Wudang Mountains, a hot spot for wuxia fans

The Wudang Mountains, located in Danjiangkou city, Hubei province, is perhaps the best known of China's Taoist holy mountains. They also have enjoyed a worldwide reputation for martial arts, which have attracted many wuxia (martial arts and swordsman) fans.

In China there is a folk saying that in the north, Shaolin-style is respected, while in the south, Wudang-style is esteemed. Wudang and Shaolin are the two birthplaces of Chinese martial arts, and both have held onto strict principles since ancient times.

A group of Taoist monks practice martial arts on the Wudang Mountains, Hubei province. [Photo/wudangshan.gov.cn]

Wudang kung fu contains profound Chinese philosophical theories combined with the traditional notions of taichi (shadow boxing) and the eight-diagram principle. It is said that the father of Wudang internal kung fu is Zhang Sanfeng. In the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), he created the Wudang Sector on the basis of the theory of alchemy. According to legend, Zhang was inspired by a fight he witnessed between a pied magpie and a snake.

Wudang's fame also comes from its spectacular wonders and tranquil scenery. Tianzhu Peak, the main peak, which is 1,612 meters above sea level, is just like a column supporting the sky, helping visitors relax on the peak amidst the clouds. Around Tianzhu are 72 peaks, 36 rocky cliffs, 24 streams, three pools, nine springs and 10 lakes. The glamorous scenery enables people to forget all worries and sorrow.

Two Taoist monks practice martial arts on the Wudang Mountains, Hubei province. [Photo/wudangshan.gov.cn]
Contributed by Wang Liang and Jiang Yuanbo from Wudang Mountains Tourism Bureau