People practice Kongzhu (which means "empty bamboo" in Chinese) at the Fuhe River Park in Nanchang, capital city of south China's Jiangxi Province on Sunday, May 11, 2008. The 2,000-year-old practice of Kongzhu is considered one of the three major traditional Chinese folk games along with shuttlecocks and kites. [Photo: CRIENGLISH.com]

Kongzhu, a traditional folk game which will be performed at the closing ceremony of the 2008 Olympics, is proving very popular among local residents of Nanchang.

Early in the morning, people of all ages come from near and far to play the ancient sport on the lawns inside of Fuhe River Park in Nanchang city.

Kongzhu - which translates as empty bamboo in Chinese - dates back 2,000 years and is considered one of three major traditional toys of China along with shuttlecocks and kites.

It consists of a round wooden box dotted with several holes which is either set on one or both ends of a bamboo cylinder. When played with using a string, the box rotates quickly and produces a buzzing sound which can be heard through the holes. While Kongzhus were originally made with wood, they are now built using high-quality plastic.

Exercising with the Kongzhu is enjoyable and a great way to keep fit. In fact, local Nanchang residents just can't seem to get enough of it.

Take for example 50-year-old Wang Junshan, who has been playing Kongzhu for almost two years. He's become so good that he's giving classes to enthusiasts like 50-year-old Wu Yangming. Despite learning for just six months, she already performs many Kongzhu tricks with the grace and poise of a veteran.

Wang Junshan says that while older generations have always performed Kongzhu tricks as per tradition, young people have come up with their own modern styles. As the toy requires deft moves and masterful skill, he said it usually appeals to people who learn fast.

Wang Junshan usually spends up to three hours each morning exercising in the park. He says one can exercise every part of the body while playing Kongzhu. It also helps improve coordination, flexibility and strength, resulting in a nimble body, quick hands, sharp eyes and a sharp mind.

"Now the game has become quite popular. More and more young people are playing the Kongzhu," added Wang.

With the closing ceremony of the Olympics set to feature a Kongzhu performance, the world will soon marvel at the wonders of this ancient Chinese toy.