HENAN PROVINCE, China (CNN) -- More than 13,000 junior Chinese performers with an average of 15 years presented the charm of Chinese martial art Sunday at the opening ceremony of the 9th China International Shaolin Martial Arts Festival in Zhengzhou, capital of central China's Henan province.

The youngest performer is only 7-years-old, while and the oldest is no more than 20. The opening ceremony started with a performance of Shaolin Martial Arts, a leading school of Chinese martial arts.

The performance was divided into four parts, including the origin, Zen, soul and rhythmical charm of Shaolin Martial Arts. Over 1500 athletes coming from 73 countries and regions take part in this year's Martial Arts festival which runs from Oct. 21 to Oct. 24.

The Shaolin Martial Arts Festival is held once a year.