In 2012, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the Wudang Mountains – the sacred cradle of Taoist martial arts. It was there that I first encountered a man who, for many, became the living face of Wudang. Meet Master Zheng Shijie, or as his students affectionately called him, “Old Master Zheng”.
During the Kung Fu performance, he was absolutely magnetic. Despite his advanced age, he moved with effortless agility, and his charisma seemed to radiate throughout the entire arena.
Master Zheng’s “trademark” was the Crescent Moon Spade (Yueya-chan). This is one of the most exotic and physically demanding weapons in traditional Chinese martial arts. The spade he used weighed about 7–8 kilograms (15+ lbs), yet in his hands, this heavy cold steel seemed weightless.
The history of this weapon is deeply rooted in Taoist and Buddhist traditions. Wandering monks used it not only for self-defense but also for practical and spiritual tasks – clearing paths through the brush or burying the remains of animals or travelers found along the way. Master Zheng wielded it with virtuosity, demonstrating the profound “internal power” that is so often discussed but rarely seen.
The most lasting impression, however, happened away from the spotlight. As I was leaving Wudang, I unexpectedly ran into him near the train station. Master Zheng – a global YouTube star and a living legend of the mountains – was simply walking among the crowd.
There wasn’t a hint of ego or pretension in him. He walked with a smile, engaging in lively conversation with locals and travelers alike. He was more than happy to stop and take photos with anyone who recognized him. It was at that moment I realized that true mastery isn’t just about technique or strength; it’s about an incredible sense of inner freedom, simplicity, and kindness.
Sadly, Master Zheng Shijie passed away in late 2021 at the age of over 80. To me, he will always remain that energetic, spirited man with the heavy spade and a genuine smile – a man who proved that the practice of Kung Fu truly nurtures both longevity and a bright soul.
I’m grateful to have these photos in my archive from that 2012 journey.
