If you’re wondering what should be next on your list to watch and want a deeper understanding of contemporary Chinese society while honing your Mandarin, 玫瑰的故事 (The Tale of Rose) and 狂飙 (The Knockout)—two wildly popular series in China today—are must-watches. And even better, both shows are available on YouTube for free.


1. 玫瑰的故事 (The Tale of Rose): A Woman’s Journey Through Personal Growth and Modern Values

Released in 2024, The Tale of Rose follows Mei Gui (the Mandarin word for “rose”), a young woman navigating love, divorce, and personal growth in modern China. The series explores the tension between tradition and modernity, reflecting the country’s transformation over the past 40 years.


Mei Gui’s coming-of-age journey is a powerful exploration of independence and resilience as she balances cultural expectations with a rapidly changing world. As you watch Mei Gui’s story unfold, you’ll see her challenge old gender norms and carve her own path. I believe this resonates with many of us, especially in the way it highlights personal growth and the search for identity.


I recommend this TV series because the dialogue is clear and filled with modern Mandarin expressions useful in everyday conversations. Whether it's talking about love, work, or family, the show provides language that feels accessible. It’s a great way to pick up practical vocabulary and you’ll find plenty of expressions to enrich your Mandarin.


2. 狂飙 (The Knockout): A Gritty Dive into Justice and Society

While The Tale of Rose delves into personal growth and societal change, The Knockout (2023) plunges into the gritty world of crime, corruption, and justice in modern China. This compelling drama follows An Xin, a relentless police officer, as he battles organized crime over two turbulent decades.


What makes The Knockout stand out is its raw portrayal of the blurred lines between right and wrong. An Xin’s story weaves together professional challenges and personal struggles, from betrayal and loss to self-doubt. Everyone I’ve spoken to says they couldn’t stop binging until the very last second—even those who aren’t typically crime fans! So, be ready for some serious all-nighters.


For language learners, The Knockout is an excellent resource. The fast-paced dialogue ranges from legal terms to street slang, offering a realistic glimpse into how Mandarin adapts across different social settings. It’s particularly useful for improving listening skills and expanding vocabulary in law, crime, and societal topics, making it an ideal pick for intermediate to advanced learners.


Tips for Watching Chinese TV Series

You can find both the series on YouTube for free. Before you dive in, here is how you can make the most out of your viewing and learning experience:

1.Focus on Context: Immerse yourself in the language and don’t stress about understanding every word—follow the story and let the language sink in naturally.

2.Replay Key Scenes and Shadow: Rewatching memorable scenes helps you notice subtle pronunciation and tone differences. If you are looking to improve your fluency, try shadowing (pausing and immediately repeating the lines) and record yourself doing it. 

3.Use the Language Reactor Browser Extension: I highly recommend this free tool, as it provides dual subtitles (in both the original language and your native language) and hover-over definitions, making it easy to learn new vocabulary without interrupting your viewing experience.

4.Record New Vocabulary: Once you have gathered new vocabulary or phrases, use flashcard apps like Anki with Spaced Repetition Systems (SRS) to log and review them. This ensures you retain what you learn over time.

5.Discuss with Others: Share your thoughts with classmates, friends, or your teacher. Conversations about the plot in the target language can deepen understanding and improve your speaking. 


How Often Should You Watch?

Consistency is key when it comes to learning a language. Aim to watch at least 20–30 minutes of Chinese TV daily, or longer sessions a few times a week if that fits your schedule better. Frequent exposure to the language helps you internalize vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation naturally over time. Remember, it’s not just about quantity but also about active engagement—taking notes, shadowing lines, and reviewing vocabulary can make your input more effective. Even small, regular sessions will build up to big improvements in your Mandarin skills! 


Start Watching Now

So, grab a cozy spot and let these shows take you on a journey of language, culture, and inspiration. Happy viewing, and feel free to comment below on what you think of these shows! I’d also love to hear about other Chinese TV series you’ve enjoyed or what you’d like to watch next. Let’s keep the conversation going!