Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Traditional Chinese Martial Arts Academy in Albuquerque
Established in 1974, Chinese Culture Center stands as one of the oldest martial arts institutions in the southwestern United States. Founded by the late Master Charles Chang-Wei Lin, a native of Taiwan, the academy transitioned to its current location at 427 Adams Street SE in Albuquerque, NM, after years of teaching in a Central Avenue storefront. In 2017, leadership passed to Sifu Ray Tokuda, a dedicated student of Master Lin with over four decades of experience. Our academy remains committed to preserving traditional Chinese martial arts while adapting to modern competition forms. We offer comprehensive training in Kung Fu, Tai Chi Chuan, Chi Kung, and traditional lion and dragon dance and drumming.Our demonstration team regularly performs at major local events, including the Albuquerque International Festival and the Asian Pacific Islander American Heritage Festival. The Chinese Culture Center's instructors and students uphold Master Lin's core principles of desire, dedication, and discipline, alongside a commitment to compassion and holistic well-being. With flexible class schedules and family-friendly programming, we welcome participants of all ages and skill levels. Our tuition structure requires no contracts, allowing students to pay monthly with no long-term commitment. The academy's legacy of excellence continues through our focus on authentic instruction and community engagement.
Services
Kung Fu
Tai Chi
Ba Gua
Chi Kung
Childrens Kung Fu
Lion Dance
Dragon Dance
Drumming
Special Seminars
Family Classes
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We welcome all ages and abilities with family-friendly martial arts classes
- Over 50 years of experience teaching traditional Chinese martial arts in Albuquerque
- Our instructors trained directly under the academy's founder for 40+ years
- We offer authentic lion and dragon dance instruction with performance opportunities
- Monthly tuition with no contracts or long-term commitments required
Services
Kung Fu
Traditional Chinese Kung Fu instruction for all ages and skill levels. Our curriculum preserves authentic techniques while incorporating modern competition forms. Classes develop physical strength, mental discipline, and cultural appreciation through structured training in forms, sparring, and self-defense applications.
Tai Chi
Comprehensive Tai Chi Chuan programs focusing on health benefits and martial applications. Instruction emphasizes slow, flowing movements to improve balance, flexibility, and stress reduction. Classes include form practice, partner exercises, and philosophical teachings from traditional Chinese medicine principles.
Lion Dance
Authentic lion dance training combining martial arts with cultural traditions. Students learn rhythmic movements synchronized to drum patterns while developing teamwork and coordination. The program prepares performers for community events and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Chi Kung
Traditional Chi Kung instruction for health maintenance and energy cultivation. Our practice integrates breath control, gentle movements, and meditation techniques to enhance physical vitality and mental clarity. Sessions focus on improving circulation and promoting overall well-being through time-tested methods.
Childrens Kung Fu
Age-appropriate Kung Fu classes designed for children's physical and character development. Curriculum builds coordination, focus, and self-confidence through playful yet structured martial arts training. Emphasis on discipline, respect, and foundational martial arts skills in a safe, engaging environment.
People
Master Charles Chang-Wei Lin
Founder
Master Lin established the academy in 1974, bringing traditional Taiwanese martial arts to New Mexico. He dedicated his life to preserving authentic Chinese martial arts while adapting teachings for modern students. His legacy continues through the academy's current leadership.
Sifu Ray Tokuda
Head Teacher
Sifu Tokuda has studied under Master Lin for over 40 years, mastering multiple martial arts disciplines. He now leads the academy, maintaining traditional teachings while ensuring accessibility for contemporary students. His leadership continues the founder's vision of community enrichment through martial arts.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer traditional Chinese Kung Fu, Tai Chi Chuan, Ba Gua, Chi Kung, and cultural performance arts like lion and dragon dance.
Are classes available for different age groups?
Yes! We have children's Kung Fu, adult martial arts, and senior-friendly Tai Chi programs for all skill levels.
What is your tuition structure?
Monthly tuition costs $90 for Kung Fu or Tai Chi, with a $30 discount available for college students ($60/month). No contracts required.
Do you offer family discounts?
While we don't have formal family discounts, our flexible scheduling allows multiple family members to train together in different classes simultaneously.
Are there performance opportunities?
Our demonstration team performs at major local events including the Albuquerque International Festival and Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Festival.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes. We provide loaner uniforms for the first few sessions while you decide about purchasing official gear.
Reviews (6)
Bill Doleman
Jan 21, 2022
Report
I've been a student at the Chinese culture center since 1982. Sudying traditional Tai Chi and Kung Fu. It has made a world of difference in my life, from physical fitness to self-discipline. A most welcoming environment. Students and teachers are definitely all one family. The school was founded in 1974 by a master from Taiwan--Charles Lin--whose dream was to bring Chinese culture, martial arts in particular, to the US. He passed in 2017,, but his dream remains alive today under the leadership of the new Shifu, who has been with the school since it's founding. This is a school which emphasizes
Johnny Arizona
Oct 01, 2020
Report
Just beginning, but already a challenge that I enjoy. It was when I started reading into the history of the grandmaster who founded the school and the legacy the instructors/students continue to carry on that I really realized what an uncommon gem this place is that hides in plain sight. Im thankful to have found it and Im looking forward to continue learning here.
Aaron Trumm
Oct 30, 2019
Report
This is hands down the best community that I've ever come across in my kung fu travels. I've trained in Albuquerque, Taos, Houston, The Bay Area, Austin - and I've visited schools all over the country and man this school and community is so amazing. I'm consistently grateful I met these people so many years ago.
Sandra Gardner
Jul 14, 2019
Report
What an amazing school! The level of knowledge and teaching is outstanding, and the people are awesome. I learned so much, physically, mentally and spiritually.
Megan F.
Jan 29, 2019
Report
Excellent program for kids Kung fu. Individualized instruction and kids move at their own pace through many forms. Teaches self discipline in a supportive and fun environment. The performances are awesome as well. Highly recommend!
Maura Davidson
Oct 18, 2016
Report
The best place to learn Kung Fu, Taiji, SingYi, and more. The people are almost my second family in a way. Thanks everyone!!
