A Scholar's Training

Qi(Chess/strategy games)
Qin (Music)
Hua (Brush Painting)
Shu (Calligraphy)

If one were to look at the history of China, one would see that the arts have played a large role in influencing foreign conquerers during times of foreign rule. Without that influence and without the Chinese focus on both intellect and creativity, the Chinese culture may very well have been wiped out centuries ago (Example: The Manchu or Qing dynasty).

The purpose of this page is to share the art and history of China with the world. This page provides an introduction to three of the four arts, the Qin, the Hua, and the Shu. It exhibits these three arts, along with the food, religion, philosophy, and mythology of China, in the hopes of preserving and revitalizing the ancient Chinese culture.

However, it is the fourth Chinese art, the Qi, that is the main subject of this endeavor. This page was created to share with the world an often over-looked variation of chess called Xiang Qi. Although the game of chess did not originate in China, the game of Xiang Qi is distinctly Chinese. Aspects of the games can be tied directly to the history and the growth of China. Played by millions of people world-wide, this form of chess challenges every player and develops reasoning skills that can be applied elsewhere in life. Each participant, in order to win the game, must have a strong understanding of the abilities and limitations of every piece so that each one can be used to contribute to the victory. Also stressed in the game is the importance of decision making. Players are constantly forced to make quick decisions, and it is the player that is more prepared, more scheming, and more willing to take risks who is successful. The game, after all, is based on a military battle and each player simulates a commander controlling their own army. It would only be logical that the game would develop leadership qualities. Players learn the importance of confidence, patience, co-operation, preparation, planning, and execution.

Most importantly, this page provides a place for people to learn, compete, and share ideas freely with others. All visitors are encouraged to donate and share ideas, skills, and experiences they have acquired in life, and there is a place for almost anything on this page. Whether it is a story, a recipe, or a chess strategy, knowledge is worthless if it is kept secret. A society can only grow if those who possess knowledge are willing to share it. Keep this in mind as you continue on through this page and, more importantly, as you continue through life.

Finally, Ben Chen, Dan Daly, and Sonny Louie would like to welcome you to:

Plus the Art, Literature, and History of its Mother Country