As the 15th National Games of China approach in just one month, excitement is building across the Greater Bay Area. This year's Games will make history by taking place across 19 cities in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. Among them, Foshan stands out—not only as a host city but also as a place where the spirit of sports and martial arts truly connect.
Moreover, Foshan is the first stop of the three-day trip organized by South, a multilingual media platform in Guangdong. Themed "Travel with China's 15th National Games," the trip will continue to Dongguan and Guangzhou, and has attracted international visitors from 14 countries, giving them the opportunity to experience the region's sports energy and rich culture.
In a local basketball arena in Foshan, the energy is electric. Although the players aren't professional athletes, their passion and determination light up the court.
Tang Jieshan, a player who has been practicing basketball for 17 years, says, "When you play, you need that fire inside—whether in attack or defense. You're fighting for honor, so you must carry that fighting spirit."
That same "fighting spirit" is deeply rooted in Foshan's culture and defines the city's rich martial arts heritage.
Known as the hometown of Chinese martial arts, Foshan is the birthplace of Wing Chun, one of the most renowned kung fu styles. If you've never heard of Foshan, you've surely heard of Bruce Lee—the King of Kung Fu. Foshan is his ancestral home, and his spirit continues to inspire people around the world.
International students like Daniel from Brazil and Meriem from Algeria describe Bruce Lee as "the face of China and the symbol of kung fu." "He's iconic in my country," says Meriem. "Even in Africa, everyone knows him for his yellow suit and powerful moves."
Daniel adds, regarding the philosophy of Wing Chun, "Bruce Lee taught us to 'be like water'—to stay calm and balanced and to find peace within yourself."
Under the guidance of a local master, international visitors tried their hands at Wing Chun. Australian influencer Brendan, after a quick sparring session, laughs, "It's my first time trying this, but I really want to learn more. I've always dreamed of being able to do kung fu."
Martial arts are also at the heart of Foshan's lion dance tradition. As the group visits a local lion dance base in a warehouse, the sound of drums fills the air. Two performers balance on tall poles, moving in perfect rhythm—a breathtaking combination of skill, strength, and trust.
"I've seen lion dances before, but never this close," says Meriem. “It's so complex and intense—the teamwork and precision are just amazing.”
By the end of the day, we found a deeper connection between basketball and kung fu. Both require incredible fitness; you have to be strong and controlled. It's all about that never-give-up spirit.
From basketball games to martial arts and lion dances, Foshan embodies the essence of discipline, focus, and passion—qualities that also define China's National Games. We invite you to explore the city yourself, especially during China's 15th National Games!
Reporter: Li Fangwang
Video: Liang Zijian
Poster: Li Fangwang
Editor: Hu Nan, Ou Xiaoming, James Campion, Shen He
