Ryan Christopher Claveria

The Best-Looking C-drama Actors in Historical Epics

Article (news)

<p>Behind the whimsical aesthetics and breathtaking traditional garb of <strong>period C-dramas</strong> lies a star-studded cast that constantly captures our attention. They are the ultimate reason we stay glued to our screens, binge-watching 24 to 40 episodes in a single week just to catch every frame of their striking visuals. While we all adore these actors in modern roles, seeing them headline a wuxia or<em> xianxia</em> epic—effortlessly donning traditional <em>hanfu</em> or plated scale armor—elevates their allure to a whole new level.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781839234281The Most Handsome C-Drama Actors Ruling the Beauty World Right Now-7.png" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Handsome C-Drama Actors in Historical Epics</span></span></span></div><p>An actor&#x27;s makeup and hairstyling often shift to align seamlessly with their character&#x27;s persona, but that doesn&#x27;t take away from a universal truth: <strong>every single one of these Chinese men can flawlessly pull off a regal topknot with face-framing tendrils and boast that enviable, porcelain dynasty skin.</strong></p><p>From immortal deities to brooding martial arts masters, here are the best-looking male leads dominating the C-drama historical landscape!</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Xiao Zhan as Zang Hai (<em>The Legend of Zang H</em><em>ai</em>)</strong></div><p>The OG and everyone’s first historical boyfriend, Xiao Zhan’s portrayal of <strong>Zang Hai </strong>was his most stunning historical look to date. The use of <em>wushamao</em> (traditional hat) amplified the natural edges of his face, highlighting his natural features during the close-up shots in the show.</p><div><br style="caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781836185981JBL7xd_3f.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Xiao Zhan as Zang Hai | Weibo @圈内爆爷</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Zhang Linghe as Xie Zheng (<em>Pursuit of Jade</em>)</strong></div><p>The Marquis Wu’an fever isn’t over yet! Zhang Linghe’s remarkable portrayal of <strong>Xie Zheng</strong> in ‘Pursuit of Jade’ influenced and introduced new fans to the C-drama world. His look here was nothing short of magnificent. From his hairstyle to his makeup, everything was perfectly crafted to make his face handsome at every angle.</p><div><br style="caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781755134380SnapInsta.to_723686411_17873669229679851_6277739376135169444_n.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Zhang Linghe as Xie Zheng | Photo via WeTV</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><a href="https://metro.style/beauty/2026/5/11/chinese-actor-zhang-linghe-glow-up-journey-1800" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">READ: From Engineering Heartthrob to Marquis Wu’an: Here&#x27;s Zhang Linghe’s Glow-Up Journey</a></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Wang Yibo as Xie Yun (<em>Legend of Fei</em>)</strong></div><p><strong>Xie Yun</strong>&#x27;s looks are one of the most applauded grooming styles in C-drama land. It features asymmetrical hair tendrils that exude a youthful aesthetic, complemented by blue-toned garb that makes his overall appearance light and attractive.</p><div><br style="caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781836723607legendFei2.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Wang Yibo as Xie Yun | Photo via WeTV</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Song Weilong as Lei Xiuyuan (<em>The Eternal Fragrance</em>)</strong></div><p>With over 4 million reservations on Youku, Song Weilong’s comeback in a <em>xianxia </em>setting is predicted to break records on the platform, and we can tell why! This new look from the actor definitely got us captivated. It’s his best visual from an ancient drama so far, outstandingly highlighting his sharp features.</p><div><br style="caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781755881178SWL Youku.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Song Weilong as Lei Xiuyuan | Photo via YOUKU</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><a href="https://metro.style/beauty/2026/5/5/handsome-chinese-actor-song-weilong-1700" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">READ: C-Drama Actor Song Weilong Is the Internet&#x27;s New Boyfriend</a></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Chen Zheyuan as Tang Qianzhi (<em>Chasing Dreams</em>)</strong></div><p>When Tencent Video released the official posters from Chen Zheyuan’s new drama, fans immediately went wild! While it’s not new for Zheyuan to capture our attention in different genres, as he always looks gorgeous, this one hits differently. His grooming is much sleeker and more masculine compared to other shows.</p><div><br style="caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781756441165Chasing Dreams CZY.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Chen Zheyuan as Tang Qianzhi | Photo via WeTV</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><a href="https://metro.style/beauty/2026/6/5/c-drama-chinese-actor-chen-zheyuan-handsome-moments-1130" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">READ: 5 Times Chen Zheyuan&#x27;s Handsomeness Broke the Internet</a></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Yang Yang as Zhan Zhao (<em>Zhan Zhao Adventures</em>)</strong></div><p>After ‘Immortal Ascension,&#x27; we were spoiled by Yang Yang’s stunning look in ‘Zhan Zhao Adventures.&#x27; Suddenly every fan remembered their first crush! The highlight of this look was Yang Yang’s high updo and flawless base, spotlighting the major features he got: a charming smile, a high-bridged nose, and benevolent eyes.</p><div><br style="caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781756806324Yang Z.jpg" style="width:700px;display:block;height:auto" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Yang Yang as Zhan Zhao | Photo via @disneyplustw</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><a href="https://metro.style/beauty/2026/6/2/c-drama-actor-yang-yang-2026-drama-comeback-1400" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">READ: Why We&#x27;re Crushing On C-Drama Actor Yang Yang</a></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Zhou Yiran as Xie Yanlai (<em>Ashes to Crown</em>)</strong></div><p>Did everyone collectively fall in love the moment Zhou Yiran stepped onto the screen as <strong>Xie Yanlai</strong> in Ashes to Crown? Because we totally get it! This marks one of the most intense and transformative roles of his career. Zhou Yiran absolutely delivered, bringing fierce warrior acting chops, commanding cold-general vibes, irresistible charm, and a truly dazzling face card that left us all breathless.</p><div><br style="caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781757189226Zhou Yiran 11.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Zhou Yiran as Xie Yanlai | Photo via Weibo</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Dylan Wang as Dongfang Qingcang (<em>Love Between Fairy and Devil</em>)</strong></div><p>Remember when Love Between Fairy and Devil surged into Netflix PH&#x27;s Top 10 in 2022? A massive contributor to that runaway success was Dylan Wang&#x27;s impeccable styling and grooming. His look masterfully blended ancient fantasy aesthetics with a modern facial silhouette, striking a seamless balance that beautifully highlighted his sharp, harmonious features.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781775906811Dylan Wang 2.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Dylan Wang as Dongfang Qingcang | Photo via iQIYI</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Deng Wei as Su Yishui (<em>Love of the Divine Tree</em>)<br/></strong></div><p>Deng Wei dazzled in &#x27;Love of the Divine Tree,&#x27; blending contemporary details with his strong, masculine features and intricate ancient hairstyling. See that symmetrical hairline complemented by tendrils? Utterly enchanting! Not to mention the structure of his facial thirds, which makes his pointed nose the ultimate standout.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781775866173the-legend-of-rosy-clouds-v0-f2ontafni9wc1.jpeg.webp" style="width:700px;display:block;height:auto" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Deng Wei as Su Yishui | Photo via iQIYI</span></span></span></div><div><strong>Hou Minghao as Baimu Yaojun (<em>Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Love in Pavilion</em>)</strong></div><p>On the internet, fans argue about Hou Minghao&#x27;s majestic face in &#x27;Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Love in Pavilion.<strong></strong><strong></strong>&#x27; His role as <strong>Baimu Yaojun</strong> beautifully highlighted Hou Minghao&#x27;s face using side-framing hair bangs, augmenting his natural handsomeness on camera. Imagine being that gorgeous, and the only argument you get is about being handsome? We want that kind of problem, too! </p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781775633170SnapInsta.to_491462406_17920497645081961_2303486279694029910_n.jpg" style="width:700px;display:block;height:auto" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Hou Minghao as Baimu Yaojun | Photo via iQIYI</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Liu Yuning as Wei Shao (<em>The</em> <em>Prisoner of Beauty</em>)</strong></div><p>Unlike in other dramas where hair tendrils complete the look, Liu Yuning&#x27;s symmetrical contours say otherwise. His main asset as <strong>Wei Shao</strong>? His richly pigmented, sleek eyebrows. They create a powerful, warrior-esque appeal that makes his appearance even more masculine.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781776998448was-everyone-mesmerized-or-obsessed-wity-wei-shao-played-by-v0-0061mhpmakvg1.jpg-2.webp" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Liu Yuning as Wei Shao | Photo via WeTV</span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Tan Jianci as Xiang Liu (Lost You Forever)</strong></div><p>Speaking of fantasy C-dramas, who could ever forget the cultural phenomenon that was <strong>Xiang Liu</strong>? With his flawless, flowing white hair and subtly flushed, rosy lips, Tan Jianci delivered one of the most iconic and ethereal looks in modern C-drama history. While he looks undeniably handsome in his natural hair color, this specific transformation? Utterly majestic.</p><div> <span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781837690125MV5BNDQ1ZWM3YmYtNWQwYi00ODI4LTlhYTAtMGY1ZjMwMTM2ZTZmXkEyXkFqcGc@._V1_.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Tan Jianci as Xiang Liu | Photo via IMDb</span></span></span><strong></strong><strong></strong></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>Luo Yunxi as Tantai Jin (Till the End of the Moon)</strong></div><p>If the conversation shifts to xianxia, it is impossible to overlook the complex, iconic role played by Luo Yunxi in &#x27;<strong>Till the End of the Moon</strong>.&#x27; His look was a masterclass in styling—from a flawlessly sculpted hairline to the precise placement of radiant forehead gems that perfectly balanced a natural, ethereal flush around his eyes.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1781839618261FtUXfaraQAAaKEW.jpeg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Luo Yunxi as Tantai Jin | Photo via X | @youkuofficial</span></span></span></div>

<p>The ultimate driving force of period C-dramas isn't a line of soldiers—it's these handsome men who are ready to risk it all for the love of their life!</p>

The ultimate driving force of period C-dramas isn't a line of soldiers—it's these handsome men who are ready to risk it all for the love of their life!

The Most Handsome C-drama Actors in Historical Epics

People

Fashion

Beauty

Wellness

Travel

Culture

Living

Food

Weddings

Beauty

The Most Handsome C-drama Actors in Historical Epics

Arci Claveria

Published June 19, 2026 11:30 AM PHT

|

Updated June 19, 2026 12:03 PM PHT

Read More:

Handsome Chinese Actors in Hanfu Dramas

Chinese Actors in Historical Dramas

Wuxia Dramas

Xianxia Dramas

C-Drama

Chinese Drama

Handsome Chinese Drama Actors

Best Actors in Chinese Dramas

Historial Chinese Drama Handsome Leading Men

Zhang Linghe

Metro.Style is your go-to destination for all things chic and stylish—featuring the latest in fashion, beauty, lifestyle, celebrity news, and inspiring stories. It's your curated guide to living your best life.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

AI Policy

Terms of Service

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.