Student Activities at the International Shaolin Dragon Academy
Training, Culture & Fun
Life at the International Shaolin Dragon Academy is about more than training – it’s about experiencing a rich cultural journey, making lifelong friends, and exploring the beauty and traditions of China.
Academy Life – Free Time and Weekends
During the week, training sessions are balanced with regular breaks, giving students time to rest, recharge, or pursue personal interests. Some students use this time for extra training, while others enjoy chatting with friends, meditating, reading, or playing musical instruments – whether traditional Chinese ones or their own guitars.
You might take a peaceful walk, listen to music, visit local restaurants, or explore the nearby shops. For those who enjoy staying active, our facilities are perfect for activities like Ping-Pong, basketball, football, or even a friendly game of Chinese Chess with classmates.
On weekends or in your spare time, you can practise Chinese calligraphy, study Mandarin, or focus on your favourite cultural courses. The nearby towns and cities also offer plenty to discover – from bustling markets to scenic spots steeped in history.
Trips and Sightseeing Tours
Each month, we organise optional excursions to some of China’s most famous cultural and historical landmarks. Popular destinations include:
- The Shaolin Temple, just a short journey from our Academy.
- The Great Wall of China in Beijing.
- The Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven.
- The Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang.
- The Terracotta Army in Xi’an.
Trip destinations vary each month and are chosen with input from our students, ensuring that every journey is exciting and tailored to the group’s interests. Participation is completely optional – you can decide when and where you’d like to join in.
Celebrations and Cultural Events
We celebrate a range of Chinese and international festivals throughout the year, offering our students a deeper understanding of traditions from around the world. While we train year-round and never close for holidays, these occasions bring the Academy together for cultural activities, food, and fun.
Annual celebrations include:
- New Year’s Day – 1 January
- Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) – 1st day of the 1st lunar month
- Qingming Festival – 4 or 5 April
- Labour Day (May Day) – 1 May
- Dragon Boat Festival – 5th day of the 5th lunar month
- Mid-Autumn Festival – 15th day of the 8th lunar month
- National Day (Golden Week) – 1 October
- Yangshuo Climbing Festival – 7 October
- Dongzhi Festival (Winter Solstice) – 22 December
- Christmas – 24–25 December (celebrated especially with our international students)
At the International Shaolin Dragon Academy, every day is a chance to grow – not just in martial arts, but in cultural understanding, friendship, and unforgettable experiences.
