
Interested in learning more about and experiencing the traditional culture of China?
Cultural Keys Chinese Culture Centre helps visitors and expat residents get more out of their time in China by providing unique and authentic cultural experiences, content and services all related to traditional Chinese culture.
At our tranquil culture centre in Xiaopu Village in Beijing’s Songzhuang Art District, as well as other convenient locations around the city, we can help you experience, understand and enjoy Chinese culture by offering both regularly scheduled and private workshops and presentations in:
- Calligraphy
- Painting
- Beijing Opera
- Lion Dancing
….And more than 20 other subjects!

We also offer services such as:
- Chinese culture presentations and lectures in English
- Cultural heritage tours
- Custom-made calligraphy for gifts, souvenirs and prizes
- Chinese art decoration services
- Team-building cultural activities
Whether you live in China, are just visiting, or are simply interested in learning more about this fascinating country, Cultural Keys can help. For more information on our events, both scheduled and private availability, see our upcoming events here, or our list of workshops you can book here.
Alternatively, simply contact us and let us know how we can help you, your friends and family, staff, students or members explore Chinese culture! We’ll be happy to hear from you!
Why Cultural Keys?

Founded in 2013, Cultural Keys is an expat-owned and operated company developed and run on the love and passion we have for traditional Chinese culture. We believe 100% in making the beauty, wisdom and traditions of Chinese culture available to everyone.
No matter what your reason for being interested in this country and its culture, whether at our culture centre, at your school or office, at iconic locations around China or on our website and social media channels, when you are with Cultural Keys you truly have the opportunity to unlock the potential of China!
Learn more about the history and aims of our company here.

What do other people say about their experiences with Cultural Keys?
Had an awesome time at Cultural Keys store. Not only did I get my shoes for 88 kuai and a nice bag, I got to meet AJ who runs the... read more shop and is super nice. Overall really nice experience, will def be back!

Michaelloves
March 17, 2020
This was a 3 hour workshop which touched on some of the basic (beginner) skills you need to master in Shaolin Kung Fu. We started with fitness training at the... read more beginning was structured in such a way that it also prepared us for some of the stances.
I'm very unfit, so it was difficult for me to keep up at the beginning. As I got into it, I became more comfortable and better. The team does a great job of pushing you, but also making you feel safe. Therefore you want to push yourself and do better.
Great work shop! Will definitely join the beginners classes!
If martial arts in on your bucket list, I'd suggest you do this work shop!

Madelein_who
December 16, 2019
I attended the Warriors' Way program at the Shaolin Temple with Cultural Keys in May 2019. It was a life-changing experience, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who... read more is interested in kung-fu and t'ai chi, Chinese culture, and/or Buddhism. The training pushed me...More

asapritti
June 5, 2019
I attended a few online presentations throughout March. Nick and AJ are really passionate about giving foreigners an introduction to Chinese culture. They present really well and naturally and are... read more always available to answer any questions you may have.

Chris4711inBeijing
April 1, 2020
I have now done two workshops with Cultural Keys and they were both great. The studio in the art village is a bright and cheery place filled with different Chinese... read more arts. Nic gave interesting and informative presentations before the workshops and then a master artist gave instruction. Tea and snacks were provided as well as a delicious dumpling lunch at a quaint local restaurant. All in all a fun outing with friends, and I went home with a lovely piece of art!

435lauriel
May 16, 2019
Cultural Keys' martial arts training program at the Shaolin Temple is like nothing else you will ever experience. Cultural Keys is run by two amazing individuals that work hard to... read more provide their students with the most immersive, authentic Shaolin Temple and Chinese Culture experience available to the public. If you decide to take the leap, AJ Donnelly will be your main instructor for the duration of your time in Shaolin and Nic will be your guide/encyclopedia.These two make a great team providing you with a well rounded experience, physically and culturally. If you are enthusiastic about martial arts and progressing yourself mentally and physically, you couldn't ask for a better instructor. AJ will push you beyond what you previously thought you were capable of, while guiding you for personal success throughout the trip.

Tyler P
March 14, 2020
See more great reviews of Cultural Keys on our TripAdvisor page here!