If you’re a fan of animation from Asia, you’ve probably heard the term “Chinese anime” and wondered what it’s really called. As the popularity of Chinese animation grows worldwide, more viewers are discovering the unique world of donghua. But what exactly does “donghua” mean, and how is it different from other types of animation? Let’s explore the origins, meaning, and cultural significance of this term.
What is Chinese Anime Called?
The official term for Chinese anime is donghua (动画, pronounced “dong-hwa”). In Mandarin, “donghua” simply means “animation” or “cartoon.” While in China the word refers to all animated works regardless of origin, internationally it has come to specifically mean animation produced in China.
Key Points:
- Donghua = Chinese animation (the direct translation of 动画)
- Used globally to refer to animated series and films made in China
- Covers both 2D and 3D animation styles
How is Donghua Different from Anime?
While both “anime” and “donghua” refer to animated works, there are important distinctions:
| Feature | Donghua (Chinese Anime) | Anime (Japanese Anime) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | China | Japan |
| Language | Mandarin (or other Chinese) | Japanese |
| Cultural Themes | Chinese mythology, history, cultivation | Japanese folklore, modern life |
| Visual Style | Mix of 2D/3D, often realistic | Mostly 2D, stylized |
Donghua often draws from Chinese legends, historical events, and cultivation (xianxia) themes, giving it a unique flavor compared to Japanese anime.
Why is it Called Donghua?
The word “donghua” is made up of two Chinese characters:
- 动 (dòng): to move
- 画 (huà): drawing or picture
Together, they literally mean “moving drawings” or “moving pictures.” This is similar to how the English word “animation” is derived from “animate,” meaning to bring to life.
Other Terms You Might Hear
- Guoman (国漫): Short for “guochan manhua,” meaning “domestically produced comics/animation.” Sometimes used to refer specifically to Chinese-made animation.
- Manhua (漫画): Chinese comics or graphic novels, similar to Japanese manga.
Popular Donghua Series
If you’re new to donghua, here are some must-watch titles:
- Soul Land (Douluo Dalu): A fantasy adventure based on a popular web novel.
- The King’s Avatar (Quanzhi Gaoshou): An e-sports drama about a professional gamer.
- White Cat Legend: A historical mystery with unique art and storytelling.
Where Can You Watch Donghua?
You can watch Chinese anime online on platforms like:
- Bilibili (official streaming, often with subtitles)
- iQIYI and YouKu (major Chinese streaming sites)
- International sites like ChineseAnimeHub.com (curated for global fans)
Conclusion
Donghua is the official term for Chinese anime, representing a vibrant and rapidly growing world of animation. With its rich cultural roots, diverse genres, and innovative visuals, donghua is capturing the attention of animation fans everywhere. Whether you’re a longtime anime lover or new to Asian animation, exploring donghua opens up a whole new universe of stories and artistry.
Ready to dive in? Start your donghua journey today and discover what makes Chinese anime truly unique!