donghua

Donghua refers to Chinese animation. The term is a portmanteau of "dong" (animation) and "hua" (China). It encompasses a wide range of animated productions originating from mainland China, often drawing inspiration from Chinese mythology, history, literature, and wuxia or xianxia genres. Donghua has seen significant growth in recent years, with increasing budgets and production quality, gaining popularity both domestically and internationally.

Historically, Chinese animation dates back to the early 20th century, with early works influenced by Western animation styles. However, donghua truly began to develop its distinct identity in the mid-20th century. In recent decades, technological advancements and a burgeoning industry have led to a surge in production, with many donghua series adapting popular web novels and games. Common themes include martial arts, fantasy, historical dramas, and sometimes slice-of-life stories. The visual aesthetics can vary widely, from traditional ink-wash styles to modern 3D animation techniques. Donghua is often streamed on various online platforms, making it accessible to a global audience.