Honan Shaolin Golden Dragon Dance includes oral traditions, rituals, and music. Two types of Dragons are used: Heaven Dragon—Tian Long 莖龍 and Divine/Rain Bringing—Shui Long 彊龍, which in ancient times were part of the ceremonies conducted on behalf of the Imperial government. The Shaolin Golden Dragon Dance has thirty established patterns, each used for different occasions, entrance rules, and special rules and taboos.

Shaolin Si (少林寺) was a significant state/public monastery (Shifang Conglin 十方叢林) since ancient times. Their supervisory clergy were appointed by the Imperial throne and accountable to it. These monasteries were also required to perform ceremonies for the Emperor. During the Qing dynasty (1644-1911), it was customary for four-legged long dragons to adorn the ridges of temple roofs only those temples under imperial patronage.

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Chinese 'dancing' dragons were used in two ways: during ancient times in Imperial Ceremonies conducted on behalf of the Imperial government and by villages throughout the country; second, they were used in festive street celebrations.

The dragon dance is an artistic expression, specifically of Chinese culture, with a spiritual dimension firmly rooted in civic life and part of the broader community. Today the dragon dance functions in three distinct ways: its presence transforms public spaces into a rich cultural experience; symbolically, the dragon expresses authentic Chinese identity and, as a privileged means of attracting people of all ethnic backgrounds together in solidarity to inspire goodwill and creativity. In addition to providing the Chinese community with a sense of identity and continuity, the dragon dance exerts an essential function in promoting physical and mental health and harmonious community life.

The Chinese Dragon Dance’s cultural meanings and social functions continue to be practiced and enriched, bearing witness to human creativity and solidarity.

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