Tai Chi Glossary > Wudang (武当)
Wudang (武当)
Definition: Wudang (武当) refers to both Wudang Mountain (武当山) — a sacred Taoist site in Hubei Province, China — and the martial arts tradition associated with it, including Wudang Tai Chi, Wudang Sword, and Wudang Qigong.
According to legend, the Taoist monk Zhang Sanfeng (张三丰) created Tai Chi Chuan on Wudang Mountain after witnessing a fight between a snake and a crane. While historically debated, this legend cemented Wudang’s status as the spiritual home of Internal Martial Arts. Today, Wudang’s temples and monasteries continue to teach internal practices that blend Taoist philosophy, martial arts, and Qigong.
Key Characteristics
- Emphasis on Taoist internal alchemy and cultivation of Qi
- Wudang Sword (武当剑) is particularly famous — combining fluidity with precision
- Practices integrate meditation, breath work, and martial movement
- Distinct from the secular family styles ( Chen , Yang ) in its monastic, spiritual orientation
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Often Discussed Together
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Community & Questions
Discussions from practitioners about Wudang.
Further Reading & Practical Guides
In-depth articles featuring Wudang.
Wudang, Chen and Yang Tai Chi: How the Three Traditions Relate
Chen style, Yang style and Wudang Tai Chi are not three candidates for one origin. They are three layers of one tree — root, trunk and canopy. Wudang's culture is old and its recognisable routine is young, and holding both facts at once is the whole answer.
The Wushu Dan Ranking System: Chinese Martial Arts Degrees and the 9th Duan
The Chinese wushu grade is a state-recognised occupational rank, not a karate belt: the approval authority climbs from district to province or city to a centralised national review board as the tier rises, and above the 7th duan there is no longer a skill to perform — the review weighs a career instead. As of November 2024 the official count stood at 95 approved 9th duan; no authoritative living count exists, and the "only a dozen" line is outdated folklore.
Is Your UK Tai Chi Lineage Authentic? Tracing British Tai Chi Back to Its Roots
From verified Chen family disciples to a teacher whose own master left no independent trace — an honest guide to how Tai Chi lineage actually works in the UK, and where to find it.
Baduanjin Breathing: A Wudang Master's 25-Year Guide
Master Gu (15th gen Wudang) reveals why most Baduanjin breathing increases tension — plus step-by-step fixes & the science behind correct breath work. Start breathing correctly today.
International Taijiquan Day 2026: How to Join the First UNESCO-Celebrated Global Tai Chi Event
March 21, 2026, marks the first UNESCO-declared International Taijiquan Day. Learn how to join the global celebration, participate in the 4th Global Taijiquan Virtual Competition, and explore Tai Chi's health benefits practiced in 180+ countries.