Steel fire dragon ceremony ignites enthusiasm for cultural heritage

A grand ceremony with fire ignited the night as a gesture to protect the intangible cultural heritage of Xiangxi in Furong town, Xiangxi Tujia and Miao autonomous prefecture in Central China's Hunan province on Jan 2.

Known as a steel fire dragon, the colorful dragon was paraded by dozens of men as they danced against the backdrop of fire shot from bamboo tubes and wild chants. 

The graceful performances of the female dancers, and the powerful and vigorous dances of the male performers, all from the Tujia ethnic group, showcased the beauty and mysterious side of Xiangxi's intangible cultural heritage. 

Xiangxi, a common term for the western part of Hunan province, is home to many ethnic groups, with the majority members of the Tujia and the Miao.