Top 17 Martial arts Novels with Cultivation in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Specialized Lists

17 Novels

Martial arts and cultivation are so commonly paired they're almost inseparable in Chinese web novels. The combination gives you both the physical techniques and the internal energy systems, martial moves backed by cultivated qi or spiritual power. It's the foundation of both wuxia and xianxia, differing mainly in how far the power scaling goes.

What I look for in this combination is how well the martial arts and cultivation elements integrate. Some novels treat them as separate tracks, others blend them into unified systems where fighting techniques require specific cultivation levels or where cultivation breakthroughs unlock new martial abilities.

Completed
1
TOP PICK
Stellar Transformation
4.2
(1.3K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
In a galaxy far away, there is a kid without the innate ability to practice internal techniques. So, in order to gain the respect of his father, he resolutely chooses to follow the more difficult and painful path of practicing external techniques.
First Impressions
"Stellar Transformation" is a xianxia novel that I found to be a mixed bag, although overall, the experience was worthwhile. It’s one of those stories that really benefits from going in with the right expectations. Initially, I was a little put off by the pacing. It definitely starts slow, focusing on Qin Yu's early life and struggles. Some readers might find this tedious, but I appreciated the character building. It allowed me to connect with Qin Yu and understand his motivations, which are initially driven by a desire to earn his father's approval and help his family. This is a refreshing ch...
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Completed
2
RUNNER UP
SSS-Class Sui**de Hunter
4.3
(1.2K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
I am dying to have a Class S Skill! ..
First Impressions
SSS-Class Suide Hunter… what a title! I dove into this web novel with a mix of curiosity and trepidation, given the rather intense premise. It's a story that seems to polarize readers, with some hailing it as a masterpiece and others finding it deeply flawed. So, what did I think? Initially, I was a bit overwhelmed. The early chapters are a whirlwind of information, and the main character, Kim Gong-ja, isn't exactly the most likeable guy. He's envious, obsessive, and driven by a desire for revenge. However, I stuck with it, and I'm glad I did because the initial chaos gives way to something fa...
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Completed
3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Thousand Autumns
4.5
(1.0K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
Yan Wushi had walked a path full of blood and corpses. He did not believe in the good nature of humanity.
First Impressions
"Thousand Autumns" has been quite the ride! Diving into this wuxia world felt like stepping into a meticulously crafted tapestry of ancient China, martial arts, and complex characters. I found myself completely absorbed in Shen Qiao's journey, and even though the romance took a backseat for much of the story, I was invested in the overall narrative. Initially, I was drawn in by the promise of a kind-hearted MC, and Shen Qiao definitely delivered. He's not your typical overpowered protagonist; instead, he's a strong, principled character who faces betrayal and hardship with unwavering resolve. ...
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Completed
4
EDITORS CHOICE
Chronicles of Primordial Wars
4.5
(1.0K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, martial arts
Shao Xuan joins a friend in his expedition to a recently discovered archaeological cave. After he picks up an ordinary looking stone he is teleported to a different world and wakes up in the body of a small orphan child.
First Impressions
"Chronicles of Primordial Wars" is a web novel that took me by surprise. With a solid 4.5/5 rating and a slew of glowing reviews, I had high expectations going in, and for the most part, it delivered. It's a unique blend of action, adventure, and xuanhuan set in a primordial world, and the story's originality is definitely one of its strongest points. Initially, the pacing is slow. The story eases you into this ancient, tribal setting. We follow our protagonist as he adapts to life in the body of a young orphan in this harsh, Stone Age world. It's a far cry from the typical cultivation novel, ...
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Completed
5
EDITORS CHOICE
Xian Wang Dotes On Wife
4.5
(370 ratings)
Genre: drama, josei, martial arts
She is an expert in medicine, the only daughter of Yun Tian, Yun Valley’s master. Her parents died, leaving her alone in this world.
First Impressions
"Xian Wang Dotes On Wife" promised a charming romance set against the backdrop of ancient China, and for the most part, it delivered. I found myself drawn into the world of a strong, transmigrated female lead and a doting male lead. While it has its flaws, I can see why so many readers have enjoyed this novel. Initially, I was intrigued by the premise. A capable female lead who isn't immediately bogged down in revenge plots is a breath of fresh air. The story starts three years after her transmigration, which allowed the author to build the world more naturally. I quickly became invested in se...
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Completed
6
#6 PICK
Unsheathed
4.6
(252 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
The boundless universe was filled with all sorts of wonders. I, Chen Ping’an, only have one sword, to move mountains, turn the seas upside down, suppress demons, deal with gods, pluck stars, break rivers, destroy cities, and open the heavenly abode!
First Impressions
"Unsheathed" is a web novel that's been on my radar for a while, and after diving in, I can see why it has such a dedicated following. It's a unique xianxia experience that prioritizes character development and world-building over rapid power-ups, which definitely sets it apart from the crowd. Initially, I was a bit taken aback by the pacing. It's definitely a slow burn, and the main character, Chen Ping'An, starts out as incredibly naive and seemingly taken advantage of. Some readers might find this frustrating, but I urge you to stick with it. It's a deliberate choice by the author, and it p...
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Completed
7
#7 PICK
The Great Conqueror
4.4
(208 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Zou Liang, a man with a passionate interest in a fighting game came into a world governed by the beast tribes. There the ones with high martial ability were respected.
First Impressions
"The Great Conqueror" is a web novel that throws you headfirst into a world of beastmen, cultivation, and a protagonist armed with modern knowledge. It's a wild ride that definitely has its high points, but also some quirks that might make you pause. Initially, I found the world-building a bit overwhelming. The first few chapters are heavy on exposition, and the unique names for races can be hard to keep straight. However, if you power through that initial info dump, the story starts to pick up speed. The premise of a gamer/engineer reincarnated as a "brainless" bearman is intriguing, and I wa...
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Completed
8
#8 PICK
My Daoist Life
4.5
(295 ratings)
Genre: fantasy, harem, martial arts
My Name is Huang Jing Yang, Born in the 90s. Accidentally, I sowed within myself a Dao Seed.
First Impressions
My Daoist Life presents a unique spin on the Xianxia genre, and I found myself surprisingly invested in its blend of modern slice-of-life and Daoist cultivation. The novel follows a young boy's accidental entry into the world of cultivation, and his subsequent journey navigating both the mundane and the supernatural. Initially, I was drawn in by the protagonist's innocence and the story's slow-paced, character-driven narrative. The early chapters focus on his life in the countryside with his grandfather, and his gradual discovery of his abilities. It felt refreshing to read a cultivation story...
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Completed
9
#9 PICK
Living to Suffer
4.4
(258 ratings)
Genre: drama, historical, martial arts
Shen Liangsheng is lying in the dirt bleeding away when a doctor, Ch’in Ching, discovers the wounded man. From then on, these two are in a doomed relationship since Ch’in Ching is fated to become a sacrifice.
First Impressions
"Living to Suffer" is a whirlwind of lust, fate, and tragedy set against the backdrop of ancient China. I dove into this novel expecting a rollercoaster of emotions, and it certainly delivered, though not always in ways I anticipated. With only twenty chapters, it's a quick read, but the story definitely lingers. From the very beginning, the sense of impending doom is palpable. I knew going in that this was a tragedy, but the way the author established the characters' fates made it feel less like a story and more like watching a car crash in slow motion. The initial chapters are heavily focuse...
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Completed
10
#10 PICK
Today, The Villain Couple is Settling Scores Again
4.5
(162 ratings)
Genre: comedy, fantasy, martial arts
Jian Huan found herself transported into a xianxia novel as the fiancee of the main antagonist. Feeling her empty wallet, she recalled the pitiful fate of the original owner of the body who stubbornly refused to annul the marriage.
First Impressions
"Today, The Villain Couple is Settling Scores Again" promised a comedic xianxia romance, and for the most part, it delivered a fun and engaging experience. While some aspects could have been stronger, I found myself charmed by the broke protagonists and their journey to riches and love. The initial premise grabbed me immediately: two penniless leads in an arranged marriage, both more interested in making money than finding love. The description of their first meeting, as a poor transmigrator and a debtor, definitely piqued my interest. This setup felt unique, and I was eager to see how their r...
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Conclusion

These seventeen novels combine martial arts action with cultivation progression. The specific tradition varies from more grounded wuxia to cosmic-scale xianxia. Check the power level descriptions to find novels that match your preferred scale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our rankings consider multiple factors: reader ratings (40%), popularity and reading lists (25%), review quality (20%), and editorial assessment (15%). We update regularly to reflect new releases and changing reader preferences.

We update our rankings monthly to ensure they reflect the latest reader ratings and new novel releases.

How We Create Our 2026 Rankings

Our 2026 novel rankings are created through a comprehensive, data-driven process that combines quantitative metrics with qualitative editorial review. Here's how we ensure our rankings reflect the best novels available today.

Data Collection

We aggregate reading data, ratings, and engagement metrics from thousands of readers across multiple platforms, updated regularly throughout 2026.

Community Input

Reader ratings and reviews form the foundation of our rankings. We weight votes based on verified reading history to ensure authenticity.

Quality Scoring

Each novel receives a composite score based on average rating, vote count, reading list additions, and reader retention metrics.

Editorial Review

Our editorial team reviews top candidates for writing quality, translation accuracy, and overall reader experience.

Regular Updates

Rankings are refreshed quarterly to reflect new releases, updated ratings, and shifting reader preferences in 2026.

Transparency

We publish our methodology openly so readers understand exactly how novels earn their positions in our rankings.

Our 2026 Ranking Criteria

40%Reader Rating Score (weighted by vote count and recency)
25%Popularity Metrics (reading list additions, active readers)
20%Engagement Score (comments, reviews, recommendations)
15%Editorial Assessment (writing quality, translation, completeness)

Last updated: January 27, 2026 | Rankings reflect data collected through 2026

Ranked Novels

Stellar Transformation

First Impressions

SSS-Class Sui**de Hunter

First Impressions

Thousand Autumns

First Impressions

Chronicles of Primordial Wars

First Impressions

Xian Wang Dotes On Wife

First Impressions

Unsheathed

First Impressions

The Great Conqueror

First Impressions

My Daoist Life

First Impressions