In the 1930s, Foshan has gradually become a hub of Chinese kung fu. Many schools are founded here to train kung fu practitioners. Ip Man (Donnie Yen) is one of the top kung fu masters, but he keeps a low profile and away from the social events. After using the Wing Chun Kuen to win a challenge, Ip Man becomes a widely known.
When the Second Sino-Japanese War breaks out, Ip Man and his family lose their wealth and can hardly make ends meet. One day, General Miura (Hiroyuki Ikeuchi) of the Imperial Japanese Army demands Ip Man to teach kung fu to the Japanese soldiers. When Ip Man refuses, he is faced with greater challenges of life and death.
