Shaolin Pentecost Weekend Moers-Kapellen 2026

Moers-Kapellen — the village on the western Lower Rhine

Kapellen, with around 8,000 inhabitants, is one of the districts of Moers (Wesel district) on the left bank of the Lower Rhine. Despite being incorporated in 1975, the village has retained its character — farms, riding stables, its own parish church, active club life. What makes Kapellen particularly well-known in the German martial arts scene: The Ho Ying Wu Shu Association has been based here for years, one of the oldest and most serious addresses for classic Chinese Wushu and Shaolin Kung Fu in the Rhineland. The association maintains close ties with the Shaolin Temple Germany in Berlin — and organizes the major Shaolin course every year at Pentecost.

Three Shaolin Monks from Berlin

The Shaolin Temple Germany in Berlin is an officially recognized branch of the Chinese Shaolin Temple Songshan, founded in 2001 in cooperation with the mother monastery. Shaolin monks live and train here, trained in the centuries-old tradition and spreading authentic Shaolin Kung Fu in Germany. For the Pentecost weekend 2026, three monks will travel to Moers-Kapellen to lead the course program.

The Program — Shaolin Kung Fu with Depth

Unlike most martial arts courses that focus on a single discipline, the Shaolin Pentecost Weekend covers a broad spectrum:

Traditional Shaolin Forms

The Shaolin forms (Taolu) are the choreographed movement sequences that form the heart of the Shaolin tradition. The monks teach classic forms such as the Tiger, Eagle, and Mantis styles, as well as the Monkey and Snake forms — each with explanations of technique, breathing, and meditative alignment.

Staff Fighting and Sword Fighting

Weapon forms are an inseparable part of the Shaolin tradition: staff fighting with the classic Bo, sword fighting with the Jian (straight sword) and the Dao (curved sword). These disciplines are less about combat training and more about aesthetic and meditative practice.

Self-Defense

Practically oriented: Self-defense techniques from the Shaolin repertoire, adapted to modern everyday situations.

New in 2026: Qigong and Meditation

A new feature for the 2026 edition: Qigong (Chinese energy work with breathing and slow movements) and Meditation (sitting, standing, walking) are planned as an integral part of the program for the first time. This reflects the growing interest in the spiritual dimension of the Shaolin tradition and is also aimed at participants who are not looking for classic combat training but want to deepen their inner practice.

Public Demonstration — Highlight of the Weekend

A central program point is the public demonstration, to which the entire population of Moers-Kapellen and the surrounding area is invited. The three Shaolin monks will present classic forms, staff fighting, and sword fighting in a choreographed show, followed by all groups of the Ho Ying Wu Shu Association — from children's classes to youth groups to advanced adults — showcasing their learned forms. A rare opportunity to experience authentic Chinese Wushu in a Rhenish village setting.

Guest of Honor Mayor Julia Zupancic

The importance of the course for the city of Moers is underscored by the presence of Moers Mayor Julia Zupancic as guest of honor. She will officially welcome the monks and participants and acknowledge the commitment of the Ho Ying Wu Shu Association to the international cultural networking of the city on the Lower Rhine.

Registration and Participation

Participation in the course requires registration and is subject to a fee — registrations are handled by the Ho Ying Wu Shu Association. The public demonstration, however, is free for spectators. Prior Kung Fu experience is welcome for course participation, but there are also beginner groups. The monks speak English and will be translated if necessary.

Travel and Practical Information

Moers-Kapellen is located about 10 km west of Moers city center. Car: A 57 exit Moers-West, then follow signs for Kapellen. Public transport: Bus lines from Moers station to Kapellen. As the weekend is heavily attended, advance registration is strongly recommended.