Li Shuwen: The Story of a Bajiquan Grandmaster

In the dazzling galaxy of Chinese martial arts, there are several masters that audiences are quite familiar with: Tai Chi grandmaster Yang Lu chan, Bagua Zhang grandmaster Dong Hai chuan, Mi zong quan master Huo Yuan jia, and Hung Kuen master Wong Fei-hung. These four martial artists from the Qing Dynasty frequently appear in Chinese kung fu films and TV dramas. In more contemporary times, Bruce Lee opened the door for Chinese martial arts to the world with his fierce punches and kicks; Jackie Chan became an international movie star with his humorous yet thrilling action scenes; Jet Li showcased the charm of Chinese martial arts with every move. These martial arts masters and kung fu stars have left a deep impression on many audiences through the dissemination of films and TV dramas. However, in modern Chinese history, there was a martial arts master with terrifying combat skills who has long been overlooked by the public. He was renowned in the East Asian martial arts community for his close-range combat techniques. When he got close to his opponents, his explosive power was often overwhelming. He was also skilled in the exquisite art of the spear, wielding it like a nimble dragon or a deadly reaper. Whether in sparring or defending against enemies, he achieved great feats with this skill. He elevated Baji Quan to unprecedented heights, creating the supreme glory of Baji Quan. He was the Chinese Baji Quan master—Li Shuwen.