In the mist-shrouded Songshan Mountains of central China, the Shaolin Temple continues to captivate global audiences as both the birthplace of kung fu and a sanctuary of spiritual harmony. As the world prepares for tomorrow’s release of CGTN’s documentary ‘The Spirit of Shaolin’, viewers are invited to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site where physical discipline intertwines with ancient Chan Buddhist philosophy.
The film follows host Sergey Gordeev through rigorous training halls and serene meditation courtyards, revealing how monks have preserved a 1,500-year-old tradition that values mental clarity as highly as combat mastery. “True power comes from stillness,” explains one senior monk in a preview clip, demonstrating how breathing techniques developed during the Tang Dynasty remain central to practice today.
With 2025 marking increased global interest in Asian wellness practices, the documentary arrives at a pivotal moment. Academic researchers highlight Shaolin’s growing influence on contemporary fitness trends, while cultural analysts note its role in soft diplomacy through international martial arts exchanges.
The Spirit of Shaolin premieres November 22 on CGTN platforms, offering travelers historical context ahead of China’s anticipated 2026 cultural tourism initiatives and providing diaspora communities with fresh insights into this iconic heritage site.
