In early Republican China, feuding warlords are fighting over neighbouring lands to expand their power and in doing so, plunges the rest of China into conflict. Hou Chieh, a young army leader, has conquered the township of Dengfeng with his avowed brother, Tsao Man and with thousands dead or injured, there is little in the way of resistance.
Three disciples, Chingneng, Chingkung and Chinghai leave the revered Shaolin Temple during the day to save the villagers. At night, they open the doors to the temple in order to help the injured. Hou Chieh finds out and challenges the disciples to kung fu, which they deliberately lose. But then the arrogant warlord's family is wiped out by Tsao Man, forcing him to seek refuge in the Shaolin Temple and find inner peace.
The three disciples confront Shao Man, who tells them of his plans to besiege Shaolin Temple. The once peace loving disciples have no choice but to take up arms in order to protect their venerated Temple.
Directed by: Benny Chan
Starring: Andy Lau, Jackie Chan and Nicholas Tse