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Xuanzang's Journey to the West for Scriptures

Type Event Region China Time 629–645

During the Zhenguan era, the monk Xuanzang left Chang'an, crossed the Hexi Corridor and Central Asian o Pamirs into northern India, studied at Naland…

Timeline

  1. 629Liangzhou · GansuBecause the court forbade subjects from leaving the country, Xuanzang crossed the frontier without authorization, passing through Liangzhou and Guazhou, and with a guide's help slipped through the Yumen Pass, beginning his westward journey.
  2. 630–637Gaochang · Western RegionsXuanzang passed through Western Regions kingdoms including Gaochang, Karasahr, and Kucha, learning local languages, collecting Sanskrit scriptures, and crossing the Pamirs into the southern route of Central Asia.
  3. 638Nalanda · BiharXuanzang reached Nalanda Monastery in Magadha, studied under eminent monks including Silabhadra, and deeply engaged in Yogacara, Madhyamaka, and other Buddhist schools, gaining growing renown.
  4. 645Chang'an · ShaanxiXuanzang returned with 657 Sanskrit scripture scrolls as well as Buddhist statues and relics, received an elaborate welcome from Emperor Taizong, and thereafter directed scripture translation at Hongfu Temple and Da Ci'en Temple in Chang'an.

Sources