My Journey to Changle: A Wing Chun Experience
- Jul 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 5
By Harrison Littlewood
For quite some time, I have heard about the WCKTC's annual visits to Changle, Fujian. This year, I was deeply honoured to participate in the journey for the very first time. Supporting the coordination of the trip made the experience even more meaningful. It allowed me to appreciate not only the training but also the tremendous effort behind maintaining the strong relationship between our schools.
The Delegation and Arrival
Led by our Sifu, Chua Kah Joo, a delegation of ten WCKTC students travelled to Changle, the home of our Fujian Traditional Wing Chun lineage and the school of our Grandmaster, Sifu Joseph Cheng. We were also joined by WCKTC's long-time student and lineage holder, Sam Catlin, who is currently based in Tianjin, China.
Although we arrived late in the evening after clearing immigration and collecting our luggage, the students and instructors of the Fujian Traditional Wing Chun School had patiently waited to welcome us. Their generous hospitality and warm reception reflected the close bond nurtured between our schools over many years. This annual visit is not simply a training exchange; it is a reunion of one Wing Chun family.
Training at the Fujian School
At the Fujian Traditional Wing Chun School, it was both enriching and inspiring to train alongside students and instructors from Fujian. Despite differences in language and teaching approaches, our shared commitment to the principles of traditional Wing Chun created an immediate connection. The demonstrations by the students, senior instructors, and Sifu Chua highlighted that while techniques may be expressed differently, the values of discipline, precision, humility, and mutual respect remain universal.
The Importance of Lifelong Learning
One of the greatest privileges of the visit was the opportunity to watch Grandmaster Sifu Joseph Cheng demonstrate the moves with such refined skill, speed, and effortless control. It reinforced the importance of lifelong learning and the pursuit of excellence within our art.
Building Lasting Friendships
As a first-time participant, I returned with far more than memorable experiences. I gained a deeper understanding of our lineage, witnessed the enduring friendship between our schools, and developed an even greater appreciation for the responsibility of preserving and passing on our traditional art. It is about preserving a lineage, honouring our heritage, and building lasting friendships that transcend borders.
The Legacy of Wing Chun
The legacy of Wing Chun is not just about the techniques we learn. It is about the values we embody. The principles of respect, discipline, and humility are what bind us together. These values are essential for anyone who practices martial arts. They guide our actions both inside and outside the training hall.
The Role of Community
Community plays a crucial role in martial arts. It is where we share knowledge and experiences. The bonds formed during training create a supportive environment. This support is vital for personal growth and development. It allows us to push our limits and strive for excellence.
The Future of Wing Chun
As we look to the future, it is important to continue fostering these connections. We must ensure that the teachings of Wing Chun are passed down to future generations. This will help preserve the art's traditional legacy and practical application.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my journey to Changle was transformative. It deepened my understanding of Wing Chun and strengthened my commitment to our community. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from esteemed masters and fellow practitioners. Together, we can ensure that the spirit of Wing Chun lives on for years to come.
For more insights into our experiences, check out this video that captures our journey.
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