For the past century, Asian martial arts have taken the world by storm. Tales of noble samurai and secretive ninjas have become indelible parts of modern pop culture, inspiring people the world over to lead a healthier lifestyle and live an honorable life.

While the stories and achievements of proud martial artists have become things of legend in the modern world, their example is nevertheless a reflection of the history and tradition found in Asian cultural heritage. It is for this reason that travelers with an interest in the martial arts will find much to love in the birthplaces of many of these disciplines, destinations that are home to historic and cultural sites that have turned the martial arts into a cultural touchstone.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most prominent martial arts destinations in Asia, places steeped in the legacy of ancient warriors that will help martial arts aficionados unleash their inner Bruce Lee.

Kung Fu — Beijing, China

Kung Fu

Beijing celebrates the history Kung Fu, China’s most beloved martial art, with all the flair expected of one of the largest urban centers in the world. Martial arts lovers visiting Beijing will be awestruck by the city’s Kung Fu shows, theatrical performances that mix high drama with martial arts action and thrilling acrobatics.

One of the most noteworthy of such performances is The Legend of Kung Fu Show at the Red Theatre. The stage show tells the story of a young warrior who is trained in the martial arts by a wise master. Along with the spectacle of amazing martial arts, the show also incorporates modern special effects to give spectators a multimedia glimpse into one of the most important aspects of Chinese cultural heritage.

Martial arts aficionados hoping to try their hand at Kung Fu can also schedule a private lesson at one of Beijing’s many martial arts schools and gyms. Usually lasting anywhere from two to three hours, these private lessons give you an introduction into the basics of Kung Fu. Instructors also take time to teach students the history of Kung Fu and its larger philosophy.

Judo & Karate — Tokyo, Japan

Karate

As home to the disciplines of Judo and Karate, Tokyo offers a wide range of destinations for martial arts enthusiasts. One of the most notable is the Nippon Budokan, Tokyo’s largest martial arts arena. Tournaments at the Nippon Budokan feature a wide array of styles, including kendo, karate, and judo. Sumo matches are also highly popular among locals and tourists alike, introducing audiences to the nuances of Japan’s national sport and the cultural significance of the fighting style.

Martial arts lovers with an eye for history will also enjoy Tokyo’s famed Samurai Museum, which chronicles the centuries-long history of samurai in Japan. Along with displays of armor and weapons, the museum also puts on demonstrations of samurai sword techniques, showing visitors the skill and martial prowess of the most iconic warriors of Japan.

Taekwondo — Seoul, South Korea

Taekwondo

Those with an interest in the art of Taekwondo will find much to enjoy in Seoul, South Korea. The most important location for anyone with a passion for martial arts is the Kukkiwon, the headquarters of the World Taekwondo Federation. Visitors to the Kukkiwon are treated to a variety of exhibits and performances pertaining to Korea’s most popular martial art. The onsite museum outlines the history of Taekwondo and Korean martial arts, while the Kukkiwon regularly hosts martial arts demonstrations that reveal the intense training of the highest-ranked Taekwondo masters.

Taekwondo schools in Seoul regularly host classes for tourists looking to try the martial art. Along with teaching basic movements, these schools also provide tours of historic locations in the city. A popular stop on such tours is Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Performers at Changdeokgung demonstrate Taekwondo techniques while dressed in the hanbok, the traditional clothing of ancient Korea.

Muay Thai — Bangkok, Thailand

Muay Thai

Visitors to Bangkok will quickly become enraptured with the city’s strong association with Muay Thai, Thailand’s national sport and one of the most powerful martial arts in Asia. Bangkok is home to Rajadamnern Stadium, the oldest Muay Thai arena in the world and the headquarters of the martial art’s governing body.

Each week, the Rajadamnern hosts matches that feature the best Muay Thai champions in the world duking it out for the top spot. While non-stop action abounds at the stadium, visitors to the Rajadamnern will remember the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the venue. Oftentimes, fighters are more than happy to pose for pictures with excited spectators.

The Rajadamnern’s location in the heart of Bangkok also means that the city has no trouble attracting the top Muay Thai talent in the world. Martial arts aficionados looking to take a Muay Thai class on their trip to Bangkok can receive pointers from championship fighters and the best coaches in the discipline.

Vovinam — Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Vovinam

Martial arts enthusiasts looking to explore Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City will find a variety of dojos and schools to learn the art of Vovinam, Vietnam’s most celebrated form of fighting. Vovinam was developed in the 1930s by Master Nguyen Loc, who wanted to help his countrymen stand against colonial oppression.

Taught in secret until the end of the Vietnam War, Vovinam is now recognized as a symbol of cultural heritage by the Vietnamese government. Vovinam’s philosophy is based on the balance of hard and soft, teaching students to be flexible in their combat techniques while nonetheless imparting important truths based on mindfulness and restraint.

Vovinam clubs throughout Ho Chi Minh City often put on free demonstrations and classes at Buddhist pagodas and other public places throughout the city for travelers who are hoping to learn the basics of the martial art. Since Vovinam is so entwined with Vietnamese culture, many music and food festivals also feature special demonstrations of the art.

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Pencak Silat — Bali, Indonesia

Penkat Silat

Rightfully known as the Island of the Gods, beautiful Bali is home to the ancient martial art of Pencak Silat. Encompassing a variety of techniques, Pencak Silat is best known for its fluid, dance-like movements that make for beautiful forms and performances. Masters of Pencak Silat teach strikes and grappling as part of self-defense techniques while also imparting the discipline’s psychological and spiritual principles. Along with getting to know yourself better, Pencak Silat’s driving philosophy teaches practitioners understanding and compassion for others.

In recent years, Pencak Silat has become a favorite outlet for Balinese tourism. Martial arts schools in the city offer a variety of packages for tourists who want to learn Pencak Silat. While some classes encompass only an hour lesson at a local gym, others are multi-day experiences that delve deep into the martial art and its influence on the country’s cultural heritage. Such programs bring guests to both state of the art facilities and outdoor locations that introduce martial arts lovers to the country’s great natural beauty.

FAQs:

Q: Are there any recommended Kung Fu shows in Beijing besides The Legend of Kung Fu Show?
A: While The Legend of Kung Fu Show is a popular choice, Beijing offers various other Kung Fu performances across the city. You can explore options at different theaters and venues for a diverse experience.

Q: What’s the best way to book a private Kung Fu lesson in Beijing?
A: To book a private Kung Fu lesson in Beijing, it’s advisable to contact local martial arts schools or gyms directly. They often have instructors available for private sessions. Online platforms and concierge services can also assist in arranging these lessons.

Q: Can tourists watch sumo matches at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo?
A: Yes, tourists can watch sumo matches at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo. The Nippon Budokan hosts various martial arts tournaments, including sumo, and it’s a unique opportunity to witness this traditional Japanese sport.

Q: What’s the best way to get to the Kukkiwon in Seoul?
A: The Kukkiwon, headquarters of the World Taekwondo Federation, is easily accessible in Seoul. You can take a subway to the nearest station, which is Gongdeok Station (Line 5 and Line 6). From there, it’s a short walk to reach the Kukkiwon.

Q: Are there any special events or festivals in Bangkok related to Muay Thai?
A: Bangkok hosts various Muay Thai events and festivals throughout the year, but the schedule can vary. It’s a good idea to check with local venues, gyms, or tourism information centers to find out about upcoming Muay Thai events during your visit.

Q: Are there any Vovinam clubs in Ho Chi Minh City that offer longer-term training for travelers?
A: Yes, some Vovinam clubs in Ho Chi Minh City offer longer-term training programs for travelers interested in delving deeper into the martial art. You can inquire about extended training options and class schedules at these clubs.

Q: What’s the best time of year to experience Pencak Silat in Bali, Indonesia?
A: Pencak Silat can be experienced year-round in Bali, as it’s a popular martial art in the region. However, consider checking for special events or performances that might align with your travel dates to enhance your Pencak Silat experience.

Did we leave out your favorite Asian martial art? Tell us about it in the comments below!