With all the Asian TV shows I watch, it is time to go ahead and admit that I am an Asian TV show junkie. For me, it all started in high school with MXC, the best competition show ever and inspiration for America’s Wipeout. Now, there are tons of Asian shows that I am either watching or have watched, loved, and rewatched again and again. Whether you already have a deep love for Asian TV shows or this whole genre is brand new to you, these are a few of the best Asian TV shows that I highly recommend giving a look-see. If you enjoy high school drama, mystery, action, comedy, or fantasy, you are sure to find a new favorite among these top Asian television shows!
What makes these Asian tv dramas to watch so captivating is the incredible variety of genres they span:
- K-Drama Romance & High School Tropes: Heart-fluttering stories with iconic leads.
- High-Stakes Dystopian Anime: Intense action and deep world-building.
- Classic Sci-Fi & Cult Hits: Storylines with unforgettable soundtracks and timeless animation.
1. Boys Over Flowers
This is one of the most iconic Asian TV shows that every drama fan needs to experience. Originally a popular manga, Boys Over Flowers became a massive South Korean TV phenomenon that helped propel the Hallyu wave worldwide. You can stream this classic on Viki. The story follows Geum Jan-di, a working-class girl who receives a scholarship to an elite private school. Jan-di refuses to bow down to the school’s notorious bully squad, leading to endless drama, romantic twists, and iconic scenes. This show also features Korean heartthrob Lee Min-ho, making it an essential entry for anyone looking for classic Asian tv dramas to watch.
2. Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan has swept both Japanese and international audiences, earning its reputation as one of the best Asian TV shows of the decade. Available to stream on Crunchyroll, this Japanese anime follows a group of friends living in walled cities to protect humanity from gigantic, man-eating Titans. After a devastating attack leaves their home in ruins, Eren Jaeger, Mikasa Ackerman, and Armin Arlert train relentlessly to join the Scout Corps and defend what remains of civilization. Action happens, giants are defeated, and questions receive thrilling answers that keep you hooked.
3. Trigun
An absolute anime classic, Trigun covers the post-apocalyptic genre with incredible heart and humor. This sci-fi comedy focuses on Vash the Stampede and two insurance representatives from the Bernardelli Insurance Society who are tasked with following him to minimize destruction. Despite his fearsome reputation, Vash is quickly revealed to be a lighthearted good guy who defends the vulnerable and holds a comical aversion to violence. If you are browsing for entertaining Asian shows to watch, this classic will have you hooked in no time.
| Show Title | Primary Genre | Country of Origin | | --- | --- | --- | | Boys Over Flowers | Romance / Drama | South Korea | | Attack on Titan | Dark Fantasy / Action | Japan | | Trigun | Sci-Fi Comedy | Japan | | Fruits Basket | Fantasy / Slice of Life | Japan | | The Heirs | Teen Romance | South Korea | | Princess Jellyfish | Comedy / Slice of Life | Japan | | Cowboy Bebop | Sci-Fi / Neo-Noir | Japan |4. Fruits Basket
Fitting into the high school drama and fantasy categories, Fruits Basket was an extremely successful manga before becoming a beloved anime series. The story follows Tohru Honda, a sweet orphan who is taken in by her classmate Yuki Sohma and his family. Tohru quickly discovers that twelve members of the Sohma family are possessed by animals of the Chinese Zodiac, transforming when hugged by the opposite sex. This lighthearted and moving series teaches you a lot about the Chinese zodiac while delivering memorable character growth.
5. The Heirs
Also known as Inheritors, this South Korean show covers a similar premise as Boys Over Flowers and stars Lee Min-ho as well. Although the ending and hairstyle choices differ, the cast of The Heirs includes K-Pop stars, top models, and leading Korean actors. The storyline centers on wealthy high schoolers navigating love, friendship, and family expectations. It is a fantastic pick if you love love triangles, classic tropes, humor, and emotional drama in your Asian TV shows.
6. Princess Jellyfish
Princess Jellyfish is an anime that breaks the usual mold by stepping away from high school settings and futuristic themes. It follows Tsukimi, a nerdy twenty-something girl who moves to Tokyo aspiring to become an illustrator. Tsukimi and her four roomates reside in the Amamizukan apartments where men and stylish women are strictly forbidden. That changes when Tsukimi meets a stylish, cross-dressing friend who flips her world upside down in a warm, witty comedy.
7. Cowboy Bebop
As an anime original that defined a genre, Cowboy Bebop is widely recognized across Japan and internationally. Set in the year 2071, it follows the bounty hunter crew of the Bebop as they hunt targets across space in a style reminiscent of the Old West. You can explore its full cast and legacy on IMDb. Featuring mature themes, legendary music, and iconic action, it remains a mandatory watch for anyone interested in classic Asian television shows.
If you are wondering where to find these Asian shows to watch, here are the top platforms hosting them:
- Crunchyroll: Top choice for streaming anime hits like Attack on Titan and Trigun.
- Viki: Excellent hub for trending South Korean dramas and classic Asian television shows.
- Netflix: Great selection of mainstream K-dramas and anime classics.
Goodness, there are so many fantastic Asian TV shows available that these seven are really only the tip of the iceberg! Whether you are a longtime fan or just starting to explore great entertainment recommendations, these favorites will keep you thoroughly entertained. What are some of your favorite Asian TV shows?