Liangshan kungfu is one of the leading four Chinese martial arts, enjoying equal popularity with kungfu of Shaolin, Wudang and Emei. [Photo by Li Jibao/provided to China Daily]

In 2013, kungfu schools throughout the world formed an international league, launched English and German websites, and found branches in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Russia, Germany and Singapore.

A total of 73 Ziwumen kungfu training institutes have been founded so far, containing 8,000 members from more than 30 countries and regions. Some institutes also celebrate traditional Chinese festivals through performances in foreign countries.

Liangshan kungfu has a long history and deep cultural roots. Liangshan county is the home of the classic Chinese novel Shuihuzhuan (Outlaws of the Marsh), and the famous home of kungfu. It was on the list of national intangible cultural heritage in 2015, becoming the 18th heritage in Jining city, Shandong province.

Shuihuzhuan

Shuihuzhuan, also known as "The Water Margin" (or Heros of the Marshes), is a classic Chinese novel that tells the story of why and how 108 men and women from different backgrounds banded together on Liangshan Mountain and became the leaders of an outlaw army and fought against government troops during the Song Dynasty (AD 960-1279).