Tai Tsung takes its name from a defining legend in the history of Shaolin and the Chinese fighting arts.
Chinese fighting arts developed across many centuries, shaped by periods of military conflict and the need for effective systems of self-defence. Different traditions refined striking, kicking, grappling, weapons and physical preparation into structured methods of practice.
Shaolin temples played an important part in the development and recognition of these arts, becoming closely associated with disciplined martial training.
Tradition maintains that the Shaolin Temple at the foot of Song Shan mountain was built by royal decree during the reign of Emperor Hsiao-Wen.
Over the centuries that followed, its monks became renowned not only for religious practice, but for the fighting methods associated with the monastery.
Legend records that Emperor T'ai Tsung appealed to the Shaolin fighting monks for help against the usurper general Wang-Shih-Ch'ung. The monks aided the emperor and together they defeated Wang.
In recognition of their service, the emperor is said to have conferred upon Shaolin the title “Number One Monastery Under Heaven”.
Carrying it forward
Tai Tsung honours that connection between disciplined tradition and practical martial skill. The modern programme does not treat history as decoration: its forms, partner work, Sanda and values are taught as a continuing practice.
Explore the programmeThe account of Emperor T'ai Tsung and the Shaolin monks is presented as the tradition from which the association takes its name. As with many early martial-arts histories, individual details have been transmitted through a mixture of written history, legend and later retelling.