Watch the Kungfu Show

When it comes to immersing yourself in the living spirit of traditional Chinese culture, few experiences can rival watching a Kung Fu show in Beijing. For many international travelers, Chinese martial arts—collectively known as Wushu or colloquially as Kung Fu—carry an aura of discipline, philosophy, and physical poetry that transcends mere performance.

Perhaps more than any other figure, Bruce Lee opened the eyes of the Western world to the power and grace of Chinese martial arts, turning a once regional tradition into a global phenomenon. Today, watching a professionally choreographed Kung Fu performance is not only a cultural highlight but also an unforgettable evening of theatrical brilliance.
 

A Brief History of Chinese Kung Fu

Chinese Kung Fu, also known as Wushu or traditional Chinese martial arts, has a history that stretches back thousands of years. Its earliest forms emerged from the daily struggles of ancient Chinese ancestors. During prehistoric times, primitive people developed techniques such as chopping, striking, and stabbing while hunting or defending themselves from wild animals. These instinctive movements laid the foundation for the technical evolution of martial arts in China.

As Chinese society progressed into the tribal stage, inter-tribal conflicts were frequent, and close-combat skills became increasingly necessary for survival. These early battle techniques gradually evolved into a more structured and purposeful system of fighting, giving rise to the earliest forms of Chinese martial arts.

With the advent of the Xia Dynasty, Chinese civilization entered the slave society stage. The continuous warfare of this period accelerated the refinement and standardization of combat skills. During the Shang and Zhou dynasties, the philosophical roots of martial arts began to take shape. The emergence of theories such as Yin and Yang and the embryonic concepts of Taiji (Tai Chi) contributed to the formation of a unique theoretical framework that would later underpin many martial arts styles.

Throughout the long period of feudal China, martial arts not only survived but also flourished. During the Qin and Han dynasties, wrestling, swordplay, and other physical contests were widely practiced. The Tang Dynasty introduced the Imperial Martial Examination (武举制), an official system that encouraged the study and mastery of martial arts, especially among those seeking to serve in the military. In the Song and Yuan dynasties, martial arts were embraced by common people and practiced in community associations and private training halls. This grassroots involvement gave rise to various folk traditions and regional styles.

The Ming and Qing dynasties marked the golden age of Chinese martial arts. Numerous schools and systems were established during this era, each with distinctive techniques, philosophies, and training methods. Famous internal styles such as Tai Chi Chuan, Xing Yi Quan, and Ba Gua Zhang emerged, emphasizing the harmony between mind and body, soft and hard, internal energy and external form.

In modern times, Chinese martial arts underwent significant transformation. In 1927, the Central Guoshu Institute was founded in Nanjing, aiming to preserve and promote martial arts through systematic education. In 1936, a Chinese martial arts team performed at the Berlin Olympic Games, marking the beginning of international awareness and appreciation.

Following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, martial arts became an integral part of the national physical education curriculum. The government supported its development as both a cultural heritage and a competitive sport. In 1999, the International Wushu Federation was formally recognized by the International Olympic Committee, symbolizing a major step toward the goal of making Chinese martial arts a global Olympic sport.

The Essence and Value of Chinese Kung Fu

What makes Chinese Kung Fu unique is its ability to combine practical combat techniques with physical culture and philosophical depth. It is not merely about fighting; it is a complete system that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit.

One of its key characteristics is the integration of combat within the framework of physical education. While Wushu retains its self-defense and attack techniques, it is also structured around forms (taolu) and sparring practice, which allow practitioners to train alone or in pairs. This format enhances fitness, coordination, and agility while preserving traditional combat elements.

Another core feature of Kung Fu is the emphasis on unity between form and spirit, or the harmony of internal and external strength. Practitioners strive not only for technical precision but also for conveying intent and cultivating inner energy (qi). This holistic approach reflects a deep-rooted cultural philosophy that values balance, discipline, and moral cultivation.

Beyond personal development, Chinese martial arts serve multiple social and cultural functions. They build physical health and offer self-defense skills. They strengthen willpower, encourage perseverance, and instill virtues such as respect, loyalty, and humility. Kung Fu also serves as a form of performance and competition, bringing enjoyment and cultural enrichment to audiences. Additionally, martial arts exchanges—both domestic and international—foster friendship and mutual understanding among people of different backgrounds.

Today, Chinese Kung Fu continues to evolve. While many traditional styles are preserved and practiced in temples, schools, and families across China, modern Wushu competitions, stage performances, and cinematic portrayals have introduced Kung Fu to audiences worldwide. As both a timeless heritage and a dynamic modern sport, Chinese martial arts remain one of the most iconic and influential symbols of Chinese culture.
 

Where to Watch the Kung Fu Show in Beijing

•The Red Theater 红剧场
Address: No 44 Xingfu Street, Beijing,China
Showtime: 17:15 and 19:30 daily
How to Get There: The Red Theater is conveniently located near Tiantandongmen Station (Line 5). From Exit B, it's about a 10-minute walk.
 

The Red Theater specializes in traditional Chinese performances, such as "The Legend of Kung Fu". The story follows the life adventures of a young boy found wandering outside an ancient temple. Like every boy in China, he dreams of becoming a Kung Fu* master. On the road to enlightenment the young monk encounters many difficulties and temptations. The show has English subtitles shown above the stage to keep you informed of the story line. There is no dialogue, the show is all Kung Fu, dance and acrobatics. It is the fusion of modern dance with Chinese traditional arts which make this performance unique and spectacular. Some of the best Kung Fu practitioners in China have been found for this production and it shows on the stage. Their average age is just 17 years! The costumes, set design and special effects are up to international standards, created by some of the best stage directors and designers in China. So if you are a fan of Chinese martial arts*, add this experience to your visit to Beijing.

Kongfu Show in Beijing

 

Combine the Kung Fu Show with Nearby Attractions