An American's self-discovery journey in Wudang Mountains

In the ethereal embrace of Wudang Mountains' mist-shrouded peaks, an unexpected harmony unfolds. Here, an American, born in the 90s, clad in black Taoist robes, practices Tai Chi with fluid grace – his once-golden hair now subtly imbued with the essence of the East. 

This is Jake Pinnick, the 16th-generation inheritor of Wudang's Sanfeng lineage and a foreign Taoist practitioner, who has resided in China for over a decade, making it his second home.

His journey began in 2010, spurred by a profound passion for martial arts. "I came here to be healthy, but I stayed for the culture – it taught me that we work to live, not live to work," he reflects. This profound sentiment captures the essence of his fifteen-year spiritual odyssey. 

Far more than a tale of kung fu, this is the authentic story of a Western seeker who found his life's purpose through Eastern philosophy. Amidst the daily practice of Tai Chi and immersed in the rhythm of Chinese music, where "American spirit" converged with "Taoist wisdom," Jake unearthed an answer uniquely his own.

Video director & editor: Zhao Ying

Cinematographers: Fang Zhijun, Li Mingzhi

Designers: Liu Shaozhen, Zhu Shangfan