26 Must-Watch Donghua From China For Anime Fans

You asked, and we delivered! Here are 20 best donghua from China for anime fans. Donghua, often referred to as Chinese anime, has been steadily gaining popularity both domestically and internationally. If you’re new to the world of donghua, this list is the perfect place to start exploring.

Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 22/12/2024 to include more fresh and engaging donghua for 2025, ensuring our recommendations are up-to-date with the latest must-watch series.

What is Donghua?

Many anime fans might not be familiar with donghua, even though they’ve probably watched one without realizing it. Donghua is just like anime, but it’s made in China and based on manhua (Chinese manga) created by Chinese artists.

What makes donghua special is how it blends the best elements of anime with its own unique touch—stunning art styles, beautiful music, and stories rooted in Chinese culture and folklore. It’s no longer just for Chinese audiences either; many donghua now come with subs and dubs for fans worldwide.

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Now, let’s dive into the list!

26. Renegade Immortal

  • Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Drama, Romance, Supernatural
  • Studios: Tencent Animation
  • Episodes: 15
  • Aired: Fall 2020

Renegade Immortal is a solid donghua adaptation of a huge Chinese web novel. The pacing is faster than the book, which cuts out some details but makes the story more manageable. That said, it gives more depth to side characters and key moments.

Wang Lin is a bright young boy with loving parents, but his family faces rejection from their relatives. Despite this, his parents always believed he could achieve greatness. One day, Wang Lin gets the chance to pursue immortality, but soon discovers that his talent is far from extraordinary. Follow his journey as he pushes past his limitations and strives to become a true immortal!

If you’re not into slow romance plots, this one’s a good pick—focuses more on character growth and less on drama. The only downside is some of the cultivation terms could use a bit more explanation.

  • Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Drama, Romance, Supernatural
  • Studios: Tencent Animation
  • Episodes: 15
  • Aired: 2020

Scumbag System presents a neat mix of drama, fantasy, and a touch of humor in a way that’s hard to stop watching. There’s a bit of everything in the mix: love, redemption, and all these deep, messed-up relationships, which keep you hooked.

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It follows Shen Qingqiu, who wakes up in a world from a novel as the villain. But here’s the twist: he doesn’t want to be the bad guy, so he’s stuck trying to flip the script and survive in this crazy world where everyone is way too powerful.

The characters are far from perfect, but that’s what makes them so interesting. You watch Shen Qingqiu struggle with his new life, and it’s honestly kind of funny and heartwarming at the same time. If you’re into a good fantasy with lots of twists and emotional rollercoasters, Scumbag System is totally worth your time.

24. Tian Guan Cifu (Heaven Official’s Blessing)

  • Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Drama, Supernatural
  • Studios: Haoliners Animation League
  • Episodes: 11
  • Aired: 2020

A beautiful blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure, Heaven Official’s Blessing is filled with emotional moments, gorgeous animation, and a slow-burning romance.

Heaven Official’s Blessing follows the journey of Xie Lian, a prince who’s been exiled and faces countless challenges. Along the way, he forms a bond with a mysterious god, Hua Cheng, and their relationship becomes central to the story.

For fans of rich worlds and themes like love, redemption, and sacrifice, this show is a must-watch.

23. Mo Dao Zu Shi (The Master of Diabolism)

  • Genres: Action, Drama, Fantasy, Supernatural
  • Studios: B.CMAY Pictures
  • Episodes: 15
  • Aired: 2018

One of the best and most popular donghua, The Master of Diabolism is based on the novel of the same name.

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This series mixes fantasy, mystery, and romance, following the story of Wei Wuxian, a once-feared cultivator who is resurrected after his death and must navigate a world full of secrets and complicated relationships.

Packed with interesting characters, surprising plot twists, and great animation, The Master of Diabolism is perfect if you love fantasy, action, and a bit of mystery. It mixes powerful magic, dark secrets, and deep relationships that keep you hooked. The show is all about character growth, so if you enjoy stories with complex characters and darker themes, you’ll definitely want to check it out!

22. Cike Wu Liuqi (Scissor Seven)

  • Genres: Action, Comedy, Supernatural
  • Studios: Xiaoqi Animation
  • Episodes: 12
  • Aired: 2020

Scissor Seven is a quirky and hilarious animated series that mixes action with comedy.

The story follows Seven, a quirky hairdresser who moonlights as a contract killer. Despite his serious job, Seven is a clumsy, forgetful guy with a heart of gold, often getting himself into ridiculous situations. As the series progresses, we discover more about his mysterious past and the reasons behind his unusual career choice.

The animation style is vibrant and distinct, with exaggerated character designs and over-the-top action scenes. If you’re into action/comedy with heart, Scissor Seven offers a refreshing experience with a lot of unexpected twists and laughs along the way!

21. Shiguang Dailiren (Link Click)

  • Genres: Action, Mystery, Supernatural
  • Studios: Studio LAN
  • Episodes: 12
  • Aired: 2021

Link Click is definitely worth watching if you’re into thrilling mysteries with a unique twist. The concept of time travel through photos is pretty fresh and adds a layer of suspense.

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Link Click follows two talented photographers, Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang, who run a studio that specializes in time-traveling photography. When someone brings them a photo, they can enter the image and experience the past events it captures. However, they can only observe the past and must solve problems without altering the timeline. As they take on more complex cases, the duo uncovers secrets that go beyond just the photos they’re tasked to investigate, leading to unexpected twists and deeper mysteries about their own lives.

It’s one of those shows where you think you’ve figured it out, but then the story takes a turn, and you’re left wanting more. If you love plot twists, emotional moments, and a touch of supernatural mystery, Link Click is definitely a show to check out!

20. Xian Wang de Richang Shenghuo (The Daily Life of the Immortal King)

  • Genres: Adventure, Slice of Life, Comedy, Demons, Fantasy, School
  • Studios: Haoliners Animation League
  • Episodes: 15
  • Aired: January 18, 2020

The Daily Life of the Immortal King is a donghua that gives off vibes similar to One Punch Man, The Disastrous Life of Saiki K, or Mob Psycho 100, and I mean that in a good way. It’s a fun, lighthearted series featuring an overpowered protagonist who effortlessly takes down any opponent, making for a silly yet entertaining watch.

Plot Summary

As a cultivation genius who has achieved a new realm every two years since he was a year old, Wang Ling is a near-invincible existence with prowess far beyond his control. But now that he’s sixteen, he faces his greatest battle yet—Senior High School. With one challenge after another popping up, his plans for a low-key high school life seem further and further away.

For those who enjoy overpowered main characters or simply want a series with a straightforward plot and engaging characters, this donghua is a must-watch.

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19. Hitori No Shita: The Outcast

  • Genres: Action, Super Power, Supernatural
  • Studios: Namu Animation
  • Episodes: 12
  • Aired: Summer 2016

Hitori No Shita: The Outcast feels like a mystery thriller at its core, though opinions about it are divided. Because of this, it’s one of those shows that can be a hit or miss, depending on your personal taste.

Plot Summary

A group of mysterious people desecrated the grave of Zhang Chunan’s long-dead grandfather, but his grandfather’s corpse wasn’t the only thing they dug up. Secrets and mysteries surrounding the Zhang family surfaced, and Zhang Chunan is apparently more than just an ordinary college student desperate to be rid of his virginity.

The show tries to be original with its plot but it doesn’t always succeed. That said, it has its moments and comedy that made me chuckle lightly sometimes.

18. Gin no Guardian (The Silver Guardian)

  • Genres: Adventure, Fantasy
  • Studios: Haoliners Animation League
  • Episodes: 12
  • Aired: Spring 2017

A short yet epic donghua that doesn’t try hard to reinvent the wheel but goes with a simplistic approach, The Silver Guardian is exciting and even surprising at some points.

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Plot Summary

Sui Gin may be poor, but he is one of the best online video game players. This identity, however, is unknown to all except for RikuLei, Sui Gin’s classmate. She delivers a mysterious mobile device to Sui Gin but before being able to explain herself, RikuLei is kidnapped and Sui Gin unwittingly finds himself wrapped up in a series of problematic circumstances. Searching for a way to save her, he accidentally activates the device allowing him to dive into a new virtual game world.

With just 13 minutes per episode, the anime tries to deliver a lot in a relatively short time, so it takes a different route than most shows with more time. This shorter format pushes the show to prioritize the most essential parts of the narrative, making it feel quicker and more direct compared to typical longer episodes.

17. Yaoguai Mingdan (Monster List)

  • Genres: Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Romance
  • Studios: Haoliners Animation League
  • Episodes: 18
  • Aired: December 13, 2014

Monster List is a slow-burn donghua that needs time to fully bloom, but it only gets better as the series progresses each episode.

Plot Summary

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A foxy temptress. A strange misty tree demon. A girl with the power of the goddess Xianjia! Being caught between these women is a feat in it of itself, but our hero Feng Xi must fight in order to protect the peace and save the world!

If you stick with the series, you’ll most likely fall in love with this touching donghua that tries to remind us to be good to the planet and each other. Monster List might not be the most revolutionary donghua in the world but it’s both enjoyable and rewarding.

16. Xiang Ling Ji (Tales of Exorcism)

  • Genres: Action, Demons, Fantasy
  • Studios: Pb Animation Co. Ltd., Studio LAN
  • Episodes: 15
  • Aired: March 22, 2017

Tales of Exorcism is one of the best donghua if you need a distraction for a stressful day. An enjoyable series that doesn’t require your full concentration, you will still be able to easily follow the plot.

Plot Summary

The 19-year-old tomboy exorcist Hua Jiu got to know ‘evil spirit’ Seven Lord and forced him to be her spirit servant when cleansing spirits. Later the human being and the spirit set forth on a journey of ranting each other and cleansing spirits. However, Hua Jiu’s enemy started insidious revenge at the same time.

A revenge story with hilarious moments, this anime has a lovable cast, mini-adventures, and an unexpected ending. All in all, it’s one of those donghua series you will either love or hate.

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15. Meng Qi Shi Shen (Adorable Food Goddess)

  • Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Historical, Drama, Romance, Shoujo
  • Studios: Wawayu Animation
  • Episodes: 12
  • Aired: December 29, 2018

Adorable Food Goddess is a refreshing yet weird blend of genres. It feels like an isekai anime but there is no fantasy aspect. However, there are all the slice-of-life themes most fans will love.

Plot Summary

Ye Jiayao finds herself back in time in the body of Ye Jinxuan. After many twists, she thought she could finally live a simple life and achieve her dream of opening the best restaurant in Huai Song. However, there are villains constantly trying to bring her down.

A perfect pick for any anime foodie, this series has an infectiously cheerful lead, adorable cast, amazing animation, and music to carry the plot. In fact, it does well with just 12 episodes.

14. Xiao Lu He Xiao Lan (Beryl and Sapphire)

  • Genres: Game, Sci-Fi, Slice of Life, Comedy, Drama, Magic, School, Shounen Ai
  • Studios: Haoliners Animation League
  • Episodes: 72
  • Aired: August 27, 2018

What’s cool and unique about Beryl and Sapphire is how it tells different storylines at the same time, building on each other. One episode will focus on Beryl and Sapphire in one story, and the next will continue from where a different storyline left off. It’s always the same characters, but they seem like completely different versions of themselves in each story — or are they?

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Plot Summary

Lighthearted stories of stick figures (until the plot kicks in) At times the closest of friends, at others the worst of enemies… In this donghua where each episode is set in a different world, how would they encounter each other time and again?? Only angst? Too painful! Nothing but fluff? Too sugary! Come watch B&S, the show where you’ll never guess the ending…

You’ll laugh, cry, get angry, and reflect on deep ideas while following Shao-lan and Shao-lu as they experience sci-fi, drama, romance, and real-world struggles. Each episode is about 5-7 minutes long, with some longer episodes sprinkled in every few episodes to explore the main plotlines deeper.

13. Wo de Tian Jie Nu You (My Cultivator Girlfriend)

  • Genres: Adventure, Super Power, Supernatural, Romance, Fantasy
  • Studios: Big Firebird Cultural Media
  • Episodes: 15
  • Aired: September 20, 2017

My Cultivator Girlfriend is an enjoyable series, thanks to its focus on character backstories and well-chosen music.

Plot Summary

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In the modern cultivation world, everywhere is the law of the jungle, everyone feels insecure. After saving a cultivator girl, the security guard Ma Yingxiong accidentally starts the journey of practicing cultivation.

While the plot isn’t anything new, it’s a fun watch, especially when you need a break from your usual donghua or anime. My Cultivator Girlfriend will definitely find a special place in your heart.

12. Wangpai Yushi (Ace Censorate)

  • Genres: Adventure, Super Power, Supernatural, Romance, Fantasy
  • Studios: Big Firebird Cultural Media
  • Episodes: 15
  • Aired: September 20, 2017

Ace Censorate is a donghua filled with slapstick comedy that doesn’t take anything seriously, not even the plot. Honestly, I think that’s what makes it so fun!

Plot Summary

In a world where yin and yang has lost its balance and day merged with night, humans and monsters learn to coexist. Our hardworking censorates do their best to fight the ‘untamed’ monsters in this joyful story.

It’s funny, quirky, and full of mystery. It’s a great fantasy school series that’s definitely worth your time, especially if you’re into slapstick comedy in anime.

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11. Yao Shen Ji (Tales Of Demons And Gods)

  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Demons, Romance, Martial Arts, Fantasy
  • Studios: Ruo Hong Culture
  • Episodes: 40
  • Aired: May 9, 2017

Tales Of Demons And Gods is a donghua based on the popular web novel of the same name. Despite its short 7-minute episodes, it does a great job of staying true to the original plot, making it a captivating watch.

Plot Summary

Nie Li, one of the strongest Demon Spirits in his past life standing at the pinnacle of the martial world, however, he lost his life during the battle with Sage Emperor and the six deity ranked beast, his soul was then reborn back in time back to when he is still 13. Although he is the weakest in his class with the lowest talent at only the Red soul realm, with the aid of the vast knowledge, which he accumulated in his previous life, he trained faster than anyone did. Trying to protect the city which in the coming future was being assaulted by beast and ended up being destroyed as well as protecting his lover, friends, and family who died by the beast assault, and to destroy the sacred family whom abandon their duty and betrayed the city in his past life.

The anime has a slower-paced plot and some flaws, but its deep lore and memorable characters make it worth checking out. I’d recommend giving it a try!

10. Duan Nao (Die Now)

  • Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Sci-Fi
  • Studios: Haoliners Animation League
  • Episodes: 16
  • Aired: November 28, 2014

At number 10 on our list is Die Now, a creative and suspense-filled series that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It definitely surprised me a few times.

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Plot Summary

The word cerebrum refers to a gigantic system comprising collision universes, which is called the cerebrum universe. The story starts from a series of unknown murders, unraveling the secret hiding beneath the entire universe, ranging from horrifying conspiracies to galaxy wars, from anti-human betrayals to honorable sacrifices. Having realized her weakness and backwardness, humanity takes the last stand.

A unique donghua that’s all about mystery, solving puzzles, and following clever characters, Die Now really needs your full attention because if you blink, you might miss key clues. It’s not the kind of show you can watch casually, but if you give it your focus, it’s an exciting ride.

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9. Lan Mo de Hua (Lan Mo’s Flower)

  • Genres: Magic, Romance, School
  • Studios: Colored-Pencil Animation
  • Episodes: 9
  • Aired: July 13, 2017

Lan Mo’s Flower is a sweet and touching romance donghua that many people can relate to at some point in their lives. With just 9 episodes, it’s an easy series to dive into and enjoy.

Plot Summary

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Ordinary girl Lan Mo once got a headdress flower that could transform her into a dream girl. She uses this image to chase her childhood sweetheart, Liu Yi Feng. The story happens between them is sweet and touching.

The show does a great job with pacing, even with just 9 episodes. The scenes never feel rushed, and the animation is decent. Romance anime fans will definitely enjoy this short but adorable donghua.

8. Zhen Hun Jie (Rakshasa Street)

  • Genres: Action, Supernatural
  • Studios: L²Studio
  • Episodes: 24
  • Aired: April 28, 2016

Rakshasa Street is an interesting donghua with a solid plot full of emotions and action, all packed into an average run time of just 14 minutes.

Plot Summary

Requiem Street, where evil spirits are attracted to destroy them. A place where spirits and humans co-exist, not all humans can enter Requiem Street. Only those rare-soul users with guardian spirits can enter. Xia Ling was just a normal university intern, but a meeting by chance changes her ordinary life… In this world full of evil spirits, can you cooperate with your guardian spirit to survive?

While it’s not trying to revolutionize the plot, it excels at what it does, staying true to the rules of its world. It’s a great donghua to try, especially as one of your firsts.

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7. Ling Qi (Spiritpact)

  • Genres: Action, Comedy, Magic, Shounen Ai, Supernatural
  • Studios: Haoliners Animation League
  • Episodes: 20
  • Aired: June 21, 2016

Spiritpact is a donghua that shounen-ai fans will definitely enjoy. It’s a well-balanced series with humor, action, unexpected twists, and some really funny parodies.

Plot Summary

Poverty-stricken Yang Jinghua dies in an accident. The moment he wakes up, he seems ten years younger. At first, Yang Jinghua thought he was reborn. However, a white-haired, rich, and handsome man, named Duanmu Xi, reveals the truth. To stay in the world, Yang Jinghua must become Duanmu Xi’s soul image and therefore, creates a soul contract that binds both their souls.

Spiritpact has lovable and memorable characters that stick with you. While it leaves some questions unanswered, it doesn’t feel frustrating—it’s simple and engaging enough to keep you hooked, and before you know it, you’ll be watching the final credits roll.

6. Douluo Dalu (Soul Land)

  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Historical, Martial Arts, Romance
  • Studios: Sparkly Key Animation Studio
  • Episodes: 26
  • Aired: January 20, 2018

Soul Land is a donghua similar to Tales of Demons and Gods, but I feel it’s executed a bit better. The 3D art style really works for this series, making the fight scenes look even more impressive.

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Plot Summary

Tang San spent his life in the Tang Outer Sect, dedicated to the creation and mastery of hidden weapons. Once he stole the secret lore of the Inner Sect to reach the pinnacle of his art, his only way out was death. But after throwing himself off the deadly Hell’s Peak he was reborn in a different world, the world of Douluo Dalu, a world where every person has a spirit of their own, and those with powerful spirits can practice their spirit power to rise and become Spirit Masters.

This anime has a great story with minimal filler, and while there is some character growth, it mainly focuses on the main character, which is my only complaint. The romance is solid, and I’d definitely recommend it to fans of isekai anime.

5. Sishen Qiaokeli-ing… (Cupid’s Chocolates)

  • Genres: Harem, Comedy, Romance, School
  • Studios: B.CMAY PICTURES
  • Episodes: 15
  • Aired: December 2, 2015

Cupid’s Chocolates is a donghua that harem genre fans won’t want to miss! After all, it’s packed with fanservice and plenty of ecchi moments.

Plot Summary

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Jiang Hao, a normal, high school student who is extremely scared of getting into trouble suddenly becomes the Harem King of his school and gets confessed to by a bunch of beautiful girls! The worst thing is, Jiang hao doesn’t know any of the girls who confessed to him! What on earth is happening?

Filled with lovable characters, great character development, and a plot that’s touching enough to bring a tear or two, this anime makes for a satisfying watch!

4. Huyao Xiao Hongniang (Fox Spirit Matchmaker)

  • Genres: Comedy, Historical, Supernatural, Romance
  • Studios: Haoliners Animation League
  • Episodes: 13
  • Aired: June 26, 2015

Fox Spirit Matchmaker starts off slow, taking its time to introduce the characters and the world. However, it does a great job balancing comedy and serious moments, keeping things interesting.

Plot Summary

True love never dies—even when it is between a human and a near-immortal youkai. Thankfully, fox spirit youkai have discovered a solution that allows a human to be reincarnated, and with the services of a Fox Spirit Matchmaker, eventually recall memories of their past life, so they can begin anew with their beloved youkai. In this story, the lives of a fox spirit and a man who have both rejected the idea of true love become intertwined, and their exciting adventure begins.

Fox Spirit Matchmaker is a surprisingly deep donghua, featuring two adorable main couples and telling a story of true love with a touch of ecchi. If you’re into romance or emotional anime, you’ll definitely enjoy it!

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Honourable Mentions

Dongguo Xiaojie: Karma

Dongguo Xiaojie Karma main cast donghua-chinese-anime
  • Genres: Adventure, Historical, Demons, Supernatural
  • Studios: Haoliners Animation League
  • Episodes: 15
  • Aired: December 26, 2016

Reikenzan: Hoshikuzu-tachi no Utage (Spirit Blade Mountain)

Reikenzan Hoshikuzu-tachi no Utage Spirit Blade Mountain donghua-chinese-anime
  • Genres: Comedy, Magic, Fantasy
  • Studios: Studio Deen
  • Episodes: 12
  • Aired: January 9, 2016

Shin Chou Kyou Ryo: Condor Hero (The Legend of Condor Hero)

Shin Chou Kyou Ryo Condor Hero The Legend of Condor Hero donghua-chinese-anime
  • Genres: Adventure, Drama, Historical, Romance
  • Studios: Nippon Animation
  • Episodes: 26
  • Aired: April 11, 2001

Wu Shan Wu Xing (Fog Hill of Five Elements)

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Wu Shan Wu Xing Fog Hill of Five Elements donghua-chinese-anime
  • Genres: Action, Historical, Martial Arts, Fantasy
  • Studios: Nice Boat Animation, Samsara Animation Studio
  • Episodes: 3
  • Aired: July 26, 2020

Mo Dao Zu Shi (Grandmaster Of Demonic Cultivation)

grandmaster-of-demonic-cultivation-Mo Dao Zu Shi-donghua-chinese-anime
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Mystery, Historical, Supernatural
  • Studios: B.CMAY PICTURES
  • Episodes: 15
  • Aired: July 9, 2018

Wan Jie Xian Zong (The Wonderland of Ten Thousands)

Wan-Jie-Xian-Zong-The Wonderland of Ten Thousands main cast donghua-chinese-anime
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Demons, Fantasy, Historical, Martial Arts, Romance
  • Studios: Ruo Hong Culture
  • Episodes: 40
  • Aired: March 21, 2018

Heibai Wushang (The Unparalleled Black & White)

Heibai Wushang The Unparalleled Black & White donghua-chinese-anime
  • Genres: Action, Comedy, Supernatural
  • Studios: Wawayu Animation
  • Episodes: 12
  • Aired: July 9, 2015

Doupo Cangqiong (Battle Through the Heavens)

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Doupo Cangqiong Battle Through the Heavens donghua-chinese-anime
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Supernatural, Romance
  • Studios: Shanghai Foch Film and TV Culture Investment
  • Episodes: 12
  • Aired: January 7, 2017

Jie Mo Ren (The Devil Ring)

jie-mo-ren-The Devil Ring main cast donghua-chinese-anime
  • Genres: Action, Mystery, Supernatural, Fantasy
  • Studios: Qiying Animation
  • Episodes: 14
  • Aired: April 27, 2016

Wo de Ni Tian Shen Qi (My Holy Weapon)

Wo de Ni Tian Shen Qi My Holy Weapon donghua-chinese-anime main cast
  • Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Supernatural, Magic, Romance, Fantasy
  • Studios: Haoliners Animation League, Pb Animation Co. Ltd.
  • Episodes: 16
  • Aired: April 26, 2018

3. Quanzhi Fashi (Full-Time Magister)

  • Genres: Action, Fantasy, Magic, School
  • Studios: Shanghai Foch Film and TV Culture Investment
  • Episodes: 12
  • Aired: September 2, 2016

Number 3 on our donghua list is Full-Time Magister, a hidden gem that’s absolutely worth checking out. The main character is super relatable, with a personality that feels grounded and real, making it easy for viewers to connect with the story.

Plot Summary

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He awoke, and the world has changed. The familiar high school now teaches magic, encouraging students to become the greatest magicians they can be. Beyond the city limits, wandering magical beasts prey on humans. However, Mo Fan discovered that while everyone else can only use one major element, he himself can use all magic!

Full-Time Magister strikes a perfect balance between the fantastical and the relatable, blending the unreal with just enough realism to draw you in. The drama and romance are handled subtly, never feeling overwhelming or cheesy, making it a must-watch for any anime fan looking to dive into donghua.

2. Da Yu Hai Tang (Big Fish & Begonia)

  • Genres: Adventure, Supernatural, Drama, Romance
  • Studios: B&T
  • Episodes: 1
  • Aired: July 8, 2016

Big Fish & Begonia originally debuted in 2004 as a short flash film, serving as the prototype for the animated movie that followed. While the movie shines visually and musically, its plot didn’t quite live up to the same level.

Plot Summary

In an old mythical world, there live spirit-like beings who oversee the natural order of the mortal realm. One of them, a young girl named Chun, has just come of age and must undergo her rite of passage by experiencing the human world for herself. While there, she gets caught in a fishing net during a storm and saved by a human boy.

The original 7-minute prototype of Big Fish & Begonia was a hit, even winning an award. The full-length film built on that foundation with a deep storyline, a meaningful message, and countless heartwarming moments that resonated with viewers. To me, it was perfect, and I highly recommend every anime fan check out both versions!

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1. Quan Zhi Gao Shou (The King’s Avatar)

  • Genres: Action, Game
  • Studios: B.CMAY PICTURES
  • Episodes: 12
  • Aired: April 7, 2017

Last but not least, we have The King’s Avatar—a fantastic donghua about video games, packed with action, clever strategies, and great character development.

Plot Summary

Widely regarded as a trailblazer and top-tier professional player in the online multiplayer game Glory, they dubbed Ye Xiu the “Battle God” for his skills and contributions to the game over the years. However, when forced to retire from the team and to leave his gaming career behind, he finds work at a nearby internet café. There, when Glory launches its tenth server, he throws himself in to the game once more using a new character named “Lord Grim.”

The show might not be the best at capturing the world of Esports perfectly, but it’s still a solid show with a good mix of humor, action, and a well-rounded story. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to action fans or anyone who loves character-focused plots.


And that wraps up our list of the 20 best donghua! What do you think about donghua? Have you seen any of our picks? Did we miss one you love, or is there a favorite you’d recommend? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!

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Till next time… Keep being moving forward!

YumDeku
YumDeku

Blogger / Jujutsu Sorcerer / Unpredictable knuckle head Ninja that spends his free time writing, reading, watching and playing all things Anime, Manga and Gaming.

Articles: 337
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