Korin Tower

Biodata

Location and Structure

• Korin Tower rises from a wasteland into the clouds. Its summit has a platform where Korin lives and receives climbers 90 91.
• Bora and his son Upa live near its base. Bora's clan has guarded the holy ground for generations and permits pilgrims to attempt the climb 90.
• Clouds or rain can obscure the view from the summit, though the surrounding mountains are visible in clear weather 91.
• A point at the top provides the route to Kami's Lookout: the Ruyi Staff can be inserted there and extended upward 112.

Trials and Training

• The climb — Visitors must ascend the tower to reach Korin. Son Gohan climbs by using protrusions to leap upward, reaching the summit shortly after setting out at midday 90. Chichi's later attempt leaves her exhausted, and she falls before Sun Wukong rescues her 111.
• Korin's water-jug test — Korin holds a jug said to contain Ultra Divine Water and challenges visitors to take it. During Son Gohan's attempt, Korin's advice to settle his mind leads Gohan to perceive Ki more clearly and anticipate Korin's movements 91 92.
• Access to Kami's Lookout — Passing Korin's trial is normally required before meeting Kami. Korin gives Sun Wukong a bell and shows him how to use the Ruyi Staff to ascend; Kami makes an exception allowing Chichi to accompany him despite her not passing the trial 111 112.

History

Son Gohan first considers climbing Korin Tower to obtain Senzu Beans for his demanding training. When King Piccolo's return creates an urgent threat, he travels to the tower with Master Roshi, Krillin and Yamcha following separately 49 89. At the summit, Gohan meets Korin, receives Senzu Beans, completes the water-jug test and is given a Dark Cloud for travel 90 91 92.

Sun Wukong later arrives with Chichi. After rescuing her during the climb, he reaches the summit and takes Korin's jug. Korin sends him onward to Kami's Lookout 110 111 112. Gohan subsequently recommends the tower to Krillin and Yamcha, emphasizing the value of its climb and Korin's training 117.