The "Shenxianju cup" 8th China Taizhou International Wushu Competition in 2025 began on July 11 in Xianju county, Taizhou, East China's Zhejiang province, attracting nearly 3,000 participants for two days of skill and tradition.

The "Shenxianju cup" 8th China Taizhou International Wushu Competition in 2025 takes place in Taizhou. [Photo/taizhou.com.cn]

The event has both individual and group categories, including styles such as tai chi, changquan (long fist), and nanquan (southern fist). Competitors from across the country are participating in friendly matches that celebrate the richness of traditional Chinese martial arts.

Zhuo Qingang, from Wenling, a county-level city in Taizhou, performed a tai chi sword routine. "I have practiced for five to six years. Though I was a bit nervous going first, I felt good about my performance," he said.

Zhuo Qingang performs a tai chi sword routine. [Photo/taizhou.com.cn]

Wang Zhenmei from Quzhou in Zhejiang, who has trained in tai chi for over a decade, said, "Missing a day of practice just doesn't feel right."

Wang Zhenmei performs tai chi. [Photo/taizhou.com.cn]

Xianju's long martial arts legacy continues to grow. The local training base has produced 13 national elite athletes and over 200 certified competitors. As host, Xianju fielded 26 athletes, determined to demonstrate the town's rich martial heritage.