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Production has begun on Swords into Plowshares, a Chinese historical drama set during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms (907-960) period.

The series, announced in October at a launch event in Hengdian, Zhejiang province, is the first to focus on the culture and history of the Wuyue Kingdom, a small but influential state that played an important role in sustaining Chinese civilization during a time of widespread conflict.

The story revolves around Qian Hongshu, the ruler of Wuyue, and Zhao Kuangyin, the founding emperor of the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). Against a backdrop of war and political upheaval, the two leaders ultimately chose unification over division.

Produced by Zhejiang Huace Film and TV Co, Swords into Plowshares represents nearly a decade of planning, with three years dedicated to refining the script.

The series is helmed by award-winning screenwriter Dong Zhe and director Yang Lei. Dong, known for his skill in tackling complex historical narratives, acknowledged the unique challenge of bringing Wuyue's story to life.

"The difficulty isn't in the historical details — it's in creating a narrative that resonates with today's audience while remaining true to the time," Dong explained.

Yang emphasized the show's role in expanding knowledge of an underexplored period in Chinese history. "Many people are familiar with the Tang and Ming dynasties, but the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period is often overlooked," he said. "This series aims to fill that gap and help audiences appreciate the broader arc of Chinese history."

The production team is sparing no effort to ensure historical accuracy and visual impact. Filming is centered in Hengdian, where an expansive 60,000-square-meter set has been built. Over 8,000 custom-designed costumes — including soldiers' armor, court robes, and everyday attire — will bring the period to life.

While rooted in history, Swords into Plowshares seeks to connect with contemporary viewers through its themes of peace, resilience, and the costs of conflict. "We're using modern techniques and perspectives to tell an ancient story," said Yang.

The production team views the series as a new kind of historical drama, one that balances authenticity with accessibility. A crew of over 1,000 people is working on the project, focusing on creating a visually rich and thought-provoking series.

Scheduled for an international release, Swords into Plowshares offers a rare look at a lesser-known chapter of Chinese history, presenting a compelling narrative about the pursuit of unity in a divided world. The series will also be filmed on location at historical sites across Zhejiang, including preserved Wuyue landmarks in Hangzhou and Shaoxing.