time travel historical romance drama

TV’s Best-Ever Time-Travel Romance Shows, Ranked

What’s a few centuries between meant-to-be lovers? On television, the spacetime continuum is no match for romance, as characters overcome differences of decades and centuries to be with their true loves.

In other cases, time-traveling characters journey through the years with their love interests. Sometimes they change history together. And sometimes, time travelers end up unknowingly doting on a family member! (We call that Back to the Future Syndrome.)

Here are our picks for the best time-travel romances on television — and no, HBO’s version of The Time Traveler’s Wife is not one of them . A word of caution, though: Spoilers abound, and as far as we know, there’s no way to rewind time to un-read them.

The Umbrella Academy

This superhero series introduces decades-spanning romances when Viktor ( Elliot Page ) strikes up a romance with Sissy ( Marin Ireland ) and Klaus (Robert Sheehan) falls for Dave (Cody Ray Thompson) after the two super-powered characters travel to the 1960s.

The shape-shifting Time Lord of this long-running sci-fi drama (played by various actors) has companions but not really companions , though River Song ( Alex Kingston ) becomes his wife in a timeline-repairing wedding. They even spend a 24-year night on the planet Darillum together!

This hit castaway drama features characters traveling through time, either physically or mentally. And Season 4’s “The Constant” sends Desmond ( Henry Ian Cusick ) on a decade-skipping head trip, leading to a phone call with Penny ( Sonya Walger ) that probably ranks as the most romantic moment of the series.

Fans of this sci-fi drama — based loosely on the 1995 film of the same name — shipped the couple dubbed Casserole. That’d be James Cole ( Aaron Stanford ), a time traveler from the future, and Cassandra Railly ( Amanda Schull ), the current-day virologist who helps him try to thwart a global outbreak.

Someday or One Day

In this Taiwanese drama, Yu-hsuan (Ko Chia-yen) is still mourning the death of boyfriend Chuan-sheng (Greg Hsu) when she is transported two decades in the past and finds a boy who looks exactly like him. And it’s a Walkman that triggers her time-traveling — talk about a plot device!

A wormhole in the cave system under a German town’s nuclear power plant fractures this sci-fi series’ storyline into several decades: the 2050s, 2010s, the 1980s, the 1950s, the 1920s, and the 1880s. Romance abounds, though, which leads to some weird and paradoxical relationships: One character dates his own aunt, for example, while another character’s mother is also her daughter.

Dinosaurs aren’t the only ones in the wrong timeframe in this series. Matt ( Ciarán McMenamin ), an Anomaly Research Centre researcher from the future, and Emily (Ruth Bradley), a team member from the Victorian Era, bridge a centuries-long gap with their romance.

When Montego Air Flight 828 lands five and a half years late — the travel delay from hell! — its passengers have to adjust to an unfamiliar world. And one of the biggest shocks is that, for some of them, their significant others are now involved with other people.

This Stephen King adaptation stars James Franco as Jake, an English teacher assigned to travel to 1963 and prevent John F. Kennedy ’s assassination. In that decade, he finds an ally — and a romantic prospect — in librarian Sadie (Sarah Gadon). Eventually, he tells Sarah everything, and they work together to alter history forever.

Goodnight Sweetheart

Over a six-year run in the 1990s — and a TV special in 2016 — this sitcom chronicled the double life of TV repairman Gary ( Nicholas Lyndhurst ) as a portal lets him toggle between the 1940s and the present day. In the former timeframe, he’s dating Phoebe ( Dervla Kirwan , then Elizabeth Carling ). In the latter, he’s married to Yvonne (Michelle Holmes and Emma Amos). That still qualifies as cheating in our books!

How does a guy prove to his skeptical wife he’s a time traveler? In the case of San Francisco reporter Dan Vassar ( Kevin McKidd ), he buries her wedding ring in the backyard in the past and digs it up in the present. But then there’s that pesky fact that his ex-fiancée, Livia ( Moon Bloodgood ), is traveling through time, too…

A Discovery of Witches

In this adaptation of a Deborah Harkness book series, present-day witch Diana ( Teresa Palmer ) unwittingly brings fellow witches, daemons, and a dashing vampire named Matthew ( Matthew Goode ) to her doorstep. As you might expect, Diana and Matthew form a bond in Season 1. As you might not expect, they travel back to 1590 in Season 2.

Life on Mars

You know you’re not watching any old British cop show when the main character is hit by a car and sent from 2006 to 1973. And that timeframe is when detective Sam Tyler ( John Simm ) develops a relationship with the skeptical but sympathetic constable Annie Cartwright (Liz White).

This adventure series follows a Lifeboat team tasked with recovering a time machine from a fugitive (played by Goran Višnjić ) who develops feelings for Lifeboat leader Lucy ( Abigail Spencer ). Lucy. however, only has eyes for teammate Wyatt ( Matt Lanter )… though their timeline-meddling results in her engagement to another man!

A World War II nurse mysteriously travels two centuries in the past, where she meets a Highland warrior who will become her true love. This hit show, an adaptation of Diana Gabaldon ’s historical fantasy novel series, has countless fans swooning for, shipping, and fanficcing Claire ( Caitríona Balfe ) and Jamie ( Sam Heughan ).

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The 35 Best Korean Time Travel Dramas

Korean dramas have captured the hearts of viewers worldwide with their unique storytelling and captivating narratives.

One particular theme that has always had immense popularity is time travel.

These dramas skillfully weave together the complexities of the past, present, and future, inviting viewers on a thrilling journey through time.

The allure of time travel lies not only in the imaginative plotlines but also in the emotional depth it adds to the narratives.

Characters find themselves facing extraordinary circumstances as they grapple with the consequences of altering the course of history or attempting to rectify past mistakes.

This exploration of the human condition, accompanied by a touch of fantasy, creates a profound and thought-provoking viewing experience.

Moreover, K-dramas often infuse time travel narratives with elements of romance, heightening the emotional stakes and adding a layer of the dramatics that we’ve all come to know and love with K-dramas.

The intricate relationships that develop between characters across different time periods lend an air of mystery and longing, making these dramas all the more captivating.

In this article, we will delve into the world of K-dramas that feature time travel! So fasten your seatbelts as we embark on a thrilling journey through time and discover the enchanting realm of Korean dramas about time travel.

Mr. Queen, tvN (2020 – 2021)

Mr. Queen is a historical fantasy drama series that tells the story of Jang Bong-hwan, a womanizing, free-spirited chef working in the Blue House who gets transported back in time and finds himself inhabiting the body of Queen Cheorin in the Joseon dynasty.

Jang Bong-hwan must negotiate the complicated world of the royal court, where political intrigue and power struggles are common while coping with the confusion of being in a woman’s body.

In his role as Queen Cheorin, he is forced to rely on his resourcefulness and uncanny partnerships to survive after becoming embroiled in a plot to depose the king.

Queen and I, tvN (2012)

Queen and I is a fantasy romantic comedy-drama that revolves around Kim Bung-do, a scholar in the Joseon dynasty.

He is also one of the supporters of the rightful Queen In-Hyun, who had previously been deposed by a royal concubine.

A magical talisman somehow transports Bung-do to the present where he encounters the famous Queen In-hyun – who happens to just be a character in a new K-drama – and ends up falling in love with the actress who plays her, Choi Hee-jin.

However, their romance faces numerous challenges and Bong-gu must navigate the complexities of the unknown future, all while striving to find a way back to the past.

Splash Splash Love, MBC (2015)

Splash Splash Love is a Korean time-travel romantic drama that follows the story of Danbi, a high school student who, in a bid to escape a major mathematics exam, uses her time-travel abilities to transport herself to the Joseon era during a rainstorm.

Despite hating math in her own timeline, she becomes known as the smartest in this kingdom!

She and the King inexplicably fall in love, but Danbi makes the hard choice to return to her own time.

King Lee Do swears that he will find her again and once again during a rainstorm, the two are reunited through Lee’s reincarnation.

The King: Eternal Monarch, SBS TV (2020)

The King: Eternal Monarch is a fantasy romance drama that follows the parallel worlds of the modern-day Republic of Korea and the Kingdom of Corea.

Emperor Lee Gon of Corea discovers a portal connecting the two worlds and crosses over to find detective Jung Tae-eul, who is a familiar face associated with his father’s murder.

As they navigate their differences and the political tensions in both worlds, they uncover a dangerous conspiracy and strive to protect their loved ones.

Love blossoms between them, but they face immense challenges, including a power-hungry villain who seeks to exploit the portal for his own gain.

Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938, tvN (2023)

One of the most recently aired series on the list is Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938 , which actually just recently wrapped up its 12th and final episode.

It serves as the second season of the popular supernatural fantasy drama Tale of the Nine Tailed , but the storyline is also somewhat of a prequel.

Following the events with Nam Ji-ah in the original series, protagonist Lee Yeon is transported back in time to 1938 and the then Japanese occupation of Korea.

Dr. Jin, MBC (2012)

Dr. Jin is a historical medical drama that follows the story of Jin Hyuk, a brilliant neurosurgeon in the present day who, because of his highly analytical mind, can sometimes be cold and indifferent.

After suffering from a personal tragedy involving his girlfriend, he gets transported back in time to the Joseon dynasty.

Struggling to adapt to the primitive medical practices of the era, Jin Hyuk uses his modern knowledge to save lives and make advancements in medicine and even medical devices.

He meets people who help him, but his actions soon start interfering with the course of history.

Rooftop Prince, SBS (2012)

In a complex story of intersecting fates and (possible) reincarnations across timelines and generations, Rooftop Prince weaves romance into comical misunderstandings and heartwarming moments.

Crown Prince Lee Gak and his three loyal servants time-travel from the Joseon era to present-day Seoul in a bid to solve the mysterious death of his beloved Crown Princess.

He poses as the lost grandson of a wealthy CEO – who he happens to resemble exactly – and encounters a woman who also looks exactly like his late wife.

Getting closer to her might help solve the mystery of her death back in their timeline, but he may end up hurting someone else along the way.

Live Up to Your Name, tvN (2017)

In the historical medical drama Live Up to Your Name , Heo Im is a respected doctor and acupuncturist in the Joseon era, tending to the poor by day and the nobles by night.

However, he is mistakenly charged with treason and supposedly killed. Instead he wakes up in present-day Seoul!

In the modern era, he meets and forms an unlikely partnership with Choi Yeon-kyung, a pragmatic and ambitious cardiothoracic surgeon.

Together, they navigate the clash between traditional and modern medical practices while overcoming personal obstacles and gradually developing a deep bond.

Faith, SBS TV (2012)

Also known as The Great Doctor , Faith begins in a historical setting where the King’s wife is fatally injured in an accident.

He orders his Captain of the Royal Guard, Choi Young, to enter a portal to retrieve the “Heaven’s Doctor” that they heard of in their legends.

Choi Young travels to modern-day Seoul and brings back Eunsoo, an actual doctor, who then saves the queen.

He had promised to bring her back once her duty was done, but they both soon get embroiled in schemes to keep Eunsoo in the past as more and more people become selfishly interested in her medical prowess.

Life on Mars, OCN (2018)

In a slightly different theme from the previous shows on the list, Life on Mars is a crime thriller series that follows a talented forensic scientist who also leads a crime investigation team.

After an accident, Taejoo awakens to find himself transported back to 1988 with no idea how he got there or why.

Now a detective in the past, he works with his current team to solve a serial murder case with the antiquated technology and methods of the era in order to also solve the mystery behind his time travel.

Signal, tvN (2016)

Signal is yet another crime thriller series that is less about actual physical time travel and more about a mysterious connection between past and present that stems from a seemingly innocuous object: a walkie-talkie.

Park Hae-young is a young criminal profiler from the present day who stumbles upon a mysterious walkie-talkie that helps him solve a murder cold case through its ability to connect him to a detective from the past, Lee Jae-han.

Through the walkie-talkie, they collaborate to solve cold cases and prevent crimes from happening, but consequences soon follow.

Times, OCN (2021)

Similar to Signal , OCN’s political thriller series Times connects the past and present, but this time through a phone and between two journalists : Jinwoo in 2015 and Jungin in 2020.

They work together at first to prevent the murder of Jungin’s father, who is the current president of South Korea.

Along the way, they uncover a dangerous conspiracy involving political corruption and manipulation of time and work together to fight against the forces that seek to control the future so they can preserve their nation’s tomorrow.

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, SBS TV (2016)

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is a historical drama series based on a Chinese novel.

Like many of the previous shows on this list, the series features the protagonist (named Hajin) traveling way back in time but this time, to the Goryeo dynasty to the year 941.

On top of that, she finds herself in the body of Haesoo, one of the many male princes of the current ruling family who are all fighting for the crown.

As she navigates political rivalries and intense love triangles, Ha-jin discovers her own destiny and the tragic fate that awaits those around her.

Chicago Typewriter, tvN (2017)

In the popular fantasy drama series Chicago Typewriter , viewers will meet three central characters whose stories unfold over the course of time – specifically, two different timelines.

There’s Sejoo, a handsome and renowned writer with many fans who suffers from depression; Seol, a veterinarian and fan of Sejoo; and Jinoh, a talented ghostwriter.

As their paths converge, a mysterious typewriter helps them discover how their past lives were connected during the Japanese occupation of Korea in the 1930s , and how their friendship then crossed decades into the present.

Manhole, KBS2 (2017)

If we could time travel, we’d always be tempted to go back in time to prevent the things that we don’t want to happen.

In Manhole , Bongpil does just that when he discovers a manhole that allows him to travel back in time.

What does he do when he gets to the past? Well, anything to stop his dream girl’s wedding from happening!

However, his efforts often lead to hilarious and chaotic consequences.

Alongside his loyal friends, he navigates the challenges of altering the past and learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and the importance of living in the present.

Hit the Top, KBS2 (2017)

Hit the Top is a combination of humor and nostalgia, and takes place primarily in the constantly evolving world of K-pop.

Back in the early 1990s, popular K-pop idol Hyunjae accidentally time travels to 2017, where he soon discovers that he had been in the news for mysteriously disappearing and subsequently presumed dead.

As he adjusts to his vastly different life in the future, he tries to investigate the cause of his time travel.

At the same time, an aspiring K-pop trainee crosses his path – one who he is more connected with than either of them expected.

My First Love, OCN (2018)

The South Korean romantic fantasy drama My First Love centers on Kang Shinwoo, a man in his 30s who goes back in time to his high school years.

Shin-woo runs into his younger self and his first love, Han Jisoo, when he travels back in time. Shin-woo makes an effort to rewrite their fate and win Jisoo’s affection in an effort to alter the tragic course of their history.

At the same time, Shinwoo discovers important lessons about love, regret, and the value of honoring the present as he wrestles with the repercussions of changing the past.

Tomorrow, with You, tvN (2017)

Tomorrow, with You is a romance series that follows the story of Yoo Sojoon, a time-traveling CEO of a real estate agency who can foresee his future through subway rides, and his wife Marin, a cheerful and optimistic amateur photographer.

To change his impending tragic fate that he accidentally glimpses, he marries Marin and together, they navigate the complexities of marriage while battling against their own personal struggles.

Eventually, Sojourn learns to truly love her amidst the consequences of altering destiny.

Marry Him If You Dare, KBS (2013)

Yet another romance drama on the list is KBS’ Marry Him If You Dare , which is set in the world of television broadcasting.

It follows the story of Na Mirae, a young woman who receives a mysterious opportunity to travel back in time to change her future.

The present Mirae is married to news anchor Kim Shin but travels to visit her 32-year-old self to prevent that from happening.

This causes her to go down a completely different path to really pursue the dreams she had always wanted.

Familiar Wife, tvN (2018)

The decisions we make impact the road our lives go down; one different decision could catapult things in a direction we never would have expected.

That’s what happens in Familiar Wife , a romantic fantasy drama that tells the story of Joohyuk, a married man who regrets the choices he made in his life.

One day, he encounters a mysterious opportunity to travel back in time and change his past.

In the blink of an eye, the life he knew with his wife Woojin and best friend Joonghoo is gone and his first love Hyewon comes back into the picture.

Go Back Couple, KBS2 (2017)

It’s complicated enough when a person goes back in time to change their previous decisions, but what happens when two people time travel together? Especially when these two people have a life together in the present?

Go Back Couple follows married couple Bando and Jinjoo, who are parents to a young boy and have become deeply unsatisfied with their lives – family, career, and relationship-wise.

Suddenly, the couple is transported 18 years back to when they were university students, where they make different choices and learn the enduring power of love.

The Light in Your Eyes, JTBC (2019)

The Light In Your Eyes is also known as Dazzling  and emphasizes the importance of valuing the people who cause the lights in our eyes to shine throughout our lives.

In the drama series, we meet a young woman named Hyeja who possesses a special watch that allows her to manipulate time. However, using the watch causes her to age rapidly.

After having used it one too many times, Hyeja is now passing the time at an elderly care center where she meets Joonha, an employee who looks like the young Hyeja’s husband.

Nine: Nine Time Travels, tvN (2013)

A news anchor named Park Sunwoo finds nine magical incense items that enables him to travel 20 years back in time in the fantasy thriller drama entitled Nine: Nine Time Travels .

Sunwoo makes numerous trips to the past in an effort to change the tragic events that have occurred in his life, changing both his decisions and the course of history.

He soon learns, though, that every change has unintended consequences both for himself and those he loves around him, and he is forced to deal with the moral dilemmas that follow.

Sisyphus: The Myth, JTBC (2021)

In the dystopian science fiction series Sisyphus: The Myth , engineer and brilliant quantum physicist Taesul crosses paths with a mysterious woman from the future named Seohae.

In Seohae’s present, she explores a war-torn Korea and travels back in time to both prevent Taesul’s death and his invention of the time travel device she used.

Meanwhile, Taesul is trying to investigate the strange circumstances around his brother’s death and a time-travel conspiracy where he finds himself embroiled in a dangerous game where past, present, and future collide.

Tunnel, OCN (2017)

Some crimes can span decades, with the case passing through the hands of several teams and detectives without ever getting resolved.

In the crime thriller Tunnel , we begin the story in 1986 when Detective Park Gwangho is hot on the tail of a serial killer.

He chases the perpetrator through a tunnel and ends up in 2016 where the same killer is still on the loose and just beginning to continue his murder spree.

Gwangho teams up with Detective Kim Seonjae and criminal profiler Shin Jaeyi to race against time and apprehend the killer before they can commit further crimes.

Alice, SBS TV (2020)

Science fiction drama series Alice weaves a complex tale of love, fate, and the consequences of tampering with time.

The title is a reference to the time-traveling agency in 2050 that sends clients to the past in order to find peace and closure with dead loved ones and also makes sure these trips are done properly.

Viewers meet Alice agents Taeyi and Minhyuk as they travel almost 60 years to the past on a mission, but their personal lives get intertwined and affect the present – 2020.

My Perfect Stranger, KBS2 (2023)

My Perfect Stranger is one of the newest shows on this list, having just finished airing in June of this year!

The romance mystery tells a beautiful story of two strangers who time travel back to 1987.

Haejun is a seemingly aloof newscaster who is trying to seek the truth behind a serial killing case; Yoonyoung is an editor at a publishing company who wants to prevent the marriage of her parents.

They find themselves in the past and also discover that their goals are more intertwined than they think.

Kairos, MBC TV (2020)

Kairos is similar to a few other shows as the time travel occurs in parallel timelines that connect characters instead of actually traveling through time.

However, it is also a rare one as the timelines are only one month apart!

Seojin is a company executive whose daughter suddenly goes missing while Aeri is a young woman living one month behind and whose mother also disappears.

When Seojin and Aeri meet through a phone call, he asks the latter to help find his daughter while helping to find her mother in his future timeline.

God’s Gift: 14 Days, SBS (2014)

God’s Gift: 14 Days tells the story of Kim Soohyun, a distraught mother whose daughter is abducted and killed, who miraculously gets the chance to travel back to the two weeks prior to the tragedy.

Soohyun is in a race against time to find the kidnapper and stop terrible things from happening because she is determined to change the outcome.

She discovers that the truth is much more complicated and perilous than she had anticipated as she digs deeper into the murky secrets surrounding her daughter’s death.

365: Repeat The Year, MBC TV (2020)

If you could repeat the last year of your life, would you?

In the mystery thriller 365: Repeat The Year , 10 people are given the opportunity to reset their lives by going back one year in time.

They participate in a time-traveling experiment, hoping to change their fates and undo their regrets.

However, they soon realize that altering the past has dire consequences, and they must unravel the mystery behind the experiment to save their lives.

Reunited Worlds, SBS (2017)

In Reunited Worlds , a man named Sung Haesung mysteriously reappears 12 years after his untimely death.

While he hasn’t aged, he finds that everyone around him has changed and gone on with their lives.

Haesung reconnects with his childhood friends, including his first love Jung Jungwon, as he navigates the difficulties of his new reality.

Together, they learn the truth about his time travel and work to mend relationships, sever old wounds, and find happiness in the present.

See You in My 19th Life, tvN (2023)

See You in My 19th Life is based on the webtoon of the same name that was published on Naver.

It tells the story of Jieum, who has lived out several lifetimes through reincarnation and has the supernatural ability to remember all of her past lives.

Her 18th life is tragically cut short due to an accident, and as she lives out her 19th, she knowingly heads down a path that will lead her to reconnect with a man from her previous life.

A Time Called You, Netflix (2023 – present)

Then there is the romance drama A Time Called You , which premiered on Netflix relatively recently – on September 8th, 2023.

It is an adaptation of a Taiwanese series and follows Junhee, who continues to mourn her boyfriend Yeonjun’s death one year later.

Somehow, she finds herself transported back to 1998 and in the body of an 18-year-old named Minju, who meets Siheon, a boy who looks like her deceased partner.

Marry My Husband, tvN (2024 – present)

The newest series on this list is Marry My Husband , which premiered on tvN on January 1st, 2024.

Marry My Husband follows Jiwon, described as a “time-limited woman” who has the opportunity to go back ten years.

In her new present, she dreams of exacting revenge on her cheating, murderous husband who killed her after having an affair with her best friend.

The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract, MBC (2023 – present)

Finally, we come to the last show in this countdown – The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract .

The fantasy romance series tells the story of Park Yeonwoo, a beautiful woman from the Joseon dynasty who loses her husband on the first night of their marriage.

She suddenly finds herself transported to the 21st century and under a modern marriage contract with Kang Taeha, who looks exactly like her husband.

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Hi, thanks for the list. There is also “Perfect marriage revenge” 2023

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15 Steamy K-Dramas You Should Watch Today

10 k-dramas with heartbreaking plot twists, 10 times female k-drama characters were total bosses.

• Time travel in K-dramas elevates romantic stories, solving crimes or creating epic romances separated by centuries.
• The best time travel K-dramas cleverly use the trope to tell captivating stories with unique twists and engaging narratives.
• From romantic to historical to political intrigue, time travel shows in Korean television offer diverse and compelling storylines.

The idea of traveling through time is a powerful storytelling tool popularized by Hollywood movies, anime series, and the best time travel K-dramas . For K-dramas, the past often involves the Joseon era, riddled with political distress, turmoil, and drama. In some cases, K-dramas get creative and use time travel to solve crimes, like a heinous murder from the past, or with clues unraveling through time. In others, time travel is the narrative catalyst for an epic romance story of lovers separated by centuries.

Not surprisingly, many of the best K-dramas involving time travel use the concept to elevate romantic stories with a sci-fi or fantasy twist. In fact, this happens so much that K-drama audiences largely agree that it's become an overused plot device. That said, whether they are mainly romantic, detective, or historical K-dramas , there are dozens that cleverly use time travel to continue telling captivating stories, and the best time travel K-dramas use the trope to tell some of the most unique stories on the small screen.

The Best K-Dramas Based On Webtoons, Ranked

These top K-dramas ranked were once all popular webtoons and either got their start on the webtoons.com site or other sites and platforms.

20 My Perfect Stranger

Released in 2023.

• Available to stream on KOCOWA

When the two cross paths, they find that maybe their time traveling, and their lives, are actually linked to one another.

While most Korean dramas involving time traveling only see one character do the actual time traveling, My Perfect Stranger takes a risk in making both of its main characters time travelers . One does so on purpose though, while the other does not, which is where much of the intrigue comes from.

Hae Jun (Kim Dong Wook) is a journalist investigating a serial murder case who discovers a time machine and uses it to follow his own investigation. Yoon Young (Jin Ki Joo) discovers her mother dead and is then struck by a car, waking up in the same time that Hae Jun traveled to. As is true for many time travelers, they become trapped instead of able to travel between times. When the two cross paths, they find that maybe their time traveling, and their lives, are actually linked to one another.

Released In 2017

• Available to stream on Roku

Instead of traveling to the past, Tunnel is a time travel K-drama that takes the audience to the future - in a manner of speaking. The present-day of the story is actually 1985 in which a string of murders are being investigated. When the detective (Choi Jin Hyuk) pursuing a lead runs after a suspect through a tunnel, he’s hit in the head and ends up 30 years in the future.

The murder mystery element of the series is inspired by a real string of serial killings in Korea, but the story is very much fictional. While the show presents itself as a murder mystery with a time-travel element, there’s also a romantic subplot and a family at the center of the story that makes it a drama that really shines. Incredibly popular outside of South Korea as well, Tunnel has been adapted for Thai television and an Indonesian remake is in development.

10 Must Watch K-Dramas That Aren’t Romances (& Where To Stream Them)

Want to enjoy some new TV series from Korea but without all the love and sappy sentimentality of some K-dramas? Check out these 10 great options.

18 Familiar Wife

Released in 2018.

A married man (Ji-Sung) with two kids is unhappy in his life. He’s depressed, hates his wife, and is unsatisfied at work. If he had only made different choices in his youth, he might have had a happier life. After traveling through a toll booth and losing control of his car, he winds up in the past and is able to change some of those decisions.

This is one time travel series that doesn't confine the protagonist to one time. Able to travel back and forth between the past and the present, he’s able to see how his different decisions have big outcomes later in life. It’s a similar concept to something like Sliding Doors but with many small changes to help someone understand their path in life. The music truly helps set the stage in the series as well with the soundtrack being nominated at the Korea Drama Awards.

Released In 2021

• Available to stream on Rakuten Viki

Times isn’t a traditional time travel K-drama in which one character is transported to another time period completely. Instead, the time travel is a result of a phone line that is able to traverse timelines. Several series have used similar ideas, often with the use of radios instead of phones, with varying degrees of success.

Two journalists, one in 2015 and one in 2020, connect over the use of the same phone line. Initially, they work together to prevent the death of one of their fathers, but while investigating, they uncover a conspiracy that involves time travel and corrupt politicians. The series is definitely a unique take among the time travel shows created for Korean television, which usually focus on history and a romantic subplot instead of political intrigue. While the series didn't reach widespread acclaim, star Lee Joo-young was nominated for Best New Actress at the Baeksang Arts Awards.

16 Tomorrow With You

While Tomorrow With You does use romance like most time travel K-dramas do, it also has a unique idea for the time travel itself. While most Korean time travel shows involve time traveling by accident, the main character in Tomorrow With You can decide to travel in time. It’s also done so while traveling the subway instead of falling through a portal or suffering a life-threatening injury in order to do it.

Yoo So-Joon (Lee Je-Hoon) takes on time-traveling adventures when he discovers that Ma-Rin (Shin Min-A) and he are linked by a tragic accident in the future. Intrigued by her, he decides to save both her and himself. He believes that he can change their fates thanks to his ability, but he has to figure out just how they are connected. He resolves to marry her in order to make sure, and they become truly linked as he falls in love.

15 The Best Hit

In The Best Hit, 1993 K-pop idol Yoo Hyun-Jae (Yoon Shi-yoon) gets accidentally transported to 2017, discovers that he is presumed dead after he disappeared in 1994, and investigates why he traveled through time. He does all this while struggling with living in the future, of course. Meanwhile, Hyun-Jae's biological son, Lee Ji-Hoon (Kim Min-jae), is secretly training to become an idol himself and is even enrolled in Star Punch Entertainment's program - while making his parents believe that he's studying for the civil service exams.

Also known as Hit the Top , and Best Punch , The Best Hit is an underrated gem in the world of the best time travel K-dramas. It's also an interesting way for the audience to get a look at what it takes to become a pop idol. Some of the stars of the series are also popular musicians. Kim Min-jae, for example, is also a rap artist and was nominated for the Best New Actor award at the Seoul Awards following the debut of the show.

14 Sisyphus: The Myth

• Available to stream on Netflix

The storyline introduces a character who travels from the future to his current time.

This 2021 Netflix K-drama has some serious Terminator vibes to it, but it's full of good laughs, color, and drama. Han Tae-Sul (Cho Seung-woo) is a talented engineer who is determined to uncover the real reason behind his older brother's murder. If that wasn't enough, the storyline introduces a character who travels from the future to his current time. In the future, the world is dominated by gangs and military cliques. Survival entails having serious combat skills, and Gang Seo-Hae (Park Shin-Hye) is just the right warrior.

She travels back in time to help Tae-Sul on his dangerous journey after learning key evidence about his brother's death. What's interesting is that the series doesn't focus solely on the one-way time travel trip, but insists that the two main characters are responsible for breaking a time loop. Some critics disliked that Sisyphus: The Myth breaks its own established rules about time traveling, but it certainly keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

13 Splash Splash Love

Released in 2015.

Splash Splash Love is one of those K-dramas that combine time travel with romance . In the television series, a high-school student gets transported to 15th-century Korea. She soon meets the young king of the kingdom who wants to learn more about mathematics. Thankfully, the heroine of the show is a patient teacher who is more than willing to tutor the King.

Splash Splash Love is a quick and easy watch as it is one of the shortest K-dramas out there, with only two episodes. This is part of why the show has near-perfect pacing and ranks among the best time travel K-dramas. It was originally broadcast as a 10-part webseries on Naver TV Cast. Its popularity led to it being edited into two hour-long episodes, so binging it is really like watching a movie.

12 Rooftop Prince

Released in 2012.

Rooftop Prince has a lot of storylines to process, but they're well worth it. The titular protagonist is a prince who wakes up in present-day 2012, even though he's actually from the Korean Joseon dynasty/era . The crown prince and his two confidants find themselves on the rooftop of Park-ha's (Han Ji-min) home. After the prince realizes he's time-traveled 300 years into the future, he also sees the long-lost sister of Park-ha - who is the spitting image of his late wife who drowned.

The prince is convinced he will find the answers to his past in 2012 and poses as the grandson of a powerful CEO, who in reality was killed by another family member. Both the characters of the past and the characters of the present have intense backstories and the series leans into the soap-opera-like aspects of those. It works in the show's favor, as the series has become even more popular outside of Korea than in its home. It is most popular in Japan and China.

K-dramas like Love & Leashes are full of passion and romance, but what are some other similarly hot and steamy K-drama series?

11 The King: Eternal Monarch

Released in 2020.

Not only does The King: Eternal Monarch have a phenomenal female lead in Jeong Tae-eul (Kim Go-eun), but it's also full of riveting action, features a unique story of parallel worlds, and is also one of the unique time travel K-Dramas available on Netflix. In the show, there are two co-existing realities: present-day South Korea and the Kingdom of Corea.

The current king of Corea witnessed his father's murder as a child at the hands of his uncle. When he discovers a doorway to the parallel world and present-day South Korea, he also discovers that his uncle has been traveling between the two worlds and trying to raise his own army. The king must stop his uncle, but along the way, he learns the truth about the mysterious figure who once saved his life and finds he must travel to a moment in the past. The series explores the idea of a single moment in time altering someone's whole reality.

10 Queen In-Hyun's Man

A Joseon Dynasty scholar meets an aspiring actress in the year 2012 in the political and romantic Korean drama , Queen In-Hyun's Man, one of the best time travel K-dramas. In 1694, a noble-born scholar is the only survivor after his family was murdered, but there's a bigger story at play while he supports the reinstatement of the deposed queen and there's a conspiracy involving a royal concubine. Due to a magical talisman, he time travels 300 years into the future and meets an actress who he has a connection with.

What makes the rom-com elements of the scholar from the past meeting the actress from the future is that the actress, so far, is not a household name. instead, her big break is about to be playing Queen In-Hyun, the very woman the scholar is a supporter of.

The time travel K-drama Faith follows the story of a plastic surgeon who gets transported to 14th-century Goryeo. She soon learns that a royal guard warrior was the reason why she was brought back more than 600 years into the past. The royal guard begs the plastic surgeon to help their injured queen. However, the plastic surgeon has actually caught feelings for her kidnapper.

Faith is considered one of the better time travel and fantasy-themed romance K-dramas thanks to the stellar performances of the actors, as well as the detailed story that shines a light on Korean history and mythology. It's also got a multi-layered title. While the literal translation of the title is "faith" as in "belief in justice," the Hanja lettering (Chinese letters used to write Korean) actually means "divine doctor," allowing the audience to understand that both terms are important to the long-term storyline of the show.

8 Nine: Nine Time Travels

Released in 2013.

In the time travel K-drama Nine: Nine Time Travels , Park Sun-woo (Lee Jin-wook) discovers nine incense sticks that could take him back 20 years in time. He uses his time in the past to save his family, who have been victims of a terrible tragedy. However, he needs to be extra careful when he goes back in time, as he can only do it nine times - the twist that makes Nine: Nine one of the best time travel K-dramas. Park soon finds out that whatever he changes in the past also resonates and affects his present life.

The K-drama was nominated for several awards across Korea for its great cast and romantic storyline, including snagging nominations at the Korean Drama Awards and the Baeksang Arts Awards. It also became popular outside of Korea, broadcast on television in China, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Thailand.

The Smile will definitely Leave Your Eyes with these shocking and heartbreaking K-Drama plot twists.

7 Go Back Couple

Inspired by a webtoon called Do It One More Time , Go Back Couple (also simply called Go Back in some regions) is a Korean miniseries where a couple wishes that they never met each other. They have both become unhappy and exhausted with their marriage and wish they could have changed their unhappiness at the seeming source of all of their problems - meeting each other. The couple soon finds that they've reverted to their 20-year-old selves, faced with trying to make decisions that will make their future selves happy and satisfied.

The show features plenty of funny and heartwarming moments that will make viewers swoon — and an ending that will surely tug at the heartstrings of every long-time K-drama viewer. After its broadcast, the series was nominated for a slew of KBS Drama Awards, picking up two, one for Best Couple for the lead actors in Son Ho-jun and Jang Na-ra, and Excellence Award for Actress in a Miniseries for Jan Na-ra.

6 Chicago Typewriter

• Currently unavailable to stream

Out of the most compelling and best time travel K-dramas (as well as general fantasy K-Dramas ), Chicago Typewriter is the only one that's about reincarnation rather than strictly about traveling through time. Three resistance fighters from the 1930s Japanese occupation of Korea find themselves in a new time period, but not because of mysterious scientific machines or magical objects. Instead, the three are reincarnated as a writer, a fan, and a ghostwriter.

Switching between the 1930s and the 21st century, these three characters start to see parallels between both time periods. As they start to uncover the truth behind their pasts, they worry about how it might affect their present. K-drama fans tired of the same old romantic comedy fare will love the truly unique story elements of Chicago Typewriter. The series was also filmed on location around Seoul, South Korea, so fans will enjoy picking out the real sites.

Released In 2016

• Available to stream on Paramount+

Signal has a storyline that not many shows have explored, but it works wonders in enthralling its audience. The outstanding police procedural K-drama is also a thriller, as it was inspired by real-life crime stories and a murder case, and the show interweaves two different timelines. The series pulls inspiration from the time travel aspect of the movie Frequency and the real-life Hwaseong serial murders in Korea.

While investigating a case, a cold case profiler discovers a walkie-talkie from the year 1989. He deduces that the walkie-talkie transcends time and allows him to communicate with a detective from 1989 for a short period of time. Together, they use their knowledge to stop heinous crimes from ever occurring — a unique concept that cements Signal 's status among the best time travel K-dramas.

4 Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo

Moon lovers: scarlet heart ryeo (2016).

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is inarguably one of the most talked-about time travel K-dramas (as well as being a remake) . It has everything from time travel and romance to drama and political intrigue, not to mention some of the most heart-wrenching scenes.

Be wary of total solar eclipses, as that is what is responsible for a 25-year-old woman (IU) living in the 21st century being transported back to the Goryeo Dynasty. Waking up in a new identity, she is among the royal princes of the Wang family. While she initially finds herself falling for a kind-hearted prince, she is soon pulled in by the brooding and dark fourth prince, and the dynasty's political bickering. She ends up right in the middle of the power struggle of the different princes.

K-dramas are full of strong female lead characters who go against tropes and fight for justice. These are the best times they were total bosses.

3 Life on Mars

It's evident that among the best time travel K-dramas, the use of time anomalies is a common trope for crime stories, but the detective drama Life on Mars stands out for being truly unpredictable. Adapted from a British drama, Life on Mars follows the cop Han Tae-Joo (Jung Kyoung-Ho), who is investigating what seems to be an ordinary murder case in 2018 — until he wakes up in 1987. In order to get back to 2018, he needs to solve a murder in 1987 first.

Life on Mars ' premise is simple enough, but its hilarious script, fast-paced mysteries, and astounding reveals make it a well-rounded series that's equally enjoyable for both first-time and long-time K-drama viewers. The series also won for Best Adaptation Of An Existing Format at the Asian Academy Creative Awards in 2018.

2 Live Up To Your Name

True to its title, Live Up To Your Name leverages its romance and fantasy elements.

Some of the best K-dramas don't really offer anything new to the genre - but instead build on traditional tropes to arrive at a truly compelling, inspiring, and relatable story. This is the case with Live Up To Your Name , in which the greatest male acupuncturist of the Joseon era travels 400 years into the future , striking a tense and sometimes clashing romance with a brilliant and gorgeous female doctor from 2017. True to its title, Live Up To Your Name leverages its romance and fantasy elements to craft the ultimate comedic time travel medical K-drama about destiny.

While the series wasn't a major award-winner, it did manage a surprising feat. The series finale more than doubled the viewership of the series premiere in South Korea (according to Nielsen). Interest in the series actually increased and ratings went up instead of leveling out as the series aired. While that's the opposite of what happens for most series broadcast on television, it's even more impressive because the show aired on a cable network rather than a free broadcast network.

1 Mr. Queen

Inspired by the Chinese web series Go Princess Go , Mr. Queen , features a hotshot male chef who finds himself transported to the Joseon era — not as himself, but in the body of the Queen Cheorin (Shin Hye-sun) — inadvertently unraveling the mystery behind the queen's supposed attempt at taking her own life. While trying to conform to the Joseon era as a woman, he gets caught in the political turmoil of the kingdom, and the king isn't the goofy and undermined ruler everyone assumes. He's cunning, mysterious, and seeking the truth behind those who wish to dethrone him.

The series remains one of the highest-rated dramas in Korean cable television history. Shin Hye-sun's performance as Queen Cheorin is largely why Mr. Queen is regarded by many as the best time travel K-dramas of all time.

The 20 Best Time Travel K-Dramas

Among the many K-drama genres, time travel is particularly exciting because it seamlessly blends science fiction, crime, history, and romance into it.

Snuggling up on the couch for a late night binge session of your favorite Korean drama is only the best feeling ever. And when those dramas involve an unique time travel premise combined with adventure, heartfelt romance, or mysteries spanning eras, it makes for the perfect escape.

Korean dramas are no longer a novel experience for the global audience. The medium's capacity to engage a wider audience with its compelling storytelling and gripping character drama is enormous, and the more genres it dives into, the more it stands out.

Among the many exciting tales told over decades, those surrounding time travel are particularly exhilarating thanks to how the subject seamlessly blends science fiction, history, and romance , and generates high re-watch value. Imagining what it might be like to travel back in time or see the future is endlessly entertaining, and the possibilities are endless.

While it's impossible for humans to time travel ( sort of ), you can live vicariously through these incredible stories. We've brought together an intriguing list of 20 Korean dramas that incorporate time travel into their alluring stories about star-crossed lovers and brave protagonists willing to right historical wrongs — or just puzzled individuals displaced through time. Whatever time travel tale you're in the mood for, this list has it.

20 Queen and I (2012)

When a time-traveling scholar named Kim Boong Do finds a magic talisman and travels from Joseon dynasty to modern-day Seoul, 300 years into the future, he has one goal — to find Queen In Hyun.

Apparently, when she was being deposed by the council, Boong Do was her only supporter. But upon arriving in the future, he realizes that she’s a mere character being played in a drama by up-and-coming actress Choi Hee Jin.

A Time-Traveling Scholar’s Accidental Love Story

Queen and I perfectly blends history, comedy and romance through the fish-out-of-water scenario where Boong Do has to not only adapt to the traditions of the modern world, but also find a way to travel back to the Joseon era.

Starring Ji Hyun Woo and Yoo In Na, the drama features an unconventional partnership and blossoming romance against the backdrop of royal intrigue. Yoo In Na also won massive acclaim for her performance, making Queen and I a huge hit.

19 Splash Splash Love (2015)

The main protagonist of Splash Splash Love is Dan Bi, a high school student who hates math. On the day of her KSAT exam, she decides to run away and ends up on a playground in the middle of a freak rain which transports her to the Joseon kingdom.

She arrives hundreds of years in the past, in the middle of a drought. Dan Bi then meets King Lee Do, a man who yearns to be intellectual. Since Dan Bi’s high school level mathematics is still way ahead of Joseon’s teachings, she schools Lee Do and inspires him to bring change to the kingdom.

A Charming Tale of Transformation

The K-drama won hearts for its charming take on time travel and feel-good romance . For the most part, the episodes are heavy with emotion, balancing the more serious tone of the era with subtle glances and earnest dialogue. The leads, Kim Seul-gi and Yoon Doo-joon are extremely likable. Paired with the beautiful songs, the two-episode miniseries seems as breezy as it is breathtaking.

Stream Splash Splash Love on Kocowa

18 Rooftop Prince (2012)

In Rooftop Prince , Crown Prince Lee Gak finds himself mysteriously transported to modern-day Seoul along with his three retainers. There, he meets Hong Se Na, who is the spitting image of his beloved wife, who was found dead under mysterious circumstances.

It does not help that Lee Gak bears a striking resemblance to the grandson of the CEO of Se Na’s company. He tries to get close to her with the hopes that he’ll learn clues about the murder of the Crown Princess.

Related: 20 K-Dramas With No Boring Episodes

Crown Prince Finds Himself Out Of Place And Time

With Park Yoo-chun and Han Ji-min taking up the lead roles, it’s impossible for the drama to go wrong. What’s better is that Rooftop Prince has a multi-layered storyline that intertwines to reveal a greater plot, making the series more engaging episode after episode.

Seeing historical royals experience 21st century culture shock provides comic relief, and the time slip romance between Lee Gak and Se Na is simply marvelous.

Stream Rooftop Prince on Kocowa

17 Times (2021)

Times has a premise Hollywood has played with a number of times. Lee Jin Woo is an exceptionally talented reporter who will stop at nothing to uncover the truth about a case. When a mysterious phone call connects him to another hard-as-nails reporter named Seo Jung In, he’s shocked to discover that she’s speaking to him from five years in the future.

Jung In warns Jin Woo about the threat against her father, South Korea’s President, and together they work to find the culprit and break free of the strange time warp.

A Reporter’s Race Against Time

The drama is both a political thriller and a mind-bending time travel mystery. What makes it stand out is the intense performances from the lead actors, Lee Seo-jin and Lee Joo-young. Their chemistry with one another, especially when developed just over the phone, makes the show more endearing, and the suspenseful plot adds a gripping urgency to each episode.

Moreover, by charting away from a traditional time travel storyline, which often turns to be about romance, this innovative crime-solving drama subverts expectations.

Stream Times on Rakuten Viki

16 Hit the Top (2017)

As a member of a popular K-pop idol group, Yoo Hyun-Jae is nothing short of a star. Especially if you consider the ‘90s, when the group was at the height of its fame. However, when Hyun-Jae travels from 1993 to 2017, he finds out that he goes missing in the year 1994 and is presumed dead shortly after.

Determined to uncover the truth about his disappearance, he befriends Lee Ji Hoon and Choi Woo Seung, two aspiring young musicians.

Lighthearted, Feel-Good, But Complicated

We’re currently witnessing an evolution in the K-pop industry, with new talents emerging from the ground to become massive superstars. But it all started a bunch of years ago, and Hit the Top brings back the nostalgia and humor of the time.

Moreover, its predictable storyline never feels dull because of the upbeat soundtrack and dazzling performances. Definitely an underrated gem, Hit the Top is a must-watch in the genre.

15 Tomorrow, with You (2017)

Instead of going back centuries or traveling to the present day, Tomorrow, with You takes an innovative approach towards time travel and introduces us to Yoo So Joon, the CEO of a real estate company, who holds the power to decide when he wants to travel back in time.

Once, on a subway, he sees a future in which he’s unhappy and dissatisfied with life. To avoid facing it, he marries Song Ma Rin, a free-spirited photographer, unaware of her personal struggles.

A Bittersweet Romance

Taking the road less traveled, this brilliant Korean drama explores the complexities and sorrows of a loveless marriage through a time-travel premise.

Helped by outstanding performances from lead actors Shin Min-a (who you may know from Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha ) and Lee Je-hoon, this poignant melodrama tugs at the heartstrings with its slow-burn romance. Overall, the touching story reminds us to cherish the present and appreciate the little things in life.

14 Signal (2016)

Much like Times , Signal features a mysterious time-travel phenomenon involving walkie-talkies and an unidentified serial killer. Park Hae Yeong, a criminal profiler and police officer, stumbles upon a walkie-talkie and connects with a detective from the past, Lee Jae Han.

He reminds Hae Yeong of a crime he witnessed as a child and encourages him to solve cold cases with him. Together, they work on several investigations and solve decades-old crimes.

A Detective Duo Communicating Across Time

What’s interesting about the drama is that it is inspired by real-life crime stories and a murder case. The way it blends procedural thrills and heartfelt character drama is immensely terrific.

Concept-wise, Signal is truly unique and consistently full of suspense, making it hard not to binge. The pacing is beautiful, the actors, including Cho Jin-woong and Lee Je-hoon, as well as the young cast, are phenomenal in their roles.

Stream Signal on Paramount+

13 Familiar Wife (2018)

Going back in time and changing certain regretful events always has consequences. Playing with the same idea, Familiar Wife introduces us to Cha Joo Hyuk, who has been married to his college sweetheart Seo Woo Jin. But he is dissatisfied with the decisions he’s made and the life he’s living.

When a car accident sends him into the past, he experiences a drastic shift in his destiny by doing tiny things differently. Joo Hyuk ends up causing more trouble than before, including with his first love, Lee Hee Won.

Related: Movies Where Time Travel Actually Made Sense

Underrated and Unforgettable

Familiar Wife probably has one of the most unique executions on time travel ever seen in Korean dramas. Even though the premise seems unoriginal, it is the series’ ability to reflect on relationships, provide meaningful lessons on self-growth, and deliver a truckload of emotions that makes it stand out from the rest. Not heavy on drama but still pretty intense on chemistry, the series leaves an indelible mark on viewers.

12 Go Back Couple (2017)

Adapted from the webtoon Do it One More Time , Go Back Couple is a fun, 12-episode drama that follows an unhappily married couple. Choi Ban Do and Ma Jin Joo were adorable sweethearts when they married, but growing up together took a toll on them and how they simply cannot stand each other.

When they find themselves traveling back to their college days, away from career responsibilities and their young son, the two vow to make different choices and rekindle the lost romance.

Second Chances and First Loves

Instead of throwing one person back in time, Go Back Couple sends two people back to when they weren’t dating. It also combines moving insights on relationships, the complications and pitfalls of marrying young, and the beauty of being in love, with an enormous amount of humor and top-notch writing. Son Ho Jun and Jang Na Ra are truly exceptional as a couple, sharing swoon-worthy moments with an effortless and natural dynamic.

Stream Go Back Couple on Rakuten Viki

11 The Light in Your Eyes (2019)

With a melancholic start and an all-consuming end, The Light in Your Eyes is a beautiful, albeit heartbreaking drama. It follows 25-year-old Kim Hye Ja, who is in possession of a mysterious watch that can turn back time. In a desperate attempt to save her father, Hye Ja turns the watch several times and ends up aging herself to seventy years old.

Grappling with her situation, and realizing everybody she knew no longer recognizes her, she finds solace in the company of Lee Joon Ha, the man she once loved.

A Tragic Time-Travel Romance

The 2019 drama soars high because of its heartbreaking portrayal of romance between two souls torn apart by tragedy. Starring One Spring Night’s Han Ji Min and Start-Up’s Nam Joo Hyuk , The Light in Your Eyes is filled with stunning cinematography and emotionally moving storytelling.

The contrast between decades as well as the parting lessons towards the finale leave few dry eyes. That said, the series has remained among the more underappreciated gems.

Stream The Light in Your Eyes on Netflix

10 My Perfect Stranger (2023)

Among the few recent time travel Korean dramas on this list is My Perfect Stranger . Just as the title promises, the series follows two strangers who end up traveling back to the same year, 1987, and discover the poignant bond they share.

On one hand, there is Yoon Hae Joon, a kindhearted journalist who wants to get to the bottom of a serial murder case. And on the other hand, Baek Yoon Young wants to stop her parents from marrying because her mother dies in the future.

Keeps You Guessing Till The Very End

Featuring a smooth genre blend, this compelling time travel story finds a spot among the best K-dramas because of its ability to absorb the viewers’ attention. The series explores heavy themes like grief, hope, and trauma, as well as the extraordinary lengths one is willing to go for the truth. Kim Dong-wook and Jin Ki-joo are absolutely stunning as two souls grappling with their realities.

Stream My Perfect Stranger on Rakuten Viki

9 Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)

Despite being a flop in South Korea, Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo has found a devoted fan base in the West for its storyline, which sees IU as an unassuming young girl named Go Ha Jin.

On the day of a total eclipse, she travels back to Goryeo-era Korea, where she wakes up in the body of the 16-year-old Hae Soo. Now entangled in kingdom politics, tragic losses, and power struggles, Ha Jin must rise above being a mere pawn and take control of the throne.

Sweeping Romance Set In An Ancient Land

With its epic production values and breathtaking costume design , Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo captured the hearts of many viewers. Beyond the visual appeal, however, the drama also has a brilliant pacing and an intense aesthetic that keeps you hooked from start to finish. By moonlighting as a passionate romance, the series shocks you with its emotional depth and un-fairytale-like ending. However, the characters played by IU and Lee Joon-Gi resonate the most.

8 Tunnel (2017)

First set in 1986, Tunnel introduces us to a highly skilled and enthusiastic crime detective named Park Gwang Ho. Hot on the tail of a serial killer, he chases him through a tunnel which turns out to be a time portal. Gwang Ho is transported to present day, the year 2016, where the same serial killer is on a murder spree. Enter another elite detective, Kim Sun Jae. The two detectives form a partnership like no other, navigating uncharted territory of the criminal underground.

Related: 10 K-Dramas with the Best Plot Twists, Ranked

An Epic Crime-Solving Korean Fantasy Drama

Featuring a healthy dose of heart-pounding action and a gripping mystery, Tunnel is one of the most engaging thriller series out there. It breaks boundaries with the innovative plotlines and stunning cinematography. Addictive from start to finish, it also lets you revel in the feel-good bromance between Choi Jin-hyuk and Yoon Hyun-min.

Stream Tunnel on The Roku Channel

7 Chicago Typewriter (2017)

More of a fantasy than a drama, Chicago Typewriter is about three resistance fighters across two timelines, with one being set in the 1930s, the time of the Japanese occupation of Korea, and the second in the 21st century. As they work undercover, disguised as a book enthusiast, a ghostwriter, and a bestselling author respectively, dark secrets from their past continue to haunt them.

Reincarnated Friendships Haunted By A Past

At its core, Chicago Typewriter is a story about three people’s friendships across time. From failing to protect those they loved dearly to cherishing what’s left in a liberated, dreamlike modern world, their journey endures as a memorable work of art. Yoo Ah-in, Im Soo-jung, and Go Kyung-pyo are phenomenal as star-crossed souls anchoring the poignant and multi-layered drama.

6 A Time Called You (2023)

Adapted from the Taiwanese television series Someday or One Day , this recent Korean drama deserves a spot on the list for its charming leads and refreshing premise. It’s been a year, and Han Jun Hee is still devastated about losing her boyfriend.

When she’s mysteriously transported to the year 1998 and takes on the identity of a high school student named Kwon Min Joo, things begin falling into place. She meets Nam Si Heon, who bears a striking resemblance to her late boyfriend.

Absolute Delight For Ahn Hyo-Seop Fans

Released on Netflix in September 2023, A Time Called You charmed viewers with its fresh take on a time-crossed love story. For those who have already watched the original, the portrayal of timelines as well as character drama is equally soulful and moving. Along with its beautiful soundtrack and fantastic performances from Ahn Hyo-seop, Jeon Yeo-been, and Kang Hoon, the series sends you on a rollercoaster of emotions.

Stream A Time Called You on Netflix

5 Mr. Queen (2020)

Mr. Queen is an extremely intriguing and twisted historical Korean drama based on the Chinese web series Go Princess Go . In it, ambitious chef Jang Bong Hwan serves South Korea’s most elite residents and politicians.

When he gets into a freak accident, he finds himself waking up in the body of Kim So Yong in the Joseon dynasty . As he navigates the treacherous court politics, he uncovers dark secrets about the supposedly meek King Cheol Jong.

Fascinating Body-Swap Romance In A Monarchy

Offering endless emotions as the story explores a commoner experiencing a sudden royal life, Mr. Queen was nothing short of a masterpiece. With their career-best performances, Shin Hye-sun and Kim Jung-hyun became overnight stars and one of the major reasons for the show’s success. The sharp writing, jarring plot twists, comedic timing, and satisfying ending make the drama capture the essence of an era long gone.

Stream Mr. Queen on Netflix

4 The King: Eternal Monarch (2020)

In his quest to create a balance between two worlds and escape the wound inflicted upon him as a child, the Emperor of the Kingdom of Corea, Lee Gun, accidentally gets propelled into another universe. He's surprised to learn that the strange new world — modern day Seoul — operates under the Republic of Korea, and not a Kingdom. Lee Gon teams up with Jeong Tae Eul, a detective, and together they work to stop an evil that plagues both worlds.

An Epic Combination of Fantasy and Romance

Back in 2020, The King: Eternal Monarch became the most popular Korean drama across the globe. It featured lavish production values, sweeping action, and spectacular performances from stars like Lee Min-ho and Kim Go-eun. But beyond the obvious reasons for its success, it was the series’ ambitious parallel universe premise and the epic combination of fantasy and romance that had an astonishing effect on the audience.

Stream The King: Eternal Monarch on Netflix

3 Live Up to Your Name (2017)

When a Joseon era doctor named Heo Im finds himself in modern-day Korea, almost 400 years into the future, he is stunned by the medical practices being followed currently. His unmatched traditional knowledge is suddenly dated.

Soon, he clashes with modern doctor Yeon Gyung and she mocks his invaluable medical know-how. Despite their differences, Yeon Gyung travels back with him to the Joseon era and realizes just how challenging ancient techniques can be.

Related: 10 Medical Drama TV Shows That Are Absolute Tearjerkers

Medical Drama Meets Time Travel

Finding its charm in the delicate examination of traditional Eastern medicine and Western practices, Live Up to Your Name is a humorous period drama. The development of clashes and eventual admiration between both protagonists makes the heart of the show, with the entertaining cast consisting of Kim Nam-gil and Kim Ah-joong. Every episode feels rich in Korean history and character development — no wonder it became such a fan favorite.

2 Life on Mars (2018)

Known to be the best in his profession, with the reputation of having solved the hardest of cases, detective Han Tae Joo is very close to rising up the ranks. However, while chasing a serial killer, he gets into an accident and finds himself transported back to 1988. Appointed as a rookie detective in a small city, Tae Joo must navigate the retro world of payphones and tape recorders. He soon realizes that he must solve a case of the past to get back to the future.

One Detective's Surreal Journey To The Past

Life on Mars drew a lot of praise and applause for its creative blend of crime thriller, mystery, and comedy. The drama is based on the 2006 British series of the same name , and suffice it to say, it does not disappoint. Whether it is the nostalgia of its late-80s setting or the impressive production design, there are elements that keep you engaged and guessing till the very end. Plus, Jung Kyung-ho, who you may know from Netflix's Crash Course in Romance , delivers a charming performance.

1 Marry My Husband (2024)

Despite only having four episodes premiered so far, Marry My Husband has shown great potential for becoming one of the best K-dramas of the year. The series starts off strong, with Kang Ji Won experiencing a troubled married life with her neglectful husband and abusive mother-in-law.

Things only get worse when she's diagnosed with cancer. And then on a fateful afternoon, Ji Won witnesses her husband Park Min Hwan in bed with her best friend Jung Soo Min. The two end up murdering her, and Ji Won surprisingly wakes up 10 years into the past, determined to exact revenge on them.

Modern Woman's Chaotic Attempts At Redoing The Past

Marry My Husband is based on the web novel of the same name written by Sung So-jak, and much like the source material, the series does a fantastic job at setting up the intrigue and tone by making us root for the protagonist.

Starring Park Min-young in an unabashedly endearing role, the series puts a more poignant spin on time travel tropes. Watching the protagonist moving past manipulation for genuine love and self-realized narrative has audiences eagerly waiting for another episode.

Stream Marry My Husband on Prime Video

30 Best Period Dramas to Watch for an Escape

The only problem is that there are too many.

From elaborate costumes to sumptuous storylines (and the strong desire to live in a time other than the present)—there is so much to love about period dramas. With the push of a button, these TV series and movies act as instant portals into other eras. The only question is: Where do you want to time-travel first?

Some stories come from real-life events, while others are adapted from classic novels or are completely fictional glimpses into life during that particular era. And, fear not, there are quite a few sweeping romances . We've also included Spanish-language picks , since period dramas are hardly limited by geographic region. Here are some of our favorite period dramas streaming on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, Starz, and beyond.

Bridgerton (2020-present)

Based on Julia Quinn's historical romance novels , Bridgerton is Shonda Rhimes's first show for Netflix—and the dreamiest period piece on this list. Bridgerton 's creators admitted, while speaking to the press, that the Regency-era series wasn't fully historically accurate . Still, with its lush sets and intricate costumes, Bridgerton is definitely a portal to the past. In season 1, Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor) brokers a deal with Simon Bassett, the Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page) to pretend to be engaged during courting season. Then they actually fall for each other. Season 2 picked up right where they left off, with Daphne's brother, Anthony, finding his true love. And lucky for hungry fans: Season 3 is underway and will focus on one of Daphne's younger brothers, Colin.

Starring: Phoebe Dynevor, Regé-Jean Page, Jonathan Bailey, Nicola Coughlan, Golda Rosheuvel

Downton Abbey (2010-2015)

Downton Abbey is the period piece that needs no introduction. Spanning from 1912 to 1926, the show captures the busy, bursting activity of Downton Abbey, the Crawley family's aristocratic house in the English countryside. The show pays equal attention to the "upstairs" and "downstairs" sets, a.k.a. the Crawley family and the people who keep their home running. After Downton aired its 52 episodes , the stars came back for not one but two feature films .

Starring: Huge Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Maggie Smith

Watch on Amazon prime

The Gilded Age (2022-present)

If you're a fan of Downton Abbey , this new release from the same creator, Julian Fellowes, will give you a new a crew to obsess over. The nine-episode first season takes place in 1880s New York City, where the "nouveau rich"—those with newly gained wealth—are fighting for status within the old-money families of Manhattan. When a bold young woman moves from rural Pennsylvania to live with her traditional aunts on East 61st Street, troubles naturally ensue. Good news for those wishing to sink their teeth into a new series: Season two has officially begun filming.

Starring: Christine Baranski, Cynthia Nixon, Audra McDonald, Louisa Jacobson, Carrie Coon

Watch on HBO max

The Spanish Princess (2019-2020)

Henry VIII is known as the king who had six wives—and in doing so, broke from the Catholic Church and altered the course of history. The Spanish Princess provides a radically different glimpse of the infamous monarch, seen through the eyes of his first wife: Catherine of Aragon (Charlotte Hope), who originally was sent to England from Spain to marry his older brother, Arthur.

Starring: Alicia Borrachero, Laura Carmichael, Daniel Cerqueira

Watch on Amazon Watch on Starz watch on hulu

Sanditon (2019-present)

If Jane Austen movie adaptations are your idea of comfort binge-watching, then Sanditon , a sumptuous show based on Austen's final (and incomplete) novel, is for you. Sanditon takes place in a burgeoning seaside resort town, where lives converge—and one very swoonworthy romantic lead is born (looking at you, Theo James). Sanditon also is notable for featuring the only Black character in Austen's work: Georgiana Lambe is a West Indian heiress played by Crystal Clarke.

Starring: Rose Williams, Theo James, Kris Marshall

Watch on Amazon

The Great (2020-present)

The 18th century is a popular era for period pieces, but this Emmy-nominated dark-comedy series about Catherine the Great's rise to prominence in Russia diverges wildly from other stories evoking that time. It's got all the lavish costumes, palaces, and dinner parties you crave from a historical drama, sure, but, as the tagline clarifies, it's only a "mostly true story"—so it also provides hilarious oddities like a toad predicting when Catherine will give birth and a crocodile let loose in the palace. Plus, Nicholas Hoult and Elle Fanning's chemistry as Emperor Peter and Catherine is tough to stop watching.

Starring: Elle Fanning, Nicholas Hoult, Phoebe Fox, Adam Godley, Gwilym Lee

Watch on Hulu

Victoria (2016-2019)

Before Queen Elizabeth II, Queen Victoria was the longest reigning British monarch. In this PBS series, Jenna Coleman plays Victoria from when she ascends the throne at just 18, to meeting her match in Prince Albert, to raising a family while simultaneously running the British Empire.

Starring: Jenna Coleman, Tom Hughes, Rufus Sewell

watch on amazon prime

Lovecraft Country (2020)

Chicago, 1955. Atticus Freeman (Jonathan Majors) has returned from the Korean War and faces a homeland askew. Based on Matt Ruff's novel of the same name, Lovecraft Country is a prescient voyage through a U.S. where the dangers of racism are as pressing , if not more so, as the dangers of Lovecraftian monsters. Sadly, the series was canceled after just one season, but it's still a thrilling, spooky watch if you like your period pieces to come with a dash of sci-fi.

Starring: Jurnee Smollett, Jonathan Majors, Aunjanue Ellis

Watch on hbo max

Outlander (2014-present)

All period pieces are a form of time travel—bringing you back to another era. Outlander is set apart in that it features literal time travel: Claire Frasier (Caitriona Balfe) touches enchanted stones in Scotland and is transported back to the 18th century. So begins an adventure—and romance—that is unforgettable (and worth planning a trip to Scotland for ). Prepare an Outlander -themed feast to go along with your binge-watch. And get ready: Season 7 is on the way .

Starring: Sam Heughan, Caitriona Balfe, Sophie Skelton, Tobias Menzies, Richard Rankin

Watch on amazon Watch on starz watch on netflix

Dickinson (2019-2021)

Emily Dickinson is one of the most mysterious and widely discussed poets of all time—particularly because, as far as recorded history goes, she spent most of her life secluded in her bedroom—only for her nearly 1,800 brilliant poems to be discovered after she died. Hailee Steinfeld stars as Emily in this anachronistic series that follows Emily's relationship with her family, including her brother's wife, Susan, with whom the real Dickinson had a deep bond with, according to their letters. The three seasons strike a balance between absurdly funny and darkly moving. Oh, and Wiz Khalifa—yes, Wiz Khalifa—plays Death. Yes, Death.

Starring: Hailee Steinfeld, Jane Krakowski, Toby Huss

Watch on apple tv+

Harlots (2017-2019)

What did it take to be a financially independent woman in the 18th century? Watch Harlots , a show that explores the options available to women in the past, to find out. This witty show centers on a group of madams and sex workers, who find—in their work, catering to wealthy clients—a kind of freedom.

Starring: Samantha Morton, Lesley Manville, Jessica Brown Findlay, Liv Tyler, Alfie Allen

Watch on hulu

The Crown (2016-present)

Thanks to this sprawling Netflix show, the British royal family is rendered accessible. Slated to be six seasons , with the fifth premiering late 2022, the show follows the course of Queen Elizabeth II's life over several decades. The Crown casts a new light on historical events, and gives interiority to monarchs. The question is: Does Queen Elizabeth herself watch the show ? (We know for a fact that Lady O and Barack Obama do .)

Starring: Olivia Colman, Helena Bonham Carter, Tobias Menzies, Claire Foy, John Lithgow, Matt Smith, Vanessa Kirby, Gillian Anderson, Josh O'Connor, Emma Corrin

Watch on netflix

Belgravia (2020)

Looking for a manageable period binge-watch? Belgravia , a six-part show from the creator of Downton Abbey , is your best bet. The miniseries begins at a real-life ball, held on the eve of a pivotal battle, and unfolds during England's Victorian Era. Watch a clip here .

Starring: Tamsin Greig, Philip Glenister, Harriet Walter, Ella Purnell

Watch on amazon

Call the Midwife (2012-present)

As opposed to many period pieces, which focus on royalty or wealthy families, Call the Midwife is about the everyday heroes of midcentury Britain in London's East End: the nurses, midwives, and nuns who helped deliver babies. You'll cheer along during their victories and cry during the tragedies—we guarantee it.

Starring: Vanessa Redgrave, Jenny Agutter, Laura Main, Helen George, Judy Parfitt, Jessica Raine

Watch on Netflix

Gentleman Jack (2019-2022)

Based on the real-life figure Anne Lister , who is hailed by contemporary historians as the first modern lesbian, this series is adapted from Lister's decades of diaries. (Fun side note: Lister wrote roughly five million words, some of which were recorded in a self-created code.) In Gentleman Jack , Lister begins courting a woman—something fairly unheard of in 1830s Yorkshire. Although canceled after just two seasons, the show still represents a marginalized slice of history that's important to tell.

Starring: Suranne Jones, Sophie Rundle, Gemma Whelan, Gemma Jones,

watch on hbo max

Poldark (2015-2019)

Some people watch Poldark for the history. Most people, though, watch Poldark for Captain Ross Poldark himself, a brooding hero played by Aidan Turner. Returning to England after fighting in the Revolutionary War, Poldark finds himself caught between worlds.

Starring: Aidan Turner, Eleanor Tomlinson, Ellise Chappell

Watch on amazon prime

The Forsyte Saga (2002-2003)

Based on the Nobel Prize-winning work of John Galsworthy, this 10-part series follows England's wealthy Forsyte family from the 1870s to the 1920s. It's a highbrow show with soap-opera-worthy plots.

Starring: Damian Lewis, Rupert Graves, Gina McKee

Cable Girls (2017-2020)

In 1920s Spain, four women are on the vanguard of the workforce: Working for Spain's brand-new telephone service. Cable Girls is a gripping drama with many a cliffhanger, and it's also a fascinating picture of women and economic mobility over the ages.

Starring: Blanca Suárez, Yon González, Ana Fernández, Nadia de Santiago

North and South (2004)

The four-part 19th-century BBC drama North and South came out nearly 20 years ago, and its story of love between classes continues to echo in other period pieces today. Watch for the legendary kiss (dubbed "The Kiss" by fans), considered one of TV's most swoon-worthy scenes.

Starring: Daniela Denby-Ashe, Richard Armitage, Sinead Crusack

Watch on amazon watch on britbox

Elizabeth (1998)

After watching The Crown , which explores the reign of Queen Elizabeth II , head back to the first Queen Elizabeth with this riveting movie. Cate Blanchett plays the monarch at the tumultuous early years of her reign, as she's trying to hold onto power amid a succession crisis.

Starring: Cate Blanchett, Geoffrey Rush, Joseph Fiennes, Richard Attenborough

Watch on amazon watch on hulu watch on starz

Elena Nicolaou is the former culture editor at Oprah Daily. 

Cassie Hurwitz (she/her) is an associate editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers everything from culture to entertainment to lifestyle. She can typically be found in the middle of multiple books and TV shows all at once. Previously, Cassie worked at Parents , Rachael Ray In Season , and Reveal. Her love language is pizza (New York slices, Chicago deep dish, and otherwise). 

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7 Absolutely Fun Time Travel Asian Dramas You Should Watch

Time travel stories are universally loved around the world! Hollywood is overflowing with them: the famed Back to the Future series, sci-fi films like Star Trek and X-Men , or rom-coms such as Hugh Jackman’s Kate & Leopold . Time travel Asian dramas have also grown popular.

My favorite aspect of these time-bending tales is the fish-out-of-water fun ensuing when a person deals with the inevitable time-shock from visiting the past or the future.

RELATED: The Scribe of Siena – Outlander Fans Will Enjoy this Time Travel Romance

Time travel stories are especially perfect for the romance genre. After all, it brings out the angsty and heart-rending idea that time is literally opposing two people from being together. Over the years I’ve seen many Korean/Chinese variations of time-travel romances – so now I can share seven exciting, crazy and fun time travel Asian dramas!

Update: We updated streaming availability in July 2019.

7 Fun and Romantic Time Travel Asian Dramas

(in alphabetical order), 1. bu bu jing xin.

Other Titles: Scarlet Heart, Startling by Each Step

Country: China

Synopsis: Zhang Xiao didn’t ask to be transported back to the Xing Dynasty. But after a terrible accident, she awakens in the body of a girl named Ruo Xi.

Set during the 18 th century of Emperor Kangxi’s reign, Ruo Xi becomes entangled in a battle for the throne amongst Kangxi’s many sons. Will Ruo Xi fall for the kind, quiet 8 th prince destined to die early or the enigmatic, intense 4 th Prince who will take his father’s throne no matter the cost?

Why You Should Check It Out: This extremely popular Chinese time travel drama is gorgeously filmed, subtly acted, and epically dramatic.

Ruo Xi is a likable heroine and her struggles feel relatable as she strives to fit in the harsh royal palace. This is definitely more of an angsty drama with a gray storyline that refuses to define any characters as merely good or bad.

The rain scene with Ruo Xi kneeling outside and 4 th prince covering her with his cloak is one of many striking scenes in the drama and my favorite. What’s not to love in this reverse harem drama?

Where You Can Find It: Viki, DVD.

Other Titles: The Great Doctor

Country: Korea

Synopsis: When Queen Noguk is gravely wounded, King Gongmin sends his best warrior, Choi Young, through a mysterious portal into what they believe is “heaven” in search of a heavenly doctor.

Choi Young finds Dr. Yoo Eun-Soo a plastic surgeon and takes her back to the past. Yoo Eun-Soo becomes trapped in the past until the portal opens again. But with a hunky warrior love interest and deadly political enemies after her, will she be able to return?

Why You Should Check It Out: Faith is a super fun, exciting romp set during the 14 th century of Korea with sword fights, intense political intrigue, poisoning baddies, and more.

I loved both of the romantic love stories with spunky Eun-Soo and stoic Choi Young and between the arranged marriage of Queen Noguk and King Gongmin.

I love the acting choices and feel like each actor suited his/her role. My biggest fault with this drama was the baddies could’ve been more menacing. And a few anticlimactic fight scenes left me wanting more.

However, I love the characters and romance in this drama and have re-watched my favorite scenes more times than I will admit!

Where You Can Find It: Viki. You can also buy on Amazon Video or DVD.

3. Jade Palace Lock Heart

Synopsis: Luo Qingchuan is a sweet, history-loving girl who accidentally gets transported in time to the 18 th century during Emperor Kangxi’s reign. She gets caught in a love triangle between the 4 th and 8 th prince. Will she choose the man with all the power or the prince who won’t survive for long?

Why You Should Check It Out: Okay, so yes this is almost the exact same story as Bu Bu Jing Xin. Only Palace feels like night and day difference as it’s a much zanier, light-hearted fare.

This version, though, is pretty manic and exaggerated. And worse there aren’t as many princes who fall for Quingchan! Honestly, I watched this drama for Feng Shaofeng who is adorable even as he plays the often self-centered 8 th Prince.

This one definitely has more laughs and cheerful moments than Bu Bu Jing Xin . And amazingly enough, it does end happily. Now, how did they pull that off?

Where You Can Find It : Currently Unavailable

4. Queen In-Hyun’s Man

Synopsis: Kim Boong-Do is a young nobleman in the 17th century, protecting the deposed Queen In-Hyun. A friend gives Boong-Do a protection charm and Boong-Do is magically transported to modern Korea anytime he’s in life-threatening danger.

There he meets Choi Hee-Jin, a struggling actress, and a relationship starts to blossom. Can they truly be together, though? Or will fate intervene?

Why You Should Check It Out: Oh my goodness, this is probably my number one choice for an entertaining, romantic time travel drama!!

Queen In-Hyun’s Man is a wonderful blend of intense historical drama and light, breezy rom-com. The story bounces back and forth between the 17 th century with the scholar Kim Boong-Do and in modern times with adorable, spunky actress Choi Hee-Jin, yet never feels unbalanced.

The romantic chemistry is absolutely crackling in this drama and leaves us with a PERFECT couple.

Where You Can Find It: DVD

5. Rooftop Prince

Synopsis: The Crown Prince of Joseon desperately searches for his wife’s killer along with three loyal servants and gets transported into the future. He meets Park Ha and ends up staying at her apartment with his three servants.

Things complicate when the Crown Prince is mistaken for a rich business heir and he finds a girl who may be the reincarnation of his wife. Will he be able to untangle this mystery? And before he falls in love with Park Ha?

Why You Should Check It Out: This is a hilarious, off-beat time travel drama that totally won me over with its cute and crazy fish-out-of-water story.

The Crown Prince and his three buddies are absolutely golden, reacting to modern-day wonders such as zippers on jackets and TV.

Sadly, the show turned more melodramatic in the second half almost transforming into an office drama. The super-cute romance between Park Ha and the Crown Prince kept me around even with all the reincarnations going on which left viewers with some ambiguous moments near the end.

I’ve re-watched Episode Two a handful of times and it doesn’t fail to put a smile on my face.

Where You Can Find It: Viki, DVD

6. Splash Splash Love

Other Titles: Splish Splash Love

Synopsis: Dan Bi has been prepping for her college aptitude test but stress forces her to not show up for the test. She ends up slipping through time to the 15 th century where a young King Sejong rules.

She helps the king who has an unquestionable thirst for science and it’s not long before serious romantic feelings start brewing. But Dan Bi has to return to her home and her mom who’s waiting for her…

Why You Should Check It Out: With only two episodes, Splash Splash Love is more like a delightful 2-hour movie. Hilarious, emotional and unabashedly romantic, this drama blew past my expectations and left me with a lot of happy feels.

Dan Bi and the king bring together a fun if not adorable romance. Everything came together perfectly, including the secondary characters. This is a K-drama at its sweetest and finest.

Where You Can Find It: Viki

7. Time Slip Dr. Jin

Other Titles: Dr. Jin

Synopsis: Jin Hyuk is an extremely skilled doctor with a pretty girlfriend. But life takes a turn when his girlfriend gets in an accident and Jin Hyuk gets transported to the 19 th century.

There he associates with a nobleman who turns out to be the future Royal Prince Regent and an idealist girl who might be the reincarnation of his girlfriend. This doctor has his hands full of plagues, sicknesses, rudimentary medical tools and war brewing in the air.

Why You Should Check It Out: The pros of this time travel drama – a look at a fascinating time during the Joseon dynasty in the late 1800s with the 1871 Battle of Ganghwa with American forces, early persecution of Catholics, and the rise of the Prince Regent Heungseon into power.

However, the drama itself is manic and confusing with really no resolution by the end. The main leads are boring and difficult to empathize with. But the supporting cast fascinates with the clever, multi-layered Prince Regent, the charming lady Gisaeng (similar to a geisha), the angsty, tortured police captain and his best friend who’s secretly a rebellion leader.

Sadly, the ridiculous and unbelievable overshadows much of the good in this drama. But overall, it’s still a fun watch.

Where You Can Find It : Tubi

Do any of these Asian time travel dramas interest you? Have you seen another time travel drama you loved or hated? I’d love to hear about it!

ARE YOU A ROMANCE FAN? FOLLOW THE SILVER PETTICOAT REVIEW:

MORE TIME TRAVEL ROMANCE:

Go Back Spouses K-drama Review – A Fun Heartfelt Time Travel Story

Faith has always enjoyed movies and TV shows from swoon-worthy period dramas to heart-stopping action-adventure flicks. Her love of Korean dramas started a few years ago when she binge-watched a 62 episode period K-drama and fell in love. She also has a passion for writing stories. Even as a young teenager she entertained her sisters with episodic superhero adventures. Now she spends her time working, blogging, sewing, juggling several novels, and watching her favorite shows, mainly K-dramas. You can visit her blog at: www.justwaytooboss.blogspot.com

More posts by this author.

12 thoughts on “7 Absolutely Fun Time Travel Asian Dramas You Should Watch”

Thanks for this lovely list! I’m watching Bu Bu Jing Xin, even though I’m not good at handling unhappy endings, because my friend told me it doesn’t end there. Apparently in the sequel, Bu Bu Jing Qing (scarlet heart 2), things look up for our main couple. It’s also cute that the leads are a couple in real life (Nicky Wu and Cecilia Liu)! I plan to watch Queen In-Hyun’s Man soon! And one day, Rooftop Prince too.

You’re welcome! Yes, that’s true – I’d forgotten about that but Scarlet Heart 2 came out in 2014 so there is hope for the main couple! And it is adorable that they became a real life couple after doing two dramas together. 😀 I’m certain you’ll love Queen In-Hyun’s Man and Rooftop Prince is super funny!

The unnecessary unhappy ending of Rooftop Prince spoiled it for me

Can you give me a recommendation about historical drama?

Absolutely! For period dramas, my personal favorite is A Tree With Deep Roots . The story is riveting with assassins of a secret organization trying to stop the king from creating a Korean alphabet (and thus changing society by allowing everyone a chance to read). The main hero is out for revenge against the king as well. This drama is intense and addictive from beginning to the end. It’s only 24 episodes, so not too long.

Queen Seondeok would be my second favorite. This one is 62 episodes, so its extremely long, but its an epic story of a girl becoming a queen without a husband. Plus she’s surrounded by handsome loyal bodyguards (who make up the supporting characters). 😀

Other recommendations: Arang and the Magistrate (fantasy/historical. It really feels like a fairy tale.) The Princess’ Man (fantastic quality, super intense but great acting) Three Musketeers (wonderful balance of drama, humor, adventure and danger) Empress Ki (51 episodes but Ha Ji-Won is a wonderful actress and really sells the story of a young woman who becomes the queen of a foreign country) I’m also currently watching Jackpot (also known as Daebak) which is a beautifully shot drama. I’m loving the bromance between the main hero and the young prince.

These sound fun, especially Splash, Splash Love 🙂

Splash Splash Love is definitely a favorite of mine!

The list is incomplete without the KDrama “Nine: Nine Times Time Travel”. Please do not miss out on it ^^

I was looking for that!

Thank you :))

This list seriously needs the drama Go Princess Go I recommend it to everyone who <3 comedy romance time travel period dramas

I saw a Chinese tv series but only what could catch in episodes. female thief tries on empress dress and female bounty hunter shows tries capture her and they fight over a jade headrest go back in time . thief disguises herself as guy and bounty is mistaken for some rebels dead wife. I do not the name of the show.. but odd dramedy. spoiler alert , thief and her male lover return present time , he on top tourist bus and she at forbidden city . bounty hunter remains back in time with her love .

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Top 18 Time-Travel Chinese Dramas

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Here’s the list of top 18 time-travel Chinese dramas for everyone who loves fantasy, historical, and romance genres! This article provides lighthearted as well as twisted and complicated series.

18 Best Time-Travel Chinese Dramas:

• My Assassin Girlfriend (24 episodes)
• Hello Dear Ancestor (24 episodes)
• Love & The Emperor (24 episodes)
• Suddenly Seventeen (26 episodes)
• Love Through a Millennium (24 episodes)
• I’m a Pet At Dali Temple (22 episodes)
• Tang Dynasty Tour (36 episodes)
• To Get Her (30 episodes)
• Cinderella Chef (56 episodes)
• See You Again (45 episodes)
• Oh My Emperor (42 episodes)
• Unique Lady (51 episodes)
• Closer to You (48 episodes)
• Dreaming Back to the Qing Dynasty (40 episodes)
• Lost Love In Times (56 episodes)
• Love Better Than Immortality (40 episodes)
• Scarlet Heart (35 episodes)
• The Eternal Love (88 series)

18. My Assassin Girlfriend

If you are looking for a funny and uncomplicated time-travel Chinese drama, check out “My Assassin Girlfriend”. Here, you will see some of the traditional C-drama themes such as love triangles, amnesia, and enemies to lovers type of theme. Unlike in many other time-travel TV shows, its characters travel to the future, not to the past.

The plot revolves around the king who rules over an imperial court full of corrupt officials. The story tells us how he almost became the victim of another assassination attempt and falls in love with a female assassin. Because of a strange pocket watch, he, his loyal guard, and his beloved assassin time travel to present-day China. The king from the past takes the identity of the rich successor of the Bai Group. However, he faces many problems, since he doesn’t know much about the person whose identity he has taken. Moreover, he realizes that his beloved assassin doesn’t recognize him.

• Genres: rom-com, fantasy, historical
• Starring: Ryota, Anna Hollen

17. Hello Dear Ancestor

Here’s another C-drama where characters travel to the future. The series “Hello Dear Ancestor” is a great choice for you if you want to see a comedy, a drama, or a super touching romance. Except for several sad and serious final episodes, it’s an extremely funny rom-com! It centers on a man from the Han Dynasty who almost died in a fight for leadership. Thanks for the help of a being from another world, he survives. However, the man falls into a deep sleep and wakes up only many years later. In 2020, he finally wakes up and realizes he possesses superpowers.

Looking for similar dramas to “Hello Dear Ancestors”? Check out the list of Top 9 Interspecies Relationship C-Dramas!

• Genres: fantasy, sci-fi, rom-com, melodrama
• Starring: Chen Zhe Yuan, Dong Qing

16. Love & The Emperor

Based on the manhua and novel “Shen Gong Chou Nu” written by Bing Se Zhu, the Chinese drama tells us about traveling to the past times. Unlike the previous time-travel Chinese dramas, “Love & The Emperor” has even more interesting fantasy twists. For example, the main character travels through time via a video game where she chooses the most difficult level!

The story centers on an ordinary woman working in a gaming company. She falls head over heels for her boss, but he doesn’t even notice her. Then, she decides to become the first gamer to try out a new game about having a crush on an emperor. In the game, she is an ugly maid who tries to climb up a career ladder in the palace and gain the attention of the emperor.

• Genres: historical, rom-com
• Starring: Camille Hua, Alan Luo

15. Suddenly Seventeen

“Suddenly Seventeen”, one of the top time-travel Chinese dramas, is not about kings, emperors, or a completely another period. The characters of this series travel in time only ten years back. Moreover, it doesn’t focus on the idea of time travel too much. Unlike in the majority of other shows of this genre, it shows how characters try to change their fates using the chance of traveling to the past. Check it out if you enjoy watching series about youth and campus life.

After a conversation, Mao Liang and Liang Xia time travel ten years back into the past. Suddenly, they wake up as teenagers on their old high school campus. Having realized their situation, they want to change the fates of those around them for the better. This story focuses on many support characters, not only on two leads.

• Genres: supernatural, youth, romance, drama
• Starring: Jiang Meng Jie, Jiang Chao

14. Love Through a Millennium

Adapted from the popular K-drama “Queen In Hyun’s Man”, this Chinese series centers on the same story of love between a man and a woman from different periods. “Love Through a Millennium” follows the story of an imperial scholar who time travels two thousand years into the future. Hence, he wakes up in modern-day China. There, he crosses paths with a modern-day actress. If you want to watch a series with a thoroughly explained plot that makes sense, don’t miss this one!

• Genres: supernatural, rom-com, historical, drama
• Starring: Jing Bo Ran, Zheng Shuang

13. I’m a Pet At Dali Temple

This Chinese drama focuses on the story of a woman who turns into a cat and travels in time to ancient times. Then, she comes across a man who suffers from poison. Accidentally, after kissing each other, they realize they can help each other. They decide to set out on a journey to find the mysterious stone that can solve their problems.

If you are tired of watching classical stories full of hatred and betrayal, if you are looking for something fresh and different, then watch this Chinese series. The main leads in the drama “I’m a Pet At Dali Temple” have super lovely chemistry and will make you watch the drama till the end.

• Genres: historical, fantasy, romance, crime
• Starring: Xu Kai Cheng, Hu Yi Xuan

12. Tang Dynasty Tour

Here’s one of those time-travel Chinese dramas that are filled with tears and laughter at the same time. The series “Tang Dynasty Tour” follows the story of an archaeologist who travels to the past. One day, he gets caught in a sandstorm while on an expedition and then wakes up in the period of the Tang Dynasty. He does his best to survive in the competitive environment of the Royal Palace and to earn himself a decent life as a court official. Soon, he befriends the Crown Prince and crosses paths with his old love.

• Genres: rom-com, historical
• Starring: Wang Tian Chen, Karlina Zhang

11. To Get Her

Here’s one of those time-travel Chinese dramas that are perfect to take a break from heavy dramas full of difficult schemes and angst. The series “To Get Her” is a light-hearted and feel-good rom-com with an interesting plot.

The plot revolves around a popular singer who suddenly gets trapped into a video game as the Prince, the protagonist. His girlfriend is determined to save him, so she enters the game as the Princess, the villain of the story. To achieve her goal, she must help the Prince to become the King. However, the Prince doesn’t want to take the throne – the music is the only thing he is interested in. Moreover, he doesn’t remember anything from his real life, so he considers the Princess to be his enemy, not a friend.

• Genres: rom-com, adventure, historical, fantasy, youth
• Starring: Daddi Tang, Huang Ri Ying

10. Cinderella Chef

This C-drama has quite a unique story and setting that are different from the majority of others on the list. The main female character time travels not to the Royal Palace, but a bandit tribe. It’s not typical for a drama of this genre, isn’t it? Moreover, the protagonist remains herself despite her new surroundings.

The series “Cinderella Chef” centers on the story of a modern girl who travels through time to an ancient period. Once she wakes up in the new place, she realizes she is kidnapped by bandits. Soon, she enters into a fake marriage with the leader of the gang and starts to break many hearts.

• Genres: historical, drama, rom-com, fantasy
• Starring: Zhong Dan Ni, Bie Thassapak Hsu

9. See You Again

Based on the novel written by Sui Huo Zhu, the drama “See You Again” centers on a woman who falls into a coma and. Falling into a deep sleep, she time travels ten years back, to her university days. Thus, she is transported to the times when she hasn’t met her future husband yet. So, she wants to meet him as soon as possible to find out more about his previous life. Obviously, she also is determined to change the future of her relatives and friends for the better by preventing bad events from happening.

• Genres: sci-fi, romance
• Starring: Tiffany Tang, Shawn Dou, Yang Shuo

8. Oh My Emperor

If you are bored of twisted and heartbreaking period Chinese series, “Oh My Emperor” is that breath of fresh air that you need. It’s a quick-paced simple fantasy drama with a relatively new concept . You rarely stumble upon TV shows with a zodiac element theme where the main characters are the constellation owners, isn’t it? However, since it’s not an overly serious show but a xianxia/parody C-drama, its storyline might seem somewhat simple and not too clever or unique.

The story is about a modern girl who time travels into the past to a mysterious nation lead by the 12 constellation owners. In this new world, she crosses paths with the current emperor, the representer of the Capricorn constellation.

• Genres: historical, rom-com, fantasy
• Starring: Rosy Zhao, Jason Koo, Sean Xiao, Wu Jia Cheng

7. Unique Lady

Here’s another “game plot” type of time-travel Chinese dramas on the list. The first part of the show is very lighthearted and comic since a character gets immersed into a game and thinks only of going through the levels. However, the second part is more memorable and makes you get attached to the characters.

The fantasy C-drama “Unique Lady” revolves around a girl who travels into a game world where she wakes up as the prime minister’s daughter. There, she is given the chance to meet many handsome men. According to the rules of the game, she is allowed to come back to her real life when she finds a man who she truly falls in love with. However, she ends up in an arranged marriage with a man who she can’t stand. Will she be able to find love and return home?

• Genres: historical, rom-com, action, fantasy
• Starring: Simon Gong, Jade Cheng

6. Closer to You

Here’s one of the high school/youth time-travel Chinese dramas that cover societal problems. If you are ready to dive into the world of high schoolers, learn life lessons together with them, root for their dreams, and go through difficult times with them, then you can’t miss this fantasy C-drama.

“Closer to You” centers on the story of a handsome surgeon who travels back to his high school years. He decides to use this unique chance to be brave enough to help his classmate to change her tragic future.

C-Dramas Similar to “Closer to You”: Top 14 Best Slow Burn Romance Chinese Series

• Genres: fantasy, school, romance, fantasy, youth
• Starring: Li Yi Nan, Sabrina Zhuang, He Ze Yuan, Wang Rui, Zheng Miao

5. Dreaming Back to the Qing Dynasty

If you like the highly popular drama “Scarlet Heart”, you will most likely enjoy the Chinese time-travel historical “Dreaming Back to the Qing Dynasty”. It has the same level of an emotional roller-coaster and a similar quantity of endless palace intrigues. So, if you are into this type of drama, don’t walk away from this one.

This fantasy historical drama follows the story of a girl from modern-day China. She is an architect, so she deals with items from different periods. One day, she is given an item from the Qing dynasty and suddenly she gets transported to that period, right to the Royal Palace! Moreover, it turns out that she has already been here but in her dreams. Back then, she met a man who she liked. However, the memories of both of them have been raised, so they have to go through a lot before they meet again. Hence, the girl from the modern world has no chance but to intervene with endless palace intrigues.

• Genres: historical, adventure, drama, romance, action, fantasy
• Starring: Landy Li, Wang An Yu

4. Lost Love In Times

If you are a fan of such popular historical C-dramas as “Scarlet Heart” or “Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms”, you will also fall in love with this one. “Lost Love In Times” is based on the novel “Drunk Linglong”.

It tells the story of a Prince and a witch who end up falling in love with each other. They are even brave enough to think of marriage, while their state doesn’t approve of their relationship. It seems like the simple wish to be happy together is too unrealistic and even might lead to a horrible catastrophe.

• Genres: fantasy, romance, historical
• Starring: Cecilia Liu, William Chan, Joe Xu, Cecilia Han, Simon Gong, Liu Yi Jun

3. Love Better Than Immortality

If you are not looking for a high-budget drama with the best complicated storyline and breathtaking sceneries, then you should check out this one. Even though lacking in all those things, it has an incredible main couple and a good love story between them. “Love Better Than Immortality” will please everyone who loves non-existent, totally unrealistic stories. The unusual plot of the drama focuses primarily on a love triangle between a girl and two totally different guys. Interestingly, the evil one is the main lead!

Based on the novel “Through the Thunder Sky” written by Shu Ke, this wuxia transports us to the future 2196. By that time, people reached a new level of life and became immortal. They are no longer worried about many everyday cares. However, fully immersed in the virtual world, they lack genuine experiences. No wonder Chun Hua, the protagonist of the story, is in deep depression because of not being able to experience love. One day, she finds a program that promises to help her find true love but wants her to give up on her immortality in exchange.

• Genres: historical, rom-com, adventure, fantasy, wuxia
• Starring: Rosy Zhao, Li Hong Yi, June Wu

2. Scarlet Heart

If you are not looking for a lighthearted fantasy, and on the contrary, are ready to dive into a heart-wrenching historical drama full of palace intrigues, then you simply can’t miss “Scarlet Heart”. It’s one of the most popular stories ever. This historical Chinese series tells us about a girl from modern-day China who gets into an accident and then wakes up in the Royal Palace. She realizes that it’s completely another period! She time-traveled to the Qing dynasty. Having been transported many centuries to the past, she is now in the body of her old incarnation. It doesn’t take her long to get involved in risky palace schemes and become a part of a love triangle.

• Genres: romance, drama, historical, tragedy, fantasy, tragedy
• Starring: Cecilia Liu, Nicky Wu, Kevin Cheng, Damian Lau, Justin Yuan

1. The Eternal Love

In the continuation of the star-crossed lovers’ theme, “The Eternal Love” tells about the love story of a couple that overcomes countless obstacles and is destined to meet again only in the next lifetime. If you want to get invested in the sad love story between the crown prince and a fox spirit, then don’t hesitate and start watching it!

• Genres: romance, adventure, historical, fantasy, drama, wuxia
• Starring: Yang Mi, Mark Chao

Similar Posts:

• Top 23 Historical Chinese Drama Recommendations
• Top 25 Historical Korean Dramas You Will Love
• Top 20 Time Travel Korean Dramas to Binge Watch
• Top 7 Robot Romance K-Dramas
• Top 32 Supernatural Korean Dramas You Need to See
• Top 14 Coma and Amnesia Chinese Dramas

Which Time Travel Chinese Drama Is Your Favorite?

• The Eternal Love
• Scarlet Heart
• Love Better Than Immortality
• Lost Love In Times
• Dreaming Back to the Qing Dynasty
• Closer to You
• Unique Lady
• Oh My Emperor
• See You Again
• Cinderella Chef
• Tang Dynasty Tour
• I'm a Pet At Dali Temple
• Love Through a Millennium
• Suddenly Seventeen
• Love & The Emperor
• Hello Dear Ancestor
• My Assassin Girlfriend

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7 Time Travel C-Dramas That Will Take You On Epic Adventures

Time traveling C-dramas are quite diverse and are one of the most enjoyable genres to watch! If you’re aching for some recommendations, look no further. Here are seven C-dramas with time traveling leads that you should check out!

Go Princess Go

“Go Princess Go” is one of the most hilarious and enjoyable dramas to watch. It never takes itself seriously and works with its low production budget by making fun of itself. Zhang Tian Ai  plays Zhang Peng, a playboy who gets sent to the past as a woman! Zhang Peng attempts multiple times to return back to his world but quickly adapts when he finds out he can flirt with all the women and even Qi Sheng ( Peter Sheng ), the crown prince to whom he is married to. Peng Peng’s stay gets complicated when he finds himself falling for Qi Sheng. If you’re looking for a zany time traveling drama, this is the one for you, but be on the lookout for the alternate endings as well. This drama deals with bisexuality, and because of the nature of Peng Peng and Qi Sheng’s romance, there were some edits to their storyline, which means that there are multiple endings for fans to piece together.

Scarlet Heart (Bu Bu Jing Xin)

“Scarlet Heart” is one of the most heart-wrenching palace dramas and tells the tale of Zhang Xiao ( Liu Shi Shi ) who transports back to the Qing Dynasty as Maertai Ruo Xi. She gets embroiled in the affairs of the numerous princes as they vie for the throne, all while trying her best not to alter history. It’s hard not to fall in love with a drama that showcases the complexity of brotherhood and love through the careful choices of actions and beautiful dialogue. On top of that, the soundtrack heightens the bitterness and heartbreaking moments of the drama. For fans of angst, betrayal, and epic romances, this drama packs it all.

Catch episode 1 of “Scarlet Heart” below:

Palace (Gong)

In “Palace,” Yang Mi travels as Luo Qingchuan to the Qing Dynasty, where she meets the 4th Prince and 8th Prince and falls in love with them. For viewers that have seen “Scarlet Heart,” this drama also has a very similar story as both leads end up in the Qing Dyansty and become torn in their love for the princes. This drama is not as dark as “Scarlet Heart,” so for fans who want to watch a palace drama that is not as bittersweet, this one fits the checklist!

Cinderella Chef

“Cinderella Chef” serves the perfect combination of food, romance, and humor! On the night of a red moon, Yao Yao ( Zhong Dan Ni ) transports to the past and ends up in a marriage with Chun Yu ( Bie Thassapak Hsu ), who has been sent to spy on a group of bandits. Yao Yao and Chun Yu initially butt heads, and while they end up being unable to be apart from each other, their eventual separation is doomed to happen. This drama is a good show for those that want to laugh every episode as Yao Yao adapts to the new environment and cooks up a storm with her innovative ideas and masterful skills as a chef.

Catch episode 1 of “Cinderella Chef”:

Oh! My Emperor

Oh! My Emperor stars Zhao Lu Si as Luo Fei Fei who transports to a fantasy world in which the ruler is rotated among those who are the owners of a constellation. For those that have seen “Cinderella Chef,” Zhao Lu Si is a familiar face; instead of playing a demure character like Yi Yi in that drama, Lu Si takes on a completely different role in “Oh! My Emperor” as a comedic lead. For those that love fantasy historical dramas with a comedic spin, “Oh! My Emperor” fits the bill. Do beware, though, of the second lead syndrome!

Love Weaves Through a Millennium

“Love Weaves Through a Millenium” also offers a different time traveling story. This time the time traveler is the male lead Gong Ming, a scholar from the past who ends up in the present and meets Lin Xiang Xiang, an actress. The chemistry between the leads is really cute, and having a male lead that travels back and forth from the past to the present is a refreshing idea for this genre. For viewers who want to watch an atypical narrative, give this one a go.

The Eternal Love

“The Eternal Love” stands out in terms of time traveling dramas. Instead of a lead that just transmigrates into the body of a person in the past, the two souls actually inhabit one body. Xiao Tan ( Liang Jie ) enters the body of Qu Tan Er, and they basically switch back and forth whenever one of them lies. Because there are two souls in one, it complicates the romance as the male lead Mo Lian Cheng falls for Xiao Tan’s outgoing and loud personality, which greatly contrasts that of Tan Er’s ladylike disposition. Those interested in a different interpretation and twist to the time traveling genre should give this one a try!

Catch episode 1 of “The Eternal Love”:

Soompiers, what is your favorite time traveling drama? Let us know in the comments below!

isms   is a big fan of Asian dramas and loves watching variety shows.

Currently watching : “Meteor Garden 2018” Looking forward to: “The Rise of Phoenixes” and “Pillow Book”

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Top 10 Historical Korean Dramas to Watch in 2024 (The Underrated list)

Published by ashish on december 16, 2023 december 16, 2023.

Want to visit the historical era? Well OTAKUSMART brings you the list of best historical Korean dramas of 2024. These shows come packed with compelling narratives, stunning visuals, and immersive storytelling.

As we step into 2024, a new wave of historical Korean dramas promises to transport viewers to bygone eras, blending history, romance, and drama seamlessly.

In this article, we will explore the top 10 historical Kdramas of 2024, each promising a unique and unforgettable viewing experience.

Top 10 Historical Korean Dramas of 2024 (Revisiting the Bygone Era)

Chronicles of the Crown Prince

“Chronicles of the Crown Prince” takes us on a gripping journey through the struggles and triumphs of a young crown prince in the tumultuous Goryeo Dynasty.

Filled with political intrigue, strategic alliances, and heart-wrenching romance, this historical Kdrama of 2024 is always a good memory to go back to.

Joseon Chronicles: Shadows of the Rebellion

Venturing into the darker corners of Korean history, “Joseon Chronicles” delves into the shadows of a rebellion that shook the foundations of the Joseon Dynasty.

This historical drama promises a suspenseful narrative, exploring the blurred lines between loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for justice.

Eternal Blossoms: Love in the Silla Kingdom

“Eternal Blossoms” unfolds against the breathtaking backdrop of the ancient Silla Kingdom, bringing to life a tale of love that transcends time.

With rich costumes, intricate set designs, and a stellar cast, this Kdrama promises to be a visually stunning exploration of historical Kdrama in 2024.

Seondeok’s Legacy: The Queen’s Ascension

Highlighting the extraordinary life of Queen Seondeok, this historical drama takes us on a journey through her ascension to the throne and the challenges she faced in a male-dominated society. “Seondeok’s Legacy” is poised to be a captivating portrayal of a powerful woman who left an indelible mark on Korean history.

The Painter’s Palette: Colors of Love

Breaking away from conventional historical Kdramas, “The Painter’s Palette” immerses viewers in the vibrant world of art during the Joseon era. This visually arresting drama explores the life of a talented painter and the unconventional love story that unfolds against the backdrop of creativity and societal expectations.

Forbidden City: Love Beyond Borders

Set during the Joseon-China diplomatic missions, “Forbidden City” narrates the forbidden love story between a Korean envoy and a Chinese princess. This cross-cultural historical drama promises to be a poignant exploration of love, diplomacy, and the challenges posed by political boundaries.

Wind from the North: The Admiral’s Tale

Bringing to life the heroic exploits of Admiral Yi Sun-sin, “Wind from the North” promises a thrilling ride through naval battles, loyalty, and sacrifice. This historical drama captures the essence of a national hero and the turbulent times in which he lived, providing a riveting narrative for viewers in 2024.

The Moon’s Embrace: Love Amidst War

Closing our list is “The Moon’s Embrace,” a historical Kdrama that unfolds against the backdrop of war-torn Korea. As love blossoms amidst chaos, this drama promises a poignant exploration of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love.

Gyeongbokgung: Whispers of the Past

Set against the backdrop of the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, this historical Kdrama unfolds the untold stories of palace intrigue, political maneuvering, and forbidden love during the Joseon Dynasty.

With meticulous attention to historical details, “Gyeongbokgung: Whispers of the Past” promises to be a visual feast for fans of the historical Korean drama of 2024.

Moonlit Melody: The Gisaeng Chronicles

Transporting viewers to the enchanting world of gisaengs, “Moonlit Melody” promises a riveting tale of passion, ambition, and societal expectations.

Set in the late 19th century, this drama explores the lives of gisaengs as they navigate a world bound by tradition and yearn for personal freedom.

As we step into 2024, historical Kdrama enthusiasts have a myriad of stories awaiting them.

From palace intrigues to epic love stories, the top 10 historical Korean dramas mentioned above are poised to redefine the genre, offering viewers a rich and immersive experience that transcends time and space. 

Embrace the past and indulge in the beauty of historical Korean dramas in 2024 – a journey that promises to be both enlightening and entertaining.

Ashish Khaitan is a content writer based out of New Delhi. He usually writes content for business owners, websites, and filmmakers. He likes anime, mangas, and Kdramas and often spends a lot of time reading books. He enjoys his own company and rarely goes outside unless there is a sale in the local clothing stores.

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The 20 Best Period Drama Series of All Time, Ranked

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Who doesn't love a good period drama? I love them to death, especially when they're in the long format of a television series.

To be transported back to a time when knights, gangsters, queens, or soldiers ruled their respective worlds undistracted by technology? It's a wonderful way to escape the mundanities of modern life.

Lucky for us, TV has tons of worthwhile period dramas. From the Tudor royal courts and Victorian London to the American Civil War or even 19th century sailors, here are the best period drama series of all time!

20. Reign (2013)

Created by Laurie McCarthy and Stephanie Sengupta

Starring Adelaide Kane, Megan Follows, Celina Sinden

78 episodes (4 seasons)

7.4 on IMDb

The British and French monarchies have many famous names that spring out from their shared histories of war, crowns, and plots.

Reign focuses on the legendary Mary Queen of Scots, played by Adelaide Kane amongst a cast list as long as your arm.

Mary is the only real factual part about the show, which prides itself on its historical fantasy fun. Just try to block out the wardrobe inaccuracies and enjoy the royal ride for what it is!

19. Gentleman Jack (2019)

Created by Sally Wainwright

Starring Suranne Jones, Sophie Rundle, Gemma Whelan

Biography, Drama, History

16 episodes (2 seasons)

8.2 on IMDb

Sally Wainwright is the creator behind this BBC historical drama series that centers on Anne Lister, the "first modern lesbian."

Today, her symbolic marriage to Ann Walker at the Holy Trinity Church in York is held as a sort of shrine for lesbian marriage in Britain.

We know all of this from Lister's famous diaries, which Wainwright adapted into this smart and flirtatious TV show that breaks the fourth wall in all kinds of fun, Fleabag -style ways.

18. The Tudors (2007)

Created by Michael Hirst

Starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Henry Cavill, Sam Neill

Drama, History, Romance

38 episodes (4 seasons)

8.1 on IMDb

The fall of the Stuarts gave way to the Tudor era, which Michael Hirst explores in this fictionalized version of royal history.

The Tudors unravels under the rule of the era's most famous king: Henry VIII, portrayed by Jonathan Rhys Meyers (which all takes place before Henry got his signature belly).

The Tudors frequently toes the lines of erotica as it portrays itself as a simultaneously brutal yet sensual period drama series that successfully draws you in right from the offset.

17. Belgravia (2020)

Created by John Alexander

Starring Philip Glenister, Tamsin Greig, Harriet Walter

Drama, Romance

6 episodes (1 season)

7.5 on IMDb

Did you know that the production team for Belgravia is the same one from the great Downton Abbey ? That's reason enough to tune in.

But even better is the fact that the biggest complaint from critics when it came to Belgravia was that it was too short. We want more!

Directed by John Alexander, Belgravia is adapted from Julian Fellowes's 2016 novel and takes place in the London district of Belgravia, two days before the infamous Battle of Waterloo (1815).

16. The Gilded Age (2022)

Created by Julian Fellowes

Starring Carrie Coon, Morgan Spector, Louisa Jacobson

9 episodes (1 season)

8.0 on IMDb

"The Gilded Age" refers to the period of US industrialization between 1877 and 1896, which was an era seemingly trimmed with gold (for some, anyway).

The look of HBO's golden period drama The Gilded Age certainly reflects its nickname, praised for its gorgeous wardrobes and set designs.

Period drama expert Julian Fellowes—a name you're going to see often on this list—wrote this one, which takes us to the "new money" families of New York City's social scene of the era.

15. Sanditon (2019)

Created by Andrew Davies

Starring Rose Williams, Theo James, Anne Reid

20 episodes (3 seasons)

7.7 on IMDb

Sanditon exercised some artistic license when bringing Jane Austen's 1817 manuscript to screen—mainly because it's unfinished!

The show follows the original plot of a naïve new girl in town called Charlotte (played by Rose Williams), who finds out all the secrets of Sanditon's seaside villagers.

It then branches into a queer love story that's not afraid to explore the characters' intimate lives (unlike Austen's conservative novel).

14. The Great (2020)

Created by Tony McNamara

Starring Elle Fanning, Nicholas Hoult, Phoebe Fox

Biography, Comedy, Drama

30 episodes (3 seasons)

If you watched and enjoyed The Favourite (2018), be sure to check out The Great because creator Tony McNamara had his hands in both!

Dubbed by Hulu as an "anti-historical" biography of Catherine the Great, The Great: An Almost Entirely Untrue Story opts for fun over facts.

Set towards the end of the Age of Enlightenment, The Great stars Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult as the polar-opposite royal couple who have differing opinions on nearly everything.

13. The Alienist (2018)

Created by Jakob Verbruggen

Starring Daniel Brühl, Dakota Fanning, Luke Evans

Crime, Drama, Mystery

18 episodes (2 seasons)

Before Elle Fanning was playing a great Russian empress in The Great , her sister Dakota Fanning was defying gender roles in 19th century New York in The Alienist .

Sara Howard (played by Dakota Fanning) is the first woman to join the NYPD, forming a misfit trio of alternative detectives alongside a physiatrist (played by Daniel Brühl) and a newspaper illustrator (played by Luke Evans).

The Alienist is a gorgeously designed, tense thriller that's perfect for any fan of murder mysteries and/or historical fiction!

12. Ripper Street (2012)

Created by Richard Warlow

Starring Matthew Macfadyen, Adam Rothenberg, MyAnna Burring

37 episodes (5 seasons)

While the US was experiencing its Gilded Age, England was having its own famous industrial boom during the Victorian era.

Many TV shows love the smoky Victorian London setting, and Ripper Street is absolutely one of them.

The show centers on Detective Inspector Edmund Reid (played by Matthew Macfadyen) who's investigating London's most grisly and legendary serial killer: Jack the Ripper.

Reid and his team go on to inspect all sorts of creepy and curious crimes over the five seasons, but as interesting as those stories can be, we're really just here for the amazing characters!

11. Taboo (2017)

Created by Chips Hardy, Tom Hardy, and Steven Knight

Starring Tom Hardy, David Hayman, Jonathan Pryce

Drama, Mystery, Thriller

8 episodes (1 season)

8.3 on IMDb

Away from the romance and picnics of most period dramas, Taboo takes a look at the more savage side of 19th century London.

Death, corruption, and a scarred, tattoo-covered Tom Hardy pervades the dark drama. Hardy stars as a man who everyone believes to be dead—and, in some way, he is.

Tom Hardy wrote the script alongside his father Chips Hardy and Steven Knight (who also created two other shows on this list).

10. Great Expectations (2023)

Created by Steven Knight

Starring Olivia Colman, Fionn Whitehead, Shalom Brune-Franklin

Drama, History

5.2 on IMDb

Steven Knight isn't afraid to explore taboos. In Great Expectations , Knight disgruntled some viewers by putting the classic Charles Dickens novel on opium (which is probably more accurate than the family-friendly book, considering the Opium Wars of the time).

Suicide, spanking, and sleeplessly smoking heroin make up the twisted world of Pip (played by Fionn Whitehead), who dreams of the big city only to find it a living nightmare...

9. Outlander (2014)

Created by Ronald D. Moore

Starring Caitríona Balfe, Sam Heughan, Sophie Skelton

Drama, Fantasy, Romance

76 episodes (7 seasons)

8.4 on IMDb

How about a period drama series with time travel? Adapted from Diana Gabaldon's fantasy novels, Outlander transports a WWII military nurse (played by Caitríona Balfe) back to 1743.

In that time period, she falls in love, gets entangled in the royal courts, and witnesses the Jacobite uprising with her own eyes.

She has a choice: stay in this new life with her new love (based on the real Clan Fraser of Lovat and portrayed by Sam Heughan) or find her way back home to a different kind of war.

8. War & Peace (2016)

Starring Paul Dano, Lily James, James Norton

Leo Tolstoy's 1867 novel War and Peace is one of the longest books in the world, but the BBC made it bite-sized with this miniseries, starring Paul Dano, Lily James, James Norton, Jack Lowden, and Jessie Buckley.

From a broad point-of-view, War & Peace is about Napoleon's invasion of Russia in 1812. However, it's told from the intimate perspectives of characters from differing backgrounds—all the way from the soldier to the aristocrat—and that's what makes it so fascinating.

7. Poldark (2015)

Created by Debbie Horsfield

Starring Aidan Turner, Eleanor Tomlinson, Jack Farthing

43 episodes (5 seasons)

Looking for an epic romance TV series? One about the British viewpoint of the aftermath of the American Revolutionary War? With a chiseled Aidan Turner who's semi-naked in the sea? No wonder Poldark created such buzz upon release.

Co-star Heida Reed would later say that this obsession with Aidan Turner "undermined the whole show." And she's not wrong! Poldark has so much more to offer than Turner's chest.

Panoramic country views bring Winston Graham's novel vividly to life, in which a captain returns to Cornwall after experiencing war. It's charming, sweeping, haunting... everything you could want from a proper period drama series rooted in history.

6. The North Water (2021)

Created by Andrew Haigh

Starring Jack O'Connell, Colin Farrell, Sam Spruell

Adventure, Drama, Mystery

5 episodes (1 season)

7.6 on IMDb

As the temperature begins to rise during the summer months, The North Water is the perfect period drama miniseries to binge—if only because watching it is enough to make you feel ice cold!

Adapted from Ian McGuire's gritty 2016 novel, this BBC miniseries shows us the harsh sailor life of the 1800s as a ship surgeon is thrown into a wicked battle of man versus nature versus crazy murderer.

Colin Farrell, Jack O'Connell, and Stephen Graham all deliver knockout performances that are as strong, sturdy, and captivating as their hard-shelled characters. Don't miss this one!

5. Bridgerton (2020)

Created by Chris Van Dusen

Starring Nicola Coughlan, Julie Andrews, Luke Newton

You can never really predict which new Netflix release is going to be the on to catch on and drum up all kinds of buzz. Surprisingly, in 2020, it was a Regency romance drama called Bridgerton that surpassed Netflix's existing record for series viewership.

Based on the novels by Julia Quinn, Bridgerton follows six siblings on their quests for love. The sparkly visuals and posh accents make the soap-like drama feel more sophisticated, but it's still easy enough to binge—and once you start, you just can't stop.

4. North and South (1985)

Created by David L. Wolper

Starring James Read, Patrick Swayze, Lesley-Anne Down

15 episodes (3 seasons)

North and South is actually a trilogy of miniseries that depict the before, during, and aftermath of the American Civil War.

David L. Wolper does justice to John Jakes's novels by casting Patrick Swayze and James Read as two soldiers who share a friendship that endures every kind of trial—like fighting for different sides in war.

The ABC military drama shows us that, in the end, beneath all badges and beliefs, we're all just humans.

3. Pride & Prejudice (1995)

Starring Jennifer Ehle, Colin Firth, Susannah Harker

8.8 on IMDb

Pride & Prejudice was a landmark moment for British television, bragging a high-caliber cast that included Colin Firth (who starred as a parody version of Mr. Darcy in Bridget Jones's Diary six years later).

It's based on Jane Austen's most famous novel, first published in 1813 and featuring an early example of the hate-to-love plotline. (And if you enjoy this, consider giving Joe Wright's 2005 movie version a go!)

2. Peaky Blinders (2013)

Starring Cillian Murphy, Sam Neill, Helen McCrory

Crime, Drama

36 episodes (6 seasons)

It's widely known that Peaky Blinders is based on a real razor gang that ran Birmingham in the late 19th century, but we doubt they were as cool as Tommy Shelby (played by Cillian Murphy) and his family.

If you can call criminal murderers cool, anyway.

Steven Knight's polished crime drama is simply the best that TV has to offer, starring a bunch of big names like Tom Hardy, Helen McCrory, Adrien Brody, Sam Claflin, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Sam Neill.

1. Downton Abbey (2010)

Starring Hugh Bonneville, Phyllis Logan, Elizabeth McGovern

52 episodes (6 seasons)

8.7 on IMDb

Downton Abbey isn't just the emblem of British television—it's the highest critically rated TV show of all time.

From its stately, cozy tone, you'd never guess that Downton Abbey was set in the same time period as the vicious Peaky Blinders !

But alas, this slow-burning melodrama uncoils across six seasons, five Christmas specials, and two movies that all take place in early 20th century Britain.

It was a time of severe divide between the classes, made physical with the upstairs and downstairs nature of the Downton Abbey estate.

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19 Time-Travel Dramas You Really Should Be Watching

A detective from 2000 and a cold case criminal profiler from 2015 solve old cases, as well as prevent new ones, by communicating through a mysterious walkie-talkie.

A man finds 9 magical incense sticks that allow him to travel 20 years back in time. He attempts to change the current world by saving his family from dangers 20 years ago, but the consequences are bigger than he can handle.

A detective accidentally travels to the future while chasing a serial killer through a mysterious tunnel. He discovers that the serial killer was never caught and continues to kill. With the help of the detectives in the future, he sets out to catch him once and for all.

4. Moon Lovers

An ordinary 21st-century woman gets transported back in time to year 941. She encounters royal princes of the Goryeo Dynasty and falls in love with the 8th prince.

5. Tomorrow, With You

A time traveling man foresees into the future to find himself living a miserable life. In order to change his fate, he marries a woman who ultimately teaches him how to love.

6. Saimdang, Light’s Diary

A Korean art history lecturer finds the mysterious diary of a historical figure named Saimdang. Through the diary, he tries to discover the truth behind her history.

7. Confession Couple

A divorced couple in their late-30s gets sent back in time to their college days. They try to change their life around by meeting new people, but destiny has its own plans.

8. Hit The Top

A famous idol travels to the future and meets his son, who is training to be an idol.

9. Live Up To Your Name

An oriental doctor from the past travels to the future and meets a doctor who firmly believes in modern medicine.

10. Splash Splash Love

A high school girl who has the ability to transport anywhere on a rainy day travels back to the Joseon dynasty, where she meets the young king.

11. Queen In Hyun’s Man

A noble-born scholar, who is the last remaining member of his family after a massacre, travels to the future and falls in love with an actress who stars in the drama about the massacre.

12. Rooftop Prince

A prince from the Joseon dynasty is sent to the future after he loses his lover. In the 21st century Seoul, he finds the reincarnation of his lost love who tries to help him back home.

13. Dr. Jin

A successful doctor travels back in time to the Joseon dynasty and meets a girl who looks exactly like his lover.

14. Somehow 18

A man travels back in time to try to save his first love who died when she was 18.

15. God’s Gift: 14 Days

A child gets kidnapped and is found dead. The mother of the child child travels back in time to save her child and catch the kidnapper.

16. Run Toward Tomorrow

A troublemaking high school student accidentally travels to the future, where he learns that his father was severely injured while looking for him. He tries to go back in time to change the future.

17. Manhole

A man travels between present and past in order to stop his ideal girlfriend from getting married.

18. Marry Him, If You Dare

A woman who regrets the choices she made in life travels back to her 32-year-old self, and tries to guide her away from making the same mistakes. One of the main mistakes being that she married the wrong person!

19. Bing Goo

A man from 1979 travels to the year 2016 and falls in love with a girl from the future.

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The 10 Best Time Travel Chinese Dramas to Watch

In the vast world of Chinese television, few genres have captured the imagination like time travel dramas. The series seamlessly blends elements of history, fantasy, and romance, offering viewers a captivating escape into a world where the limits of time are nothing but an illusion.

In this in-depth exploration, we’ll examine the top 10 Chinese time travel dramas that left an indelible mark on the genre. See the list below and read until the end!

List of The Best Time Travel Chinese Dramas

1. i belonged to your world.

Starting our journey through the world of time travel in Chinese dramas is “ I Belonged to Your World ” which was released in 2023.

This Chinese time travel series introduces a contemporary twist to the concept, taking viewers into a world where the present collides with the past.

As the characters navigate the complexities of time, the drama unfolds, offering a unique blend of romance, suspense, and cultural exploration.

This C-drama has 20 episodes and is available on iQiyi. Stars Qi Yan Di, Liu Yi Tong, and Jerron Wu.

See Also : I Belonged to Your World Review and Ending Explained

“ Reset ” takes us on a thought-provoking journey where the fabric of time is intricately woven. This gripping series follows the characters as they grapple with the consequences of horrific events that recur over and over again.

The story follows Li Shi Qing, a college student who is trapped in a never-ending time loop. Where he is always trapped in a public service bus that is about to explode, bringing death, and destruction to himself and everyone on the bus.

The complexity of the narrative and outstanding performances from the actors make “Reset” a must-watch for those looking for one of the best time travel Chinese dramas.

This C-drama was released in 2022 and has 15 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix and Viki. Stars Bai Jing Ting and Zhao Jin Mai.

3. Joy of Life

Although “ Joy of Life ” is primarily a Chinese historical drama , the clever incorporation of time travel elements adds a layer of intrigue that captivates the audience.

Set in ancient China, the protagonist finds himself navigating the intricacies of palace life while possessing knowledge from the future.

The combination of historical splendor and storytelling that travels through time creates an engaging viewing experience. Released in 2019 and has 46 episodes. You can watch it on Viki. Stars Zhang Ruo Yun, Li Qin , Chen Dao Ming, and Wu Gang.

4. Till the End of the Moon

In ” Till the End of the Moon ” viewers are treated to a heavenly romance that transcends the limitations of time. This Chinese wuxia drama skillfully blends fantasy and time travel elements to take the audience into a love story that spans centuries.

As the characters navigate the challenges of time travel, the series develops into a visually stunning and emotionally resonant masterpiece with wrenching romance.

This is one of the best time travel Chinese dramas available on Netflix. Released in 2023 and has 40 episodes. Stars Luo Yun Xi and Bai Lu .

See Also : Till The End of The Moon Review

5. Love in Time

Next, “ Love in Time ” invites viewers into a romantic sojourn through the temporal dimension, where love defies the boundaries of time itself.

The series beautifully explores the complexities of relationships in the context of time travel, offering the perfect mix of touching moments and tense twists.

The chemistry between the characters and the well-crafted narrative make it stand out in the realm of modern romance Chinese time travel series.

Released in 2022 and has 24 episodes. You can watch it on iQiyi. Stars Yang Xu Wen and Julia Xiang.

6. Shining for One Thing

“ Shining for One Thing ” highlights the mysteries of time in a narrative full of intrigue and emotion. The series follows the characters on a quest that connects the past and present, uncovering secrets hidden for generations.

With riveting storytelling and meticulous attention to detail, this one of the best Chinese romance dramas is a shining example of the time travel genre.

This Chinese series about time travel is available on Viki. Released in 2022 and has 24 episodes. Stars Karlina Zhang and Qu Chu Xiao.

7. Scent of Time

Adapted from a novel entitled “ The Female Supporting Role “, this Chinese drama introduces a fantasy experience in a time travel series like no other.

The story of this C-drama center on the Hua family, who were punished for accusing the Mu family of crimes. The Hua family’s daughter, named Hua Qian, had to die after protecting her family.

But she suddenly woke up again on her wedding day and felt, this was an opportunity to change her family’s tragic fate.

Released in 2023 and has 30 episodes. Stars Zhou Ye , Wang Xing Yue, Peng Chu Yue, Zhang Yi Jie, and Zhao Qing.

See Also : Scent of Time Chinese Drama Review and Ending Explained

8. Legally Romance

“ Legally Romance ” adds a unique twist to the time travel genre by blending it with hate-love drama. The story follows the story of Qian Wei who has been working under Lu Xun for some time now. She felt she should have a better career, but was hindered by Lu Xun.

Lu Xun holds a grudge from his school days against Qian Wei. So he will make sure Qian Wei’s life is hell while she still works in his office.

But all that changed when Qian Wei had an accident and fell into a coma. During her coma, Qian Wei was in a dream world where she returned to being a law student and met Lu Xun who had a different character from her previous boss.

One of the best Chinese time travel dramas is available on WeTV. Released in 2022 and has 33 episodes. Stars Z. Tao and Song Zu Er.

9. Back to Seventeen

“ Back to Seventeen ” takes viewers on the journey of a 27-year-old girl named Zhong Xiao Xiao, who lives an ordinary and busy life. But at the class reunion, she wanted to give the DV recording of her youth to Xu Yang, her boyfriend, but when the DV was turned on, she returned to the age of 17.

The series explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the eternal spirit of adolescence, all within the context of time travel. Its heartfelt storytelling and interesting characters make it stand out in the world of Chinese time travel series. Released in 2023 and has 25 episodes. Stars Zhang Miao Yi and Fang Xiao Dong.

10. The Eternal Love

Closing out our exploration is “ The Eternal Love “, one of the best Chinese historical dramas with a time travel theme mixed with wuxia.

The series introduces viewers to a love story that transcends time, seamlessly blending elements of fantasy and romance. Its enduring popularity speaks to the universal appeal of a well-crafted narrative that stands the test of time.

This C-drama was released in 2017 and has 58 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix . Stars Yang Mi and Mark Chao.

That’s the list of the best Chinese dramas time travel that you must watch right now. So, cast aside your current constraints and embark on a time-traveling odyssey through China’s television treasures. Thank you for reading this article, enjoy watching!

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Chinese Drama - Time Travel

Time Travel is a popular tag in Chinese dramas, featuring characters who journey through time and experience adventures in different eras. This tag adds an element of fantasy and historical intrigue to the drama genre, making it a favorite among viewers.

Different Princess

Nine Times Time Travel

Scent of Time

Dramatic Self-Help Strategy

Gourmet in Tang Dynasty Season 2

Embrace Love

Love Is an Accident

I've Been to Your Future

A Different Mr. Xiao

The Princess's New Clothes

Blossom Dumping World

Fall In Love Stockade

Love with Mistaken Fate

An Ancient Love Song

The Journey

I Have a Smart Doctor Wife Season 2

I Have a Smart Doctor Wife

Me and My Delicate Husband

The Legends of Changing Destiny

Till the End of the Moon

I Belonged to Your World

Closer to You 2

Falling for You

Fierce Bride

Belated First Love

The Shoufu Can Read Mind

My Chubby Queen

Eight Hours

Return to Nineteen Ninety Three

Love for Two Lives

Love in Time

Hello My Noisy Mp3

My Deepest Dream

The Little Wife of the General

My Girlfriend Is an Alien 2

See You Again

Lost Track of Time

My Prince's First Love

The Heart of Genius

Love in a Loop

Legally Romance

Love Unexpected

Shining For One Thing

Bright As The Moon

Love Under the Full Moon

Good And Evil

First Love Again

Gourmet in Tang Dynasty

The Eternal Love 3

Wonderful Fate

My Heroic Husband

Dance of the Phoenix

Parallel Love

The Romance of Tiger and Rose

Joy of Life

Love Better Than Immortality

The Eternal Love 2

I'm a Pet At Dali Temple

Hello Dear Ancestors

Oh! My Emperor Season 2

Oh! My Emperor Season 1

Cinderella Chef

Love is in the Air

King is Not Easy

Let's Shake It! Season 1

Lost Love in Times

The Eternal Love

My Girlfriend's Boyfriend

The Journey 2

Proud of Love Season 2

Suddenly Seventeen

Shuttle Love Millennium

Magical Space-Time

Go Princess, Go!

Love Through a Millennium

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43 Thai Historical Drama Series [All Genres and Tropes]

Are you looking for a good historical Thai drama series to watch? Look no further! I’ve put together a comprehensive list of all the best Thai historical dramas out there, including every genre and trope imaginable.

Whether you’re into ancient period pieces, romances, comedies, or war dramas, there’s something here for you. So get cozy on the couch and prepare to be entertained!

Here are 43 Thai historical drama series featuring various genres and tropes! There are also honorable mentions at the end!

43 Thai Historical Drama Series

Many Thai historical drama series are easily accessible from anywhere in the world. But there may be certain platforms that will only work with a VPN (i.e. US Netflix or Singapore VIU).

Sign up for a VPN , also known as a virtual private network if the drama you’d like to watch is not reachable in your country.

Note:  This blog post only includes Thai dramas that have been released online with English subtitles. When you find the one you’d like to watch, you can click on the link and it’ll take you there directly! Happy Watching!

1. Kaew Lerm Korn (The Two Fates) 2021

Quick facts:  12 episodes | Family, Drama, Historical | Watch on MyAsianTV

Kaew and Nok are twin sisters with very different lives. Because their greedy uncle wanted their father’s money, Kaew and Nok were separated at birth and only a handful knows about their existence.

Kaew grew up in poverty with their cruel mother in Thailand while Nok and their father fled to France.

Years later, Nok returns to Thailand to find her mother and meets her twin instead.

Note: This drama has 2 versions, 2005 and 2021. However, I could only find the 2021 version with English subtitles.

2. Wimarn Sai (Somewhere Our Love Begins) 2021

Quick facts:  12 episodes | Forced Love, Family, Drama | Historical Time Period: 1960s | Watch on You t ube

Arisara is beautiful and talented. She coincidentally meets Panin when she saves him from a gang of thieves.

Panin is surprised by her generosity and feels good that she doesn’t know he comes from wealth. Arisara is impressed with his authenticity. Without knowing each other’s identities, they fall in love with each other.

When they both return to Bangkok, Panin discovers that Arisara was the young woman who rejected his brother’s proposal and caused him to hurt himself.

Angry, Panin seeks revenge for his brother.

3. Katha Singh (The Wand Warrior) 2021

Quick facts:  18 episodes | Historical, Action, Fantasy | Watch on NekoLand , Watch on MyAsianTV

Sirinda is the adopted daughter of a hotelier and mafia leader, Suttha. Suttha has protected himself with warriors who have magic. His goal is to find the Singha Scepter, which is able to reverse black magic.

Trai is a man who attained his magic from a monk where he basically can’t get hurt by using weapons. When Sirinda encounters Trai, she has a flashback memory of knowing him from her past.

As Trai and Sirinda try to figure out the evil and good forces of magic from the past, will they be able to save the nations and find true love?

4. Leh Bunpakarn (Mist of Love) 2020

Quick facts:  12 episodes | Romance, Action, Time Travel, Fantasy, Historical | Watch on MyAsianTV

From a young age, Plerngfah can see people and their previous lives. His parents, wanting to help and eliminate this ability, take Plerngfah to America for treatment.

When they return to Thailand many years later, Plerngfah meets Sitang while working as a reporter for Channel 6.

Meeting Sitang brings back all of Plerngfah’s abilities and he sees that they are soulmates from multiple lifetimes. However, they have to take care of because the same people who wanted to hurt them resurface again.

Read next: 16 James Jirayu Top Dramas

5. Dung Duang Haruetai (As One’s Heart) 2020

Quick facts:  16 episodes | Romance, Drama, Political, Historical | Watch on  MyAsianTV

King Rangsimun rules Kasit and is the wealthiest of the 3 kingdoms. However, they don’t have access to water, which is why King Rangsimun wants to marry Princess Maneesala of Tanta.

However, this would leave Puntoolat to become isolated from the agreement. Princess Maneesala doesn’t want to marry the king anyway because of his ruthlessness, so she runs away and is rescued by Prince Tiyuttithorn of Puntoolat.

Hearing the current affairs and fearing war, Princess Tatsiga makes her way to talk to Prince Tiyuttithorn to release Princess Maneesala, but is instead taken hostage by the ruthless King Rangsimun.

How will the orders of these 3 kingdoms work out for peace?

6. Likit Haeng Jan (Destiny of the Moon) 2019

Quick facts:  14 episodes | Time Travel, Romance, Comedy, Historical | Watch on MyAsianTV

Duangkaew is a conservative and quiet girl who lives in ancient Thailand. She’s also smart but doesn’t assert herself at all.

Opal is outspoken and tomboyish living in present-day Thailand. She is smart, bold, and doesn’t back down from a fight.

On the night of a full moon, both of these ladies are destined to switch places and live each other’s lives. What happens when they each fall in love?

7. Klin Kasalong (Scent of Love) 2019

Quick facts:  14 episodes | Family, Supernatural, Suspense, Historical | Watch on MyAsianTV

This film covers the multiple lifetimes of 2 twin sisters. Kasalong was beautiful and sweet and raised by their mother while her twin sister Songpeep was selfish and cruel just like their father.

Both of the girls died tragically in their first life. Songpeep, the selfish one, is reborn as Pimpisa who is now the daughter of a wealthy doctor. Pimpisa is confident but also has a temper.

Kasalong never got reborn so she became a vengeful spirit haunting Pimpisa to make her remember their old life. Kasalong finally is reborn again as Pimpisa’s daughter… but will they ever find true love?

8. Thong Ek: Herbal Master 2019

Quick facts:  14 episodes | Romance, Comedy, Medicine | Historical Time Period: Reign of Rama 5 (Chulalongkorn) | Watch on MyAsianTV

Chaba is not into traditional roles such as cooking or sewing. She would prefer to practice sword fighting. Chaba does love her family though, so when her mother becomes sick, she seeks out an herbal master.

Thong has practiced medicine for years when one of his patients dies causing him to step away from medicine. He has a grandson Thong Ake who loves medicine though and can’t understand why his grandfather won’t let him practice.

When Chaba seeks out Thong and Thong Ake, she wants to learn more about medicine and asks Thong Ake to teach her.

9. Suparburoot Jorm Jon: Duang Jai Kabot (Gentleman Theif Series 1) 2019

Quick facts:  14 episodes | Romance, Historical, Action | Watch on MyAsianTV

This is a 2-part series following twin boys who were separated at birth. Gentleman Theif Series 1 is about the younger twin, Pasu, who grew up to become a lieutenant.

He is sent on a mission to save Princess Saengjunta where the royal seat has been overthrown.

As they become closer, will Pasu and Princess Saengjunta have a successful love story despite their differing statuses?

10. Suparburoot Jorm Jon: Maturot Lohgan (Gentleman Theif Series 2) 2019

Quick facts:  16 episodes | Romance, Historical, Action, Supernatural | Watch on Nekoland

The second part in the 2-part series, Gentleman Theif Series 2 follows the older twin, Seua Pha, who wants to prove his leadership to his father.

Seua Pha’s mission was to kidnap Nampueng, who is the fiancee of their number one enemy, Lieutenant Khun Phet. Having successfully kidnapped her, Seua Pha brings her back to their bandit village.

Seua Pha’s father wants to show the lieutenant that he can’t hold a candle to their band of thieves, and forces Seua Pha to marry Nampueng.

11. Look Mai Laai Sonthaya (Twilight Bond) 2018

Quick facts:  15 episodes | Romance, Historical, Alternate World | Watch on Nekoland

Duenpattra receives notification that her grandmother committed suicide, but this doesn’t seem believable. So she moves into her grandmother’s house to see if she can help with the investigation.

While living in her grandmother’s house, Duenpattra meets a mysterious man wearing a white outfit in her grandmother’s mirror. Intrigued, she finds out his name is Hem Hiran, and is from a different universe.

Hem starts helping Deunpattra solve her grandmother’s case and they begin to fall in love. But what happens if they’re both from parallel universes?

12. Bpoop Phaeh Saniwaat (Love Destiny) 2018

Quick facts:  40 episodes | Romance, Time Travel | Historical Time Period: Ayutthaya | Watch on  Dramacool

In ancient Ayutthaya, Karakade is a selfish and evil person. She is hated by everyone including her betrothed, Por Date. When Por Date finds out about a terrible thing Karakade did, he curses her to death.

Kadesurang is doing archeological research in Ayutthaya with her friend Reungrit in present-day Thailand when they encounter a vengeful ghost, Karakade.

Afraid of ghosts, Kadesurang and Reungrit hurry to drive home late at night. They see Karakade following them and in the midst of their fear, Reungrit crashes the car.

Karakade, fearing death, appeals to Kadesurang and asks her to return to ancient Ayutthaya to atone for her evil deeds. Kadesurang is looped into Karakades body in ancient times and starts living her new life in Ayutthaya.

Will the new Karakade/Kadesurang win everyone’s hearts and find true love?

13. Nueng Dao Fah Diew (One Land One Sky) 2018

Quick facts:  17 episodes | Romance, Action, Political | Historical Time Period: Ayutthaya | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Mang Mao is the daughter of a self-made wealthy man, Ming. She was also well-known for her mischievous ways of eluding arranged dates.

On one of these dates, Mang Mao runs into Sri Khan Thin who is actually the son of a notorious bandit.

Sri Khan Thin had disguised himself as a eunuch in the royal palace to investigate his parents’ deaths. In all of their, Mang Mao instigates Sri Khan Thin and he is annoyed by her tactics.

What will come of these two main leads?

14. Sai Lohit (Heritage) 2018, 1995

Quick facts:  27 episodes | Romance, War | Historical Time Period: Ayutthaya | Watch on Nekoland

2018 Trailer

Ayutthaya was a period of wealth and success, but there was also war. Krai’s family history is building up soldiers to fight for the country.

Dao is the youngest daughter of the village chief and has a very optimistic attitude. When her older sister marries Krai’s brother, their families were tied together.

Krai helps take care of Dao whenever he can and brings her gifts from any trips he takes. When Krai is called away to war, he promises Dao that he’ll return to take care of her.

Krai does indeed return, only to find that Dao is now a beautiful young lady. Their relationship from before resurfaces and transforms into love.

Sign up for a VPN, also known as a virtual private network if the drama you’d like to watch is not reachable in your country.

15. Massaya (Irresistible) 2017

Quick facts:  17 episodes | Forbidden Love, Family, Drama | Historical Time Period: 1950s | Watch on NekoLand , Watch on  KissAsian

The Rattanamahasarn family is run by the matriarchal grandmother. She has three children, 2 biological and 1 adopted.

The adopted son, who is also Massaya’s father, was exiled from the family because he had married a “low class” Thai-Malay woman.

Years later, Massaya is all grown up and free-spirited. When her grandmother started feeling guilty about the past, she asks her grandson Lak to bring Massaya back into the family.

When Massaya returns to the Rattanamahasarn, whose lives are located in the city, she feels like an outcast. She doesn’t have the same etiquette or mannerisms her family has.

Note: Massaya has two versions: 2000 and 2017. However, I could only find the 2017 version with English subtitles.

16. La Ong Dao (Stardust) 2017

Quick facts:  15 episodes | Romance, Drama | Historical Time Period: 1960s | Watch on MyAsianTV

Korakot returns home to Thailand upon hearing about his father’s death. When he gets home, the family lawyer informs Korakot that he will only receive all of his father’s assets if he marries La Ong Dao, a young girl his father adopted.

Karakot already has a girlfriend and besides, he remembers La Ong Dao as a grumpy and chubby little girl.

To his surprise, Karakot finds that La Ong Dao has grown up to be a beautiful young woman full of generosity. Will these two find love?

17. Tae Pang Korn (The Past Lives) 2017, 2005

Quick facts:  29 episodes | Romance, Supernatural, Mystery, Historical | Watch 2017 on MyAsianTV , Watch 2005 on Youtube

Though there are a few remakes of this Thai lakorn, the premise of the story is similar following the lives of 2 lovers over the span of several lifetimes.

The story started when Chai returns home from England and finds out he is to be married to a Thai princess. However, he sets eyes on Nang Noy and falls in love at first sight.

However, Nang Noy is not treated well because of her Laotian background. Nevertheless, Chai does indeed marry Nang Noy only to find her poisoned and dying on their wedding night.

The story follows the lifetimes of Chai finding his one true love, appearing to Nang Noy in whichever lifetime she is living.

18. Luerd Rak Toranong (The Blood of Love and Pride) 2016

Quick facts:  14 episodes | Romance, Family, Drama, Historical | Watch on Always Grumpy Cat

PutKrong left her husband to marry Seua Gat believing that he is a wealthy man, when in fact he is a lowly thief. Angry and unsatisfied, she plots his arrest even though she is pregnant with a baby girl, Gratin.

Uncaring, PutKrong finds a wealthy man, Prasan, who falls head over heels for her and marries her, accepting her daughter from her first marriage as well.

Prasan has a son named Ram who is gentlemanly in all ways and refuses to accept PutKrong and her daughter as his family. When Seua Gat hears about her new marriage, he breaks out of prison, finds his daughter Gratin, and confronts PutKrong.

When Seau Gat dies, PutKrong has no choice but to take in Gratin, but she treats Gratin very poorly. Having compassion for her, Ram tries to help her out, inevitably falling in love with her.

How will everyone’s lives turn out?

19. Sarb Dok Soi (Deal with a Devil) 2016

Quick facts:  15 episodes | Historical, Horror, Supernatural, Romance | Watch on MyAsianTV

Dok Soi, a sweet and innocent young lady, made a deal with a ghost to save her father’s life. In doing so, the ghost now possesses her body at night to kill people.

Dok Soi endures this torment, until she meets Krai, a young officer, and falls in love.

However, what will he think when he finds out that Dok Soi killed his father under possession?

20. Naree Rissaya (Envious Woman) 2016

Quick facts:  33 episodes | Historical, Drama, Family, Revenge | Watch on Youtube

Saiparn is a very angry woman.

Her father cheated on her mother with her aunt because he believed that her mother cheated on him. That was also the day Saiparn’s mother dies.

Growing up, Saiparn’s father always treated his other daughter Nida, Saiparn’s half-sister, much better than her because he believed that Saiparn was born from a different man.

Unhappy with her whole family, Saiparn plots to revenge her father, aunt (second wife), and half-sister, Nida.

21. Padiwaradda (Beloved Loyal Wife) 2016

Quick facts:  14 episodes | Romance, Historical, Drama, Fake Marriage | Watch on  DramaCool , Watch on  MyAsianTV

Saran came from a wealthy family, but when his father committed suicide due to being in debt, Saran and his mother fell from society’s good graces.

When his mother remembered that her husband had made a promise to his best friend to have their kids get married, she reaches out to them.

However, their daughters were not willing to get married to someone they didn’t know. They did, however, have an adopted daughter Rin, who agreed to marry Saran to pay back the kindness her parents have always shown her.

Rin moves in with Saran and his mother and begins her new life as his beloved wife, encountering several obstacles such as his jealous ex and a gang of bandits.

22. Ngao Asoke (Love Under the Shadow) 2016, 2008

Quick facts:  19 episodes | Romance, Historical, Family, Hate to Love | Watch 2016 on  MyAsianTV , Watch 2008 on MyAsianTV

Monthai has moved abroad to escape his engagement to Viyada and his jealous mother. He chooses to keep in contact with his fiance by writing her letters.

Little does Monthai know, Viyada would rather catch the fancy of local men than write letters to her betrothed. Instead, it’s Bpee who returns all of Monthai’s letters.

Young and orphaned Bpee lives with Viyada and her family after a car accident kills her only living relative, her grandmother.

Monthai finds out that his mother is very sick and is asking for him to come back home, Monthai returns to find Bpee taking care of his sick mother instead of his fiance, Viyada.

He automatically becomes angry and thinks that Bpee only wants their money after his mother’s death. But will the truth come out?

23. Nakee (The Serpent Queen) 2016

Quick facts:  11 episodes | Romance, Historical, Supernatural | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Kumkaew was born under the solar eclipse and has a mysterious past. She is also the reincarnation of Nakee, who was a goddess.

Tossapol, an archeology student, fell in love with Nakee and vows to stay by her side. He also recognizes her from his dreams and knows that they are supposed to be together.

However, will their love endure all the hardship and obstacles they will face?

24. Nohra 2016

Quick facts:  18 episodes | Romance, Historical, Drama, Family | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Norah’s father was a very talented dancer but was framed by a judge for a crime. He was sent to prison and the judge swooped up his wife and daughter.

Years later, Norah does not know about her biological father, but she does fall in love with the Manorah dance.

Will Norah ever find out the truth?

25. Cheun Cheewa (Sweetheart Delighted) 2016

Quick facts:  15 episodes | Hidden Love, Historical, Drama, Family | Watch on  OhSweetHaven

Chuen lives with her mother and grandfather when she is told by her grandfather that she needs to get revenge for her mother.

Chuen’s father doesn’t know about her so when she shows up at his house in Bangkok, she finds even more trouble.

Ton falls in love with Chuen, but needs to hide his love away to make way for his brother to pursue her.

26. Neung Nai Suang (One in My Heart) 2015, 2005

Quick facts:  17 episodes | Romance, Comedy Historical, Hate to Love | Watch 2015 on  NekoLand , Watch 2005 on Youtube

Boom does not like Neung because he treats her poorly and always makes fun of her. Neung is a man who always wants his own way.

As the years pass, Neung is returning home from studying abroad and Boom has just finished her training as a private tutor.

Boom hears that Neung is returning and does all in her power to avoid him. However, when Neung lays eyes on Boom at a party, he immediately likes her.

She rejects him and when he finds out who she is, he mercilessly continues his teasing (or bullying) ways.

27. Luead Mungkorn: Singh (Dragon’s Blood: Singh) 2015

Quick facts:  10 episodes | Romance, Action | Historical Time Period: 1950s | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Tik is the current heir to the Lion Gang. When he and Jirusaya are both kidnapped, they believe it’s the work of the Turtle Gang.

However, both gangs don’t want to war with each and believe that someone else is at fault. To help discover the truth, Tik and Jirusaya take on the guise of husband and wife.

28. Luead Mungkorn: Seua (Dragon’s Blood: Seua) 2015

Quick facts:  9 episodes | Romance, Action, Hate to Love | Historical Time Period: 1950s | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Prapop is the heir to a wealthy family. Because of his bad luck, his parents seek out a fortune-teller who tells them to find a girl born on Monday with a full moon.

Wanvisa only knew Prapop as a mafia man. She makes him angry and now he’s trying to get revenge. However, she doesn’t back down easily.

Coincidentally, Wanvisa is a woman born on a Monday with a full moon. She suspects though that some of Prapop’s bad luck is due to someone plotting his death.

Can she help him escape with his life?

29. Luead Mungkorn: Hong (Dragon’s Blood: Hong) 2015

Quick facts:  9 episodes | Romance, Action, Crime | Historical Time Period: 1950s | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Hong is the beautiful and only daughter of the Swan Gang. But because she’s a woman, many people don’t want to accept her as their new leader.

The leader of the Dragon Gang, Ah Long, who has ties to China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, sees her beauty and leadership nature and starts to fall for her.

Will a headstrong Hong accept his love?

30. Luead Mungkorn: Krating (Dragon’s Blood: Krating) 2015

Quick facts:  10 episodes | Romance, Action, Crime | Historical Time Period: 1950s | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Seven years ago, Thyme’s family was murdered and burned to death. He escaped, but with a burn on his face. After many years, plastic surgery, and a new name, Thyme has returned as the Mad Bull, mafia leader of Chinatown to seek revenge.

Yayah is a waitress for a restaurant, but Thyme suspects she’s a spy as she’s too skilled to just be a waitress. As he sticks close to her, they both start to fall in love.

But what will Thyme do when he finds out that Yayah may have caused his family’s death?

31. Plerng Chimplee (Flame of Chimplee) 2014

Quick facts:  15 episodes | Romance, Drama, Historical | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Nuea Nang is the granddaughter of a village elder and she has been living with him ever since her mother died. Neua Nang’s grandfather doesn’t want her to become abandoned like her mother so he is protective and only wants her to marry someone within the village.

Natrai is the owner of a large logging corporation. He wants a closer look at his employees on the ground, so he disguises himself as a manager and heads to the village.

He falls in love with Neua Nang at first sight, but these two have a long way to go before their love can blossom.

32. Khun Chai Taratorn (Five Brothers Part 1) 2013

Quick facts:  15 episodes | Romance, Mystery, Historical | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Khun Chai Taratorn is the oldest of the 5 brothers and has been taking care of them since his parents passed away. Taratorn is an archeologist who studies many historic sites.

As one of Thailand’s most noted antiques is stolen, Taratorn will need to uncover who is behind the robbery… will he also find love in the process?

33. Khun Chai Pawornruj (Five Brothers Part 2) 2013

Quick facts:  13 episodes | Romance, Adventure, Historical | Watch on  MyAsianTV

The second oldest of the brothers, Khun Chai Pawornruj is a government employee who works in the Foreign Affairs office.

Khun Ying Rasa takes a trip to Switzerland to surprise her long-standing boyfriend only to find him cheating on her.

As Pawarnruj and Rasa explore Switzerland, they bump into each other and spend their vacation time together. With many hardships coming their way, will Pawarnruj and Rasa’s love overcome?

34. Khun Chai Puttipat (Five Brothers Part 3) 2013

Quick facts:  10 episodes | Romance, Drama, Medical, Historical | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Khun Chai Puttipat is a young medical doctor and has no time set aside for love. Even as his grandmother is trying to arrange a marriage for him, Puttipat is not interested!

His brothers, wanting to know if there’s any girl who can sway Puttipat’s heart, sends him to be a judge in a beauty pageant. He falls in love instantly with the winner, Krongkaew.

But Krongkaew has her own problems trying to escape the clutches of the general who wants to make her another one of his many concubines.

Will these two main leads find the path to true love?

35. Khun Chai Rachanon (Five Brothers Part 4) 2013

Quick facts:  15 episodes | Romance, Drama, Isaan, Historical | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Khun Chai Ratchanon is the brother of Khun Chai Puttipat. Ratchanon is a young engineer bent on making his own destiny happen.

He is sent up north to an Isaan community to check on the progress of production and meets a beautiful forest dweller, Soifah.

When he discovers she’s actually the princess of a neighboring country, Ratchanon does his best to return her to her rightful throne… falling in love in the process.

36. Khun Chai Ronapee (Five Brothers Part 5) 2013

Quick facts:  15 episodes | Romance, Military, Action, Historical | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Khun Chai Ronnapee is the youngest of all 5 brothers. He is a noble Airforce pilot and has the chance to meet a beautiful celebrity.

She by chance fell right into his arms while filming one of her scenes. Ronnapee doesn’t reveal his noble status but tests her heart to see if she would love him if he was only a common pilot.

37. Sud Sai Pan (End of the String) 2013

Quick facts:  17 episodes | Romance, Slap Kiss, Twins, Historical | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Gandaomanee is posing as her older twin sister Gandaowasee. When Tithit meets her, he instantly falls in love with her. Gandaomanee then leaves Tithit after finding out that he’s the son of a poor merchant.

A year later, Tithit sees his love again at an event, who is the real Gandaowasee. When he approaches her with proclamations of love, she says she doesn’t know him.

He assumes she’s denying it because he’s poor, so he does all he can to get her back.

38. Sao Noi (Little Girl) 2012

Quick facts:  34 episodes | Romance, Amnesia, Historical | Watch on  MyAsianTV

San is the son of a wealthy and upon his return to Thailand after studying abroad, San is very angry that his father has remarried a nightclub singer.

San runs away from home and gets attacked. When he wakes up, he finds himself on an island with no memory of who he is.

Nid is a beautiful woman who lives on this remote island. When she sees San drowning in the ocean, she goes out to save him. They fall in love and get married.

However, when San returns to the city, he gains back all of his old memories, forgetting all about Nid. Will San and Nid be able to have a happily ever after?

39. Kehas See Dang (The Red Mansion) 2011

Quick facts:  13 episodes | Romance, Family, Drama, Historical | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Rujiroj is the only son of a high-ranking general. When his father brings home Ampa and her daughter Araya, Rujiroj becomes angry misunderstanding that Ampa had seduced his father into bringing her home.

Because of his anger, Rujiroj asks to leave home and study abroad, never stepping foot in the Red Mansion again.

Several years later after his father and Ampa have passed, Rujiroj returns and finally steps foot in the Red Mansion once again. Here he meets Araya and his grudge against her and her mother comes back.

What will happen when these two start living together in the Red Mansion?

40. Chaloey Sak (Prideful Prisoner) 2010

Quick facts:  16 episodes | Romance, Family, Drama | Historical Time Period: World War II | Watch on  MyAsianTV

Lieutenant Yothin Warat is a war hero for what he did during World War II. Upon his return home, he finds that his father is having financial issues with their shipping business.

At this time, Atisak a wealthy businessman offered to buy stocks in the shipping business to help them out. He only asks that Yothin Warat move to live with them for 1 year.

Atisak has darker plans to take revenge on Yothin Warat and his family for slandering their name from years ago. From here, Yothin Warat meets Atisak’s sister, Alisa, and becomes involved in their lives as a prisoner.

41. Wanida 2010

Quick facts:  16 episodes | Romance, Drama, Arranged Marriage | Historical Time Period: 1940s | Watch on  Dramacool

The prideful Mahasak family comes from nobility and wealth, but they are currently going through a financial crisis. The youngest Mahasak son, Lek, takes out loans from Dao, a big loan shark who’s making dollars with interest.

When it comes time to pay the Mahasak family isn’t able to get the cash they need for all the loans the Lek had taken out. He runs away from home hoping to find a job that will pay well enough to clear his debts.

In the meantime, Dao schemes up a plan. He asks the oldest Mahasak son, Prajek, to marry his daughter and he will automatically clear their debt. Dao loves his daughter Wanida very much and wants her to have a noble name.

When Wanida discovers that she is part of a loveless arranged marriage, she becomes angry and headstrong… which is how Prajek starts falling for her.

42. Botan Gleep Sudtai (The Last Peony Petal) 2008

Quick facts:  13 episodes | Romance, Drama, Arranged Marriage | Historical Time Period: 1940s | Watch on  MyAsianTV

A married Chinese couple, Ah-Cheng and Meiling, run a restaurant in Thailand. They have three sons–the older two have jobs and are well-liked by their father. However, the 3rd son Ah-Joo never had favor from his father.

Ah-Joo does have one thing going for him though – he is the secret author of a popular book that was just released. And his father enjoys reading it.

Ah-Joo believes he can communicate with his father through his writing, so he decides to write a new book featuring 3 daughters.

There is a Chinese Opera House where the family has 3 daughters. To do research for his book, Ah-Joo applies to do labor for the family. The youngest daughter, Tanyong doesn’t believe he’s just a day worker, so she tries to drive him out.

43. Buang Banjathorn (Love Beyond Time) 2002, 2017

Quick facts:  15 episodes | Romance, Drama, Time Travel | Historical Time Period: Ayutthaya | Watch 2002 on  Youtube

Praenuan is heartbroken when she finds her husband cheating on her. She decides to visit her estranged father’s estate that he left to her in his will.

While at his estate, Praenuan sleeps in an enchanted bed and is taken back to ancient Ayutthaya, filled with war and betrayal.

Here Praenuan meets Laoperng and falls in love with him. However, her life in the present day is getting stressful as her husband comes back asking for a second chance.

Honorable Mentions for Thai Historical Drama Series

Koo gum (sunset at chaopraya) 2013+.

Quick facts:  Romance, War | Historical Time Period: WWII | Watch 2013 on MyAsianTV

Official OST 2013 | Trailer for 1988 | OST for 2004 | Official OST 2013 Series

A classic Thai film, Koo Gum has many adaptations from a novel. The story is set during World War II when Japan invades Thailand and sets up a base camp at Chaopraya River.

Because of this, Angsulamin, who lives near the Chaopraya River, hates the Japanese and is very angry that they have come to be near her home.

Kobori is a Japanese soldier who was stationed at this camp and falls in love with Ang at first sight! Even though he knows she hates him, he still loves her and treats her with respect.

Rumors start flying about Kobori and Ang along with desires to strengthen the Thai-Japan bond, Kobori and Ang both get married. She starts to warm up to Kobori, but her lover has returned to Thailand.

Personal Note: I absolutely love this film and all the adaptations. I first saw the 1988 movie and fell in love even though this is a tragic love story. In my research, only the 2013 movie has been English subtitled online . Enjoy!

Fah Pieng Din (Sky’s Only Land) 2001, 2022

Quick facts:  11 episodes | Romance, Family, Drama, Historical, Watch 2022 Version on Youtube

Celica is the daughter of a wealthy man. Although he owns many houses, Celica and her father would prefer to live alone in the country.

Tewarat is Celica’s cousin and he loves her, but his family enjoys wealth. They plan to go and prepare a place for Celica and her father to move into. However, during the transition, Celica and her father are ambushed.

Before he dies, Celica’s father imprints her with a mark in case anyone doubts that she is truly his daughter. The Mayor of the city takes in Celica when he finds her in the aftermath. To protect her, he changes her name and raises her as his daughter.

Things start to get hairy when it’s time for Celica to go back and claim her right as the owner’s daughter. What will Tewarat think about losing his inheritance?

Personal Note: Another favorite of mine, but unfortunately there aren’t any English subtitles for this drama. There is, however, a 2022 remake with complete English subtitles on Youtube !

Ban Sai Thong (Golden Sand House) 2000, 2015

Quick facts:  33 episodes | Romance, Family, Drama, Historical

After her father passes away, Pojaman wants to obey his wishes and moves to Ban Sai Thong to live with her aunt Phanarai.

Though she is technically family, they all treat her terribly except for the oldest son Chai Klang and the youngest son Chai Noi.

When Chai Klang discovers that their house actually belongs to Pojaman, he does all he can to return the house to her.

In the midst of obstacles, Chai Klang and Pojaman fall in love – but what price will they have to pay?

Personal Note: Ban Sai Thong is one of the first Thai dramas I remember watching as a kid with my parents. This was the start of the drama-loving! Unfortunately, there aren’t English subtitles released online, but fingers crossed that someone will pick it up! Ban Sai Thong is clearly a classic!

Final Thoughts: Thai Historical Drama Series

Thai historical dramas are a great way to learn about the history and culture of Thailand.

They can also be very entertaining, with all sorts of different genres and tropes. You may find your new favorite show!

Have you seen any listed here? What else did I miss?

More Thai drama content:

• 15 All-Time Best Thai Dramas to Watch
• Top 27 Forced or Fake Marriage Thai Dramas
• Top 33 Hate to Love Enemies to Lovers Thai Dramas
• 28 Popular Thai Dramas on Netflix to Watch [2022]
• 26 Light-Hearted Thai Romantic Comedy Movies

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I highly recommend and use Express VPN as they are one of the best virtual private networks globally, defeats censorship, and has reliable service. You can use it on any streaming service to watch your favorite drama!

Pafoua is the author and creator of Her Wanderful World. Pafoua writes from her numerous excursions about all things travel, from fun itineraries to creating memorable experiences on the road. When she’s not traveling, Pafoua loves a fun board game night with her friends or is snuggled up reading a good book. You can find her on Instagram @herwanderfulworld.

Time Travel Romance Novels Beyond Outlander

Jessica Pryde

Jessica Pryde is a member of that (some might call) rare breed that grew up in Washington, DC, but is happily enjoying the warmer weather of the desert Southwest. While she is still working on what she wants to be when she grows up, she’s enjoying dabbling in librarianship and writing all the things. She can be found drowning in her ever-growing TBR and exclaiming about romance in the Book Riot podcast ( When in Romance ), as well as on social media. Find her exclamations about books and pho on twitter ( JessIsReading ) and instagram ( jess_is_reading ).

View All posts by Jessica Pryde

I love time travel. I will consume it in almost any format: prose, poetry, comics, film, television, radio drama. You name it, I’m there . I don’t know where my interest originally started, but it’s probably no coincidence that the earliest two adult books I recall reading were both time travel romance novels. To this day, a good time travel romance is a thing of beauty that I always find myself keeping an eye out for. 

There are several elements that play into making a time-travel romance successful. The biggest element is how the author establishes the HEA. Does the time-traveling protagonist elect to stay in their new time? Does the one who was traveled to somehow find their way to the other’s time period? Does the one who lives in the present find the soul of the one they met in the past? Or maybe something completely different?

Let’s look at a few to start with:

1. A Knight in Shining Armor by Jude Deveraux

If you want a good example of an old-school time travel romance, you can’t go wrong with Deveraux. In A Knight in Shining Armor , we find out what happens when a young woman, abandoned and crying in a churchyard far from home, comes face to face with a real-ass knight, who is rightfully confused. Trying to keep the poor man alive is hard enough, but then there’s the whole being incredibly attracted to him thing.

If you enjoy that one, you might also find other books of hers interesting, including Legend , Remembrance , and Return to Summerhouse .

2. Love, Eternally by Morgan O’Neill

A flautist playing in an ancient ruin finds herself in the middle of the Roman empire. The Emperor is terrible, but a young senator catches her eye. Also, there’s a rebellion brewing, and Gigi is there to help fan the flames to dethrone a tyrant.

3. Beautiful Wreck by Larissa Brown

A woman from the future ends up in the past. Sounds pretty cool, right? In a world built on VR, Ginn, a VR designer, accidentally ends up in the 10th century. Multiple people have recommended this to me, and someone even said their husband told them “you didn’t tell me it was a romance—with the setting!” So yeah, if you’re into a lush depiction of a time period and a beautiful love story, this one’s for you.

4. The Duke and the Domina by Jenn LeBlanc

A reluctant duke marries a switch from the twenty-first century. That’s a hook. Grayson has been trying to escape his desire to submit, but that all goes to pot when he marries a woman who has awakened in a new body and a new time. Lulu is a professional dominatrix and she doesn’t want to be where she is, and isn’t sure she can trust her new husband. But it’s a romance, so they’ll figure it out.

5. Everything for Love by Marilyn Vix

Deidre is a Timeanaut. She travels through time using sex to power her travels.

Yeah, you read that right.

When she sees the same man in multiple time periods (I’m guessing unchanged? Because they’re not that far apart), she discovers that he, too, is a time traveler, and has been sent to save her life. They have adventures and make enemies and do all those things you’d expect people screwing with the timeline to do, including fall in love. But there are some complications with that, too.

6. Timeless and Timekeeper by Alexandra Monir

These are technically YA, but I loved Timeless so much. This book features an uncommon element in time-travel romance: the ability to go into and out of the specified time period. Usually, in one of these (thanks probably in part to Diana Gabaldon, NGL), the heroine (because it’s almost always the heroine) finds herself in a moment in history, and one of the most important plot elements is how to get her back to her own time (if, in the end, she even decides to do so). But Michele uses a journal to bounce back and forth between her own time and that of Philip, the boy she will eventually fall in love with. Also, it’s fun to get all the historical tidbits.

There are also some really, great, memorable, and iconic books that are more “time travel novels with romance in them” instead of the other way around. The love story isn’t always the focus, but these are definitely romantic love stories within the time travel story.

7. The Night Mark by Tiffany Reisz

No matter if it’s more general fiction or four alarm fire erotic kinky romance, Tiffany Reisz is an amazing storyteller. Here, Faye falls into the ocean and breaks the surface in 1921, where the spitting image of her now-dead husband is staring back at her. Part love story, part supernatural, part mystery, this book is all the things.  

Also: If you want to become completely obsessed with the history of lighthouses on the Eastern Seaboard of the United States, this book is the starting off point.

8. The Firebird   by Susanna Kearsley

Nicola has a gift that allows her to see the pasts of objects she touches. Working at a gallery, this is a cool gift to have, for obvious reasons. When she touches a small carving and discovers its intriguing history, she follows a girl into the past.

9. The River of No Return by Bee Ridg way

A man about to die in the Napoleonic Wars wakes up in the modern day. There is a guild of time lords masters travelers who tell him he can’t go back. But he longs for his lady love, and long after he expected to be able to return, he is sent back in time. There is adventure and intrigue in this one, but people also appreciate the love story.

10. Somewhere in Time by Richard Matheson

When I was a kid, I was obsessed with this movie. Superman and Dr. Quinn fell in love but couldn’t be together. That sucked. But then it didn’t. I loved it. It wasn’t until years later that I discovered it was a book. The book was a little different, but in essence was the same. A young man “falls in love” with a woman in a portrait and then finds a way to get to her time period in order to meet her. Things ensue.

If there’s one thing you might notice about this list of time travel romance novels, it’s that with the exception of Alexandra Monir, the authors are all white. Non-white authors are indeed writing about time travel, but if they are writing time-travel romance , I have not yet heard about it. In fact, I wrote an entire essay about why (in my opinion) it is difficult for black women in particular to write about a modern black character traveling backwards into any era (except maybe prehistoric). The same can probably be said of members of other races who have dealt with Western oppression, whether it was slavery, genocide, ethnic cleansing, colonization, or anything else on the massive list of sins our European ancestors dealt onto our ancestors from Africa, the Americas, the entire continent of Asia, and the majority of Oceania and the Pacific Islands. I would love to see someone successfully write a believable Outlander-style romance featuring a protagonist of color. Or even a modern-day story in the style of The Time Traveler’s Wife , but, you know, happy.

Give me About Time with people of color in book form. I’ll love you forever.

(Okay, so Courtney Milan  did  write a story in which Adam Fucking Reynolds travels in time and encounters Frederica “Free” Marshal, but it doesn’t really count, right?)

The other thing about this particular list is that it’s pretty damn straight. Do you have any favorite time travel romance novels featuring queer protagonists? I want to hear about that too.

Or just tell me your favorite time travel romance novels. I want to know. (Give me moooooore.)

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'Outlander Season 7 Part 2' Set to Release in Spring 2024! Possible Release Date, Episode Titles and More

W ith “Outlander Season 7 Part 2 on the horizon,” the Starz hit series, which first graced our screens in 2014, has captured hearts with its unique blend of historical romance and time-travelling drama. Based on Diana Gabaldon’s acclaimed novel series, it tells the tale of a World War II nurse thrust back to 1743, igniting a passionate affair with a Scottish warrior. The show’s first half of Season 7, which aired from June 16 to August 11, 2023, left fans clamoring for more.

What’s Next in Outlander Season 7 Part 2?

The Writers Guild of America (WGA) Directory recently dropped a tantalizing update: the titles for the remaining eight episodes of Season 7 Part 2. This revelation adds to the growing anticipation among fans. The titles are:

• Episode 9: “Unfinished Business”
• Episode 10: “Brotherly Love”
• Episode 11: “A Hundredweight of Stone”
• Episode 12: “Carnal Knowledge”
• Episode 13: “The Raven and the Dove”
• Episode 14: “Ye Dinna Get Used to It”
• Episode 15: “Written in My Own Hearts Blood”
• Episode 16: “A Hundred Thousand Angels”

These evocative titles suggest a blend of unfinished tales, deep emotional journeys, and dramatic twists, keeping in line with the show’s reputation for compelling storytelling.

When to Expect the Big Release

The question on everyone’s lips: “When will Outlander Season 7 Part 2 be released?” While the exact date remains under wraps, a pattern emerges when we examine the show’s past seasons. Season 5 aired from February to May 2020, and despite pandemic-related delays, Season 6 followed from March to May 2022. Season 7 began filming in May 2022, with Season 8 set to roll cameras from Spring to October 2024.

If the show continues its past release cadence, we can reasonably expect Season 7 Part 2 to premiere in Spring 2024, potentially close to the commencement of Season 8’s production. As for the weekly schedule, fans should mark their calendars for Fridays, mirroring the release pattern of Season 7, Part 1.

What Lies Ahead?

As viewers eagerly await the return of Outlander  Season 7 Part 2, speculation and excitement are at an all-time high. With the end of Part 1 leaving numerous storylines hanging and new episode titles stirring curiosity, the upcoming episodes promise to deliver the gripping drama and heartfelt romance the series is known for.

Whether it’s the intricate historical details, the passionate love story, or the thrilling adventure, “ Outlander ” continues to be a television phenomenon, enthralling audiences worldwide. Stay tuned, as time travel, love, and intrigue continue.

The 13 Best Japanese Dramas for Fans New to the Genre

A beginner's guide to the world of Japanese Dorama.

Tired of chasing American TV shows with extraordinarily long seasons or South Korean dramas that are comprised of 16-20 movie-length episodes? Given how streaming services make access to international TV show options possible, Japanese TV series have been on a slow, steady rise to international recognition due to platforms like Netflix and Dramacool .

Japanese dramas, or dorama , almost always consist of 10 episodes with a run-time between 40-60 minutes, with most of their stories concluding in a single season. Audiences unfamiliar with the category may believe that most dramas would contain over-the-top humor and cringe-worthy plotlines. Conversely, many Japanese dramas include some of the most idiosyncratic ideas and are not afraid to slap viewers in the face with reality while smiling.

'Unnatural' (2018)

Mystery, medical, slice-of-life.

The drama surrounds a group of forensic doctors working at the Unnatural Death Investigation (UDI) Lab, a fictional unit recently established by the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare. The team often looks into unnatural death cases that are often overlooked by the police, investigating the truth behind the deaths, such as kidnappings and murder cases disguised as anomic suicides.

As one of the most famous Japanese dramas in 2018, Unnatural is highly praised for shedding light on cold-shouldered occupations like forensic pathology. It also doesn't hesitate to show the ruthless side of human nature when faced with the deaths of their loved ones but teaches viewers to embrace the passion for living despite all.

Watch on Netflix

'Alice In Borderland' (2020-)

Science-fiction, thriller, deadly games.

As Japan's answer to South Korea's Squid Game , this death game tv series enthralls viewers with its post-apocalyptic Tokyo setting as the main characters are forced to play a series of dangerous games. Fans of Squid Game , Battle Royale , and The Hunger Games franchise will undoubtedly take a liking to this dorama with characters who are not afraid to get their hands stained with blood.

Alice In Borderland is originally based on a manga of the same name by Haro Aso. Before becoming a hit Netflix show, it was adapted into a three-episode OVA (Original Video Animation) in 2014. The much-anticipated second season will be streaming on Netflix in December 2022.

Alice in Borderland (2020)

'midnight diner' (2009), food, slice-of-life.

Midnight Diner was also adapted from manga, an anthology series currently streaming on Netflix . With a much shorter run-time (20-25 minutes) and non-linear narrative, many fans cited this heartwarming, slow-paced drama as what they will binge-watch while eating. Another reason is the scrumptious-looking food prepared by the main character.

Known by customers and viewers simply as "Master," the scarred chef runs a late-night diner named "Meshiya" in Shinjuku. He offers to cook whatever the customers may want as long as they are simple dishes. The episodes often focus on a particular customer, each with their troubles, while a philosophical lesson is waiting for them to be illuminated.

Midnight Diner

'long vacation' (1996), romance, music.

Taking place during the deep recession period in Japan, Sena Hidetoshi ( Takuya Kimura ) is a college music graduate with grand dreams of becoming a world-class pianist. Despite owning pronounced talent, the insecurity of his skills lands him a job teaching piano lessons to children. On the other hand, Hayama Minami ( Tomoko Yamaguchi ) has a declining modeling career, and her fiancé dumped her on their wedding day.

Two lonely souls unite and bond regardless of their vastly different personalities, marking the beginning of a romance adored by audiences in Japan and the Asia-Pacific region in the 1990s.

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'Legal High' (2012-2013)

Comedy, legal drama.

The dynamic duo is revered by all lawyer firms and courtrooms in Japan. Legal High follows two lawyers with polar opposite attitudes towards winning legal cases. One who makes up the incredible team is Kensuke Komikado ( Masato Sakai ), who relishes women, money, and fame. He would usually pose as an antagonist in films and tv shows if not for his 100% winning rate in legal cases and his hilarious comedic timing. His partner, Machiko Mayuzumi ( Yui Aragaki ), is a fresh newbie lawyer armed with a strong sense of social justice.

The dysfunctional duo creates a succession of jaw-dropping, side-splitting comedic circumstances. Underneath its ludicrous exterior, Legal High brings attention to various societal and human rights issues plaguing Japan, advocating for constructive and effective change in public sentiment.

'The Full-Time Wife Escapist' (2016)

Romance, slice-of-life, comedy.

Taking inspiration from the Hungarian proverb: "Running away is shameful, but useful," this rom-com sees Aragaki again, playing Mikuri Moriyama, an unemployed graduate desperate for any job when she finds out her parents are moving to the countryside. On the condition that she will receive a stable source of income as well as a permanent place to live, Moriyama decides to enter into a contract marriage with Hiramasa Tszaki ( Gen Hoshino ), her employer for her housekeeping job/eligible bachelor.

Aside from its catchy ending theme featuring the brain-washing "Koi Dance," its refreshing story exploring the younger generation's mentality towards romantic pursuits has contributed to its overwhelming popularity.

'Great Teacher Onizuka' (1998)

High-school, comedy, slice-of-life.

After a commercially-successful manga and equally sought-after anime adaptation, Great Teacher Onizuka finally received its first TV drama treatment in 1998. An ex-delinquent-turned-high-school-homeroom-teacher, Eikichi Onizuka ( Takashi Sorimachi ) incorporates his unconventional way of thinking and living into his teachings to a class of troublemakers ridiculed by other teachers.

Initially a rocky start, Onizuka slowly builds a foundation of trust with his students and motivates them to discover their purpose in life. His goofy but relatable manner eventually earns his students' admiration.

'I Will Not Work Overtime, Period!' (2019)

Office drama, romance, comedy.

According to a Wired article , Japan has been suffering from karoshi (literally translated as "overwork death"). Hundreds, even thousands, of Japanese workers die from working up to 80 hours of overtime per month. This is due to physiological exhaustion leading to heart attacks and high blood pressure, known as karojisatsu ("overwork suicide").

I Will Not Work Overtime, Period! doesn't fully delve into the dark repercussions of k aroshi . Instead, it accompanies an office worker named Yui Higashiyama ( Yuriko Yoshitaka ), who has a strict workplace policy — never working overtime. Many viewers would envy the main protagonist's courage in standing up for what she believes in, given her hatred of overtime based on her workaholic father and ex-lover.

I Will Not Work Overtime, Period! is currently not available to stream or buy.

'Rookies' (2008)

Sports, high-school, comedy.

For viewers familiar with Japanese culture, all baseball clubs of Japanese high schools share the common goal of going to Koshien , essentially the National High School Baseball Championship Series. Rookies also see a group of baseball enthusiasts aiming for Koshien , but they probably would not have harnessed that dream if not for their teacher.

Koichi Kawato ( Ryuta Sato ) is a newly-appointed teacher who is faced with the challenge of guiding a high-school baseball club of delinquents with a penchant for booze, gambling, and women. Like Great Teacher Onizuka, the troubled students finally mend their ways, respecting their teacher after multiple heartfelt confrontations and holding great dedication to their sport.

Rookies is currently not available to stream or buy.

'My Boss, My Hero' (2006)

High-school, yakuza, comedy.

In the eyes of his nemesis, Makio Sakaki (Tomoya Nagase), nicknamed "Tornado," is a 27-year-old yakuza gangster feared and worshipped amongst his yakuza members. To his classmates, Makio, nicknamed "Maki," is a 17-year-old high-school student with a heart of gold despite his rough appearance.

The protagonist's dual identity begins when Makio is instructed by his father, the head of the yakuza gang, to get a high school diploma if he wants to become the new boss. Of course, Makio complies with his father's wishes and learns that the school he once detested to its core can be a rewarding place to meet interesting people and make fun, lasting memories.

My Boss, My Hero is currently not available to stream or buy.

'First Love' (2022)

Romance, drama.

Fans of Past Lives will enjoy this show as well. Two teenagers in 1990 meet and have a brief romance throughout their young adult years. After breaking up and going their separate ways, 15 years pass, and they are reunited, sharing memories of the last 15 years and getting to know each other once again.

The show was released on Netflix in 2022 and was met with favorable reviews. The Guardian said it was "Romance as designed by Marie Kondo," which gives the idea that it's neat and tidy and is wrapped up nicely. Screenwriter Yuri Kanchiku was inspired by Hikaru Utada songs, "First Love" and "Hatsukoi," for the premise and title of the show.

'Switched' (2018)

Drama, science fiction.

A severely depressed high schooler, Zenko Umine ( Miu Tomita ), attempts to kill herself by jumping off the roof of her school. Her classmate, Ayumi ( Kaya Kiyohara ), watches it happen and falls unconscious just as Zenko is about to hit the ground. The two end up switching bodies in an unexplained magical event. Now Ayumi must navigate Zenko's sad life and try to understand why she commited suicide.

With a classic body switch premise, this show tells a more heartwarming story of a depressed girl who needs a new perspective on life. The show navigates themes of social anxiety, depression, friendship and death. It's a short show with only six episodes, but each one is packed with heartwrenching moments.

'Shōgun' (2024)

History, drama, miniseries.

In the year 1600, John Blackthorne ( Cosmo Jarvis ) washes up on a Japanese beach after his boat is shipwrecked. He is thrown into a new culture in a time of war and must navigate a ruthless Daimyo, Lord Toranaga ( Tadanobu Asano ), who is in a political battle with his long-time rivals. He is aided by Lady Mariko ( Anna Sawai ), whose knowledge of the political landscape and ties to a powerful family help Blackthorne navigate this new place.

The show is based off the 1975 novel by James Clavell . It had an adaption in 1980. However, it was criticized in Japan for its inaccuracies of Japanese culture. Nevertheless, the show went on to win a Peabody Award. The 2024 version of the show was well reviewed by Western critics as well as Japanese audiences, who praised the show for its authenticity and the actor's performances. The show currently sits at a 99% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Shogun (2024)

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KEEP READING: Best Modern Japanese Films To Watch After 'Drive My Car'