Saiyuki

Saiyuki is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Shigeru Mizuki. It was serialized in Shogakukan's Weekly Shonen Sunday from 1980 to 1984, with its chapters later collected into 20 tankōbon volumes. The story is set in a fictionalized version of ancient China and follows the adventures of a young warrior named Goku, who is sent to the underworld to retrieve a sacred sword. Along the way, Goku encounters various mythical creatures, demons, and other warriors, and learns valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and the importance of one's destiny.

The Saiyuki series is notable for its blend of historical and mythological elements, as well as its focus on the spiritual and philosophical aspects of the characters' journeys. The manga has been praised for its intricate artwork and detailed world-building, which have been praised for their ability to transport readers to a bygone era. Despite its popularity in Japan, Saiyuki has not gained as much international recognition as some of Mizuki's other works, such as Dragon Ball.

The Saiyuki series has also been adapted into various media, including an anime television series, a live-action film, and a stage play. The anime adaptation, produced by Toei Animation, aired in Japan from 1981 to 1982 and featured a different storyline from the manga. The live-action film, released in 1987, was directed by Kazuo Kuroki and starred Masahiro Takashima as Goku. The stage play, which premiered in 2010, was directed by Kazuo Ohno and featured a cast of over 100 actors.

In summary, Saiyuki is a classic Japanese manga series that combines historical and mythological elements to tell the story of a young warrior's journey. Its intricate artwork and detailed world-building have made it a beloved work among fans of the genre, despite its limited international recognition.