Following the Monkey King: A China Mythology Tour Across 5 Cities
Trace Sun Wukong's story across China — from his birthplace at Huaguo Mountain to the Buddhist temples of Xi'an. The ultimate Journey to the West pilgrimage.
A Pilgrimage for Journey to the West Fans
For those who've read the novel, watched the 1986 TV series, or played Black Myth: Wukong — this is the dream trip. Visit the actual locations mentioned in Journey to the West, from the Monkey King's birthplace to the temple where the real Xuanzang's journey ended. This 10-14 day route covers 5 cities connected by China's excellent high-speed rail network.
This is a special-interest itinerary I can customize. It's more niche than the standard Jiangsu tour, but for the right traveler, it's life-changing.
The 5-City Route
1. Lianyungang (3 days) — Huaguo Mountain, the origin story. Visit the Water Curtain Cave, explore the mountain that inspired it all. 2. Huai'an (1 day) — Wu Cheng'en's former residence. See where the author lived and wrote. 3. Xi'an (3 days) — The journey's end. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda where Xuanzang stored the scriptures he brought back. Muslim Quarter for incredible food. Terracotta Warriors as a bonus.
4. Luoyang (2 days) — Longmen Grottoes (UNESCO Buddhist caves). Xuanzang passed through this area on his return journey. 5. Beijing (3 days) — The Lama Temple (Tibetan Buddhism), the Forbidden City (where the Ming emperors who patronized Wu Cheng'en lived), and modern Journey to the West pop culture sites.