Page 6 - 文化旅游2024-8

05 WORLD HERITAGE TOUR | 世界遗产游

Journeying with Wukong through the Stone Forest

跟着“悟空”游石林

On August 20, Black Myth: Wukong, an action after overcoming 81 difficulties along the way. and character. Additionally, the area features stunning
role-playing game inspired by the Chinese mythologi- Adaptations in TV dramas and movies have made caves, stalactites, corrosion lakes, natural arches,
cal tale Journey to the West, was launched globally. It this story a household name in China, with the 1986 cliffs, waterfalls, and cone-shaped peaks, all of which
has received rave reviews from gamers, who praised TV series Journey to the West achieving particular create a breathtaking and unforgettable landscape.
this remarkable title as a milestone, marking the be- acclaim. The recent popularity of Black Myth: Wu- A must-see when visiting the Stone Forest is the
ginning of the first year for China’s home-grown AAA kong has reignited interest in the 1986 series, drawing unique Sani culture. The Sani people, a branch of the
games—high-quality, stand-alone console games that tourists to its filming locations. One notable desti- Yi ethnic group, have lived in this region for gener-
require significant investment in terms of money, re- nation is the Stone Forest in Yunnan Province. ations and are known for their vibrant singing and
sources, and time. The Stone Forest is recognized as a prime example dancing traditions. They have created the world-fa-
Journey to the West is one of the four great Chi- of the world’s karst landscapes, encompassing over mous “Ashima” cultural narrative. “Ashima” is a long
nese classics, telling the story of the Tang Monk 1,100 square kilometers, with a protected area of 350 narrative poem that tells the ancient legend of a beau-
who traveled to India with his disciples Sun Wu- square kilometers. Several episodes of Journey to tiful and intelligent Sani girl named Ashima, who falls
kong, Zhu Wuneng, and Sha Wujing in search of the West are set in the Shilin Scenic Area, including in love with a brave and honest young man named
Buddhist scriptures. They ultimately succeeded Episode 4, “Imprisoned Under the Five Elements Ahei. Ultimately, Ashima is transformed into a stone
Mountains,” Episode 11, “Monkey King Is Prodded statue. This legend has been adapted into both a film
Into Action,” and Episode 12, “Treasures Recovered and a dance drama, gaining fame both nationally and
in Lotus Cave.” internationally, and has become a significant cultural
The Stone Forest is renowned as one of the world’s emblem of Yunnan with global recognition.
greatest wonders and is often referred to as a “karst The speaking and writing system of the Sani peo-
museum.” Over nearly 300 million years, nature has ple, along with their rich poetic legends, vibrant ethnic
meticulously crafted this geological marvel. Within costumes, lively folk songs and dances, traditional
the Stone Forest, visitors can find various wrestling competitions, the passionate Major Sanxian
forms of stone columns resembling dance, and their unique wedding and funeral customs,
swords, towers, sticks, and mushrooms, all reflect the cultural essence of this ancient ethnic
each with its unique shape group and highlight regional characteristics.