Swiss Elite Athletic Association
CHINESE DRAGON DANCE

The dragon is widespread throughout Asian culture, especially in China, Taiwan and Vietnam.

Chinese Dragon Dance for the Feast with Colorful Decoration
The Chinese Dragon Dance is an incredible sight not to be missed. In this traditional dance, a long, dragon-shaped cloth is held up by many dancers and there are often colorful decorations such as flags, umbrellas and lanterns. The dancers move in intricate patterns, using the dragon's body to form the shapes of animals or symbols. The dance is said to bring happiness and wealth to the audience and has been performed in China for centuries. It is also believed that the longer the dragon is, the more lucky it is. In some cases, the kites can be up to 150 feet long! The colors and decorations make each performance unique and give it a special festive atmosphere. It is truly a magical experience to participate or watch with all its bright colors and decorations!
Who invented the dragon dance in China?
The origin of the Dragon Dance is not known. However, it is believed that it was performed in China as early as the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). The earliest record of a dragon dance can be found in an ancient text from the Three Kingdoms period (220 – 280 AD).
The Chinese dragon is a legendary creature that has been present in Chinese culture for centuries and whose origins date back to the Han Dynasty in 206 BC. The dragon is said to come from the four seas and is described as having a long body covered with scales and horns. It also has claws on its feet and wings that allow it to fly through the air. In traditional culture, dragons are associated with power and strength. But they are also considered wise and benevolent creatures that bring good luck and protection. They are believed to be able to control the weather, including rain and flooding, which has made them important symbols of agricultural fertility. Therefore, they were often worshipped at festivals and rituals dedicated to the rain gods. Dragons were also used in art, often depicting them as representatives of heaven or imperial authority. Even today, the image of the dragon plays an important role in Chinese culture and is often used in works of art, festivals, parades, and other celebrations throughout China.
What is the significance of the dragon in China?
In Chinese culture, the dragon is a powerful symbol of good luck, strength, and power. It is believed to have control over water, rainfall, typhoons and floods. In the past, emperors were sometimes referred to as the "dragon" or "son of the dragon," implying their divine right to rule. In modern times, the dragon represents cultural pride, strength and happiness for people of all walks of life in China.
The dragon is considered benign and a symbol of the male, generative force of nature (yang). It symbolizes intelligence, prosperity and leadership. Since the "Han Dynasty" 2000 years ago, the dragon has also been the symbol of the emperors. According to legend, the dragon was created 6000 to 7000 years ago by merging the animal signs of different tribes into an all-powerful god. It has a head like a crocodile, the antlers of a deer, the mane of a horse, a body like a snake, paws like a tiger, claws like an eagle, eyes and antennae like a ghost, scales and the tail of a fish. Already in ancient times, the sacrificial vessels of the Chinese depicted a being called "Tao Tie" were found. The "Tao Tie" was a hybrid creature with a snake-shaped body, a moustache, nostrils, large button eyes, horns and sheep's ears.
What does the dragon mean in Buddhism?
In Buddhism, the dragon is a symbol of power and strength, but also of wisdom and luck. It is believed to have the power to control the weather and water, making it a powerful protector from natural disasters or evil forces. The dragon is also considered the guardian of the Dharma (the Buddha's teachings) and protects him from those who want to corrupt or destroy him.
What makes a Chinese dragon?
Chinese dragons are mythical creatures that have been part of Chinese culture for centuries. They are considered symbols of power, strength and luck. A Chinese dragon is usually depicted as a long, scaled, serpentine creature with four legs, antlers or horns on its head, and often with a flaming pearl under its chin. Its scales can be colorful or monochromatic, but the most common colors associated with Chinese dragons are gold, silver, black, and blue. In addition to its external appearance, a Chinese dragon can also be recognized by its behavior, which includes the ability to fly and breathe fire. The ability to bring rain is another trait often attributed to these mythical animals. Finally, some believe that Chinese dragons can even transform into other animals such as tigers or birds. All these qualities make up the majestic shape of the Chinese dragon, which is an enduring symbol in Chinese culture and beyond
Difference Between Dragon and Chinese Lion Dance
Dragons and chinese lions are two very different mythical creatures that have very different characteristics. Dragons are often depicted as snake-like creatures with scales, four legs, a pair of wings, and the ability to breathe fire. Chinese lions, on the other hand, are large cats (two people) with a lion-like mane, two horns on the head, a single tuft of fur under the chin, and a long tail. Accompanied by music with big drums. While dragons are associated with power and strength in many cultures around the world, Chinese lions represent protectors and good luck. The most noticeable difference between dragons and Chinese lions is that dragons do not have the characteristic mane of Chinese lions, but instead have horns. In addition, while both creatures have similar colors such as red or gold, dragons can come in a variety of colors such as red, yellow, blue, or green, depending on their origin story.