The first month of 2026 is set to be a dream come true for C-drama fans. January brings an impressive lineup of highly anticipated Chinese dramas spanning historical epics, fantasy romances, modern love stories, legal thrillers, and slice-of-life narratives. With major platforms like iQIYI, Tencent Video, Youku, Mango TV, and CCTV rolling out big-budget projects, viewers can expect powerful performances, stunning visuals, and emotionally gripping stories right from the start of the year.

Below is a complete guide to the upcoming Chinese dramas confirmed to premiere in January 2026, including story details, cast information, genres, and what makes each drama worth watching.

Fate Chooses You

• Genre: Fantasy, Romance
• Starring: Ren Jialun, Wang Herun
• Platform: iQIYI
• Premiere: January 3, 2026

Set in a mystical world where fate is controlled by divine contracts, Fate Chooses You tells the story of two souls bound across lifetimes. As ancient clans clash and secrets of reincarnation unfold, love becomes both a blessing and a curse. With its emotional depth, strong chemistry, and high-fantasy visuals, this drama is expected to be one of the biggest openers of 2026.

Win or Die

• Genre: Historical, Thriller, Action
• Starring: Jing Boran, Wu Xingjian, Zhang Yifan, Ming Dao
• Platform: iQIYI
• Premiere: January 8, 2026

A tense historical thriller set during the Ming Dynasty, Win or Die follows elite guards tasked with protecting the empire while uncovering dangerous conspiracies. As loyalty, power, and survival collide, every decision comes with deadly consequences. This drama promises intense action, political intrigue, and complex character arcs.

Love Between Lines

• Genre: Romance, Mystery
• Starring: Chen Xingxu, Lu Yuxiao
• Platform: iQIYI
• Premiere: January 9, 2026

This modern romance blends emotional storytelling with mystery elements. Two individuals brought together by chance find themselves unraveling secrets from their pasts while navigating love, trust, and personal healing. The drama focuses on mature romance, realistic emotions, and slow-burn chemistry.

The City Maker

• Genre: Modern, Historical-Inspired, Slice of Life
• Starring: Zhao Liying, Huang Xiaoming
• Platform: CCTV-8, Mango TV
• Premiere: January 10, 2026

Set during China’s economic transformation era, The City Maker highlights visionary individuals who shape modern cities through ambition, sacrifice, and resilience. The series combines personal stories with social change, offering emotional depth and strong performances from its veteran cast.

Veil of Shadows

• Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Mystery
• Starring: Ju Jingyi, Zeng Shunxi, Chen Duling, Tian Jiarui
• Platform: Youku
• Premiere: January 14, 2026

A visually captivating fantasy drama, Veil of Shadows revolves around spirits, forbidden love, and hidden identities. As the boundaries between humans and the supernatural blur, emotions intensify and dangerous truths surface. Expect poetic visuals, emotional storytelling, and complex relationships.

Swords Into Plowshares (Taiping Nian)

• Genre: Historical, Epic Drama
• Starring: Bai Yu, Zhou Yutong, Zhu Yawen
• Platform: iQIYI, Tencent Video, Mango TV
• Premiere: January 15, 2026

This grand-scale historical drama focuses on leadership, unity, and the cost of peace during a turbulent era. Political strategy, personal sacrifice, and moral dilemmas drive the narrative, making it a must-watch for fans of serious historical storytelling.

Love Has Fireworks

• Genre: Modern Romance
• Starring: Wang Churan, Tan Jianci
• Platform: Tencent Video
• Premiere: January 26, 2026

A heart-warming modern romance about two emotionally scarred individuals who end up sharing a living space. As everyday moments spark connection, love slowly finds its way back into their lives. This drama promises warmth, healing, and realistic relationship dynamics.

The Inner Eye

• Genre: Legal, Romance, Workplace
• Starring: Xin Zhilei, Lin Yushen, Zhang Yishang, Wang Zirui
• Platform: Mango TV
• Premiere: January 27, 2026

Centered around elite lawyers, The Inner Eye explores justice, ambition, and romance inside and outside the courtroom. The drama balances professional struggles with emotional relationships, offering sharp dialogue and strong female-led storytelling.

Born to Be Alive

• Genre: Modern Drama
• Starring: Yang Zi, Hu Ge
• Platform: CCTV-8
• Premiere: January 29, 2026

A deeply emotional slice-of-life drama about resilience, second chances, and the meaning of life. With powerhouse performances, the story focuses on ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances.

Additional Chinese Dramas Releasing in January 2026

• The Whimsical Return – Historical, Rebirth Romance
• Love For You – Modern Romance
• King of Comedy – Comedy, Slice of Life
• Sweetest Rebellion – Historical Romance
• Born With Luck – Crime, Thriller
• The Mo (The Heir) – Historical, Business Drama
• Lady Liberty – Mature Romance
• Obstinately – Romance, Psychological Mystery

These titles further expand January’s already packed lineup, offering something for every type of viewer.

Why January 2026 Is a Big Month for C-Drama Fans

January 2026 stands out due to:

• High-budget historical and fantasy epics
• Strong female-led narratives
• A mix of romance, thriller, and slice-of-life stories
• Top-tier actors making powerful returns
• Multiple dramas premiering back-to-back across major platforms

With its diverse genres and star-studded casts, January 2026 is shaping up to be one of the strongest opening months for Chinese dramas in recent years. Whether you love epic historical sagas, magical fantasy romances, or heartfelt modern stories, this lineup ensures your watchlist will be full from day one of the new year.