A Journey to Love (2023) synopsis,cast,release date & where to watch - Chinese drama

Release Date: 2023/11/28 - 2023/12/23
Comments: 137
Native Title:一念关山
Also Known As:Yi Nian Guan Shan

Plot Synopsis

"A Journey to Love" tells the legendary adventure story of apassionate small team led by Ren Ru Yi and Ning Yuanzhou, traveling from Wu Du to An Du, overcoming obstacles and fighting side by side.

Ren Ru Yi, the former Left Envoy of the Crimson Robe, fakes his death and infiltrates Wu Du, where he unexpectedly meets Ning Yuanzhou, who used to be the Vice Master of the SixPaths Hall. Ning Yuanzhou, who returned from the battlefield, only wants to live apeaceful life in the countryside. However, in order toprove his innocence to his former colleagues and retuto the SixPaths Hall, he embarks on a journey to save the country. They gather a groupofpeople, including Yu Shisan, Yuanlu, Qian Zhao, and Sun Lang, to escortPrincess Yang Ying, who disguises herself as a man, on a diplomatic mission.

Inpursuit of the truth behind the death of the Empress Zhaojie, who was their benefactor, Ren Ru Yi and Ning Yuanzhou form apartnershipand join the others on the journey to An Du. This diverse groupofpeople forms an impromptu team and embarks on a road tripadventure with an uncertain future.

Episodes Recap

1-4
5-8
9-12
13-16
17-20
21-24
25-28
29-32
33-36
37-40

Episode 27 : Li Tong Guang told Ning Yuan Zhou that he couldn't handle so much, and there was nothing more important than seeing their master

Episode 40 : Ning Yuan Zhou looked at the devastation, with countless casualties everywhere, feeling heartbroken for his subordinates

Cast & Role

Xiao Yan
(Chen Du Ling)

Chu Gui Fei
(Chen Xiao Yun)

Yu Shi San
(Fang Yi Lun)

Ning Yuan Zhou
(Liu Yu Ning)

Comments

BluePandaWeekendNoStudy6 months ago719episode 33
We really need a brother like Ning Yuan Zhou. Though not blood-related, Ning Yuan Zhou treats Yang Ying much better than Wu Di does. Little Zhou has always patiently protected and accompanied the princess.
When she was afraid and hesitant, he used the wisdom of the people to give her courage and inspiration. With his and Ru Yi's help, Yang Ying has grown a lot. Tonight, when he said, "Yang Ying, you've grown up," it really brought tears to my eyes.
SweetWhispers6 months ago661episode 14
Through the incident involving Boss Jin, I gained a new understanding of Thirteen. I initially thought he was just a womanizer who only cared about beautiful women, a bit of a scumbag. But he is straightforward and has a sense of humor, so I didn't dislike him too much.
However, tonight, when he saved Boss Jin, who was injured on her face, and complimented her, it made Boss Jin's heart flutter. And when he first appeared in prison, he did makeup for a chubby girl and praised her for being beautiful.
It made me realize that Thirteen probably just has a special care and fondness for girls. I even feel like he can treat grandmothers better than grandfathers and compliment them to make them happy. He is gentle with little girls compared to little boys, always ready to fulfill their requests, almost like a father to a daughter.
It feels like he goes beyond being a gentleman, perhaps even a feminist in a way?
MaiMasu6 months ago620episode 11
Ren Ruyi is a hedgehog-like assassin. I expected her to be swift and ruthless, cutting down people like a cold-hearted female killer. But in reality, she eagerly clings to the little bit of sweetness given by others.
She was sold to the assassin organization when she was young and fought her way out of the sea of blood. The Empress was kind to her, but she seeks revenge on her own.
Ling Long takes care of her, and even when Ruyi is in danger, she still wants to fulfill the death note. During her short time with Liudao Hall, she gets injured while capturing a snake for Yuan Lu and refuses to harm her brothers by knowing their weaknesses.
She may appear tough and prickly on the outside, but deep down, she's soft and yearns to blend in with the crowd. Treat me well, Ruyi, and anyone who treats Ruyi poorly, let Li Tong Guang take care of them all.
MissMewThemeWedding6 months ago495episode 27
I've seen a lot of discussions online about changes in the show. After taking a look at the circulated script online, some parts were indeed improved and handled with more tension.
From Ning Yuan Zhou's perspective, it would be appropriate for him to take action and teach a lesson. Li Tongguang's actions today could potentially cause a lot of trouble.
If the so-called script circulating online were to be filmed, I feel that it doesn't adequately highlight the conflicting points. This is not about giving the male lead a spotlight, as the plot sometimes needs length, and important aspects can be captured.
I think the director can arrange the plot's development quite well within a limited duration. There are many criticisms about romantic scenes, saying to avoid them and focus more on action scenes.
However, if the female lead's character development is incomplete without a proper romantic storyline, it wouldn't be as captivating. Constantly killing and seeking revenge, what is the intended message?
It shouldn't be promoting such values. The female lead is actually constantly exploring, experiencing, and enriching her emotions throughout her journey.
That's what makes her a true protagonist, not just a strong and pure killing tool. In my opinion, the true tool is the male lead, as it shouldn't be judged solely based on screen time.
The male lead is accustomed to the political cunning and power struggles in the officialdom, while the female lead has been well-protected by the Empress and didn't need to engage in fights.
As long as she successfully completed her missions, it was enough. Therefore, the female lead's belief is that an assassin should eliminate their targets to fulfill their mission.
She is a lone wolf, used to being alone. After the Empress's departure, the female lead encounters Ning Yuan Zhou, filling the void and stepping into the real world from the paintings.
Such a female lead is fleshed out, independent, and nearly perfect. Who wouldn't love such a character? Isn't that a success? These are my personal opinions, not favoring anyone, just dedicated to protecting the show.
- 1 Reply
- MissMeowThemeWedding6 months ago
  This disciple is something else. Three romantic storylines, two manipulative ones, and one intense forbidden love, and I actually like it. They even have a master-disciple relationship, and honestly, I won't criticize anyone.
  I just feel that many people have a narrow understanding of the female lead, thinking that she shouldn't fall in love or that her love shouldn't affect her ability to handle important matters.
  But many transformations happen as the layers of her emotional drama are elevated. The male lead's role as the female lead's support adds charm to her character, solidifying her development once again.
  As a fan of the drama, this kind of female lead should be the strongest "lone wolf," right? Isn't it amazing? What kind of female lead can be produced from the crazy disciple's love interest?
  Only when they can be together does this woman's character truly shine. This is just my personal opinion, so please don't criticize if you disagree.
GagagaGoose6 months ago490episode 14
Yu Shi San, I command you to take back your words! It's truly a case of words becoming reality. We're now at the fourteenth episode, and there have already been three instances of foreshadowing.
First instance: "Love is the easiest thing." As soon as this line was said, the person with the most bitter love story appeared.
Second instance: "Poke out my eyes." It really gave me a jolt in my heart. I immediately had a mental image of his eyes bleeding. Bold speculation: his blindness is related to Li Tong Guang.
Third instance: "Otherwise, the sea wouldn't dry up before I cry." If he encounters me, he will die.
Later, he encounters Chu Yue. Those who understand, understand. Not only did he cry, but hmm...
IceMeridianLYN6 months ago424episode 14
Ning Yuan Zhou, the leader of the Six Paths Hall, possesses a calm and clear-minded thinking, always maintaining a composed demeanor in times of crisis. Whether faced with provocation from enemies or internal conflicts within the team, Ning Yuan Zhou carefully considers and makes the most suitable decisions.
With his sharp insight, he can quickly analyze the situation and formulate the most rational strategies to respond. His rationality not only makes him a pillar of the Six Paths Hall but also earns him respect and admiration from everyone in the group.
Ning Yuan Zhou's sense of responsibility is another highlight portrayed by the actor. As the leader of the Six Paths Hall, he bears the responsibility of protecting others and upholding justice.
No matter how challenging the situation, Ning Yuan Zhou always steps forward without hesitation, fearlessly taking on his duties. He sets an example by leading with fairness and justice, becoming a role model for others.
Ning Yuan Zhou constantly cares for each and every one of his comrades. His sense of responsibility earns the trust and reliance of others, and under his guidance, they move forward courageously.
Ning Yuan Zhou's character is defined by his distinctive demeanor. Through his words and actions, he exudes a unique temperament and confidence. Whether in moments of glory or setbacks, he always faces them with a calm and composed attitude.
His character stems from his unwavering commitment to himself and the things he pursues. This unique character allows him to perfectly embody the principle of "being virtuous when poor and benefiting the world when prosperous.
Overall, Ning Yuan Zhou, the leader of the Six Paths Hall, is an admirable character with rationality, a sense of responsibility, and a distinctive demeanor. He is portrayed and presented by the actor Liu Yu Ning, and there is no doubt about it.
BluePandaWeekendNoStudy6 months ago417episode 31
We really need a brother like Ning Yuan Zhou. Although they're not blood-related siblings, Ning Yuan Zhou treats Yang Ying much better than Wu Di does. Little Boat has always patiently guarded and accompanied the princess.
When she was afraid and hesitant, he used the wisdom of the common people to give her courage and inspiration. With his and Ruyi's assistance, Yang Ying has grown a lot. When he said tonight, "Yang Ying, you've grown up," it truly brought tears to my eyes.
CreamyNotGreasy6 months ago385episode 14
In fact, both Ning Yuan Zhou and Empress Zhao Jie are teaching Ru Yi how to feel her own emotions.
After listening to Ru Yi's account of how Empress Zhao Jie treated her well, Ning Yuan Zhou quickly understood why Empress Zhao Jie told her to have her own child.
But Ru Yi couldn't comprehend it. She seemed unable to understand, even when she herself felt jealous, she couldn't figure out the direction.
Ning Yuan Zhou just watched her and earnestly told her, word by word, why he felt jealous when Ru Yi drank with the young man, and why Ru Yi cared about her engagement with Pei Jiuniang.
Ning Yuan Zhou looked at her so seriously and told her that it wasn't out of sympathy or pity, but from the perspective of a lover, he slowly expressed his own frustrations and love to her.
User605ebf316 months ago339episode 6
I used to really like Liu Shi Shi when I was young, and I also wanted to see Liu Yu Ning's portrayal of a domineering Jun Hou (bending). This drama presents the characters in a three-dimensional way, without rigidly depicting their traits.
1. The script is rich, and the supporting roles are not merely tools for the main characters' romance. The plot doesn't become predictable, and it follows the logical thinking of normal people.
For example, when portraying the two leads, they don't always have a stern face or deliver lines in a stiff manner when trying to showcase qualities like decisiveness. Instead, they dare to capture other humorous and warm traits, blending them into everyday life, which makes you believe that these characters are truly fleshed-out individuals.
2. The post-production is impressive, with well-placed music and cinematography that serves the storytelling rather than showcasing technical prowess. The plot editing is tight and doesn't drag on.
3. The costume and makeup design is exquisite and doesn't fall into the trap of cheap, mass-produced costumes. However, some adjustments could be made to certain characters' hairstyles.
For example, most of the hairstyles for the upper-class women feature symmetrical tassels on both sides with a hairpin in the middle, which could be further refined.
4. The action scenes are smooth and free from artificial moves.
It is recommended to further enhance the fight scenes as a major highlight for promotional purposes.
HandsomeLetMeSee6 months ago275episode 9
Ren Ru Yi: It reminds me of a phrase, which is Zi Wei's description of Qing Er as "the spark beneath the iceberg." It feels applicable to Ru Yi as well.
From her interactions with Ling Long, the Empress, her stepmother, Li Tong Guang, Yang Ying, and others, Ru Yi has been revealing the softer side of her heart.
She repays kindness and treasures relationships. Moreover, this character remains consistent throughout, whether in the past or in the present, five or six years later. Ru Yi's personality hasn't undergone significant changes.
She can rush back overnight for the Empress and now she can chase after Ling Long for thousands of miles.
LittleMushroomInThePineForest6 months ago260episode 40
The ending flattened and killed off every viewer who loved this drama... I don't understand why dramas these days are so strange. Immortals destroy the world for love, while mortals sacrifice themselves for their homeland?
I want to tell the screenwriter to keep their eyes wide open when they go to sleep at night... And Liu Yu Ning, your dedication song was beautiful... but please, don't sing anymore... What happened to the promised love and security?
Can you protect others but not yourself? And I want to say to Ruyi, you didn't cherish the opportunity Princess Ying gave you... Now you regret it, right? You should have just forcefully pursued Ning Yuan Zhou from the beginning...
Listening to him blabbering so much. He's just the king of empty words with no real action. And when you get to the underworld, break up with him... He probably won't be any good after he dies.
He won't be able to give you children, so you can look around more in the underworld...
Micah6 months ago235episode 20
Why do I feel like Qian Zhao in Six Paths Hall is the most likely to be attracted to Ren Ru Yi? It's that kind of person who has certain abilities, isn't easily moved emotionally or accepts others easily.
When they encounter someone with strong abilities who saves them and they're ready to accept that person, they develop doubts and misunderstandings due to certain circumstances, hurting that person.
Once the misunderstandings are cleared, she forgives me, and from then on, I've been silently observing her. And she, wholeheartedly devoted to everyone, gradually captivates me with her abilities and charismatic personality, without her even realizing it.
Azucar6 months ago230episode 29
Speaking of growth, Du Changshi, Lord Du, has also grown, haha. From being labeled as a "strict but timid" official to shooting pursuers in Tianxing Gorge, from looking down on women and willing to sacrifice Ruyi to please Anguo, to being educated and realizing his mistakes, the character has gradually become more developed.
Looking at the script, it seems that there will be more outstanding performances later on. In this travel group, with the presence of a morally upright female lead and male lead, everyone has experienced significant growth.
VictoriaWw6 months ago217episode 27
Can Li Tongguang break free from his current situation? I can understand the mixed feelings of love and hate that Ru Yi has towards him. On one hand, she has taken care of him for four or five years, watching him grow up.
Although they are only a few years apart in age, she still sees him as a younger brother or junior, hoping that he would succeed and have good character.
However, after not seeing him for several years, he has completely changed.
Not only is he ruthless and cold-blooded, not hesitating to kill, but his way of doing things is also arrogant and he effortlessly resorts to humiliating others. Ru Yi hates and dislikes this side of him, and is greatly disappointed.
For Li Tongguang to break free from this situation, he needs to become a normal person. He needs to let go of his paintings, destroy the dolls, and close off the secret room. He should show respect and reverence towards his master, and support and assist the master's friends and the tasks at hand, just like a devoted follower.
Only then is it possible to change the master's mindset.
YammyBallsSauce6 months ago195episode 31
It's really heart-wrenching. Women in that era were truly constrained by circumstances, so what Ru Yi went through was incredibly difficult. And before her death, she not only wished to prove her worth to herself but also wanted to show her family that she had achievements worthy of pride and glory...?
? She achieved the prestigious position of Chief Secretary, only to sacrifice it all for the sake of a mere three thousand taels of gold.
CorianderCoriander6 months ago183episode 25
The love given by Ning Yuanzhou is absolutely not burdensome. It is a flamboyant and passionate cloak wrapped around him, gently fluttering, radiating warm sunlight and vibrant vitality.
This is also the first time he has learned to love someone so deeply, fearing that his love is not enough, fearing that he is not good enough. But from the first moment of infatuation, he has painted infinite expectations for the future.
He always feels indebted, owing time, affection, and unspoken words of love. But he never imposes or dominates, always showing absolute respect.
Even in the face of death, Ning Yuanzhou remains like a ship anchored at the edge of towering waves, steady and unwavering.
The anchor tightly secures the ship to the reef, refusing to be overturned by any storms.
Cilantro6 months ago172episode 26
One person's protection is essential for the well-being of the nation. I wholeheartedly appreciate Ning Yuan's values! While it's crucial to successfully bring back Wudi, it's equally important to protect the brothers by our side.
The captives of the Six Paths Hall are fighting for Wudi. They are the heroes of Wuguo, the loved ones of Ning Yuan Zhou. Heroes deserve national honors, and loved ones should not be humiliated.
With national grudges, personal vendettas, and brotherly bonds, Ning Yuan Zhou carries his own scale in his heart.
He possesses a touch more tenderness than the stern generals and a bit more flexibility than the blindly loyal old ministers.
Liu Yu Ning has crafted a flesh-and-blood Ning Yuan Zhou. He has both great and small loves, the ability to strategize and confront enemies directly.
He respects every comrade fighting side by side and provides them with the support they need most.
Aspirin6 months ago169episode 27
The female lead is ruthless towards her disciple because how can a disciple raised as a wolf be shown the same mercy as a puppy? Even though she has to hide her identity, she still educates and awakens Li Tong Guang, reminding him of the difficulties he faced to reach his current position, due to his immaturity.
She worries about him falling from the tree, seeks revenge when he is attacked, and reluctantly accepts him. These are the long-standing teacher-disciple sentiments they have developed. However, if you talk about romantic feelings between them, there is absolutely none.
Therefore, Ren Ru Yi will definitely not have any positive response in that regard. She is resolute.
BunnyNoCarrot6 months ago167episode 1
After watching the first six episodes , I absolutely love Liu Yu Ning's portrayal of Ning Yuan Zhou. One crucial aspect is his respect for women.
In the sixth episode, when Yu Shi San repeatedly tries to show interest in Ren Ru Yi, Ning Yuan Zhou sternly tells him, "Ren Ru Yi is our business partner, not a woman you can casually tease.
As long as she hasn't shown any signs of favor towards you, every word of your love pursuit is a joke, a lack of respect, especially in front of others.
In Ning Yuan Zhou's perspective, if a man repeatedly seeks love from a woman without any indication or hint of reciprocation, it becomes harassment and a tremendous lack of respect towards her.
If such actions occur in public, it is even more egregious. Ning Yuan Zhou's words are worth every man memorizing repeatedly. Don't think that just because you like someone, you can disregard the woman's feelings and profess love without considering the context or boundaries.
Such behavior not only disrespects the woman but also demonstrates a lack of self-love, self-respect, and shamelessness on the part of the man. In fact, there is a group of men who adhere to the belief that persistently pursuing someone will eventually lead to success.
When they develop an interest in a woman, they employ various methods to pursue her.
There was a time when it became trendy for men to publicly kneel and confess their love, even going as far as claiming they would remain kneeling until the woman agreed, placing the woman in an extremely awkward position.
Hopefully, such incidents will no longer occur in the future.
For Ning Yuan Zhou, Ren Ru Yi is the biggest temptation he has encountered. Faced with such a readily available woman, many men would immediately accept her advances.
However, Ning Yuan Zhou exercises rational restraint because he believes that such actions should only be done with the person he truly loves. At present, he hasn't fallen in love with Ren Ru Yi, so he mustn't overstep boundaries, especially considering his responsibility to help clear the name of his Tian Dao brothers.
Understanding how to respect women to the greatest extent possible, being able to reject tremendous temptations with rationality, and practicing self-love... Anyone who watches a male lead like this would fall in love with him, even if it's only from watching this particular scene.
There should be many people who become infatuated with Ning Yuan Zhou.
OweItUp6 months ago161episode 1
Perfectly showcasing the distinction between work and personal life, the entire team's on-the-job demeanor: cool, elegant, and exuding authority, while being humorous and funny after work.
After watching all six episodes, I feel that every scene is exceptionally well-crafted and worth savoring.
The director's camera work and smooth transitions are truly impressive.
The storyline in the first episode is introduced clearly and straightforwardly, thanks to the excellent writing. Moreover, every actor is truly on point!
- 2 Reply
- DominantBoss6 months ago
  The current fight scenes are completely staged, with each move resembling a choreographed display. They have aesthetic appeal but lack any sense of power! Moreover, the costume designs nowadays are too loose and overly exquisite.
  Combined with excessive beautification, the real settings don't feel authentic, resulting in a lackluster portrayal of the action sequences. The lack of distinctiveness among actors nowadays is precisely because of excessive beautification.
- DominantBoss6 months ago
  Not appealing to male viewers! The fight scenes lack any sense of power, with slow-motion shots and a scarcity of wide-angle action shots! They fail to achieve a seamless flow, and the loose cuffs on the costumes make the fight scenes look like a dance!
  The characters are overly beautified, turning them all into pretty boy types, and the costumes are overly extravagant. Don't blame me for saying so.

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8.8

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