Business Details
15 Years
experience
Honolulu Kung Fu & Lion Dance School
Saam Fu Chinese Cultural Arts was founded in 2011 by Sifus Gordon Erquiza, Brandon Tom, and Jamie Tom to preserve and teach traditional Chinese martial arts. With over 60 combined years of experience in Hung Gar and Choy Lee Fut Kung Fu, our instructors emphasize physical development, cultural heritage, and community building. Our programs integrate rigorous martial arts training with Lohan Qigong and Lion Dance performances to cultivate mind-body wellness. We maintain direct lineage connections to Shaolin traditions through Master John K.Saw's Lohan Qigong system and Grandmaster Chen Yong Fa's teachings. The school fosters a supportive 'kung fu ohana' environment where students develop strength, confidence, and lifelong friendships through weekly classes and special events. Our curriculum includes beginner-friendly instruction for ages 5+, private lessons, and advanced programs focusing on traditional forms and animal-inspired techniques.
Services
Kung Fu Classes
Lohan Qigong Instruction
Lion Dance Performances
Martial Arts Training
Cultural Programs
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- We offer 10+ years of authentic Shaolin martial arts instruction
- Our instructors maintain direct lineage connections to traditional systems
- We combine physical training with cultural education and community events
- Family-friendly environment welcomes all experience levels and ages 5+
- We provide both group classes and personalized private instruction
Services
Kung Fu Classes
Traditional Hung Gar and Choy Lee Fut Kung Fu instruction for ages 5+ in Honolulu. Our curriculum develops physical strength, coordination, and self-defense skills while preserving Shaolin heritage. Classes include hand forms, weapon training, and sparring techniques passed down through direct lineages. Students progress through structured modules focusing on animal-inspired movements and traditional protocols.
Lohan Qigong
Ancient Chinese energy cultivation practice combining movement and breath control. Saturday morning sessions improve flexibility, balance, and stress management while connecting practitioners to 1,500-year-old Shaolin traditions. Instruction follows the 18 Lohan Hands system taught by Master John K. Saw, with adaptations for modern fitness and wellness goals.
Lion Dance Performances
Traditional Chinese lion dance performances for weddings, festivals, and business openings across Hawaii. Our troupe preserves Fut San Southern Lion Dance techniques while creating community celebrations. Performances incorporate martial arts footwork and animal-inspired movements that bring blessings of good fortune to special occasions.
Youth Programs
Age-appropriate martial arts instruction for children starting at age 5. Programs build confidence, discipline, and physical fitness through playful yet structured Kung Fu and Qigong training. Kids learn traditional forms while developing social skills in our supportive 'kung fu ohana' environment that emphasizes teamwork and mutual respect.
Private Lessons
Customized one-on-one instruction for students seeking accelerated progress or specialized focus. Private sessions allow tailored attention to specific techniques, forms, or performance preparation. Available for all skill levels from beginners to advanced practitioners working on advanced curriculum modules.
People
Gordon Erquiza
Sifu
Sifu Gordon Erquiza co-founded Saam Fu Chinese Cultural Arts in 2011 after decades of martial arts study. He teaches traditional Hung Gar and Choy Lee Fut Kung Fu while preserving Shaolin heritage through direct lineage connections. His instruction emphasizes both technical precision and cultural context.
Brandon Tom
Sifu
Sifu Brandon Tom has trained in traditional martial arts for over 20 years with fellow instructors. He demonstrates advanced weapons techniques and focuses on preserving authentic Shaolin practices. His teaching style combines technical expertise with approachable instruction for students of all levels.
Jamie Tom
Sifu
Sifu Jamie Tom teaches both Kung Fu and Lohan Qigong, connecting physical training to energy cultivation practices. He represents Saam Fu at cultural events and maintains lineage connections to Master John K. Saw's Lohan Qigong system through regular demonstrations and instruction.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We teach Hung Gar and Choy Lee Fut Kung Fu, two traditional Shaolin styles, along with Lohan Qigong and Southern Lion Dance techniques.
Are classes available for beginners?
Yes, all our classes welcome beginners with no prior experience required. Our instructors help new students build foundational skills at their own pace.
What age groups participate in your programs?
We offer classes for children starting at age 5 through adults of all ages, with specialized instruction tailored to different developmental stages.
Do you offer private instruction?
Yes, we provide private lessons for students seeking personalized attention to specific techniques, forms, or performance preparation at any skill level.
Can I book a lion dance performance?
We perform at weddings, festivals, and business events across Hawaii and Los Angeles. Bookings are recommended well in advance for Chinese New Year celebrations.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes and bring water. We provide guidance on traditional uniforms after students decide to continue training.
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