The Northern Lion Dance (Beishi, 北狮) originated during the Northern Wei Dynasty (386–534 AD). Legend says Emperor Wu, after capturing 100,000 Hu people, was entertained by a dance featuring wooden beast heads, costumes, and music. Pleased, he freed them, spreading the dance across northern China.
This style emphasises agility, expressive movements, and coordinated footwork. The lion's eyes, mouth, and ears can move, and the performance includes tumbling, flipping, and rolling. Accompanied by traditional Beijing-style cymbals, gongs, and drums, the dance symbolises strength and warrior spirit. Performance by Pertubuhan Shaolin Ngoh Chor (沙巴州少林五祖文化體育會).
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