The word Kwoon 館 (Cantonese) or Guǎn 館 (Mandarin) is a cultural term that is common in spoken and written Chinese. In Cantonese, it is sometimes also transliterated as Kwan. This term may carry different meanings, depending on the local culture and the geographical location of whomever speaks or writes it.

Internationally and in Common Usage

In modern-day Chinese vernacular, the term is most often used for describing a training hall for Chinese Martial Arts. In this context, the complete term would be either Mou Kwoon 武館 (Cantonese) or Wuguan 武館 (Mandarin). That usage of the term, in its meaning as a martial arts school, is especially common in English-speaking countries. In that way, Kwoon or Guan is a culturally-equivalent term to the Japanese Dojo, as it relates to Traditional Martial Arts.

Official Usage in the People's Republic of China

In the PRC's Standard Mandarin Chinese, the word Guǎn can also mean :

1. An Accommodation for guests; 2) An Embassy, Legation or Consulate;
2. (Of service trades) A Shop; 4) A Service Establishment;
3. A place for cultural activities; 6) (Archaic) An old-style private school.

Cantonese Communities

In Cantonese-speaking Culture, which is more common in Southern China, the term Kwoon is also used when referring to: