LayarHijau.com – After weeks of speculation, the long-rumored pairing of Esther Yu and Wang Anyu has finally been confirmed. On Wednesday, June 19, the official Weibo account for the drama A Journey to Glow (一念江南) revealed its full title, main cast, and creative team in a poetic and visually striking announcement.
The production team described the project as “the first psychological healing drama in ancient costume,” a rare approach in a genre typically dominated by political intrigue and martial arts action. Their official post read, “The smoke and water are long, a thought arises, the flames are hidden, Jiangnan Township. The first ancient costume psychological healing drama #一念江南# invites you to join!”
Esther Yu echoed the poetic tone with, “With a single thought, spring is not late—welcome to the real Jiangnan,” while Wang Anyu added, “Everyone says Jiangnan is beautiful—here it comes.”
The story follows five characters from vastly different backgrounds—among them a wandering female thief (Esther Yu) and a demoted official (Wang Anyu)—who converge in the small town of Yongxing in search of a legendary hidden treasure. What begins as a treasure hunt turns into a journey of emotional healing, as they encounter the townspeople and rediscover meaning in their lives.
The series will have 40 episodes and will stream on iQiyi, though the official air date has yet to be announced. Directed by Hong Ling and written by Zhang Shuheng, the project is produced by Ningmeng Films, the same studio behind A Journey to Love (一念关山).
As part of the A Journey universe, A Journey to Glow naturally draws comparisons to its predecessor. A Journey to Love received wide acclaim for its emotionally mature storytelling, progressive depiction of female characters, and dynamic dual leads. Viewers described it as a rollercoaster of emotions—filled with laughter, tears, romance, and intense action—earning a reputation as one of the standout Chinese dramas in recent years. Although some felt the ending was rushed, most agreed it was “a journey worth taking.”
Now, A Journey to Glow promises a gentler and more introspective path within the same universe. With its warm Jiangnan backdrop and emotionally vulnerable characters, the new drama invites viewers to experience healing instead of warfare, inner transformation instead of revenge.
Netizens have already begun expressing excitement over the official cast reveal. Comments include:
“I fainted from happiness!”
“Esther Yu as a quirky thief, Wang Anyu as a demoted official—this is going to be fun and touching!”
“The characters are so refreshing. Can’t wait to see what kind of spark they’ll create!”
With two beloved young stars and an emotionally rich concept, A Journey to Glow could very well offer a new kind of heartwarming story that resonates strongly with female viewers.
Will it live up to the emotional highs of A Journey to Love, or create a new legacy of its own? We’ll be watching closely for its premiere.