Sanzao Crane Dance

The Sanzao crane dance is a folk dance from Sanzao island, named for its imitation of the movements of the white crane. It is most often performed at New Year and other festivals to invoke blessings and good fortune.

Performers handle a crane-shaped prop and mimic the bird feeding, preening, spreading its wings, and dancing, all to gong-and-drum accompaniment. The movements are lively, rustic, and festive.

As a national-level item of intangible cultural heritage, the Sanzao crane dance reflects islanders' fondness for the crane and their wishes for a good life, and is a key emblem of Sanzao folk culture.

Crane-dance performances can be seen at Sanzao's local transmission and exhibition venues and at festival folk events.