The steel fire dragon dance of Majing'ao is a unique folk celebration in Majing'ao township, Jishou city, Xiangxi Tujia and Miao autonomous prefecture, Hunan province.

In 2021, it was included in Hunan's intangible cultural heritage list. The ritual is marked by the resounding of drums echoing through the streets, with fireworks and dragon shadows creating a vibrant and grand spectacle.

The entire folk ritual involves a complete process of dragon-making, medicine preparation, dragon welcoming, dragon burning and dragon transformation.

Through the traditional practice of burning the dragon with fierce fire, locals express their hopes of driving away evil, avoiding disasters, praying for blessings and ensuring peace and prosperity year after year.

[Photo/Zhang Xuan]

[Photo/Zhang Xuan]