Introduction
Life at Maling Shaolin Kung Fu Academy is about more than just martial arts—though the training alone is enough to change you. Beyond the sweat, forms, and discipline, there’s a rich world of daily routines, weekend adventures, and unforgettable connections that shape the student experience in unexpected ways.
We asked a handful of students—past and present—to share their reflections, favorite moments, and what they get up to in their spare time. Some responses are short and sweet, others rich with story. But each one offers a small window into life beyond the training ground—from quiet walks and village dinners to spontaneous road trips, deep conversations, and even kung fu-themed gaming nights.
Whether you’re curious about coming to train yourself or simply want to hear what life is like beyond the training grounds, we hope you enjoy these slices of real student life at Maling.
Terya – Netherlands
Time at Maling: 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2024 (various durations)
One of my favorite places in the city is a tiny, no-frills restaurant known simply among students as ma la tang (or malatan—I still don’t know how to spell it properly!). It’s become a kind of rite of passage at Maling. I was brought there by senior students, then I brought new students, and so the tradition continues. You grab a basket, pick your ingredients from a wall of fridges, and hand it off to the cook who boils everything together in a broth that’s been simmering forever. It’s spicy, flavorful, and totally addictive. Marcel basically lived there on weekends—he went so often the owner still remembers him years later!
Another favorite was a lamb soup spot in Wang Zhuang. I don’t know the name, but I know it’s Andrei’s favorite, and he can definitely point you to it.
Aside from food, some of the most memorable experiences were the little moments—cats sleeping in student laps during morning qi gong meditation, spontaneous kung fu photoshoots before students left the academy, and even the time we made homemade sauerkraut for fun.
There were gaming nights, too. At one point, the guys downloaded some retro kung fu video game and played Kung Fu Master on break—yes, we even staged a photo. Totally worth it.
One especially fun trip was when Fiona and I visited the Crystal Museum in Lianyungang. It was beautiful, but so cold inside we nearly froze. The taxi driver’s friend turned out to be a crystal expert and helped us bargain. He was so kind! If anyone else wants to go, I still have his contact.
So many small memories make up the big picture here—lazy weekends, kittens, hidden restaurants, and random adventures. You never know what each weekend will bring at Maling, and that’s part of what makes it unforgettable.
Note: Terya’s submission was rich with stories and pictures! We’ve restructured it a little for clarity, but the spirit is all hers.
Jacob – Sweden
Time at Maling: March 2025 – Present
Life at the academy outside of training is relaxing, fun, and full of adventure. In addition to much-needed rest, we often go on excursions to nearby villages, visit local Buddhist temples, and explore the city.
Students come here not only to train but to grow—by exposing themselves to new people, places, and perspectives. Immersing yourself in the environment here is genuinely life-changing, even beyond the martial arts. China is a fascinating country, and experiencing its cities, villages, and hidden corners are astounding.
After a demanding week of training, we unwind with massages, acupuncture, and cupping therapy from expert martial arts healers in the village. We shop for our favorite snacks and foods, and some evenings we gather to enjoy a movie together.
Some students play instruments, while others pursue photography or videography. Everyone brings unique talents and life experiences, and there’s a beautiful culture of sharing and learning from one another.
During my time here, I’ve learned to play two instruments, sharpened my skills in photography and videography, and had countless eye-opening conversations with inspiring people from around the world. I’m truly grateful to be here—and I wholeheartedly recommend the experience to anyone who’s curious or passionate about this path.
Andrei – Russia
Time at Maling: Nov 2024 – Present
We have plenty of spare time. About two hours after lunch, and three to four hours after dinner. Plus, we get two full days off on the weekend.
When I first arrived, my roommate and I used to train again after dinner. We’d rest for an hour, then do some light power training followed by 5 to 20 minutes of standing meditation (qigong). But once winter came, it was too cold outside for that, so we dropped it.
After that, our main evening activity became gaming—split-screen video games on a laptop using two joysticks. Of course, that only works if you get lucky with a good roommate with similar interests.
Other students spend time differently: movie nights, musical instruments, reading, etc. For me, the only consistent habit is sunbathing after lunch and casual evening walks around the school.
On weekends, I still try to get in at least one training session—usually some forms. I go to the village for groceries, or sometimes into Xinyi for hot tubs and Boomburger—which, by the way, is the only gourmet burger place I’ve found here.
Note: Andrei’s submission was lightly edited to improve clarity.
Ream – Saudi Arabia
Time at Maling: April 2025
I come to Maling Shaolin Kung Fu Academy for both physical and mental preparation. I think it’s important to balance the two. I live a busy working life in a busy city, but when I’m here, I take the time to read and do nothing.
At MSKFA, I spend time with my kung fu brothers and sisters—we hang out, go to the village for dinner, and watch movies together. There’s always something to do, but after long training hours, choosing to relax is part of the experience too.
Note: Light edits were made to improve readability, while keeping Ream’s voice and meaning intact.
Ke Ying – Netherlands
Time at Maling: September 2024
Some of my favorite memories of kung fu training at Maling come from the peaceful, tranquil environment. There were no distractions from the busyness of city life—just me, my thoughts, and my physical body. It was the perfect place to cultivate a peaceful mind. I also really loved the tasty and healthy local food prepared by Mama Bao, and the sound of birds singing in the morning always made the day start on a gentle note.
The animals at school brought me so much joy—especially Xiao Bai 🐕, the cat 🐈, and the two birds in the office. One of my best memories is of the yellow bird that escaped the cage (or maybe flew away) and somehow returned. As I was walking back to school, it landed on my arm—and that’s how the bird came back home!
I really enjoyed chatting with other students from all over the world, across all different age groups—from young adults to people who were retired. Such a great mix of perspectives and experiences. The outings were incredible too—trips to Shaolin, sightseeing in the mountains, eating amazing food, visiting local kung fu schools, dressing up in hanfu, and even just the bus rides there and back. It was all great fun.
One standout experience was being invited to a local kung fu event where I had the opportunity to perform on stage and was even filmed and interviewed by a local TV station. Another unforgettable thing was witnessing how famous or popular white Westerners still are in some remote parts of China. It was kind of fascinating to see.
I absolutely loved the richness of Chinese culture—so many beautiful places to explore, such a huge variety of food, and just an overall sense of abundance. One of the most interesting places I visited near the school was Yaowan Old Town. In the evening, it truly felt like a fairytale. I especially loved the fireworks during the Mid-Autumn Festival. 😀
One of the biggest insights I gained during my time at the kung fu school was realizing how little we actually need to be content. Just basic comforts—a good bed, a clean shower, proper hygiene, your own bathroom—a roof over your head, nourishing food, and human connection. That’s enough. Less is truly more. Modern society overwhelms us with things and distractions.
Training is hard, yes—but only in the moment. Then it’s over. It’s not like the mental stress from working in an office, which follows you home and even into your sleep. Physical pain passes. Mental stress lingers. This place gave me space to reflect on what really matters—and what doesn’t. And if you want to eat healthy and lose weight, it’s honestly a great place to stay. 😁
Note: This section was adapted from Ke-Ying’s original message, with just a few tweaks to help it flow better—her stories and spirit remain unchanged!
Louis – USA
Time at Maling: September – November 2024; March 2025 – Present
One weekend I went to Mt. Tai (Taishan) and climbed over 5,000 steps, which definitely helped strengthen my legs for kung fu. It was during a national holiday, and it was amazing to join so many people making their way up such a beautiful, tall mountain.
Another time, I went to Shanghai with a couple of students. We visited Disneyland, went on rides, and watched the fireworks. The adrenaline from the Pirates of the Caribbean and Tron rides helped get me pumped for more kung fu down the road! We even had afternoon tea to relax after training.
Apart from that, one weekend I went to Nanjing to visit the WWII Memorial and the Sun Yat-sen Memorial. That trip really enriched my cultural experience in China.
Note: Minor edits were made for grammar and structure, but Louis’s vibe and experience are just as he shared them.
Ashley – USA
Time at Maling: October 2019- March 2020; June 2023 – Present
I’ve been at Maling for quite a while now—nearly two years this round (2023 to present), and five months during my first stay back in 2019–2020. Over time, I’ve gone from student to something like student-turned-accidental-staff, helping organize school life, assisting new students, and managing activities and performances while still training regularly myself. My days are filled with Shaolin forms, weapons practice, acrobatics, and more stretching than I care to admit.
Some of my favorite memories are the ones that fall outside the routine. In 2024, I joined a school trip to the Shaolin Temple and Dengfeng where we met Grandmaster Shi De Yang and performed forms for him—a huge honor. We visited the Pagoda Forest, Shaolin Temple, Tagou, and my master’s master’s original school, followed by an adventure to Luoyang’s old streets, tomb museums, hanfu dress-up, and evening shows. We wrapped up with a visit to Longmen Grottoes and Xiangshan Temple. The trip was intense, beautiful, and unforgettable.
Beyond that, I’ve explored places like Shanghai Disneyland, Nanjing, Yaowan Old Town, and even lesser-known gems like Taierzhuang and Qingdao with friends of Master Bao (who quickly became my friends too). One of my stand-out travel memories was wandering the coastal mountains of Qingdao one day and collecting bubble tea flavors in a trendy café street the next. I’ve also trained and stayed at kung fu schools belonging to Master Bao’s kung fu brothers, where I got a rare glimpse into what daily life and livign looks like for local Chinese students—much more rugged than our comfy setup here at the school.
Other memories? Too many to count. I’ve filmed videos in traditional qipao and Tang dynasty hanfu. I’ve taken Chinese dance classes in the village and taught impromptu English lessons at local elementary schools. I’ve performed for national television in Nanjing—twice! I’ve eaten at more dinners with Master Bao’s friends and acquaintances than I can recall—each one memorable in its own way. I’ve also made countless videos with Master Bao on Douyin (Chinese TikTok), showcasing weapons forms, demos, and sometimes just having fun.
And of course, there are the animals: the birds, the cats, the dogs… I’ve befriended them all, and I’m not saying I’m their favorite, but I’m also not not saying that. 😉
Life here is quiet and rural, which gives you room to breathe and think. I’ve done a lot of reflecting—about modern life, simplicity, health, and what it really means to feel centered and fulfilled. It’s not always easy, but something about the rhythm of training, the setting, and the community makes this place feel like home.
Conclusion
From late-night chats and local snacks to mountain climbs and hanfu performances, the Maling experience is filled with moments you can’t plan for—but will always remember. Every student takes away something different, and yet many of us share the same sentiment: this place changes you.
Thanks to everyone who contributed to this post. Whether you’ve stayed for a month or a few years, your stories are part of what makes the academy feel like home. If you’re reading this and considering training at Maling, maybe one day your memories will end up here too.
