Monkey

An energetic monk named Tripitaka travels with three unruly companions as they trek across vast landscapes from China toward India in search of sacred texts. Monkey, Pigsy, and Sandy bring their unique powers and personalities to the expedition, rubbing each other the wrong way and yet proving indispensable. The mission is ordained by Buddha, who believes obtaining the scriptures will restore balance and peace to the world. The foursome faces a string of challenges marked by battles, comic misadventures, and magical wonders. Through luck and grit, they press onward, turning a perilous quest into a lively blend of action and humor. Their missteps become lessons that sharpen loyalty and resolve as the group learns to rely on each other.

This 1978 TV adaptation reimagines Wu Cheng'en's tale about a monk and his disciples seeking scriptures, with Masaaki Sakai as Monkey, Masako Natsume as Tripitaka, Shiro Kishibe as Sandy, Tonpei Hidari as Pigsy, and Shunji Fujimura as Horse Yu Lung.

This adaptation became a touchstone for fantasy and martial arts on TV beyond Japan, helping popularize its colorful characters and mix of slapstick humor with moral fables. The cast performances and memorable action sequences left a lasting imprint on fans and later spin offs worldwide.

Viewers have given the show an 8.0 out of 10 from 16 votes on the listing, signaling a warm reception for a series that blends action humor and fantastical elements. Central themes include friendship, perseverance, and the moral weight of helping others, with a bright, hopeful tone.