“For the benefit of all involved” is presented as a guiding philosophy for Guangdong officials. Along with Guangzhou, three co-host cities are participating in the upcoming Asian Games: Foshan, Dongguan, and Shanwei. As one learns more about these individual cities, it becomes clear that they were destined to host certain events of the Asian Games.  

Foshan: Legendary Martial Arts 

“Don’t provoke Foshan locals,” joke neighboring residents, “because you will probably be treated to some kung fu.”

Because of internationally popular films such as Once Upon a Time in China directed by Tsui Hark and Ip Man 2 about Wing Chun Kung Fu, Foshan has gained a reputation as a hub for Chinese martial arts. Recent years have seen a rise in Foshan tourism, especially around classic Chinese martial arts locales like the memorial halls of Ip Man and Wong Fei-hung. During summer holidays, even more visitors stream in to learn Chinese martial arts.

Perhaps because of the duality of Chinese martial arts, coupling power and poetry, the city of Foshan has been chosen to host the events of boxing and synchronized swimming. Foshan will introduce the event of women’s boxing to the global sporting scene prior to its inclusion in the 2012 London Olympic Games.