Best Chinese Anime (Donghua) One Must Watch

Japan is well-known as the center of the anime industry, constantly creating and adapting new stories into popular television series.

Recently, some amazing Chinese anime has started to gain recognition and is slowly making its way into the mainstream media.

However, due to the overwhelming focus on Japanese shows, fans may miss out on hidden treasures from other countries.

What is the meaning of Donghua?

Chinese anime, also known as Donghua, encompasses all types and origins of animated works created in China, regardless of their style.

With several manhuas gaining popularity both in China and abroad, the viewership and quality of Chinese anime have seen a significant surge.

China’s animation industry traces its roots back to 1935 when “The Camel’s Dance” became the first animated film produced in the country.

Since then, Chinese studios have released numerous animated movies and webtoons.

Chinese anime distinguishes itself from Japanese anime through its immersive storylines that showcase the rich heritage and contemporary lifestyle of China.

Unlike the Japanese anime that we are accustomed to, Chinese anime draws inspiration from the source material known as “manhua,” which refers to comics created and published in China.

Donghua, which are Chinese animated shows, often adapt web novels as their source material.

The length of a donghua can vary, ranging from 9 to 25 minutes, regardless of whether the show is information-dense or not.

Even historical dramas or harem-themed donghua can have a runtime of just 9 minutes.

There are a plethora of Chinese anime available on the internet.

But if you are running short on time but you still want to watch Chinese anime, then you have come to the right place.

Today we, are making a list of the best Chinese (Donghua) anime to watch.

PS: We won’t be adding Chinese animation movies. Animated films like Da Yu Hai Tang (Big Fish & Begonia).

As some anime trailers were unavailable, we used AMV/Openings for you to get a better understanding of the anime.

20. Xiao Lu He Xiao Lan – Beryl And Sapphire

Xiao Lu He Xiao Lan is a distinctive show featuring the amicable Beryl and introverted Sapphire, who have a complex relationship that oscillates between being the best of friends and mortal enemies.

What sets this Chinese animation apart and makes it so engaging is its approach of gradually weaving together multiple storylines, where one episode may focus on Beryl and Sapphire in one narrative thread.

In contrast, the next episode continues another Beryl and Sapphire storyline.

This keeps the audience hooked as they follow the progression of each individual story while also anticipating how they will intersect and influence one another.

The majority of episodes in the series are typically between 5 to 7 minutes in duration. However, longer episodes are featured approximately once every five or six episodes.

Additionally, all or most of the main storylines within the series receive at least one extended episode.

Beryl and Sapphire, the anime series, deftly navigates a plethora of complex sci-fi concepts that are often challenging to execute in anime.

The series’ episodic structure lends itself to a more flexible approach to exploring these ideas, or it could be the excellent writing and the dynamic between the show’s two protagonists that make it work so well.

Regardless of the reason, Beryl and Sapphire fearlessly tackle a broad range of plots and genres, seamlessly transitioning between lighthearted and serious tones as the story demands.

While the show explores several sci-fi themes, its core essence is the incredible bond between Beryl and Sapphire.

Though the series falls under the shounen-ai genre, it doesn’t rely on overtly explicit BL themes.

19. Mi Yu Xing Zhe – Uncharted Walker

A collection of individuals who don’t fit the typical mold find themselves stranded on a remote island upon waking up from their slumber.

With threats ranging from deadly viruses to indigenous groups and other insurmountable obstacles, how will this ragtag group manage to endure?

This Chinese anime is known for its well-crafted cast and well-developed characters.

The characters made the anime so much more interesting.

Their distinct personalities and traits are what make the show shine the most.

The characters in this story were not merely stereotypes, as they had genuine thoughts and motivations behind their actions.

Take, for example, the American blonde bombshell in a tank top.

Despite her appearance, she was portrayed as a skilled marksman and a law enforcement officer.

Her character could have just as easily been depicted as a middle-aged man, indicating that her gender and physical attributes were not used solely for the purpose of objectification.

Although the animation is not top-notch, the twists and turns keep you on the edge of your seat.

The captivating plotline gives the audience a thrilling experience.

Though season one ended with a cliffhanger, it made the audience anticipate season two more.

18. Shuangsheng Lingtan – Twins Spirit Investigators

Sun Xiaotu and Sun Xiaohu, twin brothers who work as paranormal investigators, are accustomed to dealing with strange cases.

However, a particularly unusual haunting leads them on a journey that will test their understanding of the supernatural realm.

This animated series, based on a popular manhua with a strong following, follows the story of twins as they navigate a challenging path filled with unknown secrets and confront vengeful spirits.

The plot is unique, and the mystery element is a breath of fresh air in the Chinese animation anime.

The episodes are just 14 minutes long, including the opening.

This makes the anime very easy to watch and enjoy.

With a perfect blend of suspense, action, and psychological drama, this donghua is definitely worth watching.

17. Dongguo Xiaojie – Karma

The title of this piece is geared towards individuals who value family ties.

Unfortunately, Dongguo’s mother falls gravely ill with a disease known as “Grave Illness,” just as Dongguo reaches the age of 16.

Determined to find a cure for her beloved mother, Dongguo embarks on a journey accompanied by her older brother Mo Zixuan and a mysterious being named “Life’s Hardship.”

The three individuals are constantly under attack on their journey.

The people who attack them are random; do these attacks mean the three are discovering some hidden secret?

People who have seen the series have a favorable opinion of it.

With the show’s ending, audiences love it so much that the overall popularity of the show is not affected by it.

The story is simple: a young lady embarks on a journey to explore the world, facing obstacles to ensure her mother’s happiness.

This Chinese anime is a great pick for those who love to watch family dramas.

Since the story revolves around family drama, you can expect emotional moments.

16. Ling Qi – Spiritpact

You Keika is a struggling individual who takes on odd jobs to make ends meet in the city.

One day, while rummaging through a junkyard, he encounters a white-haired man named Tanmoku Ki.

Little does he know that this encounter will change his life forever.

 After dying under mysterious circumstances, You find himself in the spirit world as a ghost.

Fortunately, Tanmoku appears and offers to help him, but with a catch.

Tanmoku proposes a pact between them, where You become Tanmoku’s spirit shadow. In return, Tanmoku provides him with protection from humans.

15. Kitsune no Koe – Voice of Fox

Kitsune no Koe, a Japanese adaptation of the popular Chinese manhua series ‘Huli Zhi Sheng,’ showcases an excellent example of a music anime.

The series follows the story of 16-year-old Hu Li, who aspires to become a popular idol.

However, Hu Li lacks the financial resources and physical appearance required to become an idol.

To fulfill his dream, he started posting his singing videos online using his fox avatar.

To pursue his passion, Hu Li decided to share his singing talent with the world by uploading videos of himself singing online, using a cute fox avatar.

Despite the show’s runtime being just 13 minutes, each episode ends with a thrilling cliffhanger that will leave you on the edge of your seat, eagerly anticipating the next episode.

Since the anime is all about music, you can expect great background music. This anime can depict the Vocaliod aspect.

Hu Li begins posting with an avatar and follows the same concept as Vocaloid, where you use a character.

He sings the same song the entire time, which can get annoying.

The opening is really catchy, and you will find yourself humming to it.

The music stays with you until the last episode.

14. Wushen Zhuzai – Martial Master

Qin Chen, the military domain’s most exceptional prodigy, was betrayed by those around him and thrown into the forbidden Death Canyon.

All believed he would perish in the treacherous depths. Still, to their surprise, Qin Chen awakened the power of a mysterious ancient sword.

In a distant corner of the Tianwu continent, a boy named Qin Chen stumbled upon a powerful legacy left behind by his namesake three centuries prior.

Though his status as the beloved grandson of King Dingwu of the Daqi National Army should have secured him a place of honor, the circumstances of his birth resulted in cold and distant treatment from his own family.

Nevertheless, Qin Chen was determined to carve out his own path and safeguard all that he held dear.

13. Heibai Wushang – The Unparalleled Black & White

In the Chinese anime “Black and White,” two youthful demons are caught slacking off at their workplace.

This workplace serves the crucial function of maintaining a balance between the living and the dead by eliminating humans!

“Black and White Ghost Messengers” is a shounen comedy series adapted from a manhua of the same name.

The show follows two ghost messengers who collect spirits from the living realm.

Despite occasional lackluster animation, the modern style and exciting action sequences make for an enjoyable watch.

The sad daily life of the two young demons will make you laugh.

The Chinese anime is a must-watch, with well-choreographed action scenes that flow naturally.

12. Nuwa Chengzhang Riji – Nuwa Growth Diary

The story of Nuwa Chengzhang Riji follows the life of a spirited orphan named Xiao Xiao Feng, who is known in Chinese mythology as the “Goddess of Creation-Nuwa.”

She learns about her true identity as a Nuwa when Li Chang requests her help in repopulating heaven by training lost souls.

The story of Nuwa Chengzhang Riji revolves around the experiences of a spirited young orphan named Xiao Xiao Feng, who is known in ancient Chinese mythology as the “Goddess of Creation-Nuwa.”

When Li Chang requests her help in training lost souls to repopulate heaven, Xiao Xiao Feng learns that she, too, is a Nuwa.

11. Tong Ling Fei – Psychic Princess

This Chinese anime is a blend of comedy, romance, and drama.

Qian Yunshang was filled with terror at the thought of marrying Ye Youming, her family’s longtime enemy.

She feared she would be treated miserably and abused in the Ye household due to the bad blood between their families.

Qian Aotian, her father, was torn between his duty and concern for his daughter’s well-being.

In a reckless move, he summoned his firstborn daughter, Qian Yun Xi, who had been exiled from the family due to her unusual powers, to take her younger sister’s place.

Qian Yun Xi had lived a life of solitude and independence on Mt. Ling Yun, having been deprived of her family’s love since childhood.

However, everything changed when she married Ye Youming in her sister’s stead.

Ye Youming harbors deep contempt for the Qian family and refuses to acknowledge Qian Yun Xi as his wife.

He treats her coldly and even banishes her from his palace grounds.

However, her childlike charm and audacity soon break down his defenses. He cannot resist her for long.

The young man in this Chinese anime is head over heels for the lead, and the fans of the romance genre are sure to enjoy it.

Tong Ling Fei is one of the best Chinese anime and also has a comic of the same name.

10. Doupo Cangqiong – Battle Through the Heavens

Xiao Yan is a young boy with unparalleled powers that instill fear and admiration in those around him, including his family and even his betrothed, Yan Ran Na Lan.

However, when he reaches the age of 11, his abilities inexplicably begin to fade, causing his family to fall from grace and causing Yan Ran to reconsider their engagement.

In a bid to prove himself and win back Yan Ran’s respect, Xiao Yan challenges her to a duel in three years.

If he emerges victorious, he will have the right to do as he pleases with her, but if she wins, she will be free to break off their engagement.

While the first season of the anime may lack depth in terms of world-building and character development, subsequent seasons promise to be more engaging and exciting.

The animation style is predominantly 3D, which may take some getting used to for those unfamiliar with Chinese animation. Still, the show has received high ratings nonetheless.

This is one of the best Chinese anime anyone could enjoy.

09. Yao Shen Ji – Tales of Demons and Gods

If you can ignore the bad animation or CGI, then this anime is really good. Of course, we are talking about the plot and characters here.

The series revolves around the journey of Nie Li, the protagonist, who begins as a feeble demon spiritist.

Driven by his determination to succeed, he rises to become a formidable force. He reaches the pinnacle of the martial arts world.

However, during a battle with the Sage Emperor and deity-ranked beasts, Nie Li tragically loses his life.

His soul is then sent back in time to his 13-year-old self, where he finds himself once again at the bottom of the class.

Once again, Nie exhibits an impressive determination to assist those in need, safeguard his city, and dismantle the Sacred Family, who were responsible for the city’s destruction in his previous existence.

If you have yet to notice, most of the anime on this list are adapted from Chinese comics. It’s the same with Yao Shen Ji.

This Chinese anime is adapted from the Chinese novel of the same name.

08. Meng Qi Shi Shen – Adorable food goddess

Adopted by the Chinese comic of the same name, Meng Qi Shi Shen follows the story of a beautiful young lady.

Ye Jiayao is a talented cook and wants to open her own restaurant to serve people her delicious cooking.

She dreams of being a well-known chef. With a lifelong passion for cooking and a dream to open her own restaurant in Huai Song, Ye sees this as an opportunity to achieve her ultimate goal.

Despite the challenges, Ye remains steadfast in her pursuit of culinary excellence, impressing everyone with her mouth-watering dishes and unyielding determination.

Along the way, she even finds herself falling in love with someone unexpected.

Meng Qi Shi might give off an Isekai anime feel, except that it takes place in a Chinese imperial court rather than a fantasy world.

This Chinese anime will make you drool as it contains some of the best anime food scenes.

07. Quanzhi Gaoshou – The King’s Avatar

Up next, we have one of the most popular donghua on the list.

Ye Xiu, acclaimed as a pioneer and elite competitor in the online multiplayer game Glory, has earned the moniker “Battle God” for his outstanding abilities and remarkable achievements in the game throughout the years.

Despite his prominence, he is compelled to retire from his team and abandon his gaming profession.

As a result, he secures a job at a nearby internet café.

When Glory launches its tenth server, Ye Xiu dives back into the game with a new character named “Lord Grim.”

Despite starting from scratch without sponsors or a team, his extensive knowledge and decade of experience quickly set him apart from other players.

He attracts the attention of both admirers and big guilds, who are eager to discover the identity of this exceptional player.

Despite having ten years of experience and extensive knowledge of the game, starting over with no sponsors or team in a game that has evolved over the years poses numerous obstacles for Ye Xiu.

Nevertheless, he remains undaunted and determined to reach the pinnacle of Glory once again.

With the help of his talented new comrades, Ye Xiu embarks on a challenging journey to reclaim his status as a top-tier professional player in the world of Glory.

King’s Avatar is one of the best Chinese anime series.

06. Lan Mo De Hua – Lan Mo’s Flower

Lan Mo, a spirited young girl with a tomboyish demeanor, discovers a mystical hair clip in a trinket shop.

However, the clip disappeared the next day, leaving her puzzled.

To her amazement, when she wears the hair clip, she transforms into a stunning young lady.

With her new appearance, Lan Mo captures the attention of her childhood crush, Liu Yifeng.

But little does she know that the hair clip has unforeseen consequences, including the emergence of a mysterious stranger.

The anime has only nine episodes, but that doesn’t deprive you of the fun. The anime might be rushed because of the number of episodes, but the pacing is not rushed at all.

The character development is okayish, and they all fit the plot perfectly.

The anime series is again based on the Chinese novel. This love story is one of the best Chinese anime.

05. Xian Wang de Richang Shenghuo – The Daily Life Of The Immortal King

The Daily Life of The Immortal King narrates the tale of Wang Ling, a prodigious cultivator who has been advancing to higher realms every two years of his life since birth.

Wang Ling, a cultivator, has been living a low-key life so far.

However, as he turns 16, he must confront his greatest challenge yet – Senior High School.

Wang Ling struggles to overcome the obstacles that come with high school while keeping his cultivation practice a secret.

Despite his efforts, it proves to be a difficult task.

Anime fans who love Saiki K will also find The Daily Life Of The Immortal King interesting.

The main lead is a cultivation genius, but like Saiki, he wants to lead a normal school life.

04. Quanzhi Fashi – Full Time Magister

Mo Fan, a high school student, awakens to a world that is drastically different from the one he knows.

Here, everyone is obsessed with acquiring magical powers, and schools are dedicated to training exceptional magicians.

However, Mo Fan remains an outcast due to his poverty and lack of magical abilities, much like in his previous life.

The only exception is that Mo Fan possesses the rare ability to harness dual fire and power elements. At the same time, everyone else can only master one type of ability.

The animation is top-notch. Like various Chinese studios, this anime also has a distinctive animation style.

The soundtrack goes well with the Chinese animation that the series offers.

The side characters are an important part of the anime as they carry the show.

03. Douluo Dalu – Soul Land

Douluo Dalu, also known as Soul Land, is an ongoing series that follows the lives of residents in a world where everyone possesses an innate spirit.

Some individuals can harness their spiritual powers and become Spirit Masters, a highly respected profession.

Once a martial arts prodigy and disciple of the most respected Tang Sect’s martial arts clan, Tang was best at taking the enemy by surprise.

Tang San was not only their best student, but he was the ace who would excel at using weapons.

In order to get his hands on his clan’s knowledge (which is forbidden), he tries to abandon his current life and embark on the journey to Hell’s Peak.

But he finds himself in a new world, and in this strange world, he is not the prodigy Tang San but rather a blacksmith’s son.

Since Tang was reborn as a humble blacksmith’s son, he is now 6 years old.

At his age, he tries to participate in Spirit Master ceremonies, only to learn he is of no use in this world.

Undeterred, Tang continued to train and develop his abilities, and soon, his powers surpassed even those of his peers.

Although some were skeptical of his potential, drawn in by the captivating storyline, Tang’s journey kept viewers hooked.

Despite mixed reactions to the animation style, the story’s gripping plot and dynamic characters made it a hit.

While the animation style may be a hit or miss for some viewers, the story’s captivating plot keeps audiences hooked.

Soul Land follows the generic past-life trope but represents Chinese culture beautifully.

02. Link Click

Nestled in a bustling metropolis lies a modest establishment by the name of “Time Photo Studio.”

Despite its seemingly abandoned facade, the store is, in fact, operational and staffed by two remarkable individuals endowed with extraordinary abilities: Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang.

Their mission is to satisfy their patrons’ desires by utilizing their supernatural prowess to penetrate photographic images.

Together, they harmoniously combine their gifts to accomplish their lofty goals.

Jumping into pictures always carries a significant risk for these individuals.

A single misstep could alter not only the future of the individual who took the picture but also numerous other events.

As the events they experience within these pictures become more personal, they must suppress their emotions and concentrate on fulfilling their contractual obligations.

Link Click is one of the best Chinese anime of recent times. The story is original and does not follow the usual historical setting.

01. Mo Dao Zu Shi – Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation

Based on the comic of the same title, this anime is by far the most popular Chinese anime.

Wei Wuxian, the grandmaster who originated demonic cultivation, was dreaded by society for his unconventional methods of cultivation.

However, thirteen years after his death, he reincarnates into the body of a man called Mo Xuanyu.

Mo Xuanyu was shunned by his clan and family. In a desperate act of revenge, he offered his own body as a vessel for Wei Wuxian’s spirit to inhabit.

After reuniting with Lan Wangji, his former classmate, a supernatural mystery starts to plague the clans, threatening their daily lives.

Together, they fight against demons, ghosts, and even other cultivators, and their unexpected bond deepens as they face these challenges.

This Chinese manhua series is well-loved by anime fans. Mo Dao Zu Shi is a great anime series for fans who want to start their journey.

Ma Dao Zu Shi, or Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation, also has a Japanese adaptation; the anime has a Japanese dub.

Mo Dao Zu Shi is one of the best Chinese anime series, as well as one of the best Chinese web novels by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu.

Other Chinese anime series that you might want to check out!

Xiyouji Zhi Dasheng Guilai: Monkey King: Hero Is Back

Wo De Ni Tian Shen Qi: My Holy Weapon

Yi Ren Zhi Xia – Under One Person

Mo Ri Shu Guang – Dawn Of The World