Journey to the West - An Audio Drama Series
The Fifth Monkey
Become a subscriber to access all the locked content:
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thefifthmonkey/subscribe
Bringing China's most influential fantasy adventure to your ears, with an original translation right from its source text.
The Fifth Monkey is an independent, multinational team dedicated to this project.
For subtitles, please visit our Youtube Channel. Shop at our Patreon store for transcripts and become a paid member for more exclusive content, visit: patreon.com/thefifthmonkey
We are also on Ko-fi(donation only), Bluesky, Tumblr, Weibo, Bilibili.
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thefifthmonkey/subscribe
Bringing China's most influential fantasy adventure to your ears, with an original translation right from its source text.
The Fifth Monkey is an independent, multinational team dedicated to this project.
For subtitles, please visit our Youtube Channel. Shop at our Patreon store for transcripts and become a paid member for more exclusive content, visit: patreon.com/thefifthmonkey
We are also on Ko-fi(donation only), Bluesky, Tumblr, Weibo, Bilibili.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 18, 2025 • 18min
Journey to the West - Chapter 26 Part 2
Dive into a mystical adventure filled with divine wonders as a sage embarks on a quest to restore a damaged fruit tree. Encounter an array of deities and face challenging obstacles along the way. Witness the pivotal moment when a Bodhisattva lends a helping hand, culminating in a joyous celebration among the immortals. The transition from comedic escapades to serious pursuits adds depth to the narrative, revealing the true motivations behind the characters' journeys.
Apr 4, 2025 • 15min
Journey to the West - Chapter 26 Part 1
Xin Zhao, better known as Sun Wukong or the Monkey King, joins to explore a whimsical and adventurous tale. He discusses a hilarious quest involving a magical tree revival, where misunderstandings lead to celestial encounters. The tension between the immortal Zhen Yuan and Xing Zhe highlights the clash of integrity and ambition, set against the backdrop of trust and deceit. Xin Zhao's bold promise to find a cure in just three days adds a layer of camaraderie and humor to their journey through this enchanting story.
Mar 21, 2025 • 21min
Journey to the West - Chapter 25 Part 2
This installment is packed with comedic clashes between a humble Taoist and the Tang Monk's crew. As they face a hilarious theft scenario, misunderstandings reign supreme. The thrill escalates when one character ingeniously frees himself using magic, blending urgency with humor. A showdown with the Great Immortal adds to the chaos, showcasing the team's clever antics. The tension continues with a humorous debate over a broken pot, culminating in a cliffhanger that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats!
Mar 7, 2025 • 20min
Journey to the West - Chapter 25 Part 1
Sun Wukong, also known as the Monkey King, takes center stage as a legendary figure brimming with strength and magic. In this riveting discussion, he delves into the escalating conflict over the coveted Ren Shen fruit. Accusations fly as tensions simmer between the Tang Monk and his disciples and two immortal youths. Wukong shares insights into the dramatic confrontations that arise, revealing the rich narrative of loyalty, rivalry, and the quest for power. Prepare for a wild ride through this classic tale!
Feb 21, 2025 • 19min
Journey to the West - Chapter 24 Part 2
Discover the comedic chaos as two Taoist youths secretly plot while indulging in renshen fruit, completely oblivious to Ba Jie’s eavesdropping. The conversation is laced with humor and hints at a zany twist involving a golden mallet. Join the whimsical quest for the legendary Ren Shen fruit, where hilarity ensues as characters face outrageous challenges and navigate tension with the Taoist guardians. This delightful mix of adventure and comedy brings a fresh perspective to a classic tale.
Feb 7, 2025 • 21min
Journey to the West - Chapter 24 Part 1
Dark humor unfolds as characters encounter a man tied to a tree, setting the stage for an absurd yet engaging narrative. The journey to Wanshou Shan leads to reflections on humility and beauty, as one character vows to follow their master faithfully. They discover the Wuzhuang Temple, home to an immortal with profound teachings and the mystical ren shen fruit, known for its life-extending properties. Celestial beings prepare for a significant arrival, only to face misunderstandings that bring humor and depth to their interactions.
Jan 21, 2025 • 2min
Chinese New Year Limited Free Access for Production Notes 16-20 (1/28-2/4)
Join the celebration of the Chinese New Year as the shift from the Year of the Dragon to the Year of the Snake is explored. Discover the significance of the Agricultural Calendar during this festive season. Unique episodes offer listeners a chance to dive deeper into the cultural richness of the holiday. There’s also a push for community support to keep this intriguing journey flourishing.
Jan 17, 2025 • 18min
Journey to the West - Chapter 23 Part 2
In a whimsical tale, a misdirected horse leads to a humorous encounter at a manor. The protagonist's awkward marriage proposal hilariously spirals as he navigates the complexities of winning over a lady and her three daughters. Tension rises with the mother's probing questions, while his friends add comedic speculation to the chaos. It's a delightful blend of adventure and laughter as charming mishaps unfold!
Jan 3, 2025 • 24min
Journey to the West - Chapter 23 Part 1
A wealthy widow and her daughters are on the lookout for new husbands, pulling four eligible bachelors into their orbit. As the characters traverse a picturesque autumn landscape, they face philosophical dilemmas about wealth versus spiritual devotion. Tension mounts as they explore the lavish abode of an immortal, enjoying tea in a serene atmosphere. Amidst humor and introspection, the night brings challenges that test their bonds and responsibilities, setting the stage for their next adventures.
Dec 20, 2024 • 17min
Journey to the West - Chapter 22 Part 2
In a thrilling twist, an old colleague emerges as a new foe. The companions face a fierce river monster, necessitating clever strategy and teamwork. Bajie takes on a daring underwater battle, while Sun Wukong turns to divine wisdom for help. Their united efforts lead to an unexpected resolution, allowing safe passage across tumultuous waters. This captivating tale combines action, adventure, and friendship in a fantastical setting.
