From the flowing robes of Shaolin monks to today’s modern kung fu school attire, uniforms have always been more than clothing. They embody tradition, discipline, and practicality—linking generations of martial artists through shared heritage and purpose.
From Hung Gar’s deep stances to the Great Wall-inspired Ba Sing Se, Earthbending in Avatar: The Last Airbender is rooted in real martial arts and rich cultural history. Explore the philosophies, legends, and warriors that make the Earth Kingdom a grounded yet dynamic force in the Avatar world, and uncover the deep ties between fantasy and reality.
Part 3 of The Dynasties That Shaped China explores a time of division and transformation. During the Three Kingdoms and the Northern and Southern Dynasties, China experienced intense warfare, political fragmentation, and spiritual awakening. Yet from this disunity emerged powerful cultural shifts: the rise of Buddhism, the spread of Daoism, and the foundations of Chinese martial arts. This era saw the birth of the legendary Shaolin Temple and the evolution of religious and military traditions that would shape China’s spiritual and martial identity for centuries to come.
On China’s sacred Mount Emei, Buddhist nuns are preserving a centuries-old martial tradition. Trained in Emei-style Kung Fu, these warrior women balance spiritual discipline with remarkable martial skill. Discover how they compare to Shaolin monks, how they train, and why their legacy still matters today.
Part 2 of The Dynasties That Shaped China focuses on the imperial unification of China, achieved through the radical reforms of the Qin Dynasty and the enduring legacy of the Han. Learn how Qin Shihuang’s rule standardized writing and law, while the Han Dynasty cemented Confucian values and expanded diplomacy via the Silk Road. This chapter explores the heart of how the imperial unification of China laid the groundwork for a civilization that endures to this day.
In Part 1 of our series The Dynasties That Shaped China, we journey to the beginnings of Chinese civilization through the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Discover the origins of oracle bone script, bronze ritual culture, and the profound philosophies—like the Mandate of Heaven and Confucianism—that laid the moral and intellectual foundations of Chinese society. This entry sets the stage for China’s imperial legacy with rich insights into ancient statecraft, spirituality, and the seeds of a civilization that still thrives today.
China’s temples have stood at the crossroads of faith, history, and culture for over 2,000 years. This article explores their rise, destruction, and revival—from imperial-era shrines and Daoist mountainside sanctuaries to living Buddhist monasteries and folk temples still in use today. Discover how religion, politics, and heritage shaped the temple landscape we see across China today.
In Part 1 of our new series featured in Martial Arts Magazine Australia, we explore how the Shaolin Temple became a haven for martial artists across China—preserving, evolving, and synthesizing styles into what is now known as Shaolin Kung Fu. Discover why it’s said that “All martial arts under heaven come from Shaolin.
Ne Zha 2 has shattered global box office records, becoming the highest-grossing animated film in history. This milestone marks a turning point for Chinese animation, proving its ability to compete with Hollywood's biggest productions. With its fusion of mythology, martial arts, and stunning visuals, the Ne Zha franchise continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Grandmaster Shi De Qian’s Shaolin Quan Pu is a treasure trove of Shaolin martial arts wisdom. This eight-volume series details hand forms, weapons, qigong, and more, preserving centuries-old techniques. Explore the history, philosophy, and legacy of Shaolin Kung Fu in this in-depth guide.