Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Where Are the Best Places to Learn Kung Fu in China?

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Expert Author Luke Siljander
There are several best places to learn kung fu around China. Whether you are looking for external arts, such as Shaolin or Praying Mantis to the internal like Tai Chi, Qigong, and Bagua. Each region or area of China seem to have a dominant focus. Here we'll cover the main attraction areas here.
Shaolin Temple.
The Shaolin Temple is located in Henan province and is known worldwide. The current "head monk" is Abbot Shi Yongxin. His mission is to spread the brand of Shaolin Kung fu, and has been nicknamed "CEO Monk" because of his interest in cash cows. He has received criticism over the ways he manages the place. The place has become commercialized by him, the government and rise in tourism. Shifu Yan Lei, a 34th generation monk who studied at the temple for several years, mentions in the video "Shaolin Warrior Kung Fu Journey" that despite years of training, it did not prepare him for fighting.
Aside from this, many people still wish to travel and train here. Everyone has different reasons, just be clear about what you want out of it. For some it maybe the historical factor - it's the birthplace of Chinese Kung Fu and monks have been training here for thousands of years. It may be the experience of visiting the place and the mysteriousness around it. Maybe you enjoy modern wushu or any number of reasons.
There are many school located in Henan, both near the temple and surrounding area. Ta Gou is the largest kung fu school operating just below the Shaolin Temple.The quality of teaching will vary from master to master and school to school.
Wudang Mountain
Wudang mountain is the birth place of Wudang quan. There is a saying that in the north, Shaolin is respected, in the south Wudang is respected. These are the two main classifying groups in China. This style is considered internal and the styles practiced are Tai Chi, Bagua, Xingyi, and Baiji. Some students have complained that Wudang masters are secretive. This however is a tradition in their culture, some masters will only share their knowledge after many years of practice and the student is accepted as a "disciple".
Around this area are many mystical places and is very rich in culture. Many schools have been popping up here recently and there is the possibility of it becoming more commercialized in the future. A quick internet search shows several schools in prime locations that are open for foreigners.
Chen Village
Chen village also called Chenjiagou, is located in Henan province and is predominantly Tai Chi. It is a remote farming village that is very unassuming. They say there are 3,000 people in the village, 2,500 of them practice Tai Chi. There are several famous masters that teach here, from Chen Xiaoxing who runs the main school in the village to Wang Xi'an who also runs a large school. Many travelers come here to get in touch with the Tai Chi roots, as the atmosphere is very welcoming. Be prepared when coming here, it's a very modest place, but generally those that are coming here aren't looking for the comforts of life.
Beijing
There are many large wu shu schools around Beijing. This may be a better choice for those that want nicer living conditions. There are more foreigners and plenty of restaurants and the quality of teaching can be better. A couple of the school around here are:
The Beijing Wushu Institute, also called Beijing Sports University, is home to the Beijing Wushu Team and is the school where Jet Li trained at. The have high standards and produce many great masters. Other classes taught at the school are Qigong, gymnastics, and other various sports. The facilities are good. Beihai park is literally just outside.
Prepare Before You Go
Living conditions in the cities like Beijing will be better, some places are very comparable to western standards. You can buy western food and get around fairly easily.
Schools that are more remote are likely to have just the basics for living. Geographically the coastline is wealthier and the further inland you go, the more impoverished. In villages, electricity is used sparingly but you won't be without it, water is boiled for drinking and cooking. Heat is a luxury in the winter. You need more of an adventure spirit, to travel and train here. The experience can be very rewarding as you can remove yourself from modern everyday life, and enjoy what is your heart's desire.
In all, it depends on what you want out of it and where you go. China is developing and many places are becoming modern and clean while other places are still "untouched".
Many travelers have made the trip quite easily, it's always helpful to read their reviews and become familiar with what to expect. That will be your greatest way to understand a place before you go.

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