TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The rhythm of drums, hand cymbals, and gongs accompanies agile performers carrying brightly colored lion dances. This cultural attraction is most easily recognized during Chinese New Year celebrations. However, behind the attractive performances, lion dances have a long history rooted in legends, spiritual beliefs, and the patriotic values of the Chinese people, dating back thousands of years.
According to Andre Hutama, Head of the Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis) of the Glodok Chinatown Tourism Village, there are several versions of the origins of lion dances. One states that around 300 BC, lion dances were used as symbolic rituals to bring good luck and ward off evil or negative energy.
"From the beginning, ritual and culture have been intertwined. There's a spiritual element believed to ward off evil spirits, but on the other hand, there's also historical value related to patriotism," Andre said when contacted by Tempo on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
Ritual to Ward Off Evil
Another version, according to Jacky Syarief, Marketing and Communications Officer of the Kong Ha Hong Lion Dance, begins with a creature called Nian that appears once a year. Each time, the creature destroys everything, including preying on humans. "Until finally, a clever person discovered that Nian is afraid of fire and loud noises," he told Tempo on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
The lion and dragon costumes of the lion dance are also believed to resemble Nian. The person helps by vigorously beating drums and cymbals to scare Nian away. Meanwhile, fire, Jacky said, is likened to red clothing.
Another version, often told, originates from military history from the 4th to 5th centuries AD. At that time, the southern Chinese army was having difficulty facing an enemy using war elephants. To intimidate the animals, the soldiers used masks resembling lions. This strategy was successful because the elephants became afraid, boosting the troops' morale. Since then, the lion symbol has evolved into a part of the performance, which later became known as the lion dance.
The lion dance itself is influenced by martial arts. Many movements resemble kung fu techniques, displaying balance, strength, and high coordination. For the Chinese, these movements symbolize courage, stability, and the spirit of facing challenges.
Beyond the movements, symbolism is also reflected in the colors of the lion dance costumes. Andre explained that white is considered the oldest color, yellow symbolizes joy and prosperity, while black is associated with a younger or more energetic character.
In China, lion dance is divided into two styles: the northern lion dance and the southern lion dance. The northern lion dance has a more lion-like form with complex acrobatic movements, while the southern lion dance is known for its more expressive, colorful displays and distinctive facial expressions.
Lion Dance in Indonesia
In Indonesia, the lion dance developed with the arrival of the Chinese community, especially those with a background in martial arts. Chinese temples became important spaces for preserving this tradition, serving as community centers and gathering places.
However, over time, the lion dance underwent a major transformation. Once synonymous with ritual, it has now become more inclusive and popular with a wide range of people.
"Now, lion dance performers are not only ethnic Chinese. Many young people from diverse backgrounds are interested in learning it because they see it as both an art and a sport," said Andre.
Furthermore, lion dance performances are not only performed during Chinese New Year celebrations, but also at office or shop openings, as they are believed to bring good fortune. Jacky added that lion dance is also performed at sangjit ceremonies, a traditional Chinese wedding ceremony, and wedding receptions. "We were even invited to Sukabumi for a mass circumcision, so we combined it with sisingaan," he said.
According to Andre, lion dance offers not only cultural value but also physical and social benefits. Lion dance training fosters physical strength, coordination, and close teamwork. It's no surprise that this art form has become a new avenue of expression for the younger generation.
In Glodok's Chinatown Tourism Village, the lion dance (barongsai) has become an important part of cultural tourism activities. Various performances are regularly held to introduce this tradition to the wider public and provide a platform for the lion dance community to perform.
This transformation demonstrates that the lion dance is not simply a legacy of the past, but a living tradition that continues to adapt to changing times. From spiritual rituals to popular cultural attractions, the lion dance is now a symbol of diversity that unites tradition, history, and modern lifestyle.
Ghaieza Kay Rasuffi contributed for this article.
Read: Must-See Chinese New Year Celebrations in Hong Kong
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