• NOW OPEN FOR REGISTRATION • SUMMER 2026
Train at the Birthplace of Shaolin
Wellness Retreat 2026
Shaolin schools can be found around the world, but this region is home to the original temple, where centuries of practice have been preserved and passed down.
This summer, we're opening a seven-week immersive experience just 20 minutes from where the Shaolin tradition began over 1,500 years ago. You'll train daily with Master Can, a 34th-generation Shaolin monk, with Teacher Peili joining each Wednesday for tea and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
July 7 – August 21, 2026
Dengfeng City, China
7 weeks of immersive training • Stay 1+ weeks • All levels welcome
A ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE
What this retreat offers
Training at the birthplace of Shaolin is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And this year, that opportunity is open for you.
Cultural Experience
Temple visits, tea ceremonies, philosophy sessions, weekend exploration of ancient China. You live inside the culture that created these practices instead of just taking classes.
Flexibility
Choose your duration from one to seven weeks. Flexible arrival dates. Free weekends. Train intensively or balance with cultural exploration. This program adapts to your needs.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Integration
Each Wednesday afternoon brings tea, a Traditional Chinese Medicine wellness talk, and a complimentary one-on-one TCM consultation with moxibustion — included in your stay.
Energy Shift
Training where monks have practiced for centuries feels different. The mountains hold something. Call it energy, call it history — you sense it the moment you arrive.
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
— Laozi, Dao De Jing
YOUR TEACHERS
Meet your Teachers
Your daily training is led by Master Can.
Master Can
34th Generation Shaolin Warrior Monk
Lived the Practice
Master Can entered the Shaolin Temple at age seven, learning directly from senior monks who passed down knowledge preserved for generations . He carries this lineage in a way books and videos cannot, through decades of practice, taught the way it was taught to him.
Connection Between Old & New
Over fifteen years of teaching internationally, he's built the bridge and made Shaolin practices accessible to the world. Fluent in both English and Mandarin, he explains not just the movements, but the philosophy and energy principles that make them work. Training with Master Can means learning from someone who understands both worlds, the old and the new.
Strength, clarity, and a calmer way of moving through life.
34th Generation Monk
Explains the philosophy and mechanics clearly
Fluent English & Mandarin
Guided students across three continents
15+ Years Teaching
Adapts training to your level and goals
Individual Attention
SPECIALTIES
Kung Fu • Tai Chi • Qigong • Shaolin Philosophy • Traditional Chinese Medicine
Teacher Peili
TCM Practitioner & Master of Inner Arts
A weekly visit with Teacher Peili
Each Wednesday afternoon, Teacher Peili joins the retreat for tea and a wellness talk rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Over a quiet ceremony, she shares wisdom on women's wellbeing, seasonal balance, and gentle ways to care for the body.
As part of your stay, she also offers each guest a complimentary TCM consultation with moxibustion, a warming herbal therapy long used to restore balance.
Energy flow. Graceful posture. Empowered physical vitality.
Qigong & Tai Chi
Menstrual and fertility support. Menopause recovery. Guided TCM lifestyle consultation.
Holistic Hormonal Balance
Deep nourishing warmth. Enhanced circulation. Boosted immunity.
Moxibustion Therapy
Chinese Tea Meditation
Deep relaxation. Spiritual anchoring. Complete inner clarity.
SPECIALTIES
Women’s TCM & Hormonal Health • Energy Cultivation • Advanced Moxibustion Therapy • Mindfulness & Lifestyle Architecture • Calligraphy • Tongue Diagnosis• Cupping Therapy
BALANCED TRAINING
Daily Shaolin practice with Master Can, balanced by a weekly tea and TCM ritual with Teacher Peili. Movement and stillness in the same week. You'll develop physical strength and martial skill while learning the inner practices of energy work, mindfulness, and Traditional Chinese Medicine that support lasting change.
WHAT STUDENTS SAY
Here's What Students Experience.
Master Can founded ZenShaolin Academy, where he trains students every day. These are the voices of those who've traveled from around the world to study with him.
"Master Can's teaching goes beyond physical technique. He has this way of making wisdom feel practical and real. Training with him changed how I approach everything in my life."
Xueer Chen
Bad Kreuznach, Germany · ZenShaolin Academy Student
"I've trained in martial arts for years, but Master Can showed me what authentic Shaolin teaching looks like. His patience, his depth of knowledge, and his ability to meet students where they are is remarkable."
Marcus Ledig
Madrid, Spain · ZenShaolin Academy Student
"Complete beginner when I started. Master Can made me feel welcome from day one. His teaching style breaks down complex movements into steps anyone can follow. Now I actually understand what I'm doing."
Kim Le
Dubai, UAE · ZenShaolin Academy Student
Join a global community of students who've trained at the source.
500+
Students
30+
Countries
500+
International Students Trained
30+
Countries Represented
15+
Years of Teaching Experience
WHAT YOU'LL TRAIN
The Complete Shaolin Experience
Your training adapts to your level and goals. Whether you're a beginner or experienced practitioner, you'll receive personal guidance and progress at your own pace.
Train in the same mountains where Shaolin monks have perfected their practice for centuries.
Traditional Shaolin Kung Fu
Master the authentic forms and techniques passed down through Shaolin tradition, building strength, precision, and martial discipline.
Tai Chi
Flow through graceful movements that cultivate balance, inner calm, and the harmony of yin and yang energy.
Qigong
Harness and direct your life energy through breathwork and movement, enhancing vitality and mental clarity.
Shaolin Kickboxing
Develop explosive power, speed, and combat readiness through dynamic striking techniques and conditioning.
Meditation & Breathwork
Quiet the mind, deepen awareness, and discover the stillness at the core of all Shaolin practice.
Flexibility & Conditioning
Build the physical foundation necessary for advanced techniques through targeted stretching and strength work.
Explore new practices as a beginner, refine your existing techniques, or go deeper into advanced training.
Train at Your Own Pace
All Levels Welcome
Whether you're taking your first martial arts class or refining years of practice, Master Can will meet you where you are.
Individual Attention
Each participant receives adjusted training goals based on their ability, fitness level, and personal purpose for joining.
Progressive Development
You'll learn the foundational principles of Shaolin movement theory and build from there, gaining skills that last long after summer ends.
BEYOND TRAINING
Experience the Culture Firsthand
Here, you learn the world that created these arts and why they've been worth preserving for generations.
"Every cup of tea tells a story of patience, presence, and respect."
Zen Tea Ceremony
Learn the meditative art of Chinese tea preparation, where every movement carries meaning and mindfulness.
Shaolin Temple Visit
Walk the same halls where monks have practiced for over 1,500 years. Feel the living history of this sacred place.
Kung Fu Academy Visits
Visit the major Shaolin Kung Fu academies and witness the dedication of young students training.
Philosophy & History Workshops
Deep discussions on Shaolin philosophy, Chan Buddhism, and the cultural context that shaped these martial arts.
Where Will Your Weekends Take You?
Make the most of your free weekends by discovering incredible destinations just a short drive from the training center.
Luoyang
Ancient capital with rich history, Longmen Grottoes, and cultural treasures
Zhengzhou
Modern city exploration, shopping, dining, and urban adventures
Wudang Mountain
Sacred Taoist mountain famous for martial arts and breathtaking temples
YOUR SUMMER, YOUR WAY
Why Seven Weeks?
Real change doesn't happen in a weekend workshop. It requires time to disconnect from your daily hustle, quiet your mind, and reconnect with who you really are.
The Science of Deep Change
Weeks 1-2:
Release
Slow down. Your body adjusts to early mornings, real food, and full days of movement. Sleep gets deeper. The mental noise quietens.
Weeks 3-4:
Rebuild
Settle in. Movements that felt foreign begin to feel familiar. The schedule stops being a schedule and starts being a rhythm.
Weeks 5-7:
Integrate
Carry it home. What you've learned is now muscle memory — physical and mental. You leave with practices you can keep doing on your own.
Choose Your Own Duration
While seven weeks offers the complete experience, we understand everyone's circumstances are different. Choose the duration that works for you, from one week to the full program.
From 1 to 7 weeks
"You can't reset your life in a long weekend. Seven weeks gives you enough time to truly disconnect, deeply train, and emerge changed: not just physically stronger, but mentally clearer and spiritually renewed."
— Master Can
Your Weekly Rhythm
Train intensely during the week, then explore and recharge on weekends. This balance creates the perfect environment for real change.
Monday – Friday
• Morning and afternoon training sessions
• Three freshly prepared vegetarian meals daily
• Meditation, breathwork, and Shaolin philosophy discussions
• Evening free time for rest, personal practice, or reflection
Saturday & Sunday
• Full weekends free for cultural exploration and adventure
• Visit nearby ancient cities, sacred mountains, and cultural sites
• Rest, explore, or continue personal training—your choice
• We'll provide recommendations and travel guidance
WHERE YOU'LL STAY & TRAIN
Arrival at Songshan
20 minutes from the Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng City, nestled in the Song Mountains.
You'll train in the sacred Song Mountains. The energy here is ancient, powerful, and deeply grounding.
Our training center sits in a quiet countryside setting with large, open grounds, natural light, and fresh mountain air. No city noise. No distractions. Just focused practice and inner reflection.
Why This Location
At the Source
Train where the tradition was born
Cultural Experience
Step into living history at the temple, ancient cities, and cultural landmarks
Nature & Silence
Countryside setting perfect for deep focus
"This region has shaped warriors and monks for centuries. You can feel it in the mountains, in the air, in every step you take."
The Song Mountains
Countryside Rooms
Clean, comfortable hotel rooms in peaceful mountain setting
Three Daily Meals
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, all freshly prepared daily
Vegetarian Cuisine
Seasonal ingredients following Shaolin practice
Choose between private or shared rooms with modern amenities including private bathrooms, showers, and comfortable bedding. The quiet mountain environment is designed for rest and recovery.
Meals include dietary flexibility (vegan, gluten-free options) to ensure balanced nutrition that fuels your training.
More Than Just Meals
• Experience the culture through food: authentic Chinese meal customs, tea culture, and seasonal summer dishes
• The rhythm of simple living: consistent meal times and shared routines create a meditative, focused lifestyle
• Hydration & summer nutrition: meals adapted for hot July/August weather with cooling elements to support recovery
Live Simply, Reclaim Your Focus
Everything you need for rest, recovery, and complete focus on your practice.
Everything You Need, Nothing You Don't
Intentionally simple. Comfortable enough to rest well, but free from distractions. The perfect environment to focus on your training, growth, and progress.
IS THIS FOR YOU?
Who This Summer Is For
For people ready to step away from distraction and commit to real transformation.
If you're stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, this is where you break them. Maybe you're between life chapters and want this time to mean something. Maybe you've tried wellness trends that don't stick. This is different. You'll train at the source with masters who've dedicated their lives to this practice.
You'll leave with skills that stay with you: mental resilience, physical capability, and inner calm you can access anywhere. No previous experience required.
All experience levels welcome—from complete beginners to advanced practitioners.
What You'll Gain
Healthier body with improved flexibility and conditioning
Sharper mental focus and calmer, more resilient mind
Better emotional balance and stress management skills
Renewed confidence, discipline, and sense of purpose
Deep Understanding of Shaolin philosophy principles
Positive lifestyle habits that continue long after summer
Connection to tradition and global community
Ready to Discover What You're Capable Of?
INVESTMENT
Your All-Inclusive Package
Choose your duration below. All prices include training, meals, accommodation, transfers, and cultural experiences.
YOUR MASTER INSTRUCTOR
Direct Training with Master Can
The retreat sits 20 minutes from the Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng, in small groups, with personal attention and authentic cultural immersion.
PRICING
Duration
1 Week
2 Week
3 Weeks
Popular
4 Weeks
Popular
5 Weeks
6 Weeks
Best Value
7 Weeks
Shared Room
2,500 AED
4,500 AED
Save 500 AED
Save 1.600 AED
Save 3.100 AED
8.700 AED
9.900 AED
Save 5.100 AED
11.000 AED
Single Room
3,250 AED
5,850 AED
5.900 AED
6.900 AED
Save 3.800 AED
Save 6.500 AED
Save 650 AED
7.670 AED
Save 2.080 AED
8.970 AED
Save 4.030 AED
11.310 AED
Save 4.940 AED
12.870 AED
Save 6.630 AED
14.300 AED
Save 8.450 AED
💡 Longer stays = lower weekly cost. All durations include the same comprehensive experience.
What's Included in Your Package Price
Same experience for all durations. No additional costs.
All Training Sessions
Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Qigong, meditation & philosophy
Daily Vegetarian Meals
3 nutritious meals every day
Accommodation
Mountain setting with peaceful views
Airport Transfers
Pickup on arrival & drop-off at departure
Tea Ceremonies
Traditional Chinese tea culture experience
Cultural Excursions
Temple visits, academy tours & local guidance
Not Included: International flights • Visa application fees • Personal travel insurance • Personal exploration trips
Ready to transform your summer?
Flexible dates available: July 7 - August 21, 2026
Or contact us directly on WhatsApp at +971 52 692 7178
Secure Your Spot
Registration Process
Three simple steps to secure your spot for the Wellness Retreat (July 7 - August 21, 2026).
Make Your One-Time Payment
01
Pay securely online or via bank transfer—one payment, no hidden fees. Your spot is reserved immediately.
Complete Registration
02
Once your spot is secured, we will send you a simple form to collect your details and any dietary or health considerations.
You're In
03
You'll receive confirmation with your your details. From there, we personally guide you through visa requirements, travel arrangements, and preparation.
Questions? Contact us at info@zen-shaolin.com or reach out on WhatsApp
QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Everything You Need to Know
Common questions about the wellness retreat, training, logistics, and what to expect
-
Not at all. The bootcamp welcomes all levels, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. The masters and their team adapt the training to meet you exactly where you are. You'll receive individual attention and adjusted goals based on your ability and fitness level.
-
Monday through Friday features morning and afternoon training sessions with the masters, including Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Qigong, meditation, and conditioning. Training is intensive but adaptable to your pace. Evenings are free for rest and reflection. Weekends (Saturday and Sunday) are completely free for cultural exploration, rest, or personal practice.
-
Airport and train station pick-up and drop-off are included in your bootcamp fee. Once you book, we'll provide detailed instructions on which airport to fly into (typically Zhengzhou or Luoyang) and coordinate your transfer to the hotel. You don't need to worry about navigating on your own.
-
You're training directly with Master Can, a 34th generation Shaolin monk and certified master, not junior instructors or translators. The location is 20 minutes from the actual Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng, the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu. You get personalized attention in small groups, flexible scheduling, and an authentic cultural immersion experience that goes far beyond just physical training.
-
Yes. The training is designed to challenge you appropriately for your level. The masters adjust the intensity, complexity, and volume of training based on each person's ability. You'll push yourself, but not beyond what's healthy or safe. Many beginners are surprised by how much they can accomplish with proper guidance.
-
If you'd like to stay longer than you initially planned, extensions may be possible depending on availability. Contact us as early as possible if you're considering changes to your booking.
-
Very flexible. The bootcamp runs for 7 weeks (July 7 – August 21, 2026), but you can choose any duration from 1 to 7 weeks and arrive or depart on dates that work for your schedule. When you submit your inquiry, we'll work with you to find the best timing.
-
Absolutely! Weekends are free time. Many participants visit nearby destinations like Luoyang (90 min away, famous for history and culture), Zhengzhou (90 min, modern city), or take a longer day trip to Wudang Mountain. We provide recommendations, travel tips, and guidance to help you make the most of your exploration time.
-
You'll need comfortable athletic clothing, training shoes, personal toiletries, and any medications you require. A training uniform is available for purchase on-site if you'd like one. We'll provide a detailed packing list when you book, including recommendations for the summer weather in Dengfeng.
-
We're here to help! Submit your inquiry through the booking form and include any questions you have. Our team will provide detailed answers and help you feel confident about your decision to join. You can also reach out directly via email or WhatsApp.
Still Have Questions?
Don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to make sure you have all the information you need to make this decision with confidence.
"Empty Your Cup To Receive"
There's a Zen story about a scholar who visits a master for wisdom. The master starts pouring tea into the scholar's cup. The cup fills up. The master keeps pouring. Tea overflows everywhere. The scholar finally says, "Stop! The cup is full!" The master replies, "Like this cup, you are full of your own beliefs, habits, and routines. I cannot teach you anything new until you empty your cup first." You can't become who you're meant to be while holding onto who you've always been. This retreat isn't about adding more to your life. It's about letting go of what's been holding you back, so something quieter can take its place.
