While gamers worldwide battle demons in Black Myth: Wukong, a real-life treasure trove in China’s Gansu Province holds the key to the hero’s ancient origins. Nestled in the Yulin Caves, two murals from the Western Xia Dynasty (1038–1227) showcase what experts believe are the earliest depictions of Sun Wukong—predating the classic Journey to the West novel by 300 years!
Where Art Meets Adventure 🌄🖌️
Carved into cliffs along the Yulin River Gorge, these 43 caves boast over 5,200 square meters of vibrant murals and 270+ sculptures. Part of the same artistic network as the iconic Mogao Caves, the site blends spirituality, history, and storytelling—a ‘real-world RPG’ waiting to be explored!
Why This Matters for Gen Z 🔍📚
Think of it like finding the ‘first draft’ of your favorite superhero! These murals rewrite pop culture history, showing how folklore evolves across centuries. Next time you play Black Myth: Wukong, remember—the Monkey King’s legacy stretches back further than any game controller. 🎮⏳
