The Connection Between Dragon Ball and Journey to the West

The connection between Dragon Ball and the Chinese classic Journey to the West (Xiyouji) is both profound and multifaceted. Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, drew significant inspiration from this legendary Chinese novel, especially in its characters, themes, and narrative structure. The influence of Journey to the West is particularly evident in the portrayal of characters like Son Goku and Vegeta, as well as the overarching quest structure. Below, we explore the deeper connections between these works and how they intertwine, providing a rich foundation for Dragon Ball’s world-building.

1. Son Goku and the Monkey King (Sun Wukong):

1. Inspiration: Son Goku, the central protagonist of Dragon Ball, is a direct homage to the character of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King from Journey to the West. Toriyama’s design and characterization of Goku echo many of the traits and qualities that made Sun Wukong an iconic figure in Chinese literature.
2. Name: Goku's name is a transliteration of "Sun Wukong" (孫悟空), firmly linking him to the Monkey King. Toriyama's decision to retain a form of the original name shows a clear acknowledgment of the Chinese source material.
3. Appearance: Goku's early design as a child, especially with his monkey tail and animalistic qualities, mirrors Sun Wukong’s legendary appearance as a monkey. In Dragon Ball, Goku's tail, which he loses as the series progresses, is a symbolic feature that connects him directly to the primal energy of the Monkey King.
4. Powers: Both characters possess extraordinary strength, speed, and agility, as well as the ability to defy gravity by flying. Sun Wukong wields the Ruyi Jingu Bang, a magical staff that can change size at will, which mirrors Goku's Power Pole (Nyoi Bo). The Power Pole serves as a tool of adventure and combat for Goku in his early years, much like how Sun Wukong’s staff is central to his power.
5. Personality: Like Sun Wukong, Goku is playful, mischievous, and impulsive, especially in his youth. Over time, both characters mature and take on roles of greater significance and heroism. While Sun Wukong goes through trials and learns discipline on his journey, Goku similarly evolves, often displaying a boundless sense of curiosity and moral growth.

2. Vegeta and the Monkey King:

1. While Vegeta’s character is not directly modeled after Sun Wukong, there are several thematic echoes that draw parallels between the Saiyan prince and the Monkey King, particularly in their respective journeys of self-discovery.
2. Pride and Rivalry: Vegeta, known for his unyielding pride as a Saiyan, shares a common trait with Sun Wukong’s earlier arrogance. Both characters are driven by a need to prove their strength and surpass all others, and both possess a rebellious streak. Vegeta’s pride can be seen as a counterpart to Wukong’s early rebellious nature, as both characters have to contend with their flaws and limitations in their respective stories.
3. Transformation: Vegeta undergoes significant character development, evolving from a ruthless antagonist to a compassionate ally and hero. This mirrors Sun Wukong’s arc in Journey to the West, where he gradually learns humility, teamwork, and spiritual growth. Vegeta’s eventual willingness to work alongside others—especially with Goku—echoes Wukong’s shift from an egotistical figure to a more self-aware one.
4. Monkey Connection: The Saiyan race, which Goku and Vegeta belong to, is heavily tied to the monkey motif, especially with their tails and the ability to transform into Great Apes during the full moon. This biological connection further solidifies their thematic link to Sun Wukong, whose mythological origin is deeply rooted in his simian nature.

*3. Other Journey to the West Influences in Dragon Ball:

1. The influence of Journey to the West extends beyond just Goku and Vegeta. Many other characters and plot elements in Dragon Ball are inspired by the classic Chinese tale, adding layers of richness to the Dragon Ball narrative.
2. Bulma as Tang Sanzang: Bulma plays a role akin to that of Tang Sanzang (also known as Tripitaka), the Buddhist monk who embarks on the pilgrimage to the West in Journey to the West. Like Tang Sanzang, Bulma serves as an intellectual and moral center for the group, guiding the heroes on their quest. She is also an indispensable companion to Goku, much like how Tang Sanzang’s disciples, including Sun Wukong, support him on his journey.
3. Oolong and Yamcha as Zhu Bajie: Oolong, the shape-shifting pig, and Yamcha, the desert bandit, share parallels with Zhu Bajie (Pigsy), another member of Tang Sanzang’s entourage. Zhu Bajie is known for his gluttony and humorous, albeit flawed, character. Similarly, Oolong’s penchant for perversion and Yamcha’s initial portrayal as a desert thief provide comic relief, reminiscent of the irreverent but ultimately redeeming qualities of Zhu Bajie.
4. Quest for the Dragon Balls: The central quest in Dragon Ball—the search for the seven Dragon Balls—mirrors the pilgrimage motif of Journey to the West. Both quests involve long, perilous journeys, and their adventurers must face trials, confront evil forces, and undergo personal growth. In both tales, the characters’ experiences shape their evolution, and the journey is as significant as the destination.

4. Cultural Adaptation:

1. Toriyama’s reimagining of Journey to the West is a remarkable adaptation, blending Eastern cultural mythology with modern storytelling elements like science fiction and martial arts. While Dragon Ball takes significant inspiration from Journey to the West, it quickly branches off into its own distinct narrative. The introduction of futuristic technologies, alien races, and interplanetary conflicts adds a unique dimension to the Dragon Ball universe, setting it apart from its classical origins.
2. However, at its core, Dragon Ball retains many of the essential themes from Journey to the West. The values of friendship, perseverance, self-improvement, and the pursuit of higher goals resonate strongly throughout both works, allowing Dragon Ball to remain a timeless adventure that continues to captivate new generations.

In Conclusion:

Dragon Ball pays a profound and respectful homage to Journey to the West, with Son Goku being the most direct reimagining of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King. While the narrative of Dragon Ball evolves into a distinct creation, it is impossible to ignore the deep thematic roots from the classic Chinese text. Vegeta, though not a direct counterpart to Sun Wukong, embodies the qualities of pride and personal transformation, making him a fitting reflection of the Monkey King’s own journey. Ultimately, Toriyama’s work serves as a bridge between Eastern folklore and modern pop culture, and the parallels between Dragon Ball and Journey to the West create a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences across the globe.