
Shaolin Games: A Global Celebration of Chan Wu Heritage
1. The Tradition of Shaolin Games (考功)
The Shaolin Games (Kao Gong) is a centuries-old tradition that evaluates practitioners’ mastery of seven core disciplines:
- Chan Wu (禅武) – Martial arts as moving meditation
- Chan Yi (禅医) – Shaolin healing arts
- Chan Qin (禅琴) – Zen music and instruments
- Chan Cha (禅茶) – Tea ceremony as mindfulness practice
- Chan Hua (禅画) – Zen painting and calligraphy
- Chan Xiu (禅修) – Meditation and mindfulness
- Chan Shi (禅食) – Vegetarian cuisine as spiritual practice
This system encourages diligence (virya) among Shaolin’s Fourfold Community (monastics, lay disciples, martial artists, and global followers).
“The axe sharpens the blade;
The Games temper the spirit.”
2. A Bridge for Global Cultural Exchange
Since 2022, the Shaolin Temple has partnered with continental Shaolin associations (Europe, North America, Africa, Latin America, Oceania) to host annual Shaolin Cultural Festivals, with the Games as a centerpiece.
Key Achievements:
- 2022: First Online Shaolin Games during Lunar New Year
- 5,230 competitors from 94 nations
- 2.6 billion global viewers via media coverage in 11 languages
- 19 million live viewers on Huya streaming platform in one day
- 2023: Continental Shaolin Games in 6 host cities
- 3,000+ participants from 101 countries
- Historic firsts: Africa, Latin America, and Oceania hosted their inaugural Games
- ”Shaolin Family” ethos strengthened through cross-cultural bonds
- 2024: World Shaolin Games Finals at Shaolin Temple, Songshan (July 2024)
- Champions from continental qualifiers will compete for the title ”Kung Fu Star of the Year”
- Hybrid format: Online preliminaries + On-site finals
3. The Deeper Mission: Dharma Beyond Borders
The Games align with China’s ”Global Promotion of Chinese Culture” strategy, showcasing:
✅ Peace – Martial arts as non-violent self-cultivation
✅ Health – Shaolin Medicine and Qi Gong for wellness
✅ Joy – Shared cultural celebration
✅ Legacy – Preserving intangible cultural heritage
Notable Supporters:
- Government dignitaries from host nations
- Prominent overseas Chinese leaders
- Global media (Xinhua, AFP, BBC, etc.)
“A fist bows before the Buddha;
A warrior’s strength serves compassion.”
4. 2024 World Finals: A Gathering of Champions
Event Highlights:
- Live finals at Shaolin Temple’s Ancient Martial Arts Hall
- Six continental teams competing in:
- Traditional forms (e.g., Xiao Hong Quan, Da Mo Sword)
- Weapon mastery (staff, whip-chain, etc.)
- Zen arts demonstrations (calligraphy, tea ceremony)
- Judges: Shaolin’s hereditary inheritors (Master Shi Yanzi, Master Shi Yanran)
Legacy Impact:
- Strengthens ”One Shaolin, One World” unity
- Expands UNESCO-recognized Shaolin Kung Fu’s global reach
Conclusion: The Games as a Path of Awakening
More than a competition, the Shaolin Games are a living Dharma—inviting all to experience:
“The harmony of body and mind,
The wisdom beyond victory or defeat.”
May this tradition illuminate minds across the Earth. Amitabha.