As one of the Four Great Classical Novels of China and the first romanticized long-form fantasy novel in Chinese literature, Journey to the West profoundly portrays the social realities of its time. The plot develops as Sun Wukong encounters Zhu Bajie (Pigsy), Sha Wujing (Sandy), and Tang Sanzang (Tripitaka). The narrative primarily focuses on the journey of Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing as they protect Tang Sanzang on his westward pilgrimage to retrieve sacred Buddhist scriptures. From his reincarnation to his ultimate success, Tang Sanzang endures 81 tribulations, battling demons and overcoming challenges along the way. The journey culminates in their arrival at the Western Paradise, where they meet the Buddha. Ultimately, the five travelers—Tang Sanzang and his disciples—achieve enlightenment and ascend to sainthood.