Most Popular Martial Arts Schools in China 2018/2019

This year has been very busy for StudyMartialArts.Org, therefore we would like to show our appreciation to all who booked their training through us by providing them with a promise to continue to improve our service as well as the number of special discounts on full-time all-inclusive martial arts training packages.

So far we’ve helped 100s of individuals full-fill their dreams to study martial arts in China. Based on this we’ve put together a list of our most popular martial arts schools in China, 2018/2019, along with their reviews.

How the schools rated:

Here is our list of how the schools rated plus the three quotes from recent student reviews. To read their full reviews, and the full overview of the school, its masters, locations and facilities follow the links provided. And if you are wondering why all the reviews are positive? its because when you book your training through us our aim is to connect you to the right school to suit your aims and prepare you in advanced in terms of what to expect and how to get the most from your experience.

Number 1. Shaolin Temple Kunming

Shaolin Temple Kunming, operates from within the grounds of Guandu Shaolin Temple, inside Guandu Old Town, Kunming. It can be reached easily by line 1 of the Kunming subway system. Studying Martial Arts within an actual working Temple, provides attending students a unique, and authentic experience. The main strengths of this school is not only its authenticity, but also the care, and attention to detail that the management of the school take when training each student. Comprehensive, tailored curriculums provide those who attend this school with a clear training path, and security in that they know what to expect from the start. The main Master responsible for training foreign students is Master Shi Yan Jun. Master Shi Yan Jun is welcoming, approachable, and has a good sense of humour. He is a 34th Generation Shaolin Warrior Monk, and 17th Generation Disciple of Mei Hua Quan.

Here’s what past students had to say about the Shaolin Temple Kunming. Follow the links to read their full unedited reviews.

“An experience of a lifetime. The best Shifu’s in China and the living in the temple was beyond anything I can put in words. I made lifetime friendships also. I recommend the whole Shaolin Temple Yunnan experience to anyone who has the courage and the will to live a healthier, wiser life.” – Dierdre Ragin

“Coming here was one of the biggest and best decisions I have ever made. After just 3 days I could feel total calm. The training is tough but with the support of all of the other students we worked through and improved week on week. I lost 10 kg in 3 weeks!” – DG Goaillard

“Shifu truly is a role model and an excellent teacher, he is someone that really inspires me and makes me want to continue not only improving my Kung Fu but also as a person. His patience and understanding of the foreign students and their bad habits is truly magnificent. He is very nice and has a great sense of humor when we are in training” – Jonathan Lopez 

Number 2. Rising Dragon Martial Arts School

Rising Dragon Martial Arts School is the brain child of Scott Bird the first foreigner to open a residential martial arts school in China. His school is located at altitude on China’s Himalayan foothills within a Buddhist Temple in Yongping, Yunnan. Renowned for its physically demanding training students take part in circuit training challenges, and push up challenges. Scott’s aim was to create the best possible environment for students to learn how to create positive lasting changes that lead to a healthy lifestyle choices. These changes use the combined power of martial arts, yoga, meditation and fitness to realise that aim. At this school even the most hard core of athletes will be pushed past their limits. Additionally, for those not in great shape the school offers a specialist martial arts weight-loss programme called the Phoenix Plan for those wanting to make significant lifestyle changes. This plan is great value for money compared to other all inclusive weight-loss programmes, and provides you with tailored, training, rest, and eating plans. But beware, you will definitely be held accountable for your progress.

Here’s what past students had to say about Rising Dragon Martial Arts School. Follow the links to read their full unedited reviews.

“I spent 7 weeks and RDS China – highly recommended. Training was really tough, especially morning circuits at 5.30 am, but the results are great and it was worth all the sweat. Location is amazing. If you’re ready for the hard work, this school is a good choice.” – Bartosz Dymet

“I ended up at Rising Dragon Martial Arts School for 2 months, which was an amazing experience. RDS is very fitness focused and the training is challenging and rewarding if you push yourself. Definitely for people who want to get fit and learn some kung fu in a beautiful temple complex surrounded by mountains, forest and clean air.” – Bianca Houtzager

“What an incredible life changing experience. For anyone thinking about doing this or something similar, just do it. It really pushes you and changes your perspective on life. The school itself was fantastically located, inside a Buddhist Temple and well into the mountains of China, about as picturesque as you could ask for. With a small town down the mountain you still have access to a bit of ‘normal’ life if you need anything. Food is great and healthy, however not too much meat so can be lacking in protein, so you may require supplements if you are staying there for a while”. – Daniel Wright

Number 3. Maling Shaolin Kung Fu Academy

Maling Shaolin Kung Fu Academy caters to all ages, and levels of experience. It offers both private and shared accommodation options. The masters at the school are welcoming, and some are even able to speak a little English. In order to further assist in communication between the masters, and students translators are at hand. Day to day administration is handled by Lisa who is happy to help, and makes herself available when necessary. Currently a number of styles are offered at the school with Shaolin Kung Fu forming the backbone of this. For those interested in training Wing Chun this is available, however Wing Chun classes are not yet available as full-time option. As a school it is well established recently celebrating its 10 year anniversary. A solid choice for those who prefer a small school with a more personalised touch.

Here’s what past students had to say about Maling Shaolin Kung Fu Academy. Follow the links to read their full unedited reviews.

“Master Bao the school headmaster and Master Du are incredibly knowledgeable and understanding, and kindly allowed me to personalise my training based on my goals, which I truly appreciate. Lisa answered every question in a timely and professional manner and Mona was always willing to translate and help with flight and train tickets with a smile. I’m also grateful to Mama Bao, who cooks and does all the farm chores, her neighbours friend and the local farmers for showing me the true meaning of hard work, humility and generosity. I feel fitter, happier and more confident then ever, thank you all for this amazing journey.” – Simon

“I’ve had the great honour of staying almost a full year at the school. I was welcomed and shown both respect and understanding from students and staff as soon as I entered. Every student was new at one point, and the first two weeks are the typical transitioning period to adjust to the training. Academy members know this and actively assist new members to adapt to the environment. The school is somewhat like home with the added benefit of improving your martial arts skills under the guidance of amazing masters.” – Kevin Sa

“I loved my time at Maling Shaolin Kung Fu Academy. The training was rigorous and amazing, the masters are ridiculous feats of human engineering, and everyone was so nice and friendly that from the minute I arrived I felt instantly welcomed.” – George Sklavounos

Number 4. Qufu Shaolin Kung Fu School

Qufu Shaolin Kung fu School is a long established International Kung fu School catering to international martial arts students. Founded in 2008 by Shi Yan Jia, the school is located on the outskirts of Qufu City the birth place of Confucius. This Shaolin kung fu school has excellent, and extensive indoor, and outdoor training facilities as well as onsite translators for each class. The school training runs from Monday to Friday and begins at 06:20 and finishes at 17:20. Option evening classes are available as an introduction to mandarin, and buddhism. Access to the school from both Beijing, and Shanghai is convenient and easy via China’s extensive high speed rail network. Pick up can then be arranged from the railway station for less than 30 USD.

Here’s what past students had to say about Qufu Shaolin Kung fu School. Follow the links to read their full unedited reviews.

“Training here has really pushed my body to the limit and my only regret is not being able to stay longer to see how far that same limit can be pushed. My Shifu (Shi Yan Jiong) is a very dedicated and talented individual who was always there to encourage, correct and cause much more pain! My mind also has found a greater peace from our training in Qi Gong and T’ai Chi which, along with my other training, is definitely going to become a regular morning ritual.” – Eddie Murphy

My experience in the school was amazing！All the masters are very professional and helpful and even though I was here only 3 weeks I improved a lot at my skills and learned a lot. The translators were very helpful and helped not only on classes but with all personal needs which is very important! The equipment in school is very good and for me is perfect that I could train in my spare time. – Alona

I had a chance to do some Tai chi every morning and afternoon. I did some Chen Taiji before but stopped for a while. Now back to do it. Thank you Shifu, for the patience in repeating the form for me. – Marko

Number 5. Yuntai Shaolin Kung Fu School

Yuntai Shaolin Kung fu school is one of the most affordable full-time all inclusive martial arts schools in China. At just 490 USD per month you can see why it has become so popular. Here you’ll train with other Chinese students and learn various different martial arts forms. Forms practice dominates training at this school with less attention being paid to combat applications. For combat training Sanda (Chinese Kickboxing) will be your focus.

One of the best things about Yuntai Shaolin Kung fu School apart from the price is its half martial arts and half language learning programme. This makes it a perfect choice for students serious about learning Chinese. Here is an example of time table for the half martial arts and half language learning programme.

Here’s what past students had to say about Yuntai Shaolin Kung Fu School. Follow the links to read their full unedited reviews.

“You learn so much physically and mentally here, always pushing yourself through your limits. I also took Chinese classes which were really good because every student has a book adapted for his level and the teacher helps everyone individually. The hardest parts of the stay were the restrictions (not going out, no smoking, lots of meetings etc) but eventually you get used to it and only focus on the training” – Julia

“The school shop was my favourite haunt, where I got my ice lollies and treats after training. I liked my coach and the other students at the school. The stair races after training were awesome ! Our Mandarin teacher was really good, and our Shifu really pushed us hard in our training. The Shifu’s in the school are excellent.” – Mujahid

“I had no worries regarding injuries or illness as the shifu was excellent in how he looked after the welfare of those in the school. People who were unwell were taken to the Doctor and those with injury allowed to rest. We had no training related injuries whilst here, which is a measure of how good the teachers are, especially as the power stretching really pushes you to your limits. The discipline at the school was excellent, just what was needed” – Jayne Guven

Number 6. Yangshou Taiji School

If your focus is Chen style taichi and you want to practice it in a stunning location, then Yangshou Taiji School is for you. Best suited to beginners, and intermediate students who want to combine martial arts with travel. The school training environment is good and rooms are spacious some of which have on suite bathrooms. The school is run by Master Huang who has an excellent grasp of English so can easily communicate with students. Here the focus is solely on Chen style taijiquan.

Here’s what past students had to say about Qufu Shaolin Kung fu School. Follow the links to read their full unedited reviews.

“Great location and comfortable rooms. Really enjoyed learning Taichi with Master Huang as he was able to communicate easily with me explaining Chinese culture and taichi with passion.” – John Patrick

“It has been our great pleasure to learn the 18 Forms of Chen -style taichi with Master Huang at Yangshuo Taichi School. It has been the highlight of our visit to China. We will continue to practice Tai-chi when we get home, and it will remind us of the wonderful holiday we have had in China.” – Pam and Richard

“I have been practicing at Yangshuo Taichi School for one year. Though beforehand, I didn’t have the slightest clue about the practices I was going to learn, they now profoundly changed my body, my mind, my way of living.” – Benjamin Viatte