Any martial artist or fan of China’s Kung Fu movies knows that the Shaolin Temple is one of the most important and influential, universities and training grounds in the world. The temple, built between 477-495 C.E., has a very long history of producing some of the best martial artists in the world. Throughout its history the Shaolin Temple attracted people from many different countries and from practically every religion in the world as well.

Contrary to popular belief (historically) you did not need to be a Buddhist or practice Buddhism in order to train there. There are records of Taoists, Muslims, Christians, Hindus and members of other faiths attending and studying at the Temple.

It is with this historical importance in mind that the Chinese government has renewed their interest in preserving their ancient culture and cultural buildings, and to encourage the world to visit and experience this amazing heritage.

According to the Qi Journal (Summer 2012 issue), “The foundation of Shaolin Kung Fu Museum was laid…in Shaolin Tagou Kung Fu School, three kilometers northeast away from Shaolin Temple in central China’s Henan province. With a total investment of 36.5 million US dollars, the privately funded museum covers 135,540 square meters. It will be the first of its kind in the world…The museum will demonstrate the development and evolvement of Chinese Kung Fu with texts, pictures, films and other exhibits. It also plans to hold international Kung Fu competitions and state live performances.”

The museum is expected to open sometime in 2014 and has the expectation to not only promote foreign tourism but also to further the study and development of Kung Fu.

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