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Fandom for everything about Journey to the West. This wiki aims to cover every book, movie, TV series, game, comic, and other media that has ever been created about the original Journey to the West. Its goal is to be all-encompassing, comprehensive, and self-contained. Created by fans for fans of Journey to the West, we welcome you to join!

Journey to the West wiki is dedicated to those interested in the legend of  Journey to the West , written by author Wu Cheng'en. For over 500 years, the ancient novel has gained popularity worldwide. Its influence spread through media like films, TV, book, video games, et cetera. The story is comprised of various myths from religions like Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism.  Journey to the West  is considered one of China's four great classical novels, emphasizing the culture and traditions practiced today by the people in east Asia.

While the book may be fictional, it contains real live events and historical people, such as the Buddhist monk named  Xuanzang  and his pilgrimage to India. As the story goes, Xuanzang, by decree of the Chinese Emperor Taizong , embarks on a journey to India to retrieve sacred Buddhist scriptures called "sutras." Along the path, he meets and converts three disciples. Their names are  Sun Wukong  (Monkey King),  Zhu Bajie  (Pigsy), and  Sha Wujing  (Sandy). Together, the four pilgrims journey across dangerous roads, face numerous demons and overcome perilous obstacles. In the end, their accomplishments earn them the titles of enlightened beings. 

Journey to the West , being passed down for generations, has influenced readers around the world throughout history. Today, people continue to expand the novel's popularity by making films, TV shows, books, and video games. This page is open to fans of  Journey to the West  all over the world. People who would like to know the story more in detail can access the database here on the Journey to the West wiki!

灵根育孕源流出　心性修持大道生

The Divine Root Conceives and the Spring Breaks Forth

As the Heart’s Nature Is Cultivated, the Great Way Arises

混沌未分天地乱，茫茫渺渺无人见。

Before Chaos was divided, Heaven and Earth were one;

All was a shapeless blur, and no men had appeared.

自从盘古破鸿蒙，开辟从兹清浊辨。

Once Pan Gu destroyed the Enormous Vagueness

The separation of clear and impure began. 

覆载群生仰至仁，发明万物皆成善。

Living things have always tended toward humanity; 

From their creation all being improve.

预知造化会元功，须看《西游释厄传》

If you want to know about Creation and Time,

Read Difficulties Resolved on the Journey to the West . 

Important pages

• The Setting

Main Characters

• Tang Sanzang
• zh lang version
• Three Kingdoms

Latest activity

• 1 Sun Wukong
• 2 Zhu Bajie
• 3 Tang Sanzang

In  Chinese mythology , Sun Wukong (孫悟空), also known as the Monkey King, is a trickster god who plays a central role in  Wu Cheng’en’s  adventure novel  Journey to the West .

Wukong is blessed with unmatched superhuman strength and the ability to transform into 72 different animals and objects. Each of his hairs have transformative powers, and he can magically manipulate wind, water and fire as well. Characterized by his short temper, impatience and proclivity towards anger, Sun Wukong is one of the most important and beloved literary figures in Chinese culture.

Sūn Wùkōng’s name is comprised of the characters for “grandson” (孫), “awakened” (悟) and “space”(空). Though the character sūn (孫) usually refers to grandsons, in this context it refers to monkeys. His name literally translates as the “monkey awakened by the emptiness.” Wukong’s name is meant to represent his spiritual journey from an ignorant, short-tempered monkey to a benevolent, enlightened being. In Japan, he is known as Son Goku.

Being a monkey, Sun Wukong has a very distinct appearance that sets him apart from the other gods. Prior to his enlightenment, Wukong is usually depicted as a naked  macaque . After devoting himself to the Buddhist monk Tang Sanzang, Wukong is generally shown in full warrior gear with special items such as a golden chainmail shirt, a phoenix feathered cap, cloud-walking boots, and an eight ton staff that can shrink to the size of a needle.

Sun Wukong does not have any blood relatives, as he was born from a magical rock. Prior to joining the Jade Emperor’s court, he lorded over a group of wandering monkeys who took care of him and regarded him as their leader.

The legend of Sun Wukong first appeared in the Song Dynasty-era adventure novel  Journey to the West . The book follows the story of a humble Buddhist monk named Tang Sanzang who travels from his home in Southern China to India in order to bring back holy texts and enlighten his countrymen. After being released from the mountain he was trapped under for 500 years, Wukong serves as the monk's bodyguard throughout his journey.

In ancient times, a magical rock rested on top of  Mount Huagou . One day, a stiff breeze blew upon the rock and caused a fully formed monkey to burst forth from its stone face. Despite having just been born, the young monkey was already able to walk and speak.

When Wukong opened his eyes, golden beams of light shot forth from his pupils, piercing the clouds and startling the  Jade Emperor  (玉皇). When the Jade Emperor looked for the source of the strange light, all he could see was a baby monkey. Thinking that the light could not possibly emanate from such a source, the Jade Emperor dismissed the incident from his mind.

As he began exploring the forest, Sun Wukong discovered other monkeys and decided to live with them. One day the group was relaxing near a waterfall when they decided to play a game: whoever was brave enough to jump through the falls and find the stream’s source would be named the King of Monkeys.

Sun Wukong immediately leapt through the waterfall and traveled up the stream to find its source. His mission was successful, and he quickly returned and declared himself king. With the support of the forest monkeys, Sun Wukong quickly established himself as a powerful forest demon that would go on to battle the  Dragon King  and other sea demons. His exploits earned him a number of powerful weapons, including his signature gold chainmail shirt, phoenix cap, cloud-walking boots, and magical eight ton staff.

When the time came for  Yan Wang  (閻王) and the Kings of Hell to collect Wukong’s soul, Wukong was ready. He tricked Yan Wang into allowing him to return to earth without undergoing reincarnation. Before leaving Hell, Wukong managed to erase his and every other forest monkey’s name from the Book of Life and Death. Troubled that the balance of life was being upset by a mere monkey, Yan Wang appealed to the Jade Emperor for assistance.

Sun Wukong and the Jade Emperor

Upon hearing about the irascible demon of Mount Huaguo, the Jade Emperor felt the best way to subdue Wukong was to let him live in Heaven with the other gods so that he would feel a sense of importance. He issued an invitation to Wukong, who eagerly accepted. After saying goodbye to his friends, the Monkey King set off for the Jade Palace.

Once he got there, however, Sun Wukong discovered he was assigned to the lowest task in all of Heaven: guarding the Jade Emperor’s horses. He quickly realized that because he was a monkey, the other gods would never see him as a peer. In hopes of finding a way to prove himself an equal, the Monkey King became obsessed with the idea of immortality and devoted himself to the pursuit of everlasting life. When the Jade Emperor encouraged him to take up other, more fruitful pursuits, Wukong scorned him:

‘Can this sort of practice lead to immortality?’ asked Wukong. ‘Impossible! Impossible!’ said the Patriarch. ‘I won't learn it then,’ Wukong said.

One day, the Jade Emperor held a party to celebrate his wife,  Xiwangmu  (西王母). Having been unknowingly excluded from the party, Wukong decided to drop by and was laughed out of the hall by the other gods. Hurt by the actions of his peers, Wukong declared himself to be Qítiān Dàshèng (齊天大聖), or the “Great Sage Equal to Heaven". He also made an enormous banner to taunt the Emperor.

The Jade Emperor sent a battalion of soldiers to arrest Wukong for his insolence, but they proved to be no match for him. After defeating the last solder, the Monkey King shouted victoriously, “Remember my name, Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong!”

The Monkey King's victory forced the Jade Emperor to acknowledge his power. In recognition of his talent, the Jade Emperor promoted him to guard Xiwangmu’s Peaches of Immortality. This was not enough for the Monkey King, however, who truly believed that he was the Jade Emperor’s equal. Viewing this promotion as yet another insult, Wukong decided that enough was enough. In a final act of defiance, Wukong ate all of the peaches in the garden. The Jade Emperor was furious, and sent two battalions after the Monkey King. Once again, however, Wukong defeated them all.

Out of options, the Jade Emperor told Buddha what had happened and begged him to intervene. Buddha immediately banished Wukong from Heaven and pinned him underneath a mountain so that he could reflect on his actions.

Journey to the West

For 500 years, Wukong lay immobilized beneath the weight of Buddha’s mountain. Eventually, a traveling monk named Tang Sanzang found the Monkey King and offered to release him on the condition that he would repent and become the monk’s disciple.

At first the Monkey King rejected the monk's offer. Sun Wukong would play servant to no one—least of all a human. After Tang started to walk away, however, Wukong quickly changed his mind. He would gladly serve the monk in exchange for his release.

Before Tang freed Wukong, the goddess of mercy  Guanyin  (觀音) gave the monk a magical band that granted him control over the Monkey King. After being freed from the weight of the mountain, Sun Wukong joined Tang’s other demonic traveling companions: Zhū Bājiè (猪八戒) or “Piggy”, and Shā Wùjìng (沙悟浄) or “Sandy.”

Grateful to be released from his imprisonment, Sun Wukong served Tang faithfully during their journey to India and cheerfully battled demons whenever the need arose. Through his noble deeds and dedication to Tang’s teachings, Sun Wukong eventually achieved enlightenment and put an end to his angry, greedy and envious tendencies.

Pop Culture

Though he’s not commonly worshiped by Buddhist and Taoist practitioners, Sun Wukong is an important Chinese cultural figure and has been featured in a number of TV series, movies and plays.

Journey to the West  has been adapted into film a number of times, and was most recently remade  in 2013  by Chinese film director and actor  Stephen Chow . In the anime  Dragon Ball , the character of Son Goku is largely based off the myth of Sun Wukong, hence his superhuman strength and tail. Sun Wukong also serves as the inspiration for the character of the same name in  RWBY .

Sun Wukong is featured as a character in the video games  Sonson ,  Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes, League of Legends,  and  Warriors Orochi .

Journey to the West

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Journey to the West (西遊記, Xīyóujì in Mandarin Chinese and Saiyūki in Japanese) is a 16th-century Chinese legend and one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature , which Dragon Ball is loosely based upon. Originally published anonymously in the 1590s during the Ming Dynasty, it has been ascribed to the scholar Wú Chéng'ēn since the 20th century, even though no direct evidence of its authorship survives.

The tale is also often known simply as Monkey . This was one title used for a popular, abridged translation by Arthur Waley. The Waley translation has also been published as Adventures of the Monkey God ; and Monkey: [A] Folk Novel of China ; and The Adventures of Monkey .

• 1.1 Synopsis
• 1.2 Historical context
• 1.3 Relation to Dragon Ball
• 2.1 Tripitaka or Xuánzàng
• 2.2 Monkey King or Sūn Wùkōng
• 2.3 Zhū Bājiè
• 2.4 Shā Wùjìng
• 3 List of Demons
• 4 Notable English-language translations
• 5.3 Live-action television
• 5.4.1 Works referencing Journey to the West
• 6 References
• 7 External links

Overview [ ]

Dragon Ball characters depicted as Journey to the West characters ( Toriyama - The World & Daizenshuu 1 )

The novel is a fictionalized account of the legends around the Buddhist monk Xuánzàng's pilgrimage to India during the Táng dynasty in order to obtain Buddhist religious texts called sutras. On instruction from the Buddha, the Bodhisattva Guānyīn gives this task to the monk and his three protectors in the form of disciples: namely Sūn Wùkōng, Zhū Bājiè and Shā Wùjìng; together with a dragon prince who acts as Xuánzàng's horse mount. These four characters have agreed to help Xuánzàng as an atonement for past sins.

Some scholars propose that the book satirizes the effete Chinese government at the time. Journey to the West has a strong background in Chinese folk religion, Chinese mythology and value systems; the pantheon of Taoist deities and Buddhist bodhisattvas is still reflective of Chinese folk religious beliefs today.

Part of the novel's enduring popularity comes from the fact that it works on multiple levels: it is a first-rate adventure story, a dispenser of spiritual insight, and an extended allegory in which the group of pilgrims journeying toward India stands for the individual journeying toward enlightenment.

Synopsis [ ]

Gohan as the Monkey King (" Detekoi Tobikiri ZENKAI Power! ")

The novel comprises 100 chapters that can be divided into four very unequal parts. The first, which includes chapters 1–7, is really a self-contained prequel to the main body of the story. It deals entirely with the earlier exploits of Sūn Wùkōng, a monkey born from a stone nourished by the Five Elements, who learns the art of the Tao, 72 polymorphic transformations, combat and secrets of immortality, and through guile and force makes a name for himself as the Qítiān Dàshèng , or "Great Sage Equal to Heaven". His powers grow to match the forces of all of the Eastern (Taoist) deities, and the prologue culminates in Sūn's rebellion against Heaven, during a time when he garnered a post in the celestial bureaucracy. Hubris proves his downfall when the Buddha manages to trap him under a mountain for five hundred years.

Only following this introductory story is the nominal main character, Xuánzàng, introduced. Chapters 8–12 provide his early biography and the background to his great journey. Dismayed that "the land of the South knows only greed, hedonism, promiscuity, and sins", the Buddha instructs the Bodhisattva Guānyīn to search Táng China for someone to take the Buddhist sutras of "transcendence and persuasion for good will" back to the East. Part of the story here also relates to how Xuánzàng becomes a monk (as well as revealing his past life as the "Golden Cicada" and comes about being sent on this pilgrimage by the Emperor Táng Tàizōng, who previously escaped death with the help of both an underworld official and Xuánzàng).

The third and longest section of the work is chapters 13–99, an episodic adventure story which combines elements of the quest as well as the picaresque. The skeleton of the story is Xuánzàng's quest to bring back Buddhist scriptures from Vulture Peak in India, but the flesh is provided by the conflict between Xuánzàng's disciples and the various evils that beset him on the way.

The scenery of this section is, nominally, the sparsely populated lands along the Silk Road between China and India, including Xinjiang, Turkestan, and Afghanistan. The geography described in the book is, however, almost entirely fantastic; once Xuánzàng departs Cháng'ān, the Táng capital and crosses the frontier (somewhere in Gansu province), he finds himself in a wilderness of deep gorges and tall mountains, all inhabited by flesh-eating demons who regard him as a potential meal (since his flesh was believed to give Immortality to whoever eats it), with here and there a hidden monastery or royal city-state amid the wilds.

The episodic structure of this section is to some extent formulaic. Episodes consist of 1–4 chapters, and usually involve Xuánzàng being captured and his life threatened, while his disciples try to find an ingenious (and often violent) way of liberating him. Although some of Xuánzàng's predicaments are political and involve ordinary human beings, they more frequently consist of run-ins with various goblins and ogres, many of whom turn out to be the earthly manifestations of heavenly beings (whose sins will be negated by eating the flesh of Xuanzang) or animal-spirits with enough Taoist spiritual merit to assume semi-human forms.

Chapters 13–22 do not follow this structure precisely, as they introduce Xuánzàng's disciples, who, inspired or goaded by Guānyīn, meet and agree to serve him along the way, in order to atone for their sins in their past lives.

• The first is Sun Wukong, or Monkey, previously "Great Sage Equal to Heaven" and literally "Monkey Awakened to Emptiness", trapped by Buddha for rebelling against Heaven. He appears right away in Chapter 13. The most intelligent and violent of the disciples, he is constantly reproved for his violence by Xuánzàng. Ultimately, he can only be controlled by a magic gold band that the Bodhisattva has placed around his head, which causes him excruciating pain when Xuánzàng says certain magic words.
• The second, appearing in 19, is Zhu Bajie, literally "Pig of Eight Precepts", sometimes translated as Pigsy or just Pig. He was previously Marshal Tīanpéng, commander of the Heavenly Naval forces, banished to the mortal realm for flirting with the Princess of the Moon Chang'e. He is characterized by his insatiable appetites for food and sex, and is constantly looking for a way out of his duties, but is always kept in line by Sūn Wùkōng and also doubles as comic relief.
• The third, appearing in chapter 22, is the river-ogre/kappa Sha Wujing, also translated as Friar Sand or Sandy and literally "Sand Awakened to Purity". He was previously Great General who Folds the Curtain, banished to the mortal realm for dropping (and shattering) a crystal goblet of the Heavenly Queen Mother. He is a quiet but generally dependable character, who serves as the straight foil to the comic relief of Sūn and Zhū who despite this trait, is the nicest out of his two other fellow disciples.
• Possibly to be counted as a fourth disciple is the third prince of the West Sea Dragon King, Yùlóng Sāntàizǐ, who was sentenced to death for setting fire to his father's great pearl that was a gift from the Jade Emperor. He was saved by Guānyīn from execution to stay and wait for his call of duty. He appears first in chapter 15, but has almost no speaking role, as throughout most of the story he appears in the transformed shape of a horse that Xuánzàng rides on. Though some adaptations have managed to expand his role to some degrees.

Chapter 22, where Shā is introduced, also provides a geographical boundary, as the river of quicksand that the travelers cross brings them into a new "continent". Chapters 23–86 take place in the wilderness, and consist of 24 episodes of varying length, each characterized by a different magical monster or evil magician. There are impassably wide rivers, flaming mountains, a kingdom ruled by women, a lair of seductive spider-spirits, and many other fantastic scenarios. Throughout the journey, the four brave disciples have to fend off attacks on their master and teacher Xuánzàng from various monsters and calamities.

It is strongly suggested that most of these calamities are engineered by fate and/or the Buddha, as, while the monsters who attack are vast in power and many in number, no real harm ever comes to the four travelers. Some of the monsters turn out to be escaped heavenly animals belonging to bodhisattvas or Taoist sages and spirits. Towards the end of the book there is a scene where the Buddha literally commands the fulfillment of the last disaster, because Xuánzàng is one short of the eighty-one disasters he needs to attain Buddhahood.

In chapter 87, Xuánzàng finally reaches the borderlands of India, and chapters 87–99 present magical adventures in a somewhat more mundane (though still exotic) setting. At length, after a pilgrimage said to have taken fourteen years (the text actually only provides evidence for nine of those years, but presumably there was room to add additional episodes) they arrive at the half-real, half-legendary destination of Vulture Peak, where, in a scene simultaneously mystical and comic, Xuánzàng receives the scriptures from the living Buddha.

Chapter 100, the last of all, quickly describes the return journey to the Táng Empire, and the aftermath in which each traveler receives a reward in the form of posts in the bureaucracy of the heavens. Sūn Wùkōng and Xuánzàng achieve Buddhahood, Wùjìng becomes the Golden Arhat, the dragon is made a Naga, and Bājiè, whose good deeds have always been tempered by his greed, is promoted to an altar cleanser (i.e. eater of excess offerings at altars).

Historical context [ ]

The classic story of the Journey to the West was based on real events. In real life, Xuanzang (born c. 602 - 664) was a monk at Jingtu Temple in late-Sui Dynasty and early-Tang Dynasty Chang'an. Motivated by the poor quality of Chinese translations of Buddhist scripture at the time, Xuanzang left Chang'an in 629, despite the border being closed at the time due to war with the Gokturks . Helped by sympathetic Buddhists, he traveled via Gansu and Qinghai to Kumul (Hami), thence following the Tian Mountains to Turfan. He then crossed what are today Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan, into Gandhara, reaching India in 630. Xuanzang traveled throughout the Indian subcontinent for the next thirteen years, visiting important Buddhist pilgrimage sites and studying at the ancient university at Nalanda.

Xuanzang left India in 643 and arrived back in Chang'an in 646 to a warm reception by Emperor Taizong of Tang. He joined Da Ci'en Monastery (Monastery of Great Maternal Grace), where he led the building of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in order to store the scriptures and icons he had brought back from India. He recorded his journey in the book Journey to the West in the Great Tang Dynasty . With the support of the Emperor, he established an institute at Yuhua Gong (Jade Luster Palace) monastery dedicated to translating into Chinese the scriptures he had brought back. His translation and commentary work established him as the founder of the Dharma character school of Buddhism. Xuanzang died on March 7, 664. The Xingjiao Monastery was established in 669 to house his ashes.

Popular stories of Xuánzàng's journey were in existence long before Journey to the West was written. In these versions, dating as far back as Southern Song, a monkey character was already a primary protagonist. Before the Yuan Dynasty and early Ming, elements of the Monkey story were already seen.

Relation to Dragon Ball [ ]

Main article: Dragon Ball (manga)#Relation to Journey to the West

Main characters [ ]

Tripitaka or xuánzàng [ ].

Originally named Chén Yī (陳禕), Xuánzàng (玄奘), or Táng Sānzàng (唐三藏; meaning "Táng-dynasty monk" — Sānzàng /三藏 or "Three Baskets", referring to the Tripitaka, was a traditional honorific for a Buddhist monk) is the Buddhist monk who set out to India to retrieve the Buddhist scriptures for China. He is called Tripitaka in many English versions of the story. Although he is helpless when it comes to defending himself, the bodhisattva Guānyīn helps by finding him powerful disciples (Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing) who aid and protect him on his journey. In return, the disciples will receive enlightenment and forgiveness for their sins once the journey is done.

Along the way, the disciples help the Giancarlo by defeating various monsters. The fact that most of the monsters and demons are trying to obtain immortality by eating Sanzang's flesh, and are even attracted to him as he is depicted as quite handsome, provides much of the plot in the story (and in stage plays, it was a common choice for a woman to play the role as Sanzang which has lead to parodies of this tradition). Yet in spite of anyone's personal attractions to him, Sanzang remains celibate and is fully focused on his mission.

In some adaptions that mention it, his original incarnation from heaven is the Jin Chan Zi (金蝉子; lit. "Gold Cicada Child"). Originally, Jin Chan Zi was expelled from heaven for mainly ignoring Buddha's teachings (though how he was disobedient and/or banished varies a lot depending on the adaptation), with Chen Yi/Xuanzang being his 10th reincarnation.

Chen Yi before being a monk, was born to a mother named Yin Wenjiao with her husband Chen Guangrui being killed by a bandit named Liu Hong who was jealous of Chen's position of being recently appointed as a prefect. Wenjiao then put Xuanzang still as an infant on a wooden board to flow on a river out of fear that Liu Hong would find and kill him as well, where a monk managed to pick him up on the other end of the said river out of coincidence. Xuanzang at age 18 soon eventually reunited with his mother and father (whom the latter was saved by a dragon king of a river), and they brought Liu Hong to justice. Afterwards, he was then ordered by Emperor Taizong to bring the ancient Buddhist scriptures from India and also became sworn brothers with him.

Initially known to be reluctant and reserved, Xuanzang Sanzang was known to be devoted to his faith as a monk and a pacifist at heart, despite the fact that his kindness at times works against him (as demons that have disguised themselves as humans have attempted to make use of), yet his willingness to have Wukong and his cohorts spare some of their enemies earns him notable charisma that some have either tried to take further advantage of or have full-on relented from their ways for redemption.

Some adaptations have played with his level of fearfulness and naivety, and others instead (such as the 1996 and 2002 adaptations) portray him as more merciful and wise compared to his initial portrayals (and other adaptations may also give him combat skills to put him on an even floor with his disciples while still ensuring he is not able to inflict too much harm to his foes). Even then, Sanzang has remained true to his mission and had never once considered giving up. One other notable trait is his ability to sit perfectly still for up to 2 or 3 months; a skill he is most proud of from his days of meditation.

In Japanese on'yomi, his Buddhist name is rendered as Genjō . This title being Tō Sanzō or altogether with Xuanzang Sanzang as Genjō Sanzō . And his title of Sanzang Fashi (三藏法師, "Three Baskets Bonze") is romanized as Sanzō Hōshi . His original incarnation from heaven, Jin Chan Zi, is romanized as Konzen Dōji (金蝉 童子) in media such as the Japanese adaptation, Gensōmaden Saiyūki .

Monkey King or Sūn Wùkōng [ ]

Sūn Wùkōng (孫悟空) is the name given to this character by his teacher, Patriarch Subhuti, and means "Monkey Awakened to Emptiness". He is called Sūn Xíngzhě (孫行者, Son Gyōja ) by Xuánzàng (with most adaptations still having him named as "Wukong" by Xuánzàng). While he is commonly known as Monkey King in pop culture, with one of his more egotistical titles being the Handsome Monkey King (美猴王, Měi Hóuwáng/Bikō'ō ). He is by far, the novel's most iconic character.

He was born out of a rock that had been dormant for ages on Flower Fruit Mountain ( Huāguǒshān / Kakazan ) that was inhabited/weathered by the sun and moon until a monkey sprang forth. He first distinguished himself among other fellow monkeys by bravely entering the Cave of Water Curtains ( Shuǐliándòng/Suirendou ); for this feat, his monkey tribe gave him the aforementioned title of "Handsome Monkey King". He soon wanted to go on a quest to study the secrets to immortality, and eventually encountered and studied under Subhuti to learn magic and other various skills (but in trade, was told to never tell anyone who taught him such abilities). Subhuti was also the one to give Wukong his current name, with the "Sun" surname being in ode to his nature as a monkey.

Later, through some misfits involving writing his and other fellow monkeys' names out of the Book of Death in Hell (when it was Wukong's time to die), claiming the East Sea Dragon King's sea needle for himself, he initially was setup for punishment from Heaven yet was given a post as a stable boy. But once he learned of his actual ranking, he ditched the position and back at his mountain renamed himself as "Great Sage Equal to Heaven". Trying to appease him further, they set him to watch over the heavenly peach garden, only for him to be infuriated that he was not invited to a grand banquet and during the preparations with using his magic to everyone working to sleep, stole much of the food and, even resorted to devouring of the peaches of immortality and three jars of immortality pills meant for the Jade Emperor.

Wukong after bringing the stolen food to his monkeys to host his own party back on the mountain, heaven decided enough was enough and it escalated into a full-on war. The monkey defeated an army of 100,000 celestial soldiers, led by the Four Heavenly Kings, Erlang Shen, and Nezha. Eventually, he was then captured. Yet even when Wukong underwent execution after execution, his body from the prior heavenly foods consumed just would not allow him to be harmed in anyway (and eventually even dozed off to sleep in boredom). He was then sealed inside a special furnace as a last resort with the intent of turning him into an elixir, but he broke free and nearly trashed much of the heavenly palace in retaliation; the Jade Emperor appealed to Buddha, who after beating Wukong's attempt at a competition, subdued and trapped the monkey under a mountain for five centuries to repent, with Guanyin occasionally checking in. He was only saved when Xuanzang Sanzang came by him on his pilgrimage and accepted him as a disciple.

His primary weapon is the Rúyì Jīngū Bàng/Nyoi Kinko Bō (如意金箍棒; lit. "Compliant Gold-Rimmed Pole"), which he can shrink down to the size of a needle and keep behind his ear, as well as expand it to gigantic proportions (hence the "compliant" part of the name; some adaptations show the staff to act as if it was alive). The staff, originally a pillar supporting the undersea palace of the East Sea Dragon King, weighs 13,500 kilograms, which Wukong pulled out of its support and swung with ease as it was first offered to Wukong to see if it was a weapon he could wield without breaking like others the monkey had attempted to wield. The Dragon King, not wanting him to cause any trouble, also gave him a suit of golden armor, headpiece and boots

These gifts, combined with his aformentioned devouring of the immortality peaches and immortality pills (giving his already rock-solid-body even more invulnerability), plus his ordeal in an eight-trigram furnace (which gave him the Gold Gaze Fire Eyes to see through evil's disguises but giving his eyes a weakness to smoke), makes Wukong the strongest member by far of the pilgrimage. Besides these abilities, he can also pull hairs from his body and blow on them with magic to transform them into whatever he wishes (usually clones of himself to gain a numerical advantage in battle).

Although he has mastered seventy-two methods of transformations, it does not mean that he is restricted to seventy-two different forms. He can also do a Jīndǒuyún/Kinto'un (筋斗雲; lit. "Somersault Cloud"), enabling him to travel vast distances in a single leap, or ride on a cloud to cover the same amount of distance with flight-based speed (at 108,000 li or 54,000 km). Wukong uses his talents to fight demons and play pranks. However, his behavior is checked by a band placed around his head by Guanyin, which cannot be removed by Wukong himself until the journey's end. Xuanzang Sanzang can tighten this band by chanting the Tightening Hooplet Spell (taught to him by Guanyin) whenever he needs to chastise him. In spite of continuous disagreements with his master and fellow disciples causing Wukong to ditch the party back to his home of Flower Fruit Mountain, he would eventually be able to be convinced and/or reminded to come back after some soul-searching, which proves his developing devotion.

Wukong's childlike playfulness is a huge contrast to his cunning mind. This, coupled with his acrobatic skills, makes him a likeable hero, though not necessarily a good role model given his abrasiveness and initial sociopathic tendencies (even resorting to killing before being tamed by his master throughout the journey). His antics present a lighter side in what proposes to be a long and dangerous trip into the unknown, and overall develops a sense of endearment to his master and fellow disciples in his heart throughout the journey. Some adaptations also make him borderline prone to breaking the fourth wall or making references to other media as a testament to his character depending on the era (such as with Stephen Chow's adaptations of him). Even then, Wukong makes it clear that he is unable to let injustice slide and often takes matters into his own hands (or plays around with the entire scenario) to have a good outcome for any rough situation, even if rather impulsively driven at best and at times being prone to anger. His other main weakness he acknowledges and tries to work-around is his lack of underwater combat ability, which is covered by both Bajie and Wujing.

In Japanese on'yomi, Sun Wukong is romanized more famously as Son Gokū , especially with the popularity of Dragon Ball . His title of Qitian Dasheng (齊天大聖; lit. "Equaling Heaven Great Sage") is known as the Seiten Taisei in Japanese and is mainly to appease his ego (though it does provide a form of respect as the lesser gods would prove, and his actual prior havoc in heaven also can back such a title up). However, his title of "Heavenly Stable Boy" due to its low rank is one way to easily rile him up.

Zhū Bājiè [ ]

Zhū Bājiè (豬八戒; lit. "Pig of the Eight Precepts") is also known as Zhū Wùnéng (豬悟能; lit. "Pig Awakened to Ability") and given the name Pigsy , Piggy or Pig in English.

Once an immortal who was the Tiānpéng Yuánshuǎi (天蓬元帥; lit. "Heaven Canopy Marshall") of 100,000 soldiers of the Milky Way, during a celebration of gods, he drank too much and attempted to flirt with Cháng'é, the beautiful moon goddess, resulting in his banishment into the mortal world. He was supposed to be reborn as a human but ended up in the womb of a sow due to an error at the Reincarnation Wheel, which turned him into a half-man half-pig monster. Staying within Yúnzhandòng ("Cloud Pathway Cave"), he was commissioned by Guanyin to accompany Xuanzang to India and given the new name Zhu Wuneng.

However, Wuneng's desire for women led him to Gao Village, where he posed as a normal being and took a wife and was noted to "work as hard as he ate". Later, when the villagers discovered that he was a monster, Wuneng hid the girl away. At this point, Xuanzang and Wukong arrived at Gao Village and helped subdue him. Renamed Zhu Bajie by Xuanzang, he consequently joined the pilgrimage to the West.

His weapon of choice is the jiǔchǐdīngpá ("nine-tooth nail rake"), mainly given to him as a status symbol by the Jade Emperor when first promoted to the rank of field marshall. He is also capable of thirty-six transformations (as compared to Wukong's seventy-two), and can also travel on clouds, but not as fast as Wukong. However, Bajie is noted for his fighting skills in the water due to his naval troop experience, which he used to combat Sha Wujing, who later joined them on the journey. He is the second strongest member of the team.

He is often noted to be quite gluttonous, perverted and a bit cowardly (mainly from his demotion that occurred with his reincarnation having a clear effects on reducing his power and confidence), which often has him at odds with Wukong's more abrasive and playful attitude. But nonetheless he is loyal to his friends deep down and is trusting of his master and vice versa, as well as often getting along with Wujing. Many adaptations of the novel tend to paint him in a light for the sake of comic relief, while also making him act as a positive force that differs from Wukong's antics in spite of his jealousy towards the monkey.

Even with his perversions in mind causing him to drool, Bajie makes it clear he can relate to others and understands the concepts of love (which some adaptations have made him a bit of a cultured poet or a sucker for sob-stories). While he may complain about his own misfortunes often in regards to his laziness, Bajie in a majority of fluctuating situations does not act as anxious as Wukong and Wujing as per his days as a field marshall while also learning to have fun alongside Wukong's antics at times.

In Japanese on'yomi, Zhu Bajie's current name is known as Cho Hakkai , and his original name before being renamed by Sanzang in Japanese is Cho Gonō . His original incarnation's title, Tianpeng Yuanshui , is known fully as Tenpō Gensui in Japanese as well (via Gensōmaden Saiyūki ).

Shā Wùjìng [ ]

Shā Wùjìng (沙悟凈; lit. "Sand Awakened to Purity"), also named Shā Sēng (沙僧) in Mandarin Chinese or " Ol' Sandy ". He is also given the name Friar Sand or Sandy in English, with the former name being one of his other names, Shā Héshàng (沙和尚; "Sand Preceptor"). He was once the Juǎnlián Dàjiàng (捲簾大将; lit. "Rolling Curtain General"), who stood in attendance by the imperial chariot in the Hall of Miraculous Mist. He was exiled to the mortal world and made to look like a monster because he accidentally smashed a crystal/jade goblet belonging to the Heavenly Queen Mother during the Peach Banquet. The now-hideous immortal took up residence in the Flowing Sands River, terrorizing the surrounding villages and travelers trying to cross it. However, he was subdued by Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie when the Sanzang party came across him. They consequently took him in to be a part of the pilgrimage to the West.

Sha Wujing's weapon is the Yuèyáchǎn ("Moon Fang Spade" or "Monk's Spade"). Aside from that, he knows eighteen transformations and is highly effective in water combat. He is about as strong as Bajie, and is much stronger than Wukong in water. However, Bajie can beat Wujing in a test of endurance, and Wukong can beat him out of water.

Wujìng is known to be the most obedient, logical, and polite of the three disciples, and always takes care of his master, seldom engaging in the bickerings of his fellow-disciples. Ever reliable, he carries the luggage for the travelers and often prioritizes safety of others around him. Perhaps this is why he is sometimes seen as a minor character; the lack of any particular perks confers the lack of distinguishing and/or redeeming characteristics aside from being astute and having some moments of his own spotlight to cover the group's back. Though the 1996 adaptation is famous for making him rather unintelligent and/or stating the obvious (which was hinted even when acting as a general and the reasoning behind his accident), but makes up for it with being head-strong, honest and hyper-focused on important tasks to a fault.

Wujiìng eventually becomes an arhat at the end of the journey, giving him a higher level of exaltation than Bajie, who is relegated to cleaning every altar at every Buddhist temple for eternity via consuming the leftovers (which he is rather fond of), but is still lower spiritually than Wukong or Xuanzang who are granted Buddhahood.

In Japanese on'yomi, Sha Wujing is romanized as Sha Gojō , with his original incarnation's name/title romanized as Kenren Taishō in Gensōmaden Saiyūki . In Japanese, the character for "jing/jō" is written differently in Japanese due to conflicting writing systems, with 淨 being the older form closer to Chinese, and 浄 being the current character used.

List of Demons [ ]

There are many demons in the story. Examples are listed below:

• Black-Bear-Demon (pinyin: Hēixióngguài )
• Yellow Wind Demon (Huángfēngguài)
• Zhen Yuan Holy Man; he is not a demon, but an immortal, who got annoyed by the disciples who stole his precious immortal-fruits (Ginseng Fruits, 人参果).
• White-Bone-Demon (pinyin: Báigǔjīng )
• Yellow Robe Demon (pinyin: Huángpáoguài )
• Gold-Horn and Silver-Horn (pinyin: Jīnjiǎo and Yínjiǎo )
• Crimson Boy a.k.a. Holy Baby King (pinyin: Hónghái'ér ; Japanese: Kōgaiji )
• Tiger Power, Deer Power, and Goat (or Antelope) Power Great Hermits
• Black River Dragon Demon (Hēi Shǔi Hé Yuan Lóng Gài)
• Carp Demon (Li Yu Jīng)
• Green-Ox-Demon (pinyin: Qīngniújīng )
• Scorpion-Demon (pinyin: Xiēzijīng )
• Six Ear Macaque (a.k.a Fake Sun Wukong, Lìuěrmíhóu )
• Ox/Bull Demon King (pinyin: Niúmówáng ; Japanese: Gyūmaō ): The inspiration for the Ox King , who also shares the same name in the Asian scripts/dubs as the original Ox-Demon-King.
• Demon Woman (Luo Cha Nǚ)
• Jade-Faced Princess (pinyin: Yùmiàn Gōngzhǔ ; Japanese: Gyokumen Kōshū )
• Boa Demon ( Hóng Shé Jīng )
• Nine-Headed Bird Demon (Jiǔ Tou Fu Ma)
• Seven-Spider-Demons (pinyin: Zhīzhū-jīng )
• Hundred-Eyed Taoist (Bǎi Yan Mo Jun)
• Green Lion Demon (pinyin: Qīngshījīng )
• White-Elephant-Demon (pinyin: Báixiàngjīng )
• Falcon Demon (Sun Jīng)
• Biqiu Country Minister a.k.a Deer Demon
• Gold-Nosed, White Mouse Demon (Lao Shu Jīng)
• Dream-Demon

Notable English-language translations [ ]

• Monkey: A Folk-Tale of China (1942), an abridged translation by Arthur Waley. For many years, the best translation available in English; it only translates thirty out of the hundred chapters. (Penguin reprint ISBN 0-14-044111-5 )
• Journey to the West , a complete translation by W.J.F. Jenner published by the Foreign Languages Press in Beijing 1955 (three volumes; 1982/1984 edition: ISBN 0-8351-1003-6 , ISBN 0-8351-1193-8 , ISBN 0-8351-1364-7 )
• The Journey to the West (1977–1983), a complete translation in four volumes by Anthony C. Yu. University of Chicago Press: HC ISBN 0-226-97145-7 , ISBN 0-226-97146-5 , ISBN 0-226-97147-3 , ISBN 0-226-97148-1 ; PB ISBN 0-226-97150-3 , ISBN 0-226-97151-1 ; ISBN 0-226-97153-8 ; ISBN 0-226-97154-6 .

Media adaptations [ ]

• Journey to the West: The Musical : A stage musical which received its world premiere at the New York Musical Theatre Festival on September 25, 2006.
• Monkey: Journey to the West : A stage musical version created by Chen Shi-zheng, Damon Albarn (frontman of British rock band Blur) and Jamie Hewlett, the latter two better known as creators of the Gorillaz musical project. It premiered as part of the 2007 Manchester International Festival at the Palace Theatre on June 28.
• The Monkey King : A production by the Children's Theater Company in Minneapolis, MN in 2005.
• A Chinese Odyssey by Stephen Chow.
• A Chinese Tall Story : 2005 live action movie starring Nicholas Tse as Xuánzàng.
• Heavenly Legend : A 1998 film by Tai Seng Entertainment starring Kung Fu kid Sik Siu Loong is partially based on this legend.
• Monkey Goes West : The Shaw Brothers' 1966 Hong Kong film (Cantonese: Sau yau gei ). Also known as "Monkey with 72 Magic"
• The Forbidden Kingdom : 2008 live action movie starring Jackie Chan and Jet Li which is said to be based on the Legend of the Monkey King, the same legend as the TV show Monkey. Towards the end, Li's character is revealed to be the Monkey King of the legend. [1]

Live-action television [ ]

• Monkey (1978–1980): A well-known 1970s Japanese television series based on Journey to the West translated into English by the BBC.
• Journey to the West (1986): A TV series produced by CCTV.
• Journey to the West (1996): A popular series produced by Hong Kong studio TVB, starring Dicky Cheung.
• Journey to the West II (1998): The sequel to TVB's Journey to the West series, starring Benny Chan.
• The Monkey King (2001): Sci Fi Channel's TV adaptation of this legend, also called The Lost Empire .
• The Monkey King: Quest for the Sutra (2002): A loose adaptation starring Dicky Cheung, who also portrayed Sun Wukong in the 1996 TVB series.
• Saiyūki (2006): A Japanese television series starring the SMAP star Shingo Katori.

Comics, manga and anime [ ]

• Alakazam the Great : One of the first anime films produced by Toei Animation , a retelling of first part of the story based on the characters designed by Osamu Tezuka.
• Coincidentally, both the version of Wukong/Goku and Wujing/Gojo share traits of the original Bajie/Hakkai; the former shares Bajie's hunger (akin to Dragon Ball' s version of Wukong/Goku), while the latter shares Bajie's lust/perversions for women. Both of them also often argue back-to-back, akin to Wukong and Bajie's dynamics in the original source material.
• Havoc in Heaven (also known as Uproar in Heaven ): Original animation from China.
• Iyashite Agerun Saiyūki : A 2007 adult anime [1]
• Monkey Magic : An animated retelling of the legend.
• Monkey Typhoon : A manga and anime series based on the Journey to the West saga, following a futuristic steampunk-retelling of the legend.
• Starzinger : An animated science fiction version of the story.
• The Monkey King : A gruesome manga inspired by the tale.

Works referencing Journey to the West [ ]

• American Born Chinese : An American graphic novel by Gene Yang. Nominated for the National Book Award (2006).
• Doraemon : A special tells the story of Journey to The West , casting the Doraemon characters as the characters of the legend.
• Dragon Ball : Japanese manga and anime series loosely based on Journey to the West .
• Eyeshield 21 : Three of the players for the Shinryuji Nagas are referred to as the Saiyuki Trio based upon their appearances and personalities.
• InuYasha : The characters meet descendants of three of the main characters of the Journey of the West , led by Cho Kyuukai (a boar demon ), in one episode. Also, the main character Kagome Higurashi says a few lines about the whole book and story and explains it to the others who live in Feudal Japan, ergo have not heard about the Journey to the West .
• Kaleido Star : The cast performs Saiyuki on stage a few times in the beginning of the second half of the series.
• Love Hina : The characters put on a play based on the story in anime episode 16.
• Naruto : A character named Temari is based on Princess Iron Fan from the legend. Enma is a summoned monkey who bears resemblance to Sun Wukong. He has the ability to transform into a staff similar to the rúyì-jīngū-bàng , which can alter its size at will. Also, one of the Tailed Beasts (also known as Bijū ) is named Son Gokū with the exact same kanji for both the Monkey King and the Earthling-raised Saiyan, sporting horns which resemble the diadem worn by the original Wukong/Goku.
• Ninja Sentai Kakuranger : The 1994 Super Sentai series, where four of the five rangers are inspired by the main characters of Journey to the West
• GoGo Sentai Boukenger : The 2006 Super Sentai series, where its final episode involved the Rúyì-jīngū-bàng
• Juken Sentai Gekiranger : The 2007 Super Sentai series, where one of its villain's fighting style is homage to Sun Wukong.
• Patalliro Saiyuki : A shōnen-ai series in both anime and manga formats with the Patalliro cast playing out the Zaiyuji storyline with a yaoi twist.
• Ranma 1/2 : Pastiches of the characters appear throughout the manga and movies.
• Read or Die (OVA) : One of the villains is a clone of Xuanzang, who seems to have the powers of Sun Wukong and Xuanzang.
• Sakura Wars : The Imperial Flower Troupe Performs the play of Journey to the West . Ironically, Mayumi Tanaka , who voices Krillin and Yajirobe in the Dragon Ball franchise, voices the monkey king Son Goku in the play.
• Shinzo : An anime loosely based on Journey to the West .
• XIN : An American comic mini-series produced by Anarchy Studio.
• Pokémon : Infernape, a Fire/Fighting Pokémon, has a design based on motifs related to Sun Wukong and Emboar, another Fire/Fighting Pokémon, has a design based on motifs similar to Zhu Bajie.
• The God of Highschool : A Korean web-toon that barrows a lot of the elements from every mythology notable, with few of the main cast based on characters from the novel. The main character, Jin Mo-Ri , being based off the Monkey King as well as Dragon Ball's Son Goku.
• Yuu Yuu Ki : A video game for the Famicom Disk System, based directly on the story.
• Journey to the West : An unlicensed Famicom game by Taiwanese developer TXC Corp, 1994. [2]
• Pokémon Diamond and Pearl : A video game and multi series in which the Pokémon creatures Chimchar, Monferno, and mainly Infernape are based on Sūn Wùkōng.
• Coincidentally, the portrayal of Zhu Bajie/Cho Hakkai is voiced by Naoki Tatsuta , who also voices Oolong with Bajie being his inspiration.
• Fuun Gokuu Ninden : An action game for the PlayStation. The characters of the game are based on the characters of Journey to the West . [3]
• Saiyu Gouma Roku : A 1988 arcade game by Technos, based in the original story and characters. The North American version is named "China Gate". [4]
• SonSon : A video game and character of the same name created by Capcom whose title character is a caricature of Sun Wukong (and would be read as "SunSun" in pinyin). The granddaughter of SonSon (also named SonSon, or SonSon III) appears in Marvel vs. Capcom 2 as a playable character.
• Westward Journey : A massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG).
• Whomp 'Em : NES game whose Japanese version is based on the story (the American version features an Indian boy instead of Wukong). Although a marketing failure, it is also a cult classic.
• Likewise, the two other MOBA games, Smite and Heroes of the Werwerth , also feature the original Sun Wukong as a playable character, with the former having removed him from the game for a visual rework to resemble the original figure, and the latter being simply known as "Monkey King" and possessing a skin that's a close reference to Dragon Ball in general (almost resembling the Dragon Ball Wukong/Goku's Super Saiyan 4 form). Smite also has other characters pertaining to the legend or similar ones that tie into Journey into the West in general, such as the East Sea Dragon King and Nezha/Nata (the former also received a similar rework). Defense of the Ancients 2 has also recently revealed their own version of the Monkey King as well.
• More so however, Masako Nozawa , the Japanese voice actress of the Dragon Ball Wukong/Goku, also voices the League of Legends Wukong in the Japanese dub as a direct allusion. Meanwhile, Sean Schemmel has voiced the reworked Wukong in Smite as another allusion.

Brazen Courage Gohan (Kid) card from Dokkan Battle

Courage to the Max! Goku card from Dokkan Battle

• Asura's Wrath (アスラズ ラース, Asurazu Rāsu ) : A video game developed by CyberConnect2 and published by Capcom. The game is playable on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One via 360 backwards compatibility, and the PlayStation 4 and PC via PlayStation Now. The game follows the title character, the demigod Asura as he seeks revenge on the pantheon of other demigods who betrayed him.
• In Dragon Ball Z: Dokkan Battle , there are two cards based upon the Journey to the West inspired outfits worn by Goku and Gohan . Goku's is called Courage to the Max! Goku card and Gohan's is Brazen Courage Gohan (Kid) card. Both cards are Legendary Rare cards that feature Super Attacks featuring Goku and Gohan wielding their respective Power Poles (Gohan's Power Pole design features a more Journey to the West -style design rather than the Dragon Ball style design of Goku's Power Pole). Both characters ride a Flying Nimbus to fit the Sun Wukong motif.

Female Future Warrior wearing the Saiyuki Outfit in Dragon Ball: Xenoverse

• In Dragon Ball Xenoverse , there is an unlockable Saiyuki outfit which is described as a Journey to the West-style outfit, which can be unlocked by making a wish of " I want to dress up! " to Shenron. It is based on the Journey to the West inspired outfit worn by Gohan on Manga cover page for DBZ: 13 " Son Gohan, the Inconsolable " and Gohan also wears the same outfit in Detekoi Tobikiri ZENKAI Power! . There is also an NPC Shapeshifter Nema who also wears the costume as part of one of her transformations, though she has no idea as to who the transformation is supposed to be.

Goku wearing his Journey to the West Costume from Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2

• After the 1.09.00 Update, the Future Warrior can purchase Gifts which are special costumes that they can give to Instructors which can then be worn via Partner Customization. Gift (Goku) unlocks Goku's Journey to the West Costume for Goku to wear (it comes complete with Hood though the Hood will be removed when Goku transforms into any of his available Super Saiyan forms). Gift (Gohan (Kid)) unlocks his Saiyuki Costume ( Journey to the West Costume) from DBZ : 13 " Son Gohan, the Inconsolable " and Detekoi Tobikiri ZENKAI Power! (it also comes complete with Hood as well). Both Gifts can be purchased at the TP Medal Shop.

References [ ]

• ↑ Journey to the West . Unlicensed NES Guide .
• ↑ Fuun Gokuu Ninden (The God of Monkey) . Extreme-Gamers .
• ↑ China Gate . Coin-Op Express .

External links [ ]

• Inspirations of Dragon Ball at fullpowerdbz.com
• Monkey - Great Sage equal of Heaven - fansite
• Journey to the West - Freeware complete English text version in PDF format (2.56MB). From Chine Informations
• Journey to the West - Comprehensive and detailed website with in-depth information about Journey to the West.
• Story of Sun Wukong and the beginning of Journey to the West with manhua
• Complete novel in Simplified Characters (utf-16 encoding).
• Solarguard Monkey Plot summary (one paragraph for each of one hundred in novel) plus summary of book on historical Xuanzang.
• Summary of most chapters of Journey to the West and more, illustrated by various paintings from Summer Palace
• 2 Ultra Ego

• Chinese gods
• Characters in Xi You Ji/Journey to the West
• Magic deities
• View history

Sūn Wùkōng , in the West often called Monkey King or simply Monkey , is a main character in the Chinese novel Journey to the West . He is a prominent cultural and folkloric figure across Asia.

• 2 Possessions
• 3 Abilities
• 5 In Culture
• 7 References/External Links

Wùkōng begins life as a rock on the Mountain Huaguo, which the winds shape into a monkey that becomes supernaturally animated. He soon becomes leader of a tribe of monkeys who take up safe residence in the Cave of the Water Curtain. Wùkōng reigns happily over the monkeys for many years until he finally begins to realize his own mortality. Seeking a way to become immortal, Wùkōng first trains under a Buddhist patriarch and masters many magic spells. When the Ten Judges of the Dead come to collect him, he fights back, managing to erase his name and all the monkeys’ names from the Book of Life and Death. Kings of Heaven report him to the Jade Emperor for this wrongdoings.

At the immortals' residence on Mount Pénglái, Wùkōng is appointed Keeper of the Heavenly Horses to keep him out of trouble. When he finds out what a low rank this really is, he rebels, appointing himself "Great Sage, Equal of Heaven". After a long fight, the gods are forced to recognize this title, and Wùkōng is appointed guardian of Xī Wáng Mǔ's heavenly peach garden. When he learns that the Bā Xiān have excluded him from an important banquet, he rebels again, stealing Xī Wáng Mǔ's peaches of immortality, Lao Tzu's pills of longevity, and the Jade Emperor’s royal wine, devouring them all. He then returns to the Cave of the Water Curtain, where the Army of Heaven attacks. Wùkōng defeats the entire army as well as Erlang Shen, heaven's greatest general.

Buddha finally traps Wùkōng in a mountain, under a seal with the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum. Here he remains until Guānyīn makes him Xuánzàng's disciple. He accompanies Xuánzàng on the journey to retrieve sutras from India, alternatively protecting his companions and causing mischief. Wùkōng ultimately achieves enlightenment and becomes a Buddha, finally getting his long-desired immortality.

Possessions [ ]

Jet Li depicts Sūn Wùkōng, here seen holding his Rúyì Jīn Gū Bàng.

• 鎖子黃金甲/ "golden chain mail": One of the treasures of the Dragon Kings; Ào Run gives this to him in order to get rid of him when he acquires the Rúyì Jīn Gū Bàng.
• Magical Headband: Not so much a possession as a trap; Guanyin gives Xuánzàng this headband to help him keep Wùkōng under control. A special chant causes the headband to tighten, inflicting terrible pain.
• Ǒusībùyúnlǚ (藕絲步雲履)/"cloud-stepping boots" or "cloud-stepping shoes": Made of lotus fiber, these are one of the treasures of the Dragon Kings; Ào Ming gives them to him in order to get rid of him when he acquires the Rúyì Jīn Gū Bàng.
• Rúyì Jīn Gū Bàng (如意金箍棒)/"Magic Golden-Clasped Rod" or "Ideal Golden-bound Cudgel": His primary weapon, originally an iron rod used to measure the depth of the sea. The Rúyì Jīn Gū Bàng was given to him by Ào Guǎng . The staff weighs 13,500 jin (8.1 tons), but Wùkōng can lift it easily and change it to any size. He usually shrinks it to the size of a sewing needle and puts it behind his ear when he is not using it.

Abilities [ ]

• 72 Bian/"72 Transformations": Allows him to shapeshift into almost any form—however, he is never able to transform his tail. He can also transform each of the 84,000 hairs on his body into another form, animate or inanimate, and often bites the hairs into pieces to create even more copies.
• Bi Huo Jue/"Fire Avoidance Charm": Allows him to survive fire.
• Bi Shui Jue/"Water Avoidance Charm": Allows him to survive deep water; however, he is unable to fight while using this ability.
• Body Freezing Spell: Allows him to immobilize enemies.
• Huǒyǎn-jīnjīng(火眼金睛)/"fiery-eyes golden-gaze": Allows him to identify evil no matter what form it takes; however, it also causes smoke to sting his eyes. Wùkōng acquired this ability after Lao Tzu traps Wùkōng in his cauldron for 49 days, attempting to distill him as punishment.
• Jie Suo Fa/"Lock-Breaking Spell": Allows him to point a finger or his staff and open any lock.
• Jīndǒuyún/"cloud-somersault" or “cloud trapeze”: Allows him to cover 108,000 li (54,000 km, 33,554 mi) in a single leap.
• Protective Circle: Allows him to erect an impassible barrier by drawing a circle on the ground with his staff.
• Shen Wai Shen Fa/"Body Outside of Body": Specifically refers to his ability to transform his hairs into fighting clones of himself.
• Summoning: Allows him to summon local deities.
• Wind: Allows him to summon strong winds and storms.

Names and Titles [ ]

Sūn Wùkōng is also known as:

• Cambodian: Sun Wukong
• Cantonese: Suen Ng Hung (孫悟空/孙悟空)
• English: Monkey King or Monkey
• Indonesian: Sun Go Kong
• Japanese: Son Gokū (そん ごくう)
• Korean: Son Oh Gong (손오공)
• Thai: Heng Chia (เห้งเจีย) or Sun Ngo Khong (ซุนหงอคง)
• Vietnamese: Tôn Ngộ Không
• Dòu-zhànshèng-fó (鬥戰勝佛)/”Victorious Fighting Buddha”: His name once he achieves enlightenment and becomes a Buddha.
• Měi Hóuwáng (美猴王)/”Handsome Monkey King”: This is not so much praise of his appearance as it is a jab at his large ego.
• Shí Hóu (石猴)/”Stone Monkey”: His first name, which refers to the fact that he was supernaturally created from a stone.
• Sūn Wùkōng (孫悟空)/”Monkey Awakened to Emptiness”: His Buddhist name given to him by the Patriarch.
• Xíngzhě (行者)/”Ascetic”: This name refers to a wandering monk, a priest’s servant, or anyone leading an ascetic lifestyle. The monk Xuánzàng addresses Wùkōng as this after Wùkōng joins him on his quest for the sutras.
• Bìmǎwēn (弼馬溫): The title of the Keeper of the Heavenly Horses, a lofty-sounding position that is actually one of the lowest in the Jade Emperor’s court. Wùkōng originally takes this position thinking that it is a much higher rank; when he discovers the truth, he smashes the stables, frees the horses, and quits. Enemies later use this title to taunt him, and he generally refuses to talk about or acknowledge his time as keeper of the horses.
• Qítiān Dàshèng (齊天大聖)/”Great Sage Equal of Heaven”: He gives himself this title, which would be high-ranking had it existed. He is so persistent about deserving this title that the Jade Emperor eventually gives in, making the Qítiān Dàshèng the guardian of Xī Wáng Mǔ’s heavenly peach garden.

In Culture [ ]

• The Sūn Wùkōng festival takes place on the sixteenth day of the eighth lunar month of the Chinese lunar calendar.
• The Buddhist temple in Xiùmàopíng, Hong Kong, has a shrine to Sūn Wùkōng.
• Sūn Wùkōng has been depicted in many films, television series, and video games; both directly and indirectly related to Journey to the West. Most recently, he has been played by Jet Li in Forbidden Kingdom .
• The Korean battle web-toon God of Highschool is the story of Jin Mori who is thrust in a battle between gods & the humans who serve them as well as a select group of humans fighting against them. The character who is the main protagonist of the story is revealed to be the Monkey King who has lost his memories & is currently residing in the human world.
• Dragon Ball / Dragon Ball Z, the most popular manga series/anime series (according to Shonen Jump), is heavily influenced on Sun Wukong's story. Son Goku (the main character of the franchise) is based off of Sun Wukong. (Source: http://dragonball.wikia.com/wiki/Dragon_Ball_(manga)#Relation_to_Journey_to_the_West )
• The Pokemon Infernape is seemingly based on Sūn Wùkōng
• In Lego Monkie Kid, Sun Wukong it's one of the main characters. He decided to retire and trains a young kid called MK to be his succesor.

GALLERY [ ]

References/External Links [ ]

• http://www.vbtutor.net/Xiyouji/psunwukong.htm
• Wu Ch'eng-en, Arthur Waley, Monkey.
• 2 List of Slavic creatures

How Sun Wukong Gave Birth to the Archetypical Shonen Anime and Manga Hero

All hail the monkey king.

The 16th century novel by Wu Cheng’en, Journey to The West, depicts the life of Sun Wukong the Monkey King, who goes from being a stone monkey, to a heavenly deviant, before repenting and joining the righteous monk Tang Sanzang on a journey to recover Buddha’s scriptures.

This episodic adventure has had a great impact on media as a whole, with films, TV shows, and video games adapting and putting their own spin on this classic Chinese novel. One of the biggest impacts that Journey to the West has made is on Japanese manga and anime.

The mixture of humour, epic action sequences and an odyssey of self-realisation and achievements has since become the blueprint for story arcs within Shonen Jump’s most popular titles.

Sun Wukong himself can be seen as the prototypical shonen protagonist, who embarks on a lifelong adventure to attain Buddhahood by overcoming adversity and prejudice. His adventures have been recreated many times over through shonen protagonists and their own story arcs.

Monkey Magic

Sun Wukong’s story typically begins with him gaining sentience as a stone monkey, before proving himself as a great leader and ascending to heaven. Once there, he wreaks havoc, before being humbled by the Buddha himself.

In order to repent and redeem himself under the eyes of Buddha, Wukong agrees to accompany the monk Tang Sanzang, along with fellow disciples, the pig Zhu Baijie and sand demon Sha Wujing. After overcoming demons and hellish hazards, the party returns to China victorious, with each of them attaining Buddhahood and ascending to heaven.

The many chapters of Journey to The West can be grouped into arcs, similar to how manga and anime typically categorise their stories. Journey to The West begins with the origins of Sun Wukong, his mishaps in heaven, the gathering of Sanzang’s disciples, and finally, the actual journey to India, which itself can be broken down into individual arcs.

Sun Wukong as a character also undergoes a drastic change throughout the story, beginning with him acquiring new and stronger abilities, fighting the forces of heaven and being utterly defeated, finding stalwart companions, and finally achieving greatness.

The Monkey King’s powers include super strength, super speed, and the ability to shapeshift into 72 different transformations. He also has his magic pole that can stretch for miles, and a magical cloud to fly on.

His friendly rivalry with fellow disciple Zhu Bajie is also notable, as the pig-like member of the crew is just as strong as his monkey counterpart, though his laziness and carnal desires typically get in the way.

Sun Wukong’s other distinct traits include his playfulness against his enemies, his general infamy throughout the demon world, and Sanzang’s underestimation of Wukong’s intentions and wisdoms, which is a recurring theme that we can see in some of Shonen Jump’s most prominent heroes, namely Son Goku, Naruto, and Monkey D. Luffy.

Super Saiyan

Son Goku is the most obvious analogue to Sun Wukong, especially with his name being the Japanese translation of the Monkey King’s own, his magical staff, and his trusty Nimbus Cloud.

After the initial Dragon Ball manga run, Son Goku loses his tail and was retconned into being a member of the alien Saiyan race, instead of a sort of monkey-human hybrid. Some might say this is where Dragon Ball ditches the Journey to The West for a wholly original story, though that is not the case.

Goku may be some sort of alien superhuman at this point, but he similarly goes through a massive journey of enlightenment in Dragon Ball Z just like Sun Wukong. It all begins with Goku dying and reaching the underworld, achieving a sort of enlightenment with the Super Saiyan transformation against Frieza, before dying a second time after placing his trust in his son Gohan to defeat Cell.

A more humbled Goku returns in the Buu Saga; he’s more powerful but also a lot more aware of the world’s troubles and evils. He manages to regain his life and lives a normal life, before more universal threats encourage Goku to reach the levels of a god and beyond.

While Goku is known for his naivete and childish nature, many points in Dragon Ball Z shows Goku’s more serious and over-confident side as well, a trait shared by Sun Wukong. Goku’s eternal rival, Vegeta, can also be seen as a more ruthless version of Zhu Bajie, who is powerful but falls behind the main hero in terms of strength and transformations.

Holistic Hokage

Dragon Ball’s success created a major zeitgeist within the shonen genre, ensuring that the next generation of manga and anime would be created in the same vein. And with that, while it is not explicitly stated, we had more protagonists who took the Sun Wukong influence even further.

This began with Naruto, the demon fox child who dreamt of being Hokage, the leader of the Hidden Leaf Village in which he resides. Initially conceived as a reincarnation of the nine-tailed fox demon, Naruto is instead possessed by it and is shunned by the villagers around him, just like how Sun Wukong was looked down upon by the gods and goddesses of heaven.

Naruto’s journey begins with him being an outcast, a young orphan who craves attention and acceptance from those around him. His major redemption came following his victory over Pain, a villain who is also the literal embodiment of Buddha’s Paths of Reincarnation.

Just like Sun Wukong, Naruto is able to create clones of himself and even shapeshift into other living beings, like his infamous sexy jutsu. Naruto’s own “path to Buddhahood” can be seen in his transformations, with his ultimate transformation being the Six Paths Sage Mode that gives Naruto an ungodly amount of power.

While Naruto shares a lot of qualities with Sun Wukong’s more demonic qualities, he also shares similarities with Tang Sanzang, as Naruto will always seek to pacify his enemies. He always aims to pull them to the side of good, as seen with Naruto’s battles against Pain’s host Nagato, Obito Uchiha, and his classmate turned rival, Sasuke.

Conquering Captain

At first glance, it doesn’t seem like the future king of the pirates is anything like Sun Wukong, besides his name being Monkey D. Luffy, a callback to both the Monkey King and Son Goku. But upon further examination, Luffy’s journeys are very similar to Journey to The West.

This began with the first chapter, where we see a young Luffy accidentally obtaining his rubber abilities by eating the Gum Gum Devil Fruit. Sun Wukong similarly ate Immortality Pills and Peaches to become indestructible.

Luffy’s journey begins in the East Blue, and he gradually gains allies and defeats adversaries on his journey west towards the Grand Line and eventually, the One Piece. While Luffy is not one to have rivals, with Wukong and Bajie’s rivalry being referenced through Luffy’s crewmates Roronoa Zoro and Vinsmoke Sanji, Luffy never backs down from a fight no matter how badly he’s beaten.

Like Sun Wukong’s defeat at the hands of Buddha and the forces of heaven, Luffy went through hell and back during the Battle of Marineford, which served as a major defeat for the young pirate and made him realise that he needed to be much stronger to become the Pirate King.

In terms of abilities, Luffy’s indestructible nature and penchant for crazy transformations is very Sun Wukong-like. While Luffy’s journey to godhood isn’t as clear-cut as that of Goku and Naruto, recent chapters in the ongoing Wano arc seem to suggest that Luffy may be a reincarnation of some sort of sun god.

Wukong Wonder

This is just a microcosm of Sun Wukong’s true influence on media, with many more stories taking major inspiration from Journey to the West. From other manga like Gensomaden Saiyuki to things like Lego’s Monkie Kid and the video game Enslaved: Odyssey to the West, this classic Chinese tale will continue to influence even more stories to come.

As for shonen protagonists, modern-day shonen icons have begun to shift away from the dumb, happy-go-lucky mold of Goku, Naruto, and Luffy. Modern shonen heroes like Deku from My Hero Academia and Tanjiro from Demon Slayer are known for their introspective outlook on life and general intellect.

While the Journey to the West and Sun Wukong mold may not be the go-to reference for modern manga and anime anymore, its major influence on the medium cannot be understated, especially with the most popular manga and anime of the past few decades still looking to Wu Cheng’en’s masterpiece as inspiration.

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World History Edu

• Chinese Mythology

Sun Wukong in Chinese Mythology: Origin Story, Powers, Abilities, & Importance

by World History Edu · August 4, 2023

Sun Wukong, also known as the Monkey King, is a legendary figure in Chinese mythology and a prominent character in the classic Chinese novel “Journey to the West” written by Wu Cheng’en during the Ming dynasty.

According to “Journey to the West,” Sun Wukong was born from a magical stone atop the Mountain of Flowers and Fruit. The stone was nourished by the heavens and earth and gained the power to give birth to a stone egg. From this stone egg, Sun Wukong emerged. Being born from this magical stone granted him incredible strength and powers.

Powers and Abilities

Sun Wukong possesses superhuman strength and speed, and is able to cover 54,000 kilometers in one somersault. He’s incredibly intelligent and a skilled fighter, having learned the way of Tao, various magical arts, and the 72 transformations, allowing him to change into almost any form.

Sun Wukong also possesses a magical staff, Ruyi Jingu Bang, which can change its size, multiply itself, and fight according to the will of its master. This weapon was originally used by the Dragon King of the Eastern Seas to measure the depth of the sea and Sun Wukong won it from him.

Also, it was believed that the trickster god is protected by a suit of heavenly armor he won from the Dragon Kings, making him even more formidable in combat.

Did you know…?

It was believed that Sun Wukong’s staff was made of a kind of black iron used by Yu the Great, a legendary ruler in ancient China. This point further signifies Sun Wukong’s connection to immortality and legendary figures.

Rebellion against Heaven

Sun Wukong’s rebellious nature led him to proclaim himself the “Great Sage, Equal of Heaven,” and he even invaded Heaven, fighting against the celestial army and causing havoc. He proved so powerful that the Jade Emperor, ruler of the heavens, requested Buddha’s help to subdue him. The Buddha trapped Sun Wukong under a mountain, where he remained imprisoned for 500 years.

Journey to the West

In “Journey to the West,” the Buddhist monk Tang Sanzang releases Sun Wukong from his imprisonment under the mountain, and the Monkey King becomes Tang Sanzang’s disciple and protector on his journey to retrieve Buddhist sutras from India. The two are accompanied by Sha Wujing and Zhu Bajie as well as the White Dragon Horse. Along the way, Sun Wukong uses his powers to protect the monk from various monsters and demons.

The Monkey King’s imprisonment was ended when a monk released him. Sun Wukong then proceeded to accompany the monk on a journey to retrieve Buddhist sutras from India.

Significance

Sun Wukong is a complex character, embodying both irreverence and devotion, trickery and loyalty, and brutishness and wisdom. He is often seen as a symbol of resistance against the established order. His image has remained influential in Chinese popular culture and continues to be a popular figure in literature, film, and animation.

In essence, Sun Wukong is a complex character whose symbolic meanings can vary greatly depending on the context and interpretation.

The four heroes and the White Dragon Horse of Journey to the West, Sun Wukong on the second from the left. Image: The golden statues at the Rua Yai City Pillar Shrine in Suphan Buri, Thailand

Tags: Journey to the West Sun Wukong Tang Sanzang The Jade Emperor

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Journey to the West | Full Story, Summary & Moral Lessons

• February 19, 2024

“Journey to the West” stands as one of the pinnacles of  Chinese  literature, a riveting blend of mythology, folklore, humor, and  spirituality . 

Authored by Wu Cheng’en in the 16th century during the Ming dynasty, this epic novel has transcended its cultural origins to become a global literary treasure!

The narrative follows the perilous journey of the Buddhist monk Xuanzang, historically known, as he travels to India to obtain sacred Buddhist scriptures. Accompanied by his three disciples— Sun Wukong , Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing—each with their own unique abilities, their quest is filled with divine interventions, battles with demons, and moral lessons.

Many of which we will be getting to know today!

Table of Contents

Historical Context

The “Journey to the West” is deeply entwined with the real-life travels of Xuanzang (602-664 CE), whose  pilgrimage  to India and back took 17 years, a journey undertaken to obtain authentic Buddhist scriptures. 

Wu Cheng’en’s fictionalized account, however, does more than narrate a religious quest; it weaves a rich story of Chinese myths,  Taoist  and  Buddhist  philosophy, and satirical commentary on the social issues of his time, making it a multifaceted work of art.

If you’re interested in watching the Journey to the West, I highly recommend the  1986 series  as it’s often lauded as being not only the most accurate but also you can really feel the love and respect given to the adaptation.

Key Characters

Tang Sanzang

Tang Sanzang, also known as Tripitaka , stands at the heart of “Journey to the West” as its protagonist. His mission to retrieve sacred  Mahayana Buddhist  scriptures from India serves as the narrative’s driving force. Tang Sanzang embodies virtues such as humility, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his spiritual quest. 

His portrayal as the epitome of piety and moral integrity offers a rich canvas against which his interactions with disciples and various challenges unfold.

Tang Sanzang’s personality is a blend of devout faith and moral steadfastness. He is the moral compass for his disciples, guiding them not only towards their external goal but also on their internal journeys of growth and  enlightenment . 

Despite his virtues, Tang Sanzang is not portrayed as infallible. His naivety and strict adherence to religious doctrines sometimes lead him into trouble, requiring rescue by his more worldly and powerful disciples. This aspect of his character highlights the novel’s exploration of the balance between innocence and wisdom, as well as the necessity of worldly knowledge in achieving spiritual goals.

Throughout the novel, Tang Sanzang undergoes significant development. His journey is not only a physical one across dangerous terrains but also a spiritual odyssey that tests and refines his character. He learns to balance his strict moral codes with the practicalities of the world, growing in understanding and compassion towards his disciples and the beings they encounter.

Sun Wukong , famously known as the Monkey King , is one of the most beloved characters in “Journey to the West.” 

His origins are as magical as his personality; born from a stone egg on the Mountain of Flowers and Fruit, Sun Wukong acquires supernatural powers through Taoist practices. 

His abilities include shape-shifting, immense strength, and the ability to travel vast distances in a single somersault. Despite his powers, Sun Wukong’s early journey is marked by rebellion and pride, leading him to challenge the heavens themselves.

His initial defiance against the celestial order and subsequent punishment—being imprisoned under a mountain by the Buddha—sets the stage for his redemption arc. 

His release by Tang Sanzang and commitment to protect the monk on the journey to India is a turning point, marking his transition from a rebellious figure to a devoted disciple. This journey serves as a path of self-discovery and spiritual maturation for Sun Wukong, as he confronts challenges that test his ingenuity, patience, and fidelity.

The Monkey King’s personality is multifaceted; he is cunning and playful, yet capable of profound wisdom and bravery. His loyalty to Tang Sanzang is unwavering, and he becomes the monk’s most powerful protector, using his abilities to overcome demons and obstacles that the pilgrimage encounters. Sun Wukong’s transformation from a mischievous troublemaker to a protector embodies the novel’s themes of redemption and the possibility of spiritual growth regardless of one’s past.

In terms of symbolic significance, Sun Wukong represents the untamed mind and the potential for enlightenment within all beings. His journey from arrogance to enlightenment mirrors the Buddhist path, emphasizing the importance of humility, learning, and devotion. 

Through Sun Wukong, “Journey to the West” explores the idea that even the most unruly spirits can achieve enlightenment through perseverance, guidance, and self-reflection.

Zhu Bajie, often referred to as Pigsy , is known for his complex and somewhat contradictory character traits. Originally a marshal in the celestial army, Zhu Bajie was banished to the mortal realm as a punishment for his indiscretions in heaven, particularly with the Moon Goddess,  Chang’e . 

Transformed into a pig-human hybrid, his appearance reflects his base nature and penchant for indulgence, especially in food and women. Despite these flaws, Zhu Bajie becomes one of Tang Sanzang’s disciples, joining the quest to retrieve the Buddhist scriptures from India.

Zhu Bajie’s personality is marked by a mix of bravery and cowardice, loyalty and self-interest, wisdom and folly. He often provides comic relief in the story through his antics and bumbling mistakes, yet his character also displays moments of insight and bravery. 

His earthly desires and tendencies towards laziness often put him at odds with his more disciplined and spiritually focused companions, particularly Sun Wukong, with whom he shares a rivalry.

While he deeply respects Tang Sanzang and is committed to the pilgrimage, his weaknesses often lead to complications and challenges for the group. However, these shortcomings make his moments of courage and sacrifice all the more significant, highlighting the theme of redemption and the possibility of moral and spiritual growth regardless of one’s past actions or nature.

Zhu Bajie’s character serves as a reflection on human nature, embodying the struggles between base desires and higher aspirations, between selfishness and altruism. His journey alongside Tang Sanzang is as much about his own redemption and transformation as it is about the physical pilgrimage to India.

Sha Wujing, or Sandy , is the third disciple who joins Tang Sanzang. Once a celestial general, Sha Wujing was banished to the mortal world as punishment for a transgression in heaven, where he was transformed into a river ogre. 

His frightening appearance belies a kind heart and a steadfast, loyal nature. Recognizing his past mistakes, Sha Wujing seeks redemption through service to Tang Sanzang on the perilous journey to the West.

Characteristically, Sha Wujing is the embodiment of stoicism and reliability. Compared to the more flamboyant Sun Wukong and the often comically flawed Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing’s demeanor is subdued and earnest. 

He is less prone to the antics and disputes that sometimes ensnare his fellow disciples, showcasing a level of maturity and wisdom that stabilizes the group. His role is often that of the peacemaker, bridging gaps between his more temperamental companions and ensuring the pilgrimage remains focused on its spiritual goals.

Armed with a magic staff that he uses to combat demons and other threats, he is a formidable fighter in his own right. His knowledge of aquatic environments also proves invaluable, as many of the journey’s challenges take place near or in water.

The Journey to the West

The Origins

In the lush, mystical expanse of the Mountain of Flowers and Fruit, a stone egg, nurtured by the elements and the heavens, gave birth to Sun Wukong, the Monkey King. This miraculous birth marked the beginning of an extraordinary being destined to leave an indelible mark on the realms of gods and mortals alike. Possessing incredible strength, agility, and a keen intellect from birth, Sun Wukong quickly established himself as the king of the monkeys, securing their loyalty through his bravery and wisdom.

Driven by an insatiable curiosity and the fear of death, Sun Wukong embarked on a quest for immortality. His journey led him to the tutelage of a Taoist sage, from whom he learned the secrets of magical arts, shape-shifting, and the way of immortality. These newfound powers, coupled with his natural cunning and prowess, made Sun Wukong a being of unmatched ability.

However, with great power came a great desire for recognition and respect. Sun Wukong’s ambitions soon turned him against the celestial order. Seeking to claim his place among the gods and immortals, he caused havoc in the heavens, challenging the authority of the Jade Emperor himself. His antics and defiance led to a celestial war between his monkey army and the heavenly forces.

The turmoil caused by Sun Wukong could not go unpunished. Despite his might, he was eventually captured by the combined efforts of the Buddha and the celestial army. To curb his rebellious spirit, Buddha imprisoned Sun Wukong under the Five Elements Mountain, sealing him with a magical spell for five hundred years. This punishment was not just a consequence of his actions but also a pivotal moment of transformation. Under the mountain, Sun Wukong was forced to reflect on his deeds and the consequences of his unchecked ambition.

This period of imprisonment was a crucible, tempering Sun Wukong’s fiery spirit with a newfound understanding of responsibility and the importance of humility. It was here, in the shadow of his actions and under the weight of the mountain, that the foundation was laid for his redemption and eventual role as a protector on the journey to the West.

The Calling of Tang Sanzang

In the empire of the Tang Dynasty, under the watchful eyes of celestial beings, the birth of Tang Sanzang was foretold with a prophecy. He was destined to be no ordinary monk, but one whose journey would mark a pivotal moment in the spiritual fabric of the world. From an early age, Tang Sanzang displayed an uncommon devotion to his Buddhist faith, his heart set on understanding the deepest truths of existence and alleviating the suffering of all beings. His life was filled with piety, scholarship, and an unwavering commitment to the path of enlightenment, setting him apart as a vessel for divine purpose.

The turning point in Tang Sanzang’s life came through a divine revelation, where the  Bodhisattva Guanyin  presented him with a mission of paramount importance. He was to travel to the Western regions of India to retrieve sacred Buddhist scriptures not yet available in  China . These texts held the key to deepening the spiritual understanding and salvation for countless souls in his homeland. This was not just a journey across lands; it was a pilgrimage that would test the limits of his faith, endurance, and spirit.

The gravity of this mission was clear; the scriptures were vital for the propagation of Buddhism in China, promising a new era of spiritual insight and enlightenment. However, the path to the West was fraught with perils beyond imagination—demons, treacherous landscapes, and trials that would challenge the very essence of his being. It was a journey that no one could undertake alone and survive, let alone succeed.

Recognizing the monumental challenges that lay ahead, the Bodhisattva Guanyin promised Tang Sanzang divine assistance in the form of disciples who would protect and guide him through the dangers. These disciples, each with their own paths to redemption and enlightenment, were destined to be united with Tang Sanzang, forming an unlikely fellowship bound by a shared mission.

Thus began Tang Sanzang’s journey, a quest that was not only his own but one that carried the hopes and spiritual aspirations of the entire Buddhist community. With the divine mandate bestowed upon him, Tang Sanzang set forth, stepping into the annals of legend.

Assembling the Disciples

As Tang Sanzang began his perilous journey to the West, the first to join him was none other than Sun Wukong, the Monkey King. Freed from his five-century imprisonment under the Five Elements Mountain by Tang Sanzang himself, Sun Wukong was bound to him by a vow. This vow, forged in the fires of redemption (and the head-tightening band), was Sun Wukong’s promise to protect Tang Sanzang throughout the journey. The release symbolized not only Sun Wukong’s second chance but also the formation of an unbreakable bond between the disciple and his master. With his unparalleled martial prowess and magical abilities, Sun Wukong was a formidable protector, one whose loyalty and dedication to Tang Sanzang’s mission were beyond question.

The next to join this celestial mission was Zhu Bajie, once a marshal in the heavens, now living as a half-human, half-pig being as punishment for his lascivious behavior in the celestial realm. Encountered by Tang Sanzang and Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie was persuaded to join the pilgrimage, seeking redemption for his past misdeeds.

Sha Wujing, the third disciple, was once a celestial general who, due to a grave mistake, was banished to a river, taking the form of a fearsome water ogre. His encounter with Tang Sanzang and the promise of redemption through service transformed Sha Wujing from a feared monster into a loyal disciple.

Together, these three disciples, each with their unique strengths, weaknesses, and backgrounds, formed the core of Tang Sanzang’s entourage. Their assembly was no mere coincidence but a divinely orchestrated gathering of souls seeking redemption, enlightenment, and the fulfillment of a sacred mission.

Trials and Tribulations

As Tang Sanzang and his newly assembled disciples embarked on their journey to the West, they were soon met with a series of trials that tested their resolve, unity, and individual capabilities. These challenges served not only as obstacles to be overcome but also as crucibles for character development and bonding among the pilgrims.

One of the first major trials they faced was the Black Wind Mountain, where a fierce demon known for capturing and eating travelers threatened their mission. It was here that Sun Wukong’s prowess and quick thinking were first put to the test, showcasing his ability to protect Tang Sanzang against seemingly insurmountable odds.

Another significant challenge came in the form of the White Bone Demon, a creature capable of changing its form to deceive and capture Tang Sanzang. This trial tested not only the physical strength of the disciples but also their wisdom and ability to see through deception.

These early trials also brought to the forefront the dynamics and interactions among the disciples. Sun Wukong’s impulsive nature and readiness to use force were often at odds with Tang Sanzang’s more compassionate and pacifistic approach, leading to tensions within the group. Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing, each with their distinct personalities and strengths, found themselves navigating the complex dynamics between their desire for redemption and the often chaotic leadership of Sun Wukong.

The Final Challenges

As Tang Sanzang and his disciples neared the end of their epic quest to retrieve the sacred scriptures from the West, they encountered the Fiery Mountain, a vast barrier of flames that seemed insurmountable. This natural obstacle was a metaphor for the burning trials of the spirit, a test of their resolve and unity. To pass, they needed the fan of the Princess Iron Fan, a task that proved to be as much about diplomacy and wisdom as it was about strength and courage. The quest for the fan was marked by deception and challenges that tested their patience and ingenuity, especially for Sun Wukong, whose confrontations with the Princess pushed him to find non-violent solutions.

Following this, the pilgrims faced the ordeal of the Tenfold Maze, a bewildering labyrinth that tested their mental endurance and faith. The Maze, crafted by powerful magic, represented the inner confusions and doubts that can lead one astray from the path of enlightenment. Each turn and dead end forced the disciples to rely not just on Sun Wukong’s strength or Zhu Bajie’s might, but on Tang Sanzang’s unwavering faith and Sha Wujing’s quiet determination. It was their unity and collective wisdom that eventually led them through the maze, symbolizing the triumph of shared purpose over individual despair.

Perhaps the most significant trial came in the form of a spiritual challenge directly from the Buddha. Before granting them the scriptures, Buddha tasked Tang Sanzang and his disciples with a final test of their virtues and understanding of the Buddhist teachings. This trial was not about battling demons or overcoming physical barriers but confronting their inner selves and the essence of their journey. Each disciple, including Tang Sanzang, faced manifestations of their past errors, fears, and desires, challenging them to apply the lessons of compassion, humility, and perseverance they had learned on their journey.

The confrontation with their inner demons was a profound moment for the pilgrims, especially for Sun Wukong, whose journey from rebel to protector had been fraught with pride and anger. For Zhu Bajie, it was a moment to transcend his baser instincts and desires, while Sha Wujing confronted the solitude and obscurity of his existence with newfound peace. For Tang Sanzang, it was the ultimate test of his faith and his commitment to his mission, proving his worthiness to receive the sacred texts.

Arrival in the West

After overcoming the final, daunting challenges set before them, Tang Sanzang and his disciples reached their sacred destination in the West. It was here, in the presence of the Buddha, that they were finally granted the sacred scriptures.

The attainment of the sacred scriptures was an achievement of monumental significance. For Tang Sanzang, it represented the fulfillment of a divine mission entrusted to him, affirming his unwavering faith and dedication. The scriptures themselves were not just texts but beacons of wisdom, destined to enlighten countless generations to come. Their acquisition symbolized the bridging of divine knowledge from the West to the East, promising an era of spiritual awakening and understanding for Tang Sanzang’s homeland.

For the disciples, the journey to the West and the acquisition of the scriptures were transformative. Sun Wukong, once a rebellious figure driven by pride and the desire for immortality, emerged as a being of enlightenment, his actions tempered by wisdom and compassion. The journey refined his character, turning his immense power and cunning into instruments of protection and service to a cause greater than himself. 

Upon their return to the Tang Empire, the pilgrims were received with reverence. The sacred scriptures were translated and spread, seeding the growth of Buddhism and its teachings throughout the land. The disciples, each awarded divine recognition for their service, achieved a form of enlightenment that transcended their former selves ( Both Sun Wukong and Tang Sanzang were turned into Buddhas .)

Summary of the Journey to the West

“Journey to the West” is a chronicling of the pilgrimage of the Buddhist monk Tang Sanzang and his quest to retrieve sacred scriptures from India. Alongside him are his three disciples: Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, with his unparalleled martial prowess and magical abilities; Zhu Bajie, the gluttonous and lecherous pig demon with a heart of gold; and Sha Wujing, the steadfast and reliable river demon. Each disciple, once celestial beings now seeking redemption for past transgressions, brings unique strengths and weaknesses to the journey, creating a dynamic and sometimes volatile mix of personalities.

The narrative begins with the birth and rise of Sun Wukong, who, after acquiring magical powers and challenging the heavens, is imprisoned under a mountain by the Buddha for his arrogance. Meanwhile, Tang Sanzang, chosen by the  Bodhisattva Guanyin , embarks on a mission to the West to obtain Buddhist sutras that will enlighten the East. Along the way, he liberates and recruits Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing, who vow to protect him in exchange for their spiritual redemption.

Their journey is fraught with peril, encountering a series of demons and monsters intent on capturing Tang Sanzang for their own gain. Each challenge tests the group’s resolve, faith, and unity, with Sun Wukong’s quick wit and might often saving the day. Despite their differences and the difficulties they face, the pilgrims learn valuable lessons in compassion, patience, humility, and perseverance. These trials serve not only as physical obstacles but as spiritual tests, refining each disciple’s character and strengthening their bonds.

The pilgrimage is marked by significant trials, from battling the fiery Red Boy and outsmarting the cunning Spider Demons to navigating the treacherous Flaming Mountain and the illusion-filled Tenfold Maze. Each ordeal brings them closer together, teaching them the importance of teamwork, sacrifice, and the pursuit of enlightenment.

Upon reaching the West and passing the final tests set by the Buddha, Tang Sanzang and his disciples are granted the scriptures. Their return to the Tang Empire is triumphant, with each disciple achieving enlightenment and recognition for their service. The sacred texts they bring back promise a new era of spiritual awakening for their homeland.

• Loyalty and Devotion:  The loyalty of Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing to Tang Sanzang is a central theme that underscores the importance of fidelity in the face of adversity. Their unwavering commitment to protect their master and ensure the successful retrieval of the sacred scriptures speaks to the value of loyalty in achieving a higher spiritual purpose.
• Perseverance through Trials:  The pilgrims’ journey is fraught with challenges that test their resolve, faith, and endurance. Each trial, whether it be a confrontation with demons or overcoming natural obstacles, symbolizes the inner struggles individuals face on their path to enlightenment.
• The Quest for Enlightenment: At its heart, “Journey to the West” is a spiritual odyssey that mirrors the Buddhist path to enlightenment. The journey to retrieve the scriptures symbolizes the pursuit of wisdom and understanding, essential for  liberation  from suffering and the cycle of rebirth. The transformations of the characters, especially the disciples, reflect the individual’s journey toward enlightenment, marked by self-discovery, repentance, and spiritual growth.
• The Battle between Good and Evil: The frequent encounters with demons and the celestial trials faced by Tang Sanzang and his disciples embody the eternal struggle between good and evil. This theme is not only external, in the battles with literal demons, but also internal, representing the moral and spiritual conflicts within each character.

• Characters as Symbolic Archetypes: The main characters of “Journey to the West” are rich in symbolic significance. Sun Wukong, with his rebellious nature and transformative journey, symbolizes the untamed mind and the potential for enlightenment through discipline and self-cultivation. Zhu Bajie represents human desires and flaws, highlighting the struggles and potential for redemption despite one’s imperfections. Sha Wujing embodies steadfastness and humility, qualities essential for spiritual progress.
• Events as Metaphors for Spiritual Lessons: Many of the events and trials encountered by the pilgrims are metaphors for spiritual lessons. For example, the crossing of the Flaming Mountain can be seen as a metaphor for overcoming the burning passions and attachments that hinder spiritual growth. The encounters with various demons can represent the overcoming of personal obstacles on the path to enlightenment.
• The Journey Itself: The journey to the West is symbolic of the Buddhist path towards enlightenment. It is fraught with difficulties and distractions, much like the spiritual journey of an individual.

Moral Lessons

• Redemption and the Potential for Change : The characters of “Journey to the West,” especially the disciples of Tang Sanzang, embody the theme of redemption and the belief in the potential for change. Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing, each banished for their transgressions, find in their journey an opportunity for transformation. Their willingness to protect Tang Sanzang and endure hardships for the sake of obtaining the sacred scriptures illustrates the possibility of redemption, regardless of past misdeeds. This reflects the Buddhist concept of  karma  and the idea that positive actions can counteract negative past actions, leading to spiritual growth and liberation.
• Virtue and Moral Integrity : Throughout the novel, Tang Sanzang serves as a moral compass, embodying virtue and moral integrity. His compassion, patience, and unwavering commitment to non-violence, even in the face of danger, highlight the importance of upholding one’s principles. Tang Sanzang’s interactions with demons, often opting for understanding and conversion rather than conflict, reinforce the novel’s message that compassion and wisdom are more powerful than force.
• The Pursuit of Knowledge and Enlightenment : “Journey to the West” places great emphasis on the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment, both as a personal quest and for the benefit of others. The journey to obtain the Buddhist scriptures symbolizes the quest for spiritual knowledge and truth. This quest is not portrayed as easy or straightforward but rather as a path filled with obstacles that require perseverance, sacrifice, and moral fortitude to overcome.
• Humility and Self-Cultivation : Finally, “Journey to the West” teaches the importance of humility and self-cultivation. The characters, particularly Sun Wukong, learn to temper their pride and recognize their limitations. This humility, coupled with a commitment to self-improvement and spiritual cultivation, is portrayed as essential for growth and enlightenment. The novel thus conveys the moral lesson that true strength and wisdom come from understanding oneself, acknowledging one’s flaws, and striving for self-betterment.

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Archetype : Journey to the West

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The archetype of a character who is or resembles a character from the Journey to the West story.

• 1.1 Sun Wukong/The Monkey King
• 1.2 Tang Sanzang/Tripitaka
• 1.3 Zhu Bajie/Pigsey
• 1.4 Sha Wujing/Sandy
• 1.5 Bai Longma/White Dragon Horse
• 1.6 The Jade Emperor
• 1.7 Guan Yin
• 1.8 Niu Mowang/Bull Demon King
• 2.1 Bai Longma
• 2.2 The Jade Emperor
• 2.3 Guan Yin
• 2.4 Niu Mowang/Bull Demon King
• 2.5 Sha Wujing/Sandy
• 2.6 Sun Wukong/The Monkey King
• 2.7 Tang Sanzang/Tripitaka
• 2.8 Zhu Bajie/Pigsy
• 3 Associations
• 4 Example Characters

Properties [ ]

The character is from or is based on the allegory, Journey to the West.

Sun Wukong/The Monkey King [ ]

Sun Wukong is the Monkey King. He was born from a magic rock on Mount Huaguo. He is a devious trickster who messed with the citizens of heaven and the Jade Emperor and achieved immortality. He is equipped with Ruyi Jingu Ban, a magic staff that changes sizes. Upon rebelling against heaven, Sun Wukong was imprisoned beneath Mount Five Fingers for 500 years. In order to redeem himself, he must accompany a monk named Tang Sanzang to retrieve the Buddhist sutras from India. He was given a magic crown which shrinks whenever Tang Sanzang recites the magic words, causing Sun Wukong to have a headache. This was meant to discipline him and prevent his troublemaker attitude from weighing everyone down.

Sun Wukong is an allegory for the human mind. The mind is impulsive and like a monkey.

Tang Sanzang/Tripitaka [ ]

Tang Sanzang is a monk who was chosen by Guan Yin to make the pilgrimage to retrieve the Buddhist sutras. He must be escorted by Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing, and Bai Longma to safely reach India. He is a reincarnation of a holy being, and legend says that if you consume his flesh, you'll become immortal; as such, he is constantly being hunted and captured by monsters and demons.

Tang Sanzang represents helplessness and how there are forces out of one's control. He is constant battered around on his journey to enlightenment, which represents the struggle to get there.

Zhu Bajie/Pigsey [ ]

Zhu Bajie was a commander of the 80,000 Heavenly Navy Soldiers. However, for misbehavior and drunkenly harassing the lunar goddess, he was exiled. He reincarnated on Earth, but accidentally fell into a pig pen and was turned into a man-eating pig-monster. Guan Yin would later encounter him and convinced him to join the pilgrimage for redemption.

Zhu Bajie represents the id. He represents base human desire. He revolves around sleep, food, and women. He constantly distracts Tang Sanzang. He represents material desire and convinces Tang Sanzang to listen to him rather than Sun Wukong.

Sha Wujing/Sandy [ ]

After accidentally breaking a valuable vase in a fit of rage, The Jade Emperor banished him to earth and was reborn as a sand demon. He then went to reside in the river. He acquired great swimming skill there.

Sha Wujing represents people who follow orders blindly. He always does what he is told. He is obedient, calm, loyal, polite, and logical.

Bai Longma/White Dragon Horse [ ]

Bai Longma is the dragon prince, Ao Lie. After eating Tang Sanzang's horse, he is commanded to turn into a white horse to replace it. He is often forgotten by the author and rarely turns back into a dragon to assist everyone.

The Jade Emperor [ ]

The Jade Emperor is the ruler of heaven. He is proud, short-tempered, and inflexible. He rules heaven in a bureaucratic way. Everyone in heaven reports to him and no slacker goes unpunished.

Guan Yin [ ]

A recurring character, Guan Yin assists the pilgrims on their journey to the west. She is the Bodhisattva of Compassion. She persuaded each of Sanzang's Disciples to join the pilgrimage. From time and time, she provides the squad with magical artifacts and connection to the heavenly realm.

Niu Mowang/Bull Demon King [ ]

The main antagonist of Journey to the West. Niu Mowang was once the sworn brother of Sun Wukong. Upon Sun Wukong tricking his son and wife, Niu Mowang became Sun Wukong's mortal enemy. Niu Mowang is aggressive and violent. Although he is altogether evil, he's more like a vengeful demon. In contrast to his bruteful personality, Miu Moawang is very caring for his family.

Associated Powers [ ]

Bai longma [ ].

• Asian Dragon Physiology
• Dragon Physiology
• Horse Physiology
• Archetype:Ruler
• Chinese Deity Physiology
• Divine Lord Physiology
• Heaven Deity Physiology
• Enhanced Charisma
• Heaven Lordship
• Hierarchy Manipulation
• Immortality
• Land Aspect Manifestation
• Light Manipulation
• Sky Manipulation
• Spiritual Meditation
• Absolute Senses
• Cloud Flight
• Blessing Inducement
• Compassion Manipulation
• Fertility Inducement
• Guardianship
• Love Manipulation
• Luck Bestowal
• Peace Inducement
• Sacred Energy Manipulation
• Hoof Protrusion
• Horn Protrusion
• Multi-Shapeshifting
• Personal Size Manipulation
• Supernatural Strength
• Weapon Proficiency
• Enhanced Intelligence
• Enhanced Strength
• Enhanced Swimming
• Shovel Proficiency
• Underwater Combat
• Divine Combat
• Transmutation Magic
• Primate Physiology
• Biomorphing
• Hair Cloning
• Omnifarious
• Divine Weaponry
• Enchanted Armor
• Mystic Object
• Enhanced Staffmanship
• Giant Weapon Proficiency
• Truth Detection
• Unfettered Body
• Archetype:Monk
• Enlightenment
• Supernatural / Absolute Wisdom
• Tranquil State

Zhu Bajie/Pigsy [ ]

• Rake Proficiency
• Supernatural Ugliness
• Shapeshifting
• Swine Physiology

Associations [ ]

• Chinese Deity

Example Characters [ ]

• Various Characters ( Buster Keel )
• Ginkakumon ( Digimon )
• Gokuwmon ( Digimon )
• Jinkakumon ( Digimon )
• Sanzomon ( Digimon )
• Genzo Sanzo Hoshi ( Dinosaur King )
• Bull Demon King ( Doraemon: The Record of Nobita's Parallel Visit to the West )
• Son Goku ( Dragon Ball )
• Sunrise Dragon ( Dragon Mania Legends )
• Wu Kong ( Girls X Battle )
• Mori Jin ( God Of Highschool )
• Bikou ( Highschool DxD )
• Sun Wukong ( Highschool DxD )
• Every Character ( Journey to the West )
• Sun Wukong ( Kamihime Project R )
• Sun Wukong ( Kung Fu Panda series)
• MK as Sun Wukong
• Mei Dragon as the White Horse Dragon
• Pigsy as Zhu Bajie
• Tang as Tang Sanzang
• Sandy as Sha Wujing
• Monkey King
• The Pilgrims
• Jade Emperor
• Gold and Silver Brothers ( Naruto )
• Monkey King Enma ( Naruto )
• Seiten Teisei ( Megami Tensei / Persona series)
• Sun Wukong ( RWBY )
• Various Characters ( Saiyuki )
• Xuanzang Sanzang ( TYPE-MOON )
• Son Wukong ( Versus Tales X )
• Various Characters ( Xi Xing Ji/Westward )

Gallery [ ]

• 1 Superpowers
• 2 List of Kinetic Abilities
• 3 Darkness Manipulation