Ever seen a monk break bricks with bare hands and total stillness in his eyes? The world knows the Shaolin not just as monks, but as legends. For centuries, these warriors from China have dedicated themselves to mastering kung fu. Now, they’re stepping out of the temple’s shadows and flying to Bangkok for a rare chance to witness the art of ancient fighting up close.
From July 25 to 28, catch this world-famous performance at Parc Paragon, Siam Paragon, as part of ‘The Nation’s Tribute to the King’, a celebration marking His Majesty the King’s 73rd Birthday and 50 years of diplomatic ties between Thailand and China.
It’s more than just Shaolin kung fu. This event is a cultural showcase featuring traditions and performing arts from both countries. The Shaolin performance alone tells a story that’s over 1,500 years old, rooted in the sacred Songshan Mountains of China. With every move, you’ll see a blend of raw power, graceful precision and deep Zen discipline.
But there’s plenty more to enjoy:
- Sichuan Opera mask-changing (bian lian): Watch in awe as performers magically switch colourful masks in a blink, a mesmerising tradition from the Chinese Opera Association.
- Children’s khon performance: Young talents bring the Ramayana epic to life through traditional Thai masked dance.
- Candle dance: Experience the delicate beauty of this Thai classical dance, performed by students from Srinakharinwirot University Demonstration School.
- Thai-Chinese cultural music fusion: Enjoy a combination of Chinese Guzheng and Thai classical instruments such as the dulcimer and fiddle, a musical symbol of friendship between the two nations.
Best of all? Admission is free. The festivities kick off on July 25 at 4pm. From July 26 to 28, there are two shows daily at 1pm and 4pm, with Shaolin Kung Fu performances happening once each evening from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.