Bayon Temple to Host Cambodia-China Martial Arts Festival

Bayon Temple to Host Cambodia-China Martial Arts Festival

SIEM REAP, April 29, 2029 — Cambodia and China will stage a joint martial arts festival at the iconic Bayon Temple this week as part of efforts to boost tourism and strengthen cultural ties under the “Cambodia–China Tourism Year 2026” campaign.

The event, organised by Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism, is scheduled for April 30 at the northern section of the historic Angkor site and is expected to draw both local and international visitors.

Performances will feature traditional Cambodian martial arts, including bokator and Kun Khmer boxing, alongside Chinese disciplines such as Shaolin kung fu and tai chi, with demonstrations by monks from China’s Shaolin Temple.

Officials said the festival aims to promote cultural exchange and showcase the heritage of both nations on the global stage, while supporting Cambodia’s tourism recovery and growth.

The event will also serve as a platform to publicise a new visa policy allowing Chinese passport holders to enter Cambodia without a visa on a trial basis from June 15 to October 15, 2026.

Authorities have invited tourism operators, media and the public to attend the free event, which begins at 7:00 a.m., highlighting Cambodia’s cultural appeal and its efforts to attract more international visitors.