lion dance

The Chinese lion dance has a long history of more than a thousand years and is performed by two performers to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. One person controls the lion's head, while the other controls the lion's body and tail. The lion's body is adorned with fur decorations reminiscent of waves, and the lion's head is covered with colorful, fluffy fur, characterized by its large eyes.

It is said that the lion dance was introduced to Japan from China and developed into a form unique to Japan. Usually performed by one or two performers, the lion's body is made of green cloth, and its head is made of wood, etc. It has a shiny red surface and a low, upturned snout. It is often performed at shrines and festivals, and there is also a custom of visiting private homes to dance and make the "biting gesture" to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.