5 Chinese Anime to Introduce You to the World of Donghua

Japan isn't the only country with splashy animation. designisfine / Shutterstock

Whether you're a seasoned anime lover or just dipping your toes into the animation waters for the first time, you might be surprised by the wave of high-quality Chinese anime — also known as donghua — making a splash on screens around the world.

While Japanese anime continues to dominate the global stage, China's growing animation industry has been releasing visually stunning and culturally rich works that deserve your attention.

Blending traditional Chinese culture with modern flair, these series are as imaginative as any top-tier anime from Japan. So if you're curious to begin (or expand) your journey into the realm of Chinese animation, here's where to start.

1. 'Fox Spirit Matchmaker'

Where to stream: Crunchyroll

This long-running TV series blends romance, reincarnation and Chinese folklore into a colorful package. In a world where humans and spirits can fall in love — but forget each other after reincarnation — special matchmakers work to rekindle those bonds.

The story mixes heartfelt drama with playful comedy and has drawn comparisons to classic romantic anime. With multiple seasons and spin-offs, it's a fan favorite and a standout example of how Chinese culture inspires modern animation.

2. 'Big Fish and Begonia'

Where to stream: Netflix

An animated feature film that’s often described as China’s answer to Studio Ghibli, "Big Fish & Begonia" dives deep into mythological waters. The story follows a girl from a mystical undersea world who transforms into a red dolphin to explore the human realm.

But when a human boy sacrifices himself to save her, she begins a journey to bring him back. It's a visually lush and emotionally resonant film about sacrifice, nature and the cycle of life. The movie also draws from ancient Taoist mythology, underlining the distinctive Chinese cultural lineage.

3. 'The King's Avatar'

Where to stream: Rakuten Viki, Crunchyroll

If you're into esports or online gaming, this hot series is a must-watch. It centers around a professional player who’s forced out of his team and starts over from scratch in a new game server.

With sharp animation and an underdog storyline, "The King’s Avatar" hooks viewers whether they’re gamers or not. It also gives a nod to China’s massive online gaming culture and offers a glimpse into the human side of digital fame.

4. 'White Snake'

Where to stream: Apple TV, Hoopla

Inspired by the traditional Chinese legend of Madam White Snake, this film reimagines the story with action, romance and a fantasy twist. It’s a bold retelling that pairs eye-popping visuals with themes of identity, love and memory.

The success of "White Snake" even led to a sequel, "Green Snake," which dives further into this mystical world. It's a great entry point for those interested in animation based on historical tales.

5. 'Scissor Seven'

Where to stream: Netflix

Unlike most of the other entries, "Scissor Seven" leans heavily into absurdist humor and quirky action. This offbeat series follows a hairdresser who moonlights as an amateur assassin — though he's not very good at it.

The animation style is a mix of sleek and sketchy, and the show cleverly balances comedy with moments of genuine heart. Its unique tone and style make it one of the most recognizable Chinese series on streaming platforms.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.