Xuanzang (monk)

Xuanzang was a renowned Chinese Buddhist monk from the 7th century who is best known for his pilgrimage to India to retrieve sacred Buddhist texts. His journey, spanning over 17 years and thousands of miles, helped bring important Buddhist scriptures and knowledge from India to China, enriching Chinese Buddhism. He also studied at Indian monasteries, gaining deep understanding of Buddhist philosophy. His experiences were later documented in the classic Chinese novel "Journey to the West," which blends history with legend. Xuanzang is celebrated for his dedication to preserving and spreading Buddhist teachings and is honored as a symbol of scholarly pursuit and cultural exchange.