INTRODUCTION

A "Kung Fu Altar" is a laymans term coined to describe the vast different Shrines or Memorials found in Traditional Chinese Martial Arts Studios (aka: Mo Kwoon/Wu Guan (Martial Training Hall). 

These can range from a simple shelf or table with a photo/figurine and incense urn to an elaborate huge multi-level cabinet containing Large Statues, Ancestor Tablets, Magic Spells all illuminated with large lanterns.The contents are based on the Master of the School's personal religious beliefs as well as nationality/clan memberships. 

A common item found is the likeness of a fierce red faced warrior with a flowing black beard and holding a long bladed halberd.  Guan Yu (關羽)/ Guan Gong (關公)was a real individual who has been adopted as the Patron Saint of Martial Arts due to his status and acceptance by the multiple religons/philsophies of China.

In the following pages you'll learn about China's various religions, philosphies, customs and rituals as it pertains to the development of the Kung Fu Altar as well as how to set various ones up.