Journey to the West (Illustrated Edition)

Author: Wu Cheng'en
Publisher:
Publishing Time: Not available
Features: Wu Cheng'en's mythological novel Journey to the West is grand in scale, with intricate plots, vivid language, and the use of romanticism in its creation. It is incredibly imaginative and is a treasure among ancient Chinese novels. The book is widely known in China, with numerous editions available. Since the 1980s, when it was adapted into a TV series, its popularity has spread even further. The romanticism and supernatural imagination depicted in the book are sure to bring readers surprises. Derived from the classic Chinese masterpiece Journey to the West, the story tells the tale of Tang Sanzang and his disciples traveling westward to retrieve the true scriptures for the sake of spreading Buddhism and saving all sentient beings, overcoming numerous hardships and obstacles along the way. It portrays a multitude of vivid characters and presents a world filled with strange and wondrous demons. The indomitable spirit of the disciples in overcoming nature and difficulties is perfectly blended with a distinct romantic style. The images of Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie have long been deeply ingrained in people's minds, and chapters like "The Great Rebellion in Heaven," "Three Attacks on the White Bone Demon," and "The Women's Kingdom" have become timeless legends, perfectly depicted in the adaptation.
In the beginning, Pangu separated the world, and under the rule of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors, the world was divided into four great continents. They are: the East (Dongsheng Shenzhou), the West (Xiniu Heshou), the South (Nanfan Buzhou), and the North (Beijulu Zhou). One day, the Buddha, at the Thunderclap Temple on Lingyuan Mountain, summoned all the Buddhas, Arhats, Jyeshatas, Bodhisattvas, Dhyani-Bodhisattvas, Bhikshus, and Bhikkhunis to hold a grand "Ullambana Festival."
He discussed the merits and demerits of the people on the four continents, expressing particular concern for those in the South (Nanfan Buzhou), who were greedy, lustful, and prone to killing and strife, fearing they would fall into an irredeemable state. He mentioned that there were true scriptures that could guide people to goodness. These scriptures needed to be sought by a learned individual who would endure countless mountains and cross vast waters to retrieve them and bring them to the East, thereby guiding and enlightening the people.
The news spread, and it caused a great stir. Those with grand ambitions either wanted to take on the (heavy responsibility) of retrieving the scriptures or hoped to demonstrate their life's skills in protecting the sacred texts and the journey. Meanwhile, the demons and monsters from all directions were also eager to test their luck, aiming to intercept and capture the scripture seekers, as it was said that the seekers were reborn Buddhas, and consuming them could grant immortality equal to that of the heavens.
In a secluded paradise unknown to the world, a group of carefree scholars lived. You were among them. When the news of the scripture retrieval mission reached you, your heart was moved. On a chilly morning, you bid farewell to your friends and family at the Gathering Pavilion and embarked on an unknown journey.