Flying Shaolin monks train in special amphitheater

This is possibly the next best thing to being an airbender.

China's Shaolin monks—famous the world over for their near-superhuman feats—have just added a new skill to their extensive repertoire: flying.

The Shaolin temple on Songshan Mountain in Zhengzhou, China, recently unveiled a modern amphitheater as the latest addition to its centuries-old complex for religious contemplation and martial arts training.

Designed by Latvia-based Mailitis Architects, the aptly named "Shaolin Flying Monks Theatre" features a vertical wind tunnel that is powerful enough to counteract gravity, thereby enabling monks to "fly" by catching the updraft with their bodies. 

FLYING MONKS TEMPLE _ trailer from VFS FILMS on Vimeo.

"The glass wind tunnel in the center of the amphitheater is powered by massive air flow engines, which allows the Shaolin monks to hover in the air in perfect levitation. The stage's perforated surface quiets the engine room’s roar, enabling the monks to float atop the wind tunnel in absolute tranquility," explained Atlas Obscura.

According to the architects, the clean lines of the structure's modern design are meant to complement the surrounding countryside and the historical heritage of the region, dubbed "The Center of Heaven and Earth" and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

"Developed in the shape of two symbols—mountain and tree—(the amphitheater)x serves as a platform for any kind of scenic arts focusing especially on flying performances," the architects said on their website.

"The building method combines modern and ancient technologies—laser-cut steel superstructure supports stone steps handcrafted using local quarry resources," they added. — GMA News