By Jin Lu

In celebration of International Chinese Language Day, the AI-Xingchen International Chinese Teaching Team from Ningbo University, in collaboration with the Confucius Institute at the University of Toamasina, Madagascar, hosted a special online event titled "Chinese + Kung Fu: Eastern Philosophy in Bajiquan".

The event spotlighted a performance by Master Cui Zhenfeng, a ninth-generation lineage holder of Wu-style Kaimen Bajiquan and a recognized figure in China's national intangible cultural heritage. Appearing via livestream, Master Cui delivered a striking demonstration of Bajiquan's hallmark techniques, including "explosive strikes and body-to-body force", vividly capturing the power, rhythm, and spirit of traditional Chinese martial arts.

In addition to his performance, Master Cui guided participants through Bajiquan's intentions, combat principles, and theories of power. The participants followed his lead, engaging with the martial art's movements while delving into its deep ties to Eastern philosophy.

Students from the Confucius Institute at the University of Toamasina noted that this martial arts–based approach to language learning offered a meaningful integration of literary and physical disciplines. Through the practice of Bajiquan, they found a more visceral connection to the warmth and richness of Chinese cultural traditions.

By blending Chinese language and kung fu, the event created a cultural bridge that reached beyond borders. It redefined language learning as more than vocabulary and grammar, inviting participants to experience Chinese philosophy through movement, breath, and intent. This interactive exchange fostered mutual understanding and underscored the value of cross-cultural learning between civilizations.