Tai Chi is a practice that requires direct correction and guidance. Subtle aspects such as alignment, structure, and internal connection cannot be fully understood through observation alone. In-person training allows students to develop real skill through feedback, adjustment, and embodied experience.

The school is open year-round, with each season offering a different experience of the landscape and climate.  Winters in Yangshuo are changeable from cold days to warm, summers are humid and very warm, while spring and autumn offer the most balanced weather conditions.

Any comfortable clothing suitable for movement is best for the lessons. Warm layers can be helpful depending on the season. Most other essentials are available in Yangshuo if needed.  China’s voltage is 220V and the wall sockets will accept North American (two-prong) and European plugs, but not British.

No particular level of fitness is required. Tai Chi develops gradually over time, and you are encouraged to work at your own pace. Consistency is more important than intensity.

All instruction is in English.

Meals are prepared daily at the school and are primarily vegetarian. The food is simple, nourishing, and designed to support steady energy throughout the day.

Rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and views of the surrounding landscape. The environment is quiet and designed to support rest between training sessions.

Accommodation, daily training, and all homemade meals are included, along with access to tea, shared spaces, and the surrounding natural environment.

Training takes place in the mornings, with approximately three and a half hours of guided practice each day, six days per week. Afternoons are free for rest, exploration, or self practice.

Yes, in fact it is preferred. Simply email us at longtoutaichi@outlook.com to reserve your stay. A deposit is not usually required, except during peak holiday periods or certain workshops.

Some students come for a week, while others stay for several weeks or longer. Many find that a longer stay allows the practice to settle more deeply, but even a short visit can be meaningful. For those interested in learning the full Yang Style 24 form, for example, a stay of three to four weeks is generally needed.

The nearest airport is Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) and the nearest train station is Yangshuo High-Speed Rail Station.  There are also several railway stations in Guilin.

We can help arrange transport from Guilin airport or any of the nearby train stations. A complimentary pickup from Yangshuo town is available on request.

No experience is necessary. Students arrive with a wide range of backgrounds, from complete beginners to those who have been practicing for many years. Training is adapted to each individual, so you can begin where you are.

Those with prior experience often find that they return to the foundations, as Master Da Zhu places a strong emphasis on building a clear and integrated base. This approach allows each student to deepen their understanding and develop a more stable and complete practice over time.

China has relaxed visa requirements significantly.  Citizens of many countries can visit China for up to 30 days without a visa.  We can’t keep an up-to-date list here, so check the website for the Chinese embassy in your country. If you enter visa-free and want to stay more than 30 days, you have the option to go to Hong Kong, turn around and come back (from the school, it can be done via high-speed train in about 10-12 hours with no need to stay overnight). If you do need a visa, we recommend coming to China on a tourist (L) visa – it’s by far the easiest to get.  For most people, an invitation letter is not required for an L visa, only a travel itinerary.

While the primary focus is training, the environment is often experienced as a retreat. If you are interested in enjoying our panoramic mountain retreat without training, you are welcome to!

Herbal steam baths are available at the school throughout the year. Other Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, and cupping, can be arranged in Yangshuo, and are sometimes available at the school depending on timing and availability.

Yes, the school is open throughout the year. Training continues in all seasons, with only short breaks during major holidays.

Generally no deposits or prepaid bookings are required at all.  All we ask is that you send us an email (longtoutaichi@outlook.com) telling us when you plan to come and we will hold a room for you.  In the busiest weeks of May 1 and October 1 we might request a deposit, and sometimes if a workshop is nearly full it could be necessary.  We will always let you know right away if so.

No application or prior tai chi / qigong experience is necessary to come to Long Tou Shan.  All we ask is that you email us and let us know when you are planning to come.

Everyone from beginner to master is welcome to come train with us at Long Tou Shan.  We have small class sizes and we can adapt to the level of each student with individual attention, including those who have never practiced before.

For regular lessons, students can start at any time, any day of the week or month of the year. There are no fixed course schedules, and with small classes and multiple instructors, we can adapt to the level of each student with individual attention, including those who have never practiced before.  Note: there are no classes on Sundays.

For our intensive training workshops, please see our calendar here.