Do I need a visa to travel to China?

China offers 30-day visa-free entry for citizens of several countries including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Malaysia. A 240-hour transit visa-free policy is also available for 53 countries. For others, a tourist visa (L Visa) is required.

What is included in a QTour private tour?

Every booking includes a private guide speaking your language (English, Japanese, Korean, French, German, Spanish and more), private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver, all entrance fees, hotel accommodations, daily breakfast, and airport transfers. An optional photographer with DSLR and drone is available.

What is the best time to visit China?

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-November) are the best times to visit most of China. The weather is mild, skies are clear, and crowds are smaller. Summer is ideal for Tibet and Inner Mongolia.

How much does a private China tour cost?

A private tour with 4-star hotels typically costs $150-300 per person per day, including guide, driver, vehicle, hotels, entrance fees, and domestic transport. Prices vary by itinerary length and accommodation level.

Discover the history, styles, and cultural significance of Chinese martial arts, from Shaolin to Tai Chi.

History of Chinese Martial Arts

Chinese martial arts, collectively known as Kung Fu or Wushu, have a history spanning over 4,000 years. Originally developed for survival and warfare, they evolved into systems of physical training, self-defense, and spiritual cultivation. The term "kung fu" actually means "skill achieved through hard work," not specifically martial arts.

Shaolin Kung Fu

Shaolin Temple, founded in 495 AD in Henan Province, is the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu. The monks developed a comprehensive system of martial arts for physical and spiritual development. Shaolin is known for its dynamic, powerful techniques and animal-inspired forms. The temple still trains monks today and offers performances for visitors.

Tai Chi Chuan

Tai Chi is an internal martial art emphasizing slow, flowing movements, deep breathing, and mental focus. Developed in the Chen Village during the 17th century, it's now practiced worldwide for health and meditation. The most popular styles are Chen, Yang, Wu, and Sun. Parks across China fill with practitioners every morning, especially in Beijing and Shanghai.

External vs Internal Styles

Chinese martial arts are broadly divided into external (waijia) and internal (neijia) styles. External styles like Shaolin emphasize physical strength, speed, and power. Internal styles like Tai Chi and Bagua focus on qi (energy) cultivation, softness, and redirecting force. Most systems incorporate elements of both approaches.

Kung Fu in Pop Culture

Chinese martial arts gained global recognition through films starring Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li. The Shaolin Temple movie (1982) sparked renewed interest in martial arts tourism. Today, visitors can watch kung fu shows at Shaolin Temple, train at martial arts schools in Dengfeng, or practice Tai Chi with locals in parks across China.