Chen Jiagou (Origin of Tai Chi Quan)

Chen Tai Chi village is located in the east of Wenxian county, Henan province. The village used to be called Changyang village 600 years ago. At the end of the Ming Dynasty and the beginning of the Qing Dynasty, Chen Wangting (the founder of Tai Chi) developed a set of Taijiquan which combined the principle of Yin and Yang, and the essences of various schools of Wushu, the theory of Taiji, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Channels, Qigong including Daoyin and Tuna etc.

Since the development of Taiji Quan practicing Taijiquan in Chenjiagou was very popular. Every one practised it no matter whether old or young, men or women. There was a saying "Anyone who has drunk the water of Chenjiagou, can raise his leg." "Anyone whether he has learnt Wushu, can play Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar.” This reflected how much the villagers loved to play Taijiquan. The ethos has been passed from generation to generation, and has never failed. For that reason, many famous masters came from Chenjiagou in the history.

Tai Chi Workshops and Sightseeing at the Village

We will visit Chen Jia Gou (Chen village) as this is where Tai Chi originated. Students will have the chance to learn original Tai Chi, especially Chen style Tai Chi forms and applications with some famous Tai Chi masters there. As well as enjoying the fascinating sightseeing and local activities.

The available styles of Tai Chi to learn include the first routine of Old Style, the second routine of old style (Cannon Boxing), the first routine of new style, the second routine of new style (Cannon Boxing), the first and second routines of small frame, and five kinds of push hand. The routines of weapons include Taiji Single Broad Sword, Double Broad Sword, Single Sword, Double Swords, Double Maces, Pear Flower Spear plus White Ape Staff, Long-hilt Broadsword Scimitar, Three Pole, Eight Pole, Thirteen Pole, etc.

These routines basically maintain the traditional style, from the angle of style and application of the beating technique. Our students will be taught Tai Chi applications, one selected Tai Chi empty form and another selected Tai Chi weapon form.