With Temple Masters at Shaolin and Wudangshan

Shaolin Temple

The Shaolin Temple, located at the foot of Mount Song in Henan Province, China, is renowned as the birthplace of Chan Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu. It has been a significant cultural and martial arts center for centuries, attracting visitors and practitioners worldwide. The temple’s history dates back to the 5th century when Bodhidharma, an Indian Buddhist monk, introduced Chan Buddhism to China. Over time, Shaolin Kung Fu evolved as a unique blend of physical discipline and spiritual practice.

The Shaolin Temple offers extensive training programs for foreign youth interested in learning traditional Chinese martial arts. The Shaolin Wushu Training Center, established in 1976, provides comprehensive courses in various styles of Chinese martial arts, including Shaolin Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and Qi Gong. The center is equipped with modern facilities and has hosted thousands of foreign students from over 40 countries.

Wudangshan Mountain

Wudangshan Mountain, situated in Hubei Province, is celebrated as one of the most sacred Taoist mountains in China and is often referred to as the “cradle of Tai Chi.” It is famous for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, featuring numerous Taoist temples and palaces. Wudangshan is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its architectural and cultural significance..

Wudangshan is also a hub for martial arts, particularly Wudang Kung Fu and Tai Chi. Visitors can explore the Wudang Martial Arts Academy and witness demonstrations of these traditional martial arts. The mountain offers a serene environment for spiritual and physical practice, making it an ideal destination for those interested in immersing themselves in Taoist culture and martial arts.

The mountain’s martial arts academies and cultural centers offer opportunities for youth to learn Tai Chi and Wudang Kung Fu. The scenic and culturally rich environment of Wudangshan makes it an attractive destination for those interested in exploring Taoist martial arts and philosophy.

These programs not only teach physical techniques but also delve into the philosophical and cultural aspects of Wushu and Taiji, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Chinese martial arts among foreign youth.

With a Tech company in Shenzhen

Participating in a youth program with a tech company in Shenzhen can be a transformative experience, offering a unique blend of technological innovation, cultural immersion, and entrepreneurial spirit. Her you can Interact with people from diverse backgrounds and industry professionals can lead to valuable connections and friendships. Participants enhance their skills in areas such as technology, teamwork, and presentation, which are crucial for future careers. Engaging with international participants and exploring global issues helps broaden one’s perspective on innovation and social responsibility.

Here’s an overview of what such an experience might entail:

Shenzhen is renowned for its vibrant tech ecosystem, often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of China.” It is home to numerous tech giants, including Tencent and DJI, and hosts various innovation hubs and entrepreneurial centers. This environment provides an ideal setting for young participants to explore cutting-edge technologies and engage with industry leaders.

Youth programs in Shenzhen often include a mix of educational activities, cultural experiences, and hands-on projects. For instance, participants might attend workshops on emerging technologies like AI, robotics, and fintech. They could also engage in creative projects, such as developing innovative products or creating short films under professional guidance.

• Technological Exploration: Visits to leading tech companies allow participants to witness firsthand the latest advancements in fields like robotics, autonomous vehicles, and digital architecture.
• Cultural Immersion: Activities such as Chinese language courses, cultural workshops (e.g., papercutting and tea ceremonies), and visits to historical sites help participants understand the local culture.
• Entrepreneurial Experience: Participants might have the opportunity to create their own startup ideas in spaces like Tencent Maker Space, fostering innovation and teamwork.

Explore these summer programs

1. “Summer in Liyuan” Camp at Shenzhen University (SZU):
   • This program includes visits to renowned tech companies like Tencent and BYD, alongside Chinese language courses and cultural activities.
   • It’s designed for international students to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and technology.
2. “Creativity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship in China” (CIEC) Summer Programme:
   • Although primarily virtual, this program involves networking events in Shenzhen and focuses on innovation and entrepreneurship in the Greater Bay Area.
   • It collaborates with various tech and innovative companies, offering insights into different industries.
3. Shenzhen InnoX Academy:
   • While not a traditional summer program, InnoX Academy offers an immersive startup innovation experience in Shenzhen.
   • It’s more of a long-term course but could be beneficial for those interested in tech entrepreneurship.
4. HITSZ International Summer Camp:
   • This camp includes courses on innovation and entrepreneurship, along with Shenzhen city exploration and corporate visits8.
   • It provides a comprehensive experience combining tech and cultural immersion.

Youth programs with herders in Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia

Depending on interest we are exploring specific youth programs focused on animal herders in Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia.

The lives of seminomadic herders in Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia are deeply intertwined with their natural environments and the animals they raise. These regions have historically been home to various nomadic groups, each with distinct cultural practices and adaptations to the harsh yet beautiful landscapes.

In Xinjiang pastoralism has been a cornerstone of the economy in Xinjiang, particularly in the Bronze Age, where herders moved seasonally between fixed points to exploit pastures. The region’s herders traditionally raised cattle, sheep, goats, and horses, with sheep and goats being more prevalent due to the terrain.

Pastoralism involves vertical movements, typically over short ranges of 20–200 km, allowing herders to utilize seasonal pastures effectively.

In Inner Mongolia Nomadic Culture is deeply rooted, with herders traditionally raising the “five domestic animals”: cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and camels. Seasonal Migration involves moving between spring, summer, autumn, and winter camps, following the availability of pasture and water. Ecological Knowledge is crucial for survival, as herders must predict weather changes and manage wildlife dynamics.