Young martial artists train in China’s ancient mountain schools

A range of mountains in central China has become a top destination for students eager to learn Taoist martial arts. In this part of the Wudang range, young practitioners train in tai chi and kung fu at schools set among temples and forested slopes.

Taoism has deep roots at Wudang. Legend holds that Laozi’s first disciple settled on the mountain more than 2,500 years ago, helping spread teachings that later formed a major branch of Taoism.

On these breathtaking slopes, committed students search for inner stillness through the art of tai chi.