Hong Kong's first Shaolin martial arts school is scheduled to open by the end of next year.
The Hong Kong Shaolin Kung Fu and Culture Centre will occupy 30,000 sq ft at the old site of Tai O Public School on Lantau.
Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony yesterday, centre president Jonathan Choi Koon-shum said the martial arts school would spread Shaolin kung fu and culture further to the world.
He hoped it would also become an appealing spot for tourists, especially to followers of martial arts from the west.
'Tai O is a perfect site for the school, as it is one of the popular tourist spots. The kung fu centre will make it even more attractive to visitors. Hong Kong can help foreigners get a closer look at our Shaolin culture,' Mr Choi said.
The project has attracted $15 million of investment, and the first phase of construction is expected to be finished next year.