Founding Emperor of Ming Dynasty (2006)
A sweeping Chinese historical epic chronicling Zhu Yuanzhang's extraordinary rise from peasant orphan to the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty.
Founding Emperor of Ming Dynasty - Series Information
- Original Title: 朱元璋
- First Air Year: 2006
- Last Air Year: 2007
- Created by: Hu Jun, Ju Xue et al.
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (45 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 46
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin
- Networks: iQiyi
- Alternative Titles: 朱元璋.2006 (CN)
- Production Countries: China
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Founding Emperor of Ming Dynasty - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Hu Jun
- Ju Xue
- Feng Xiaoning
Main Cast
- Hu Jun
- Ju Xue
- Zheng Xiaoning
- Chen Changhai
- Ebusi
Founding Emperor of Ming Dynasty - FAQs
Is Founding Emperor of Ming Dynasty based on a true story?
Yes, the series is rooted in real history. Zhu Yuanzhang was an actual historical figure who rose from extreme poverty and orphanhood during the collapse of the Yuan Dynasty to found the Ming Dynasty in 1368, ruling as the Hongwu Emperor until his death in 1398.
Who plays Zhu Yuanzhang in the series?
Hu Jun takes on the demanding lead role of Zhu Yuanzhang, portraying the future emperor across his entire journey from destitute peasant and wandering monk to rebel commander and ultimately the founding ruler of one of China's most enduring imperial dynasties.
Where can you watch Founding Emperor of Ming Dynasty?
The series is available on iQiyi, the major Chinese streaming platform. For a full overview of regional viewing options and availability in your area, you can check JustWatch, which aggregates streaming and purchase options across multiple services.
How many episodes does the series have?
Founding Emperor of Ming Dynasty consists of 46 episodes across a single season, with each episode running approximately 45 minutes. The generous episode count allows the story to trace Zhu Yuanzhang's life in considerable depth, from his impoverished origins through the founding of the Ming Dynasty.
Who are the key figures depicted alongside Zhu Yuanzhang?
The series brings to life several pivotal historical figures: Ju Xue portrays Empress Ma, Zhu Yuanzhang's devoted wife; Zheng Xiaoning plays the brilliant strategist Liu Bowen; Chen Changhai depicts chancellor Li Shanchang; and Ebusi portrays the celebrated general Xu Da, one of the dynasty's great military architects.
What is the historical significance of Zhu Yuanzhang's story?
Zhu Yuanzhang's rise is one of history's most remarkable rags-to-ruler stories. Born into desperate poverty during a devastating famine, he survived as a beggar and Buddhist monk before leading a rebellion that toppled Mongol Yuan rule and established the Ming Dynasty, which endured for nearly three centuries.
What language is Founding Emperor of Ming Dynasty in?
The series is produced in Mandarin Chinese, reflecting its origins as a mainland Chinese production. Viewers watching outside China may find subtitled versions available through streaming platforms, though availability of subtitles in specific languages can vary depending on the service and region.
What are some similar series to watch after this one?
If you enjoy sweeping historical drama, Ming Dynasty in 1566 (2007) is an excellent companion piece set in the same imperial era. For broader epic storytelling, Offspring (2010) and Ambitions (2019) offer similarly rich character-driven narratives, while Roots: The Next Generations (1979) delivers comparable historical depth from a different cultural perspective.
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