Martial arts are one of the best known, and yet perhaps least understood, of all the famous aspects of traditional Chinese culture. And with the number of styles available, it can be even harder to know where to start, or even simply experience, real kung fu training.
At Cultural Keys, we help take the guesswork out of martial arts workshops, by offering workshops and multi-day programs in two of China’s most recognised styles: Shaolin kung fu and Yang Style Taichi.
Yang Style Taichi Workshops
While Yang style taichi is very much a martial art, it is typically practiced at a very slow and gentle pace. In this way, it is suitable for practice by anyone, regardless of their age, fitness level or size. Students also learn some of the history of the art, together with getting the opportunity to learn a few of the self defence applications of taichi.
In a typical half-day session, students will get a 3 hour workshop and the chance to learn the Yang style 8-step form, a shortened version of the traditional 88 step form.
On multi-day taichi programs (held in Beijing, typically 5 days, 1-2 hours per day), students will learn the 24-step form, a longer and more complicated taichi routine. Classes will also go into more detail with regards to movement, breathing and stances as they relate to taichi.
Shaolin Kung Fu Workshops
For those looking for a more intensive experience, Cultural Keys also offers workshops in Shaolin kung fu, in Beijing. Half-day workshops (typically 3 hours) focus on the building blocks of the style, also known as jibengong. In these more martial orientated sessions, students will learn the Five Concepts of traditional Chinese martial arts, namely Speed, Accuracy, Power, Hardness and Intent, with specific focus on how they are trained at the Shaolin Temple.
Private individual and group Taichi and Shaolin martial arts workshops in Beijing can be held at our culture centre in Xiaopu Art Village, one of the parks close to our centre, or at your request, a park or open space convenient for you (within the 3rd Ring Road.)
Private Martial Arts Workshops
Location: CK Culture Centre – Songzhuang, Tongzhou or nearby park
Available Class Times: Workshops can be arranged Mon – Sat 10am – 6pm
Duration: 1-3 hours
Places: Up to 10 people (please contact us if more than 10 people)
Price: Starting from 1288RMB (approx. 199USD) for 1-4 people + 88RMB (approx. 13USD) per additional person up to 10 people
Payment: Prepayment via PayPal (no Paypal account needed), WeChat, Alipay or bank transfer. Fapiao available on request.
The price includes a 3-hour private workshop in either Taichi or Shaolin martial arts. If you would like more details about multi-day programs, please contact us with your requirements.
Please note that custom classes must be booked at least 72 hours in advance.
As well as the above, we are also happy to take photos of you during your training, which can be sent to you to share with friends and family. If you don’t want photos or video taken, please let us know.
In addition to the workshop, we are able to offer the following options:
Downtown pickup & drop off (to our culture centre):
+700RMB (approx. 100USD) per group
A delicious lunch or dinner at a Chinese dumpling restaurant nearby the CK Centre:
+50RMB (approx. 8USD) per person
1-hour presentation on the language, history and culture of Chinese martial arts
+188RMB (approx. 28USD) per group
A martial arts uniform, consisting of a sleeveless T-shirt, kung fu trousers, sash and Feiyue shoes
+150RMB (approx. 22USD)
All of these optional extras are subject to availability. Please contact us for more information.
In addition to private workshops at our culture centre, we are also happy to arrange private workshops at your office, school, hotel or event for groups large and small.
To arrange a private workshop for yourself, your group, staff, members or students or to book a workshop at a location of your choice, please contact us to let us know which date you would like to book. Please note that custom classes must be booked at least 72 hours in advance.
Please note: With regards to study programs at the Shaolin Temple. The Chinese borders are currently closed, so tourists and students are unable to get in. Furthermore, the Shaolin Temple is also currently not accepting students from outside China. Therefore we are adding people who are interested in studying at the Shaolin Temple to a waiting list, until such a time as the borders reopen and the temple starts accepting international students again. Thank you for your understanding.
Alternatively, feel free to add us directly on WeChat. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have!
We look forward to seeing you soon!
