The second season of Yao-Chinese Folktales, which premiered on January 1, 2026, has reignited global fascination with China's rich storytelling traditions. Produced by Shanghai Animation Film Studio, Bilibili, and Chen Liaoyu Studio, the anthology series builds on its groundbreaking 2023 debut season that garnered 260 million views and became a cultural touchstone for modern interpretations of folklore.
This year's installment features nine distinct animated shorts, each helmed by a different director and released weekly. Twelve Chinese creators contributed their unique artistic visions, blending traditional motifs with experimental techniques to craft a cohesive yet diverse universe rooted in cultural heritage. General Director Chen Liaoyu, who oversaw both seasons, describes the project as "a bridge between ancestral wisdom and contemporary creativity."
In an exclusive interview with KhabarAsia, Chen and two episode directors revealed how the team balances artistic innovation with cultural authenticity. "We're not just retelling stories—we're reimagining them through the lens of today's social realities," explained one director, highlighting the series' relevance to modern audiences.
The anthology's global appeal lies in its universal themes of resilience, morality, and human connection, packaged through visually stunning animation. Academics note its potential as an educational tool for understanding regional folklore, while diaspora communities praise its role in preserving cultural identity.
