China welcomed the Eastern Lunar New Year. The lion dance is a show - an integral part of New Year's celebrations in China. The ritual movements of the dance are recognised as part of the country's intangible cultural heritage.
The lion dance is a Chinese folk tradition with a centuries long history. According to the tradition, the show is performed by several actors dressed as the animal. The ritual movements to the sounds of a gong and a drum mesmerise the audience. The lion dance is believed to bring happiness and good luck. Each lion mask is unique because it’s handmade. To create such props is a real art, that is passed down from generation to generation.