5 C-dramas to watch if you love Zhang Linghe

If you’ve recently caught the C-drama fever, chances are, you’ve heard of Pursuit of Jade. In case you haven’t, the historical romance drama is adapted from the Chinese web novel titled Chasing Jade by Tuan Zi Lai Xi. 

Available on streaming platforms including Netflix, iQIYI, and WeTV, the 40-episode drama revolves around the romantic relationship between the leads, Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei. Since its debut, the series has quickly become a hit. In China, it recorded over 750 million views in the first few weeks of its release. 

On social media, it’s become one of the most talked-about C-dramas. It’s not just the storyline that’s got viewers hooked. The leading man, Zhang, is also the reason so many people are talking about the drama, and it’s easy to see why. 

Standing at a towering 1.9 metres and blessed with head-turning looks, 28-year-old Zhang has what it takes to make audiences go gaga over him. If you’re done binge-watching all 40 episodes of Pursuit of Jade, fret not. Here’s a lineup of some of his past works that will keep you company for now.

Story of Kunning Palace (2023)

Based on Shi Jing’s novel titled Kunning, this romance series stars Zhang, Bai Lu and Wang Xingyue. After years of scheming, Jiang Xuening (played by Bai Lu) had finally become empress, but she was forced to commit suicide during a palace upheaval led by Xie Wei (played by Zhang). 

However, she was given a second chance at life. This time, she woke up as her 18-year-old self and entered the palace as a disciple of Xie. The duo developed feelings for each other amid the crises they faced in the palace. 

Available on iQIYI.

My Journey to You (2023)

In this fantasy period drama, Yun Weishan (played by Yu Shuxin) is a spy who longs for freedom. She secretly enters the Gong residence to complete one of her missions. Unexpectedly, she encounters the rebellious young master Gong Ziyu (played by Zhang) and embarks on a life-changing journey that leads her to discover love and friendships.

Available on iQIYI.

Our Generation (2025) 

Take a break from period dramas with Our Generation, set in the early 90s and starring Zhang, Zhao Jinmai, and Dong Jie. Lin Qile (played by Zhao) grew up in a small mountain town in China, and she was loved by her family and friends. 

The arrival of a quiet transfer student named Jiang Qiaoxi (played by Zhang) changed her world. As the story progresses, Lin and Jiang fall in love, but they face the pressures of family expectations and the undergraduate admissions exam.

Available on Netflix.

The Best Thing (2025)

After the end of a difficult relationship, Shen Xifan (played by Xu Ruohan) suffered from insomnia and migraines. Her family advised her to visit a traditional Chinese medicine clinic where she met with the doctor He Suye (played by Zhang).

Their relationship deepened after they learnt that they live in the same community. Another thing they share: both were hurt by past relationships. Together, they discovered how to heal from their past traumas and open their hearts to love once more.

Available on iQiYi.

The Princess Royal (2024)

An arranged marriage between a princess, Li Rong (played by Zhao Jinmai) and Pei Wenxuan (played by Zhang) took place for political gain, resulting in a union that didn’t possess any love to begin with.

The long and loveless marriage eventually ended in betrayal and death. The characters were then sent 20 years back in time, returning to their young selves and giving them the opportunity to relive their lives. 

Available on Netflix.