TEMPLE TRAINING

A fascinating historical legend unfolds in the Ming Dynasty about 400 years ago. A martial artist named Chen, from China, journeyed to Japan, engaging in martial arts exchanges with the samurai class. This documented interaction enriched judo with Chinese wrestling and grappling techniques, attributing to a significant chapter in Sino-Japanese martial arts history. As modern military technologies rose, many samurai faced a dwindling existence in Japan, prompting some to leave, including one who reached Brazil. There, encountering the Gracie family, he shared his skills, leading to the formation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Over the years, BJJ has evolved, drawing from Chinese wrestling and kung fu's grappling roots. During a visit to Beijing, I and DG explored "yuan BJJ," sharing insights on the commonalities between Chinese martial arts and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The video's Chinese subtitles convey the essence: "Exchange brings progress," a principle applicable beyond martial arts to life.