Xuanzang

• Born: 600
• Died: 664
• Chinese: 玄奘 (Xuánzàng)

Xuanzang was a Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled in India in 629-645, and whose journeys inspired the classic legend, Journey to the West (Xī Yóu Jì).

Travel beyond the borders of the Tang Empire was outlawed at the time when Xuanzang began his journey, and so he was obliged to sneak his way out of the country. However, word of his exploits reached China, and when he returned, he was welcomed warmly by Emperor Tang Taizong.