Shaolin

4-MIN READ4-MIN

Published: 12:00am, 28 Jun 2006

1 Watch a kung fu show

This is an absolute must. Shaolin is the home of kung fu and today there are close to 50,000 martial arts students training in the region. Only a couple of schools remain in Shaolin; most have been moved to the neighbouring town of Dengfeng so that Shaolin itself lives up to its official name of Shaolin Scenic Spot. The 100 yuan entrance fee to this scenic spot includes admission to a performance at the Shaolin Temple Wushu Training Centre, a government-run establishment comprising a kung fu school, performance hall, sword factory and hotel. There are seven 20-minute shows a day, beginning at 10.30am. The performers, aged six to 20, are the cream from the school and their ability is outstanding. Look out for the stunt that involves putting a needle through a sheet of glass to burst a balloon.

These students are among those who performed at the Hong Kong Arts Festival in February.

2 Learn kung fu

For the super fit, don't just watch the show, take some lessons. The Shaolin Temple Wushu Training Centre, 700 metres down the road from the main temple, offers classes lasting from one day to a year, and will tailor packages for you. An introductory five-hour class will set you back 120 yuan and give you a taste of the kung fu life. Only a hardcore enthusiast would dare sign up to train with the local kung fu boys, whose day starts with a 5.30am run up a mountain and doesn't stop until long after dark. For course fees, including accommodation and food, go to www.wushuguan.cn.

3 Shaolin Temple