Paul Merton in China

The Henan Province (1x2)

: 28, 2007

In this episode, Paul tries his hand at kung fu, visits a Tibetan monastery, and takes in two of the most populous cities in China. In search of some spiritual relaxation, Paul heads for the Shaolin Temple in Henan Province, famed as the birthplace of Zen Buddhism. Sitting on the temple’s steps, Paul reflects on his interest in Buddhism and the afterlife: “I’ve had my spiritual moments,” he says. “I have meditated in the past.” The Shaolin Temple is also a centre of kung fu training, and when Paul checks in for some meditation classes, he ends up on a kung fu course instead. A 5km dawn run is followed by arduous exercises, and Paul finds that the boot camp mentality goes against all his instincts: “I’ve never felt less like an individual in my life!” he says. When he watches a fellow trainee receive a sharp jab in the stomach, he calls a premature end to his kung fu career. Fortunately, a “showbiz” version of kung fu is happening nearby, and Paul gets to play a cameo role in a TV movie. With a little help from his stunt double, he trounces a gang of thugs.