What is the origin of lion dance?

Lion dance is a form of performance in China traditional culture, which originated from ancient sacrificial activities. It is difficult to know the exact time and place of origin, but according to historical records, lion dances were performed as early as the Tang Dynasty (AD 6 18 -907).

Legend has it that lion dance originated in Lingnan area in the south of China. According to legend, there was a plague in villages in Lingnan area. In order to drive away evil spirits, residents began to dance and twist their bodies to drive away plagues and evil spirits. Later, this dance evolved into the form of lion dance, and there began to be a dance form in which two people played lions. With the passage of time, lion dance has gradually developed into a performance form with unique local characteristics and become a part of China folk culture.

In the traditional culture of China, lion dancing has many meanings and symbolic meanings, such as exorcising evil spirits, praying for a bumper harvest, showing strength, and uniting and cooperating. Lion dance is an important part of China traditional culture, which is still widely inherited and developed in China.