More than anybody, I know that romance can become stressful and annoying to watch after a while.
These are the dramas you should turn to when you can’t take the cuddliness of romantic Cdramas anymore.
The best of the best Chinese dramas without romance you should watch now:
1. Nirvana in Fire
Genre: Historical, Political, Thriller
This epic historical drama follows Mei Changsu, a brilliant strategist who wants to get justice for his family.
Filled with political intrigue, strategic battles, and intricate plot twists, Nirvana in Fire is a masterpiece that still shines even with a negligible romance plot.
Also check it out: 15 Badass Historical Chinese Dramas About Revenge That will Have You On The Edge of Your Seat!
2. The Longest Day in Chang’an
Genre: Historical, Suspense, Thriller
Set in the Tang Dynasty, this drama unfolds over 24 hours as a former officer and a dancer join forces to prevent a terrorist attack in the bustling city of Chang’an.
You’ll love this if you’re in the mood for a drama with intense pacing and an attention to historical detail that will keep you glued.
3. Day and Night
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Day and Night is a gripping crime thriller that revolves around a detective and his twin brother who are racing against time to find the true culprits of several murders.
In this thriller and investigation drama, a murder case involving a family puts one twin brother in danger, while the other brother, a criminal investigation team leader, is forbidden to join the investigation.
They then collaborate with a new colleague who is unaware of their identity swap and their dark phobia, and try to uncover the mystery of the case.
There’s no romance in this drama, but trust me when I say it was amazing and it’s the perfect choice if you’re not in the mood for romance.
4. The Disguiser
Genre: Historical, Spy, Thriller
Set in the prelude to World War II, The Disguiser revolves around a group of Chinese spies who infiltrate the Japanese-occupied Shanghai.
Filled with espionage, intrigue, and intense character development, this drama is a rollercoaster of suspense and you’re going to love every second of the ride.
5. Burning Ice
Genre: Crime, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Mixing science fiction with crime investigation, Burning Ice follows a detective and a scientist as they investigate a series of mysterious deaths linked to a secret experiment.
This amazing drama explores ethical dilemmas and the consequences of needless scientific advancements.
This is yet another perfect Chinese drama with no romance at all (no kisses!) that’s still interesting.
You Might Also Dig: 12 Awesome Chinese Dramas with English Dubs on YouTube for Your Binge-watch Fix
7. White Deer Plain
Genre: Historical, Drama
Based on the acclaimed novel, White Deer Plain spans several decades, and it follows the lives of two families in rural China.
If you like a cool blend of love, power, and an ever-changing society, then this Cdrama without romance is a must.
8. The Bad Kids
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Set in a small town, this drama follows a group of seemingly unrelated individuals who get entangled in a series of mysterious events, including the discovery of a child’s corpse.
As secrets suddenly come into the light, each character must confront their own dark pasts, and you can be sure you’ll be glued to your seat.
9. A Little Reunion
Genre: Family, Drama
Focused on the lives of three high school students and their families, A Little Reunion goes into the intense pressure and expectations faced by students in China’s competitive education system.
There’s an ongoing commentary on societal expectations and family dynamics, and this is yet another perfect option if you want to watch a Chinese drama with no romance plot.
10. Tientsin Mystic
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery
Set in the 1920s, this fantasy-mystery series follows a quirky detective with supernatural abilities as he investigates paranormal occurrences in Tientsin.
The drama seamlessly blends traditional Chinese mythology with a gripping detective narrative, and you really don’t want to miss it.
11. Like a Flowing River
Genre: Drama
This drama is set against the backdrop of China’s economic reforms in the 1980s.
And it follows the challenges faced by three individuals from different backgrounds as they murk their way through the maze of their careers, family, and societal changes.
12. In the Name of The People
Genre: Political, Crime, Drama
This political thriller follows an anti-corruption investigator as he moves through the complex and treacherous world of Chinese politics.
Filled with power struggles, betrayals, and moral dilemmas, the series will give you a rather grim view of corruption at the highest levels.
13. When a Snail Falls in Love
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Romance
While there is a romantic subplot, the primary focus of this drama is on crime and mystery.
I’m certain that you’ll love following a brilliant detective and her team as they tackle complex cases.
This Chinese drama has everything from suspense to investigation, and it’s the perfect show if you want a non-romantic Cdrama with a drop of romance.
14. Operation: Special Warfare
Genre: Action, Thriller, Military
This thriller revolves around a special task force called Blue Lightning Commandos, and they’re tasked with defeating the upcoming terrorist factions.
There were many high-octane scenes where the tension was almost palpable and this entire drama kept me on the edge of my seat.
How many of these dramas have you watched? How many do you plan to watch?
These non-romantic Chinese dramas without romance are really the best, and I can tell you for a fact that you’re going to enjoy them.
And if you want something a little **familiar**, you might want to opt for a Chinese drama with little romance.
Either way, you’re going to love, love, love these recs!
Happy watching!