Fuzhou woman revives hairpins for self-defense

Martial arts instructor Qianyue, also known as Xiao Xiaoqiong, has pioneered a self-defense technique that utilizes traditional Three Knives hairpins, becoming a trailblazer in revitalizing the self-defense weapon.

Qianyue is a member of the 15th-generation inheritors of the Wudang Sanfeng sect of martial artists. She founded the Tai Chi Bureau in Fuzhou in 2015, where she teaches martial arts and wellness practices.

Inspired by the history of using Three Knives hairpins as a weapon, she developed a ten-move martial arts routine named Qian Yue Hairpin Technique within two weeks.

The routine leverages the compact design of hairpins for swift strikes, agile dodges and precise counterattacks, embodying the resilience and strength of Fuzhou women.

Since its release online last December, this technique has attracted crowds to learn from Qianyue. Last month, she led her students in a public performance in Fuzhou's historical and cultural area Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, showcasing the fusion of traditional martial arts and cultural heritage.

Guo Yanqi contributed to this story.