Shaolin Duan Pin System
A comprehensive framework for measuring skill, understanding, and spiritual growth in authentic Shaolin Kung Fu practice
Duan Pin
The Shaoli Duanpin System is a formal ranking and evaluation framework established by the Shaolin Temple in China.
It was created to assess and standardize the level of Shaolin Kung Fu practitioners both in China and internationally.
The purpose of the system is to promote the authentic spread of Shaolin Kung Fu, preserve its cultural and philosophical roots, and improve the health and well-being of practitioners around the world.
Duan Pin
Levels of martial and spiritual transformation
The path of martial mastery
The system consists of two sequential levels: “Duan” (段) and “Pin” (品). 
• Each of those levels is subdivided:
• Duan: from Duan 1 to Duan 9 
• Pin: likewise from Pin 1 to Pin 9 (and within each Pin there may be further subdivisions) 
• The system is designed to evaluate a practitioner’s skills in:
• Technical Kung Fu proficiency
• Discipline & training commitment
• Understanding of Shaolin culture, philosophy and internal-/external practice 
Why It Matters
• It provides a standardised, official framework for recognising achievement and progression in Shaolin martial arts worldwide. 
• By passing examinations, practitioners receive certificates, badges, belts and formal recognition beyond just their local school. 
• It supports preservation and transmission of authentic Shaolin tradition while enabling global schools to use a unified system. 
Key Points to Remember
• Duan comes before Pin: Duan 1-9 → then Pin 1-9 (with further “jie” subdivisions inside each Pin). 
• Advancing requires theory (knowledge of Shaolin traditions, culture) and practical skill (forms, weapons, qi-gong, etc). 
• Because it’s official, it raises standards and helps practitioners show their level internationally.
