intuitions.
A recent SOHU ranking offers a final look at the first 10 investigative dramas in Chinese costume of all time, selected for their historical impact, the reception of the public, the quality of production and the narrative influence.
1. Judge of the Song Dynasty (2005)
An extraordinary forensic narrative, Judge of the Song Dynasty The genre redefined with intricate legal cases, historical depth and moral complexity. The actor Bing is portrait of Song has set us a point of reference, gaining the show a 9.3 Dougban evaluation and widespread consensus.
2. Amazing detective of Renjie (2004)
With Liang Guanhua, this series gave birth to the magistrate of the Renjie Tang dynasty with intellectual suspense and cultural elegance. His mix of logic, historical realism and compelling narrative made him a commercial and critical success.
3. Young Justice Bao (2000)
This adaptation oriented to young people introduced acute editing, a modern soundtrack and a new version of classic characters. The trio of Zhou Jie (Bao Zheng), Ren Quan (Gongsun CE) and Ashton Chen (Zhan Zhao) have become icons among young spectators.
4. Justice Pao (1993)
Probably the point of origin of the genre, this classic justice and integrity defined through the commander portrait of Bao Zheng. The show mixed detective plots with Confucian folklore and values, becoming a cultural comparison stone.
5. The longest day of Chang’an (2019)
A more recent voice, this drama has fascinated the audience with high production values and a real -time narrative set in Tang was Chang’an. Its 24 -hour thriller structure and historical details raised the bar for the narration of the modern period.
6. The Imperial Coroner (2021)
By showing that the budget is not everything, this disadvantaged drama won hearts with its intelligent script, realistic forensic procedures and a respectful representation of intelligence and romance.
7. The Legend of the Dancing Prince (2013)
Controlled the political tensions of the borders, this drama offered suspense, gender disguise and diplomatic espionage, wrapped in a richly structured historical environment.
8. Young Blood (2019)
By mixing maturity themes with national loyalty and secret missions, this series of ensembles has electrified the audience with unexpected twists and turns, witty dialogues and a strong camaraderie.
9. Stranger stories of the Tang dynasty (2022)
This disturbing series has revived the world of Di Renjie with autonomous supernatural mysteries, excellent CGI and an intelligent fusion of crime and fantasy, expanding the boundaries of the investigative genre.
10. Witness of a judicial proceeding (1999)
A beloved Hong Kong production with Au-Yeung Chun Wah, this drama balanced the intrigue in court and the carefree mystery, bringing wider accessibility and charm to the genre.
From Bao Zheng’s austere justice to the complex forensic brilliance of Song Ci, the Chinese historical detective dramas have evolved in a genre rich in diversity and cultural meaning. Whether it’s logic, law, mysticism or youth adventure, these ten series represent the best that the genre has to offer, each leaving a lasting legacy in the history of Asian television.
Sources: K14
