
Interested in learning more about and experiencing the traditional culture of China?
Cultural Keys Chinese Culture Centre helps visitors and expat residents get more out of their time in China by providing unique and authentic cultural experiences, content and services all related to traditional Chinese culture.
At our tranquil culture centre in Xiaopu Village in Beijing’s Songzhuang Art District, as well as other convenient locations around the city, we can help you experience, understand and enjoy Chinese culture by offering both regularly scheduled and private workshops and presentations in:
- Calligraphy
- Painting
- Beijing Opera
- Lion Dancing
….And more than 20 other subjects!

We also offer services such as:
- Chinese culture presentations and lectures in English
- Cultural heritage tours
- Custom-made calligraphy for gifts, souvenirs and prizes
- Chinese art decoration services
- Team-building cultural activities
Whether you live in China, are just visiting, or are simply interested in learning more about this fascinating country, Cultural Keys can help. For more information on our events, both scheduled and private availability, see our upcoming events here, or our list of workshops you can book here.
Alternatively, simply contact us and let us know how we can help you, your friends and family, staff, students or members explore Chinese culture! We’ll be happy to hear from you!
Why Cultural Keys?

Founded in 2013, Cultural Keys is an expat-owned and operated company developed and run on the love and passion we have for traditional Chinese culture. We believe 100% in making the beauty, wisdom and traditions of Chinese culture available to everyone.
No matter what your reason for being interested in this country and its culture, whether at our culture centre, at your school or office, at iconic locations around China or on our website and social media channels, when you are with Cultural Keys you truly have the opportunity to unlock the potential of China!
Learn more about the history and aims of our company here.

What do other people say about their experiences with Cultural Keys?
Cultural Keys has been organizing online presentations on Chinese traditional culture in these past few months, and they have been really fun, informative, engaging, memorable! Really pleasant experience!
They... read more also have many on-site programs for all those interested in learning great details about China, those that only people who are so immersed in the culture and its intricacies can provide. Real treasure!
The team has rich experience in making Chinese culture closer to other cultures! I will definitely attend more of their programs!
Definitely inquire about their martial arts programs and their trips to Shaolin Temple!

AleksandrainBeijing
April 14, 2020
Had an awesome time at Cultural Keys store. Not only did I get my shoes for 88 kuai and a nice bag, I got to meet AJ who runs the... read more shop and is super nice. Overall really nice experience, will def be back!

Michaelloves
March 17, 2020
I recently visited Nic and AJ’ s lovely art studio for a calligraphy workshop with my friends. This experience gave me much more than I expected: we learned about the... read more history and the making of Chinese calligraphy and I now truly appreciate the depth and sophistication of the true masters. I was able to bring home my very first attempt of calligraphy with my name written on it by the master. I would definitely take friends and visiting family members to this workshop and to the art village. Thank you Nic and AJ for a lovely day!

Tilda H
May 6, 2019
I visited the studio with some friends for a Calligraphy workshop,and I must say I was impressed by how bright and spacious it was,Nic and AJ were great,welcoming,fun and indeed... read more very knowledgeable about the Chinese culture.We learned about the history of Chinese calligraphy then we wrote our own (May your wishes come true) in chinese characters,and had it signed by the artist.we had a scrumptious lunch in a lovely Local restaurant and visited few galleries at xiaopu village,thanks Nic and AJ for a wonderful day!

Amalsbm
May 16, 2019
Cultural Keys' martial arts training program at the Shaolin Temple is like nothing else you will ever experience. Cultural Keys is run by two amazing individuals that work hard to... read more provide their students with the most immersive, authentic Shaolin Temple and Chinese Culture experience available to the public. If you decide to take the leap, AJ Donnelly will be your main instructor for the duration of your time in Shaolin and Nic will be your guide/encyclopedia.These two make a great team providing you with a well rounded experience, physically and culturally. If you are enthusiastic about martial arts and progressing yourself mentally and physically, you couldn't ask for a better instructor. AJ will push you beyond what you previously thought you were capable of, while guiding you for personal success throughout the trip.

Tyler P
March 14, 2020
I visited the studio with some friends for a Calligraphy workshop,and I must say I was impressed by how bright and spacious it was,Nic and AJ were great,welcoming,fun and indeed... read more very knowledgeable about the Chinese culture.We learned about the history of Chinese calligraphy then we wrote our own (May your wishes come true) in chinese characters,and had it signed by the artist.we had a scrumptious lunch in a lovely Local restaurant and visited few galleries at xiaopu village,thanks Nic and AJ for a wonderful day!

amal b
May 16, 2019
I have ordered 5 beautiful Calligraphy scrolls for different occasions ranging from Graduation to Weddings as a personalized gift and they have all been amazing. With great service and... read more beautiful presentation I highly recommend their service. Also, you can make your own. The owners are...More

LoLoPMe
October 26, 2019
I am Chinese and I have a 3 years and half daughter . It was such an amazing experence .I added Nic and AJ on wechat in advance , they... read more shared lots of their experiences in China, which was so deep.They've been extremely kind, hospitable and humble , making it an unforgettable half day at their workshop.
I can see from their eyes that they love Chinese culture as 2 foreigners, for whom you dont know them , one of them have stayed in China for 20 more years , BTW.
They provided thoughtful services which can catering to many kinds of ppl's needs. I could easily tell they work so damn hard for their presentation and this event.
I am moved by their careful thinking to my daughter, My daughter just loves AJ and Nic even though she is bit shy to express her feeling. She kept telling me her excitment and how happy she was that day .
And for the content , I as a 100% born and raised Chinese can assure you it is very deep and meaningful and rich. Many Chinese they think they understand cultural but acturally we are not understand that so much, not if we dont study and experice any more .
THANK YOU again so much , would definitely come next time if they hold such one !

stonerocky
September 13, 2022
See more great reviews of Cultural Keys on our TripAdvisor page here!