Title:

しし舞 (shishimai)
lion dance

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This work depicts a lion of the lion dance (shishimai 獅子舞), a type of performance believed to have been importing into Japan from China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Commonly associated with the Buddha’s birthday, the dance is performed in Japan around the New Year to drive off evil spirits and bring good luck. It may also be performed at other festivals, and the style of dance performed varies by region.

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Hiroi Michiaki: Um, this is the Lion Dance. The New Year’s Lion Dance. If you turn the tail over and over the neck spins about.