Jiangsu Arts Performing Group Opera Commission Monk Jianzhen's Journey to Japan

Venue: National Centre for the Performing Arts - Opera House

Dates: February 05-06, 2017

About

In AD 742 (the 1st year of Tianbao Period in the Tang Dynasty), at the invitation of Japanese monks, Master Jianzhen, an eminent monk at that time, successively embarked on the expedition to Japan six times. He underwent innumerable trials and hardships, and finally arrived in Japan in AD 754. Not only artists and doctors, but also skillful craftsmen also trekked together with him. He brought a lot of books and cultural relics to Japan, and went all out to spread the cultural achievements of the Tang Dynasty. Nowadays ever-burning lamps of Yangzhou Daming Temple in China and Toshodaiji Temple in Japan add luster to each other, and shine warm light of peace. Based on historical facts, this drama artistically introduces this historic anecdote of the Chinese-Japanese cultural exchange.

Synopsis

The 1st Voyage through Sea of Illusion

During Tianbao Period in the Tang Dynasty and Tenpyō Period in Japan, the East China Sea rolls out stormy waves. Ever-burning lamp is swaying and dim in Yangzhou Daming Temple. Master Jianzhen and his disciplines take a sea-voyage eastward to Japan, but they suffer from shipwreck and they are trapped on the reef.

The 2nd Voyage through Sea of Ambition

In AD 742, Rongrui, a Japanese monk studying in Yangzhou Daming Temple, begs Master Jianzhen to go expedition to Japan and preach Vinaya and Commandments. Monk Jingkong, Monk Jinghai and others intensely argue. Master Jianzhen expresses his great ambition of expedition to Japan. However, when they set off, the feudal officials seize these monks and vessels on accusation of collusion with pirates. Monk Jingkong questions other monks who is framer and informer.

The 3rd Voyage through Sea of Confusion

In AD 743, they fail again when sailing across sea from Yangzhou. Monk Jinghai confesses his mistake as a informer. Generous Master Jianzhen forgives Monk Jinghai and helps this discipline realize his errors and mend his ways.

The 4th Voyage through Sea of Enlightenment

In AD 748, a plague rages in the Nanhai Sea island of Zhen Prefecture. Island principal Madam Feng and wizard suspect monks of causing this trouble, and intend to kill them by fire. Master Jianzhen uses herbs to help victims, sows Bodhicitta, and makes salvation through charity to others.

The 5th Voyage through Sea of Mind

During AD 750-751, in the difficult journey of expedition to Japan, Monk Rongrui dies in China, and Monk Jingkong withdraws. Disciples scatter around, journey is hopeless, and Master Jianzhen turns blind suddenly! While monk Jinghai and other disciple unswervingly follow Master Jianzhen, and all of them keep peace of mind.

The 6th Voyage through Sea of Wisdom

In AD 754 , after grueling sea voyage, Master Jianzhen succeeds and finally disembarks in Japan. He spreads the great charm of the Tang Dynasty and Buddhism across Nara City. In this foreign land with exotic scenery, Buddhism also gains popularity.