Two years ago, we began our journey into Taoism under the guidance of our master, Liu Cheng Yong. This trip to China has been a long-held dream, even a childhood wish—to stand on the land that gave rise to Taoism, to see its temples, and to embrace its customs.
With each lesson from our master, that dream grew stronger, until we finally set it in motion. Taking advantage of a short-term visa-free agreement between France and China, we organized this trip in just a month. Our master helped us every step of the way, and before we knew it, we were headed for the sacred mountains of Wudang Shan, guided by a trusted taxi driver recommended by our Shifu.
Wudang Shan
Arriving at the gateway to Wudang during China’s Golden Week, we were quickly surrounded by a wave of visitors, yet we felt a strange sense of belonging. A bus took us to our accommodation—a warm homestay nestled in the heart of the UNESCO heritage reserve. We are in the land of Zhen Wu Dadi.
The temples of Wudang, each one more breathtaking than the last, stood elegantly amidst mountains . Walking through these mountains was like stepping into a classical painting, where every tree seemed alive and moved gently with the wind.
Staying with locals allowed us to immerse ourselves fully, their hospitality making our experience more gentle (and their cooking was as wonderful as their company!). Each day, dressed in traditional Taoist attire, we set off to explore the temples. Wearing the robe here gave us a profound realization of its meaning: respect, commitment, and honor.
Rituals, Teachings.
It was a privilege to attend the morning and evening ceremonies at Zi Xiao Guan, the Temple of the Purple Clouds. All the challenges we’d faced learning these chants with our master were rewarded as we joined our Taoist brothers and sisters. One highlight was meeting the temple’s Taoist doctor, who impressed us deeply with his precise diagnosis and effective treatments. His knowledge and healing abilities were incredible.
The journey to Wudang’s Golden Summit, where more than 20,000 steps lead to a stunning view over the mountains, was physically demanding but deeply fulfilling. This climb felt like a pilgrimage itself, and the deities statues we encountered along the way, enshrined in small altars, seemed to make the path lighter and more inspiring.
Every Day a New Discovery
Our days in Wudang were filled with moments of discovery, each one bringing something unique, from tranquil walks and stunning views to moments of deep respect at the sacred temples. Encounters with local people and fellow practitioners added richness and warmth to our journey, making every experience feel both personal and universal.
A Visit in Wuhan
After Wudang, we sped to Wuhan at over 306 kilometers per hour by train. There, our master had arranged a special meeting with our Grandmaster, our ShiYe. Though honored and grateful, we felt a bit clumsy and humbled in his presence. But his kindness and warmth, along with the tea he served us, quickly eased our hearts.
At the Da Dao Guan temple, we were privileged to attend a Taoist priesthood class with our brothers and sisters, an experience that made us feel part of Taoism’s large, extended family. Smiles and gestures helped us bridge the language barrier, and in the early morning, with the Scripture book our master had created in pinyin and English, we were able to join the morning ceremony—a beautiful gift.
Three Days in Beijing: Temples and Timeless Beauty
Our final stop was Beijing, where we spent three days exploring its cultural treasures. One of our favorite places was the Bai Yun Guan, an oasis of calm amidst the bustling city, dedicated to many Taoist deities and offering a rare opportunity to honored many of them. The air was rich with incense, carrying prayers and leaving a scent that stayed with us long after.
We also took time to visit Buddhist and Confucian temples, paying our respects to other traditions and marveling at the diversity of Chinese culture. At every turn, we found kindness and helpfulness, witnessing an attitude of mutual respect and generosity that only added to our admiration.
We made sure to visit the majestic Forbidden City and the graceful Temple of Heaven, soaking up Beijing’s mix of ancient and modern wonders. The city’s advanced technology surprised us at times, but its historical sites offered a timeless, grounding contrast.
Final Thoughts
This journey fulfilled a long-standing dream and allowed us to experience Taoism’s rich beauty, culture, and community in a new way. We return home with full hearts, grateful for every moment and inspired to keep learning and sharing the wisdom we encountered.
Writte by Xin Hui and Xin Jian from France