By Pierre Picquart
Recently, a piece of news sparked widespread attention on social media: The star player of the NBA's San Antonio Spurs, Victor Wembanyama, had his head shaved at the Shaolin Temple and separated from his entourage to undergo a 10-day seclusion for spiritual practice. This was later confirmed by personnel from the Shaolin Temple. In the footage, Wembanyama appeared with a shaved head, wearing a monk's robe, practicing martial arts with monks, and enjoying vegetarian meals, earning him the internet nickname "the tallest 'monk' in Shaolin." He is just one of many foreigners who have been captivated by the Shaolin Temple and Chinese culture.
Like Alea der Bescheidene, the lead singer of the German band Saltatio Mortis, who dreams of visiting the Shaolin Temple, an increasing number of young people in Europe and the U.S. are showing growing interest in Chinese culture. This isn't just a trend; it reflects curiosity and respect for an ancient yet evolving civilization.
Kung Fu stands out as one of the most captivating aspects. While historically renowned for its stunning martial arts skills, today, more young people see it as a comprehensive practice connecting body, mind, and spirit. Kung Fu fosters balance, confidence, patience, and a new understanding of time and space. It’s not just a sport but a lifestyle emphasizing self-discipline and inner harmony.
Influences from figures like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, along with classic films such as Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, have made Chinese martial arts globally iconic. Today, many young people enroll in Kung Fu classes, travel to China for intensive training, or learn online. Beyond mastering moves, they seek to understand the philosophy behind them. Kung Fu symbolizes not only strength and skill but also respect, resilience, and mindfulness.
Beyond martial arts, more young people are engaging with traditional Chinese cultural elements like traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), feng shui, tea art, and calligraphy. These practices offer fresh perspectives on health, aesthetics, and the relationship between humanity and nature. They address contemporary longings for rhythm, peace, and self-connection, reflecting a holistic worldview that seeks balance between body and mind.
Contemporary Chinese culture is also entering the vision of Western youth through modern media. Films, visual arts, music, video games, and social platforms like TikTok and WeChat offer fresh perspectives on China. Directors like Wong Kar-wai attract global young audiences with their poetic narratives and unique visual styles. Cultural products such as Black Myth: Wukong and Nezha 2: The Demon Child’s Sea Chaos reinvent traditional stories and characters, satisfying modern tastes while sparking a resurgence of interest in Chinese traditional culture. Chinese fashion and design influence global trends, and digital platforms promote cross-cultural interaction and collaboration among young creators worldwide.
The influence of Chinese culture stems from its deep historical continuity. Philosophical systems like Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism have nurtured Chinese civilization for millennia and still resonate today. These traditions emphasize harmony between humanity and nature, respect for elders, the importance of education, and the value of inner peace. Compared to the fast-paced, individualistic contemporary lifestyle, these concepts offer young people new paths for reflection.
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Chinese culture is not stuck in the past; it’s a living culture that continuously innovates. Contemporary Chinese artists, musicians, architects, and writers are participating in global dialogues while preserving their traditional roots. This "tradition + modernity" cultural blend appeals to many young people, who see China not only as a source of Eastern wisdom but also as a significant cultural force for the future.
More importantly, access to Chinese culture is more widespread than ever. Cultural exchanges, study abroad programs, language learning apps, and social media have made Chinese culture accessible. Chinese language courses are offered in schools worldwide; Confucius Institutes organize cultural activities; documentaries and online creators tell Chinese traditions in approachable ways.
Like the rising sun, Chinese culture continues to illuminate the imagination of the world’s youth. It encourages people to slow down, look inward, and connect with others in new ways. In this age of uncertainty, engaging with Chinese culture is not about understanding the "other"—it’s also about rediscovering oneself.
Pierre Picquart is an expert in Geopolitics and Human Geography at the University of Paris 8. The views don't necessarily reflect those of BeijingReviewDossier.
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