2026 C-Drama Schedule: Upcoming Releases, Cast & Where to Watch (Monthly Guide)

Here are the anticipated 2026 C-Drama releases, along with their cast and streaming locations, based on current industry reports. （Please note: While Q1 dates are confirmed, dates for later in the year are based on current filming schedules and platform "Expected Airing" quarters.）

✴️January 2026 Release

Drama Title (CN/EN)	Release Date	Main Cast	Genre	Platform
《轧戏》Love Between Lines	2026-01-09	Chen Xingxu, Lu Yuxiao, Dai Xu, Ma Sichao, Li Tingting	Suspense / Romance	iQIYI
《小城大事》The Dream Maker	2026-01-10	Zhao Liying, Huang Xiaoming, Chen Minghao, Zhu Yuanyuan, Qin Junjie	Realistic / Drama	Tencent / WeTV
《御赐小仵作2》The Imperial Coroner Season 2	2026-01-15	Wang Ziqi, Su Xiaotong, Yang Tingdong, Zhao Yaoke	Historical / Mystery	Tencent / WeTV
《遮天》Shrouding the Heavens	2026-01-16	Yin Zheng, Zhu Xudan, Wang Duo, Wang Mengli	Fantasy / Drama	Tencent Video
《秋雪漫过的冬天》Winter Covered by Autumn Snow	2026-01-16	Mark Chao, Zhang Zifeng, Jiang Yiyan, Rong Zixi	Drama	—
《太平年》Swords Into Plowshares	2026-01-19	Bai Yu, Zhou Yutong, Zhu Yawen, Yu Haoming, Dong Yong	Historical / Period	CCTV-1 / iQIYI / Viki
《突然的喜欢》Suddenly Like You	2026-01-22	Chen Xingxu, Wang Yuwen, Ma Sichao, Zeng Mengxue	Romance / Comedy	—
《夜色正浓》The Night is Deep	2026-01-26	Jiang Shuying, Tong Dawei, Lan Yingying, Que Qingzi	Drama	—
《女神蒙上眼》The Inner Eye	2026-01-27	Xin Zhilei, Lin Yushen, Zhang Yishang, Zheng Xiyi	Legal / Drama	Mango TV / Hunan TV
《生命树》Born to Be Alive	2026-01-29	Yang Zi, Hu Ge, Li Guangjie, Zhang Zhehua, Mei Ting	Realistic / Drama	—

January Highlights: The year kicks off with the highly anticipated historical epic Swords Into Plowshares, which dramatizes the little-known "Nagu Gui Song" (incorporation of Wuyue into Song Dynasty) . Born to Be Alive brings together Hu Ge and Yang Zi for the first time in an ambitious environmental drama shot over 188 days on the Qinghai plateau . 

✴️February 2026 Releases

Drama Title (CN/EN)	Release Date	Cast	Genre	Streaming Platform
《玫瑰丛生》Roses Among Thorns	2026-02-26	Wang Ziwen, Liu Yuning, Jiang Xin, Gu Jiacheng	Drama / Romance	Tencent Video
《除恶》Eliminating Evil	2026-02-23	Ren Suxi, Wang Xiao, Cai Wenjing, Li Zefeng, Wang Youjun	Drama	iQIYI
《江湖夜雨十年灯》Ten Years of Night Rain in the Martial World	2026-02-22	Zhou Yiran, Bao Shang'en, Yu Jiacheng, Fan Jingyi, Bian Tianyang	Drama / Wuxia (Period)	iQIYI、Tencent Video
《纯真年代的爱情》Love Story in the 1970s	2026-02-21	Chen Feiyu, Sun Qian, Guo Xiaoting, Wang Tianchen, Liu Mintao	Drama / Romance	CCTV 8
《岁月有情时》When Time Has Affection	2026-02-20	Huang Jingyu, Guan Xiaotong, Xu Ruohan, Wang Tianchen	Drama / History	CCTV 8、 iQIYI
《乡村爱情18》Country Love 18	2026-02-10	Tang Jianjun, Wang Xiaoli, Liu Xiaoguang, Song Xiaofeng, Cai Weili	Drama / Comedy	Youku
《重返青春》Back to Youth	2026-02-09	Li Chengru, Xu Di, Cai Ming, Fan Ming, Liang Tian	Drama / Comedy	Tencent Video
《被隐匿的真相》The Hidden Truth	2026-02-06	Ding Guansen, Yin Xiaotian, Huang Tingting, Guo Pinchao, Wang Ning	Drama / Suspense	Tencent Video
《成何体统》How Dare You!?	2026-02-06	Wang Churan, Cheng Lei, Tang Xiaotian, Hu Yixuan, Ma Su	Romance / Costume (Period)	iQIYI
《唐宫奇案之青雾风鸣》Unveil: Jadewind	2026-02-03	Zhang Yijie, Guan Yue, Hou Chengshuo, Liu Yunhan, He Gang	Drama / Suspense / Short / Period	Youku
《风过留痕》Traces After the Wind	2026-02-03	Gong Jun, Jiang Wu, Sun Yi, Wang Xun, Jia Bing	Drama / Suspense / Crime	iQIYI、Tencent Video

✴️March 2026 Releases (Expected)

March Highlights: Gao Xing adapts Jia Pingwa's acclaimed novel about migrant workers pursuing better lives in the city, showcasing Shaanxi's local culture and dialect . The Han Epic (Emperor Wu) explores Emperor Wu of Han's reforms and the rise of the Han Dynasty's golden age .

✴️April 2026 Releases (Expected)

April Highlights: Spy No Cap marks Xiao Zhan's espionage debut, set against the backdrop of underground intelligence work in 1948 Nanjing . Irreplaceable tells the story of workplace newcomers rising through the ranks.

✴️May 2026 Releases (Expected)

May Highlights: The Great Long March reunites the legendary Age of Awakening team to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Long March, dramatizing the epic journey of the Central

✴️June 2026 Releases (Expected)

June Highlights: Medical drama fans get the long-awaited sequel to hit series Wen Xin, while Winning Wind explores the fast-paced courier industry and private sector development .

✴️July 2026 Releases (Expected)

July Highlights: The Three-Body universe expands with Da Shi, focusing on the fan-favorite detective character from the original series, blending hard sci-fi with Eastern philosophy .

✴️August 2026 Releases (Expected)

August Highlights: A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains and Dragon Pond continue the espionage genre's strong run, telling stories of unsung heroes who sacrificed in the shadows .

✴️September 2026 Releases (Expected)

September Highlights: Sword Coming, one of the most anticipated male-focused IP adaptations, finally arrives with Wu Lei in the lead role, depicting a vibrant and heroic martial arts world .

✴️October 2026 Releases (Expected)

October Highlights: Fifteen Days to Beijing adapts Ma Boyong's thriller about a Ming Dynasty prince's desperate race back to the capital after surviving an assassination plot .

✴️November 2026 Releases (Expected)

November Highlights: The Hidden Name unravels a cold case that reveals the intertwined fates of two generations of women and their journey toward self-redemption . Family Court stars Gong Jun and Ren Min as judges handling family disputes.

✴️December 2026 Releases (Expected)

December Highlights: The year closes with the highly anticipated sequel Sword Snow Stride 2, with Zhang Ruoyun returning as Xu Fengnian in Wang Juan's brilliant wuxia adaptation .

📋 Upcoming 2026 Dramas (Dates TBA)

The following dramas have been officially announced for 2026 but do not yet have confirmed release months. Bookmark this page—we'll update as dates are announced.

Top platforms to watch Chinese dramas (CDramas) with English subtitles include dedicated Asian streaming services like iQIYI, WeTV, Youku, and Viki. For broader streaming options, Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video are reliable, legal choices, with many offering free, ad-supported content

Note: Availability differs by region; some series may require VPN or third‑party licensed platforms like Viki.

Major Platforms for Overseas Viewers

Platform Tips for International Fans

• iQIYI International (iQ.com) offers the most extensive library of C-dramas with high-quality English subtitles, often simulcasting within hours of domestic release

• Tencent Video (WeTV) specializes in major IP adaptations and blockbuster productions with solid subtitle support

• Youku excels in period dramas and wuxia titles, with consistent English subtitle availability

• Mango TV focuses on youth-oriented content and lighter fare, with English subs on major releases

• Regional variations: Some platforms may have different content libraries depending on your country; using a VPN can help access region-restricted content

• Free vs. VIP: Most platforms offer free episodes with ads, or VIP subscriptions for early access and ad-free viewing

⭐ Top 10 Must‑Watch C-Dramas in 2026: New Releases & Upcoming Hits

Looking for the best new C-dramas in 2026? From historical epics and wuxia mysteries to modern romance and crime thrillers, early 2026 has already delivered a strong lineup—plus several highly anticipated upcoming series worth bookmarking.

🏛️ Historical & Fantasy Epics

1.Swords Into Plowshares (太平年)

Key Cast: Bai Yu, Zhou Yutong, Zhu Yawen

Genre: Historical / Political

Why Watch: A massive production set in the Song Dynasty. It is being praised for its historical accuracy and high-level acting (starring Zhu Yawen). It’s the "serious" drama of the year for fans of political intrigue.

Where to Watch: iQIYI, Tencent Video, Mango TV

Plot Summary: Swords into Plowshares (太平年), a 2026 Chinese historical drama, chronicles the transition from the chaotic Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period to the Song Dynasty, focusing on Qian Hongchu of the Wuyue Kingdom. It highlights his journey to bring peace by "surrendering the land" (Na Tu Gui Song) to Zhao Kuangyin to prevent war and protect the people

2.Unveil: Jadewind (唐宫奇案之青雾凤鸣)

Key Cast: Bai Lu, Wang Xingyue

Genre: Historical, Mystery, Thriller

Why Watch:This drama has gained significant international attention, securing a global release on Netflix shortly after its domestic premiere. It promises a gripping investigation set in the opulent and dangerous Tang palace, featuring stunning production design and the popular pairing of Bai Lu and Wang Xingyue .

Where to Watch:  Youku, Netflix

Plot Summary: Unveil: Jadewind (2026) is a 34-episode historical mystery thriller (adapted from Tang Gong Qi An Zhi Xue Yu She) following imperial guard Li Peiyi (Bai Lu) and astronomer Xiao Huaijin (Wang Xingyue) as they solve Tang Dynasty palace murders. The plot hinges on a Princess's mysterious death during a banquet, unfolding into a 15-year conspiracy involving palace intrigue.

3.Zhan Zhao Adventure (雨霖铃)

Key Cast: Yang Yang, Zhang Ruonan

Genre: Wuxia / Mystery

Why Watch: Yang Yang returns to the Wuxia genre as the legendary Zhan Zhao. The action choreography and high production value make it a must-watch for fans of traditional martial arts adventures.

Where to Watch: CCTV, Youku

Plot Summary: Zhan Zhao, a fourth-rank imperial guard, pursues an unsolved case in search of the truth. Along the way, he joins forces with Huo Linglong, the fierce daughter of Linglong Villa, and Bai Yutang, the ruthless “Golden-Haired Rat.” Together, they chase clues, bring criminals to justice, and dismantle the web of power Prince Xiang Yang has spun across both court and underworld.

4.Mo Li (莫离)

Key Cast: Bai Lu, Ryan Cheng

Genre: Historical / Romance / Revenge

Why Watch: Bai Lu plays a woman returning from seclusion to avenge her family. Her chemistry with Ryan Cheng (playing a "crippled" prince with his own secrets) has made this a massive social media hit.

Where to Watch: Disney+, WeTV, Tencent

Plot Summary: Ye Li, the eldest daughter of the Ye clan, returns from eight years in seclusion to avenge her destroyed family. Married to the crippled Prince Mo Xiuyao, she soon discovers he harbours his own secret vendetta. As their hidden agendas collide, they form an unexpected alliance. Together, they confront scheming princes and treacherous officials, fighting to restore justice and peace to the empire.

5.Chasing Jade (逐玉)

Key Cast: Zhang Linghe, Tian Xiwei

Genre: Historical Romance

Why Watch: This is the "visual" drama of the year. Featuring two of the biggest rising stars, it follows a high-stakes romance with top-tier cinematography that has become a staple for iQIYI and Tencent.

Where to Watch: iQiyi, Tencent

Plot Summary: Fan Chang Yu, a butcher’s daughter, and Xie Zheng, a fallen noble, enter a marriage of convenience, but love grows where they least expect it. War tears them apart, yet she wields her knife for justice, and he fights to reclaim his honour. Reunited on the battlefield, they defy fate, fighting side by side to protect each other and uncover the truth.

6.How Dare You!? (成何体统)

Key Cast: Wang Churan, Ryan Cheng

Genre: Historical, Mystery, Romance, Fantasy

Why Watch: A fun, fast-paced "transmigration" story where a modern woman ends up in a web novel. It’s a breakout hit on iQIYI for its witty dialogue and subversion of typical palace drama clichés.

Where to Watch: iQiyi

 

Plot Summary: How Dare You!? (2026) is a 32-episode Chinese fantasy-romance drama following modern-day workers Yu Wanyin and Zhang San (Xiahou Dan) who are transmigrated into a palace struggle novel. They join forces to survive, fight against a fated tragic ending, prevent a drought, and fall in love, ultimately reuniting in the modern world. 

🏙️ Republican Era, Modern Romance and Life

7.生命树 (Born to Be Alive)

Key Cast: Yang Zi, Hu Ge 

Genre: Rural Drama/Healing/ Inspirational

Why Watch: A heavyweight "S-tier" production featuring two of China’s most respected actors. It’s a masterpiece of storytelling and scenic cinematography.

Where to Watch: CCTV, Tencent Video

Plot Summary: Bai Ge Gen, the team leader in charge of the Qinghai-Tibet Highway project, and his wife Zhang Qin Qin adopted a lost little girl and treated her as their own daughter, naming her Bai Ju. Bai Ju, who grew up in the Gobi Desert, was moved by the selfless dedication of the Bai family and was nurtured by this simple land. When she grew up, she became a police officer and joined the mountain patrol team. The story focuses on Bai Ju's journey and the relationships she made as she fought to protect her homeland, the beautiful Tibetan Plateau in Western China.

8.Love Story in the 1970s (纯真年代的爱情)

Key Cast: Chen Feiyu, Sun Qian

Genre: Period, Youth, Romance

Why Watch: Currently dominating the ratings and trending at the top of the popularity charts, this drama is being praised for its authentic visual aesthetics and heartfelt storytelling . It’s a perfect pick for viewers who love a slow-burn romance set against a backdrop of social change.

Where to Watch: CCTV-8, iQiyi 

Plot Summary: Set in the late 1970s, the story follows Fang Mu Yang, an educated youth (zhiqing) who suffers from amnesia after rescuing someone, and Fei Ni, a factory worker striving to enter university. Their marriage of convenience gradually blossoms into a deep emotional bond as they navigate the complexities of their era and personal aspirations

9.Spy No Cap (谍报上不封顶) 

Key Cast: Xiao Zhan, Zhou Yutong

Genre: Espionage, Republican Era, Drama

Why Watch: Produced by the legendary Daylight Entertainment (known for Nirvana in Fire), this drama is one of the most highly anticipated titles of the year. Combining a complex espionage plot with high production values and a stellar cast, it's poised to be a standout in the spy thriller genre .

Where to Watch: Youku

Plot Summary: Set in Nanjing in 1948, the story follows Ren Shaobai, an underground Communist agent who has been dormant for years. After re-establishing contact and infiltrating the Defense Ministry, he navigates a treacherous world of codes, financial warfare, and shifting loyalties while collaborating with a mathematical genius。

10.Overdo (这一秒过火)

Key Cast: Zhang Ling He, Wang Chu Ran

Genre: Historical/ Romance/Melodrama/ War

Why Watch: The drama stars popular actors Zhang Linghe and Wang Churan, delivering a "visual feast" with stunning Republic-era fashion. Based on a novel by Fei Wo Si Cun, the story promises extreme emotional turmoil, involving a "love-hate" relationship, faked deaths, and intense, tragic romance.

Where to Watch: iQiyi, Tencent, WeTV

Plot Summary: Set in Shanghai during the Republic of China era, Murong Qingyi is mistakenly taken from his family and raised by an abusive adoptive father. As a teenager fleeing his cruel fate, he is rescued by Ren Susu, an act of kindness that inadvertently brings catastrophic ruin upon her family. When a greater danger threatens innocent lives, Ren Susu makes the ultimate sacrifice: she fakes her death and disappears, leaving Murong Qingyi devastated by the loss of the woman he loves. Three years later, she returns as Murong Qingyi’s sister-in-law. Forced back into each other’s lives, they must confront buried emotions, lingering hatred, and old betrayals.

Viewing Guide: How to Choose the Right C-Dramas 2026

Choosing what to watch can feel overwhelming with so many new shows dropping each week. Here’s a simple guide to help you match your mood, preferences, and viewing goals with the right 2026 Chinese drama.

1️⃣Pick by Genre - What Are You In the Mood For?

Romance & Feel-Good

• Best if you want: light hearts, swoon moments, happy endings

• Look for: romantic comedies, workplace love stories, youth romance

• Great examples: Romance Next Door, How Dare You!?

Historical & Wuxia

• Best if you love: epic world-building, ancient settings, martial arts

• Look for: court politics, dynastic sagas, wuxia fantasy

• Great examples: Swords Into Plowshares, Generation to Generation

Mystery & Crime

• Best if you prefer: suspense, twists, intellect

• Look for: detective teams, forensic cases, psychological layers

• Great examples: The Truth, About Love

Slice of Life & Emotional Drama

• Best if you’re into: character depth, realism, emotional storytelling

• Look for: social dramas, introspective plots

• Great example: Loving Strangers

2️⃣Match the Cast to Your Interests

Many viewers pick shows based on actors they love — and 2026 has plenty of fan-favorite stars:

• Rising young leads: great for relatable, modern shows

• Established veterans: often bring depth to historical and suspense dramas

• Fresh pairings: can offer new chemistry worth watching

👉 If an actor has impressed you before, add anything they’re starring in to your watchlist.

3️⃣Consider Your Time & Commitment

Bingeers:

• Look for completed series (often 20–40 episodes) so you can watch straight through with no waits.

Weekly Viewers:

• Some 2026 shows might drop one or two episodes per week.

• Good for long-term engagement, but requires patience.

4️⃣Know Where to Watch (and Subtitles!)

Most 2026 C-dramas are available on major global platforms like:

• iQIYI – often with English subtitles

• Tencent Video / WeTV – wide international reach

• Youku & Mango TV – domestic favorites that sometimes offer subtitles

📌 If you’re international, check if English/foreign subtitles are available before starting — some shows add them later.

5️⃣Read the Buzz - Why It Matters

High anticipation doesn’t always mean it’ll be your favorite, but buzz often signals:

• Popular source material (novels, games, earlier adaptations)

• Strong pre-release marketing

• Large fan communities

Check:

• Online trailers

• Fan forums

• Social media reactions

📍 Tip: A strong buzz can elevate the experience even if the show isn’t perfect.

6️⃣Try Before You Commit

Not sure if you’re into a show?

Sample the first 2–3 episodes before committing.

If:

• Characters click? Keep watching

• Story drags? Try something else

Early content often gives the best sense of tone and pacing.

📌Final Recommendation: Quick Picks by Viewer Type

Common FAQs About Finding & Watching Chinese Dramas

Here is a quick reference guide for international viewers navigating the world of 2026 C-dramas.

 No matter your mood or preference, 2026 offers a Chinese drama that will resonate with you. Bookmark this guide and happy watching!