China’s legend of the White Snake is so popular that it has even spread to Japan and France. Over the years it has developed into many versions, the underlying story continues to tell of the love between White Snake (白娘子) and Xu Xian (许仙).

Having saved a white snake in his previous life, Xu Xian, now an apprentice in a drug store, meets with the most beautiful lady he has ever seen. The lady, originally the white snake, who has achieved immortality and wants to return her favour to this young man. In doing so the two become attracted by each other, fall in love, get married and eventually have a son. During their time as a couple, they lead a very happy life and the White Snake helps Xu Xian save many people’s lives. 

However the happiness doesn’t last long for their love has violated the law of nature and therefore a monk named Fahai is summoned to capture the White Snake. Managing to convince Xu Xian of his wife’s identity as a snake, Fahai persuades Xu Xian to help him capture her. Regretting this dreadful deed and out of guilt, Xu Xian later becomes a monk residing in Jingshan Temple. It is because of her son’s continuous efforts to rescue his mother that after 20 years’ imprisonment in Leifeng Pagoda, the White Snake is released and reunites with her family. 

(Executive Editor: Lubin WANG)