Black Myth: Wukong, the highly anticipated action RPG inspired by the classic Chinese novel “Journey to the West,” has captivated gamers worldwide with its stunning visuals and intricate details.
Among the most striking features of the game are its beautifully crafted locations, many of which are based on real-life sites in China.
These locations blend the mythical with the historical, grounding the fantastical elements of the game in a tangible reality.
1. Dule Temple, Jixian, Tianjin
In Black Myth: Wukong, Dule Temple serves as a serene yet eerie location, shrouded in mist and mystery. The real Dule Temple, located in Jixian, Tianjin, is one of the oldest surviving wooden structures in China, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Known for its grand Guanyin Pavilion and ancient Buddhist statues, this temple has a timeless quality that the game captures beautifully, offering players a glimpse into China’s rich architectural heritage.
2. Yuhuang Temple, Jincheng, Shanxi
The Yuhuang Temple in Jincheng, Shanxi, features prominently in the game as a place of spiritual power and ancient rituals. In reality, Yuhuang Temple is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, a key figure in Chinese mythology. The temple’s intricate carvings and historic significance are reflected in the game’s depiction, where it becomes a site of profound importance in Wukong’s journey.
3. Tiefo Temple, Gaoping, Shanxi
Tiefo Temple in Gaoping, Shanxi, is another location that has been faithfully recreated in Black Myth: Wukong. The temple, with its serene atmosphere and ancient statues of iron Buddhas, becomes a place of quiet contemplation in the game. The developers have carefully incorporated the temple’s real-life details, making it a true homage to this spiritual site.
4. Yuhuang Pavilion, Yuxian, Hebei
Yuhuang Pavilion in Yuxian, Hebei, is depicted in the game as a majestic structure, towering over the surrounding landscape. The real-life pavilion, dedicated to the Jade Emperor, offers sweeping views of the region and is known for its traditional Chinese architectural style. The game captures this grandeur, using the pavilion as a backdrop for some of its most epic scenes.
5. Nanan Temple Pagoda, Yuxian, Hebei
The Nanan Temple Pagoda is another stunning location in both the game and real life. Located in Yuxian, Hebei, this ancient pagoda is a symbol of enduring faith and history. In Black Myth: Wukong, it stands as a towering monument, guiding players through the challenging quests that lie ahead.
6. Dazu Rock Carvings, Chongqing
The Dazu Rock Carvings are UNESCO World Heritage sites known for their exquisite Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian images carved into the cliffs. In Black Myth: Wukong, these carvings are brought to life, with the game’s developers using them as inspiration for some of the most visually stunning and spiritually charged areas in the game. The attention to detail in replicating these carvings showcases the game’s commitment to authenticity.
7. Chongfu Temple, Shuozhou, Shanxi
Chongfu Temple in Shuozhou, Shanxi, is depicted as a place of ancient wisdom and hidden secrets in the game. The real Chongfu Temple, with its long history and serene environment, has been a center of Buddhist learning for centuries. In Black Myth: Wukong, it becomes a key location where the player can delve into the deeper mysteries of the story.
8. Hanging Monastery, Hengshan, Shanxi
The Hanging Monastery in Hengshan, Shanxi, is one of China’s most iconic structures, clinging precariously to the side of a cliff. This architectural marvel is recreated in the game as a dramatic, almost otherworldly location where gravity seems to defy the laws of nature. The game’s portrayal of the Hanging Monastery highlights the perilous beauty of this real-life wonder.
9. Stele at the East Hall Entrance of Foguang Temple, Shanxi
The stele at the East Hall Entrance of Foguang Temple in Shanxi is an ancient monument inscribed with historical records. In Black Myth: Wukong, it serves as a narrative device, offering players clues and insights into the lore of the game. The real-life stele is a testament to the rich cultural history that the game draws upon.
10. Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, Dali, Yunnan
The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple in Dali, Yunnan, are among the most famous landmarks in China. In the game, these pagodas are depicted as towering structures that stand as a testament to the enduring power of faith. The developers have faithfully recreated the pagodas, capturing their majesty and spiritual significance.
Black Myth: Wukong not only brings to life the mythical world of the Monkey King but also pays homage to China’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. By basing many of its locations on real-life sites, the game creates a bridge between the past and the present, the real and the fantastical. For players, this means not just an immersive gaming experience, but also an opportunity to explore and appreciate the history and beauty of these ancient sites.