The Best Wuxia Books of All Time
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Wuxia, a genre originating from China, transports readers to ancient China where heroes defy odds, practice esoteric martial arts, and navigate the tumultuous waters of honor and treachery.
Here is our list of some of the best books wuxia books of all time.
Table of Contents
A Hero Born: Legends of the Condor Heroes (1957)
Author: Jin Yong
“A Hero Born: Legends of the Condor Heroes” is the first novel in the acclaimed wuxia series “The Condor Trilogy” by Jin Yong (the pen name of Louis Cha). Originally published in 1957, it’s one of the most celebrated works in Chinese literature, especially within the martial arts genre.
The story is set in 13th-century China during the Song Dynasty, where the empire is embattled by the invading forces of the Jurchen-led Jin Dynasty. The novel follows the life of Guo Jing, a loyal and honest young man who becomes a formidable martial artist under the guidance of seven eccentric hermits from the Quanzhen Sect.
Alongside the martial arts adventure, the story also explores Guo Jing’s relationship with Huang Rong, a clever and resourceful young woman, who is the daughter of a notorious bandit.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (1941)
Author: Wang Du Lu
“Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” is part of a series of novels called the “Crane-Iron Series,” written by the renowned Chinese author Wang Dulu.
The novel, originally written in Chinese, has garnered international acclaim, especially after the release of the 2000 film adaptation directed by Ang Lee, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
The story is set in the Qing Dynasty, and it follows the life of Li Mu Bai, a skilled martial artist who wishes to retire and live a life of peace. Despite his intentions, he becomes embroiled in a quest to recover a stolen sword, the Green Destiny, which is an immensely powerful weapon.
Sentimental Swordsman, Ruthless Sword (1968)
Author: Gu Long
“Sentimental Swordsman, Ruthless Sword” is a classic wuxia novel by Gu Long, originally published in 1968.
The story chronicles the journey of Li Xunhuan, also known as the Little Li Flying Dagger, a title he earns due to his unmatched skills with throwing darts. Li Xunhuan, weary from the world of martial arts, desires to leave behind his previous lifestyle. However, the allure of duty draws him back into the world he seeks to abandon.
The Seven Heroes and Five Gallants (1879)
Author: Shi Yu Kun
“The Seven Heroes and Five Gallants” is a highly influential wuxia novel written by Shi Yu Kun, that was first published in 1879.
The story is set during the Song Dynasty and revolves around the adventures of a group of martial artists, known as the Seven Heroes and the Five Gallants. These twelve individuals, each with their own unique skills and backgrounds, work to serve justice and righteousness.
I Shall Seal the Heavens (2014)
Author: Er Gen
“I Shall Seal the Heavens” (2014) is a Xianxia novel by the famous Chinese author Er Gen
The story follows Meng Hao, a scholar who inadvertently gets involved in the world of cultivation, where individuals train to become immortals.
Meng Hao’s journey is filled with trials, tribulations, and personal growth as he strives to seal the heavens and reach the pinnacle of cultivation, encountering friends, foes, and incredible adventures along the way.
Weekly Popular
Newsletter
Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on our latest news and announcements.
