What does Kaga Lion Head mean?

Kaga lion head is a kind of lion head in lion dance. It is said that the origin of the lion's head in Kaga can be traced back to 1583, when Maeda Toshiie, the founder of the territory, entered Kanazawa City, and people welcomed him by performing lion dances. Generations of clan lords encouraged this kind of performance, which became the most extravagant performance in this country.

Because people believe that lions can subdue everything and drive away misfortune in a responsive way, lions are not only used as decorations for New Year and festivals, but also placed on the floor and at the entrance as a way to ward off evil spirits. As an auspicious ornament, it is loved by people all year round, and it is indispensable in celebrations such as marriage, birth, new residence and opening.

When a child is born, the lion's head is sometimes displayed as the patron saint of the child, because the lion's head symbolizes a person's quick success.