SEO Keywords: Chinese Web Series, Netflix, Action, Martial Arts, Wuxia, Historical Drama, Crime Thriller, Streaming, Must-Watch, Best Chinese Dramas, Top Action Series, Chinese Entertainment, Online Streaming, Chinese Drama Recommendations.
Action-Packed Chinese Web Series You Can’t Miss on Netflix

Netflix has become a global hub for diverse entertainment, and the realm of Chinese web series is no exception. Forget the stereotypes; these series offer a potent blend of breathtaking action, intricate plots, and captivating characters. From gravity-defying martial arts to gritty crime thrillers, here are some of the most action-packed Chinese web series you absolutely need to add to your watchlist.
1. The Untamed (陈情令)
While technically a xianxia (fantasy) series, The Untamed is brimming with action sequences that seamlessly blend swordplay, magic, and breathtaking choreography. Set in a world of cultivation clans battling demonic forces, the story revolves around Wei Wuxian, a rebellious and innovative cultivator, and Lan Wangji, a righteous and disciplined member of the Gusu Lan clan. Their complex relationship unfolds against a backdrop of political intrigue and supernatural threats.

Action Highlights:
- Sword Fighting: The series features elaborate sword fighting sequences that showcase the unique styles of each clan. Each character has a distinct weapon and fighting technique, adding depth and visual flair to the battles.
- Supernatural Powers: Cultivators wield spiritual energy to perform incredible feats, including summoning spirits, manipulating objects, and unleashing powerful attacks. These abilities are often showcased in visually stunning battle scenes.
- Monster Hunting: The series is filled with encounters with demonic creatures, requiring the protagonists to use their skills and knowledge to overcome these formidable foes. These hunts are often suspenseful and action-packed.
- Strategic Warfare: Beyond individual combat, The Untamed also features large-scale battles between clans, involving intricate strategies and formations.
Why It’s Action-Packed: The Untamed masterfully combines martial arts prowess with supernatural elements, creating a visually spectacular and emotionally resonant experience. The action sequences are not just for show; they are integral to the plot and character development.
2. Day and Night (白夜追凶)
A gritty and suspenseful crime thriller, Day and Night follows Guan Hongfeng, a former police captain haunted by a case he couldn’t solve. To clear his identical twin brother, Guan Hongyu, who is the prime suspect in a brutal murder, Hongfeng secretly acts as a consultant for the police department during the day, while Hongyu takes over the investigation at night. This precarious arrangement keeps them one step ahead of the law and the real killer.
Action Highlights:
- Realistic Gunfights: Unlike the stylized action of wuxia or xianxia series, Day and Night features realistic gunfights that are intense and visceral.
- Hand-to-Hand Combat: Hongfeng and Hongyu are both skilled fighters, often relying on hand-to-hand combat to subdue suspects and protect themselves. The fight choreography is brutal and effective.
- Car Chases: The series includes several high-octane car chases through the crowded streets of the city.
- Intense Interrogations: While not physical action, the intense interrogations are a form of psychological warfare, with Hongfeng and Hongyu using their wit and cunning to extract information from suspects.
Why It’s Action-Packed: Day and Night delivers a relentless barrage of suspense and thrills. The action is grounded in reality, making it all the more impactful. The constant threat of exposure and the high stakes involved in solving the case keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
3. Nirvana in Fire (琅琊榜)
Nirvana in Fire is a historical drama that centers on Lin Shu, a brilliant military strategist who survives a treacherous plot that wipes out his entire family and army. Years later, he returns to the capital under the guise of Mei Changsu, a frail and seemingly powerless scholar, to exact revenge and restore justice. While not overtly action-packed in the traditional sense, the series is filled with political maneuvering and strategic battles fought with intellect rather than brute force.
Action Highlights:
- Political Intrigue: The series is a masterclass in political intrigue, with Mei Changsu orchestrating elaborate schemes to expose his enemies and manipulate the court.
- Military Strategy: Flashbacks and strategic discussions reveal Lin Shu’s brilliance as a military commander, showcasing his ability to outmaneuver his opponents on the battlefield.
- Undercover Operations: Mei Changsu relies on a network of spies and informants to gather information and carry out his plans. These undercover operations often involve dangerous encounters and close calls.
- Occasional Sword Fights: While not the primary focus, the series does feature occasional sword fights and skirmishes, showcasing the skills of the guards and warriors loyal to Mei Changsu.
Why It’s Action-Packed: Nirvana in Fire provides a different kind of action, one that is driven by intellect and strategy. The series is a thrilling game of cat and mouse, with Mei Changsu constantly outwitting his opponents in a high-stakes battle for power.
4. The Longest Day In Chang’an (长安十二时辰)
Set during the Tang Dynasty, The Longest Day In Chang’an follows Zhang Xiaojing, a former detective with a dark past, who is tasked with preventing a terrorist attack on the city of Chang’an during the Lantern Festival. He teams up with Li Bi, a young and ambitious official, to uncover the conspiracy and save the city.
Action Highlights:
- Urban Warfare: The series features intense action sequences set in the bustling streets of Chang’an, with Zhang Xiaojing engaging in hand-to-hand combat, sword fights, and chases through crowded marketplaces.
- Parkour and Acrobatics: Zhang Xiaojing is a skilled parkour practitioner, using his agility and athleticism to navigate the city and evade his pursuers.
- Explosions and Sabotage: The terrorists employ explosives and sabotage to disrupt the city and sow chaos, leading to several visually stunning and destructive scenes.
- Interrogation and Torture: Zhang Xiaojing is willing to go to extreme lengths to extract information from his enemies, including resorting to torture.
Why It’s Action-Packed: The Longest Day In Chang’an is a relentless thrill ride, with Zhang Xiaojing constantly racing against time to prevent the terrorist attack. The action is gritty and realistic, showcasing the brutality of the era. The immersive setting and intricate plot add to the overall sense of urgency and suspense.
5. Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (孤单又灿烂的神-鬼怪)
While technically a Korean drama (K-Drama), Guardian: The Lonely and Great God is widely available on Netflix and features action sequences that are heavily influenced by Chinese xianxia and martial arts traditions. The story follows Kim Shin, an immortal general who seeks to end his eternal life by finding his destined bride, Ji Eun-tak, a cheerful and optimistic high school student.
Action Highlights:
- Sword Fighting and Supernatural Powers: Kim Shin possesses incredible swordsmanship skills and supernatural abilities, allowing him to manipulate objects, teleport, and summon storms. These powers are showcased in visually stunning battle scenes against evil spirits and other supernatural threats.
- Ghost Hunting: Kim Shin and the Grim Reaper often team up to hunt down evil ghosts and send them to the afterlife. These encounters are often action-packed and suspenseful.
- Time Travel and Alternate Realities: The series explores themes of time travel and alternate realities, leading to unexpected twists and turns that often involve action-packed confrontations.
- Romance and Sacrifice: The romantic relationship between Kim Shin and Ji Eun-tak is intertwined with the action, as they must constantly fight to protect each other from danger.
Why It’s Action-Packed: Guardian: The Lonely and Great God seamlessly blends romance, comedy, and action, creating a unique and captivating viewing experience. The action sequences are visually stunning and emotionally resonant, adding depth and complexity to the story.
6. Ashes of Love (香蜜沉沉烬如霜)
Ashes of Love is another xianxia drama that features a compelling blend of romance, fantasy, and action. It tells the story of Jinmi, the daughter of the Flower Deity, who is unknowingly bound by a magical pill that prevents her from experiencing love. Her destiny becomes intertwined with Xu Feng, the Fire Immortal, and Runyu, the Night Immortal, leading to a complex love triangle and a battle for the celestial realm.
Action Highlights:
- Elemental Powers: The immortals in Ashes of Love possess elemental powers, such as fire, water, and wind, which they use in combat. These powers are often showcased in visually stunning battles.
- Magical Artifacts: The series features a variety of magical artifacts that grant their users incredible abilities. The battles for these artifacts are often intense and action-packed.
- War in the Celestial Realm: The series culminates in a large-scale war in the celestial realm, with armies of immortals clashing in epic battles.
- Sacrificial Acts: Characters often make sacrifices for love and duty, leading to emotionally charged action sequences.
Why It’s Action-Packed: Ashes of Love delivers a visually spectacular and emotionally resonant experience. The action sequences are

