An Introductory Overview Of Oriental Dragon Boats Heads

One of the most functional uses that displays the dragon’s image is a boat. The exceptional Chinese artistry is prominently diplayed on these various and distinctive boats.

The dragon boat takes on a narrow and rather long shape. It requires a group of paddlers to work the boat. The boat was initially developed during the pre-Christian era in China today we find it being used in boat racing events that are held across the globe.

Dragon boat racing actually dates back to ancient times. It was actually part of a folk ritual and the boat featured a vibrantly designed dragon head up at the deck. The sport of racing these boats is considered to be one of the oldest forms of organized competitions developed by man.

Truly a one of a kind race, the Chinese Dragon Race is as spirited as the dragon design on each boat. Bursting with color and sporting a dragon’s head and tail, these boats each have their own character, distinct from all the others. Certainly, watching dragons race in the form of a boat is an extraordinary sight to see.

The Chinese Dragon Boat Race is not complete without the embellished boats reflecting that of a dragon. It is a symbolic representation of the Chinese tradition celebrated at the Duanwu Jie festival held every year. The Westerners enjoy the celebration as well but with less significance and refer to this celebration as the ‘Dragon boat festival’.

Being unaware of the history of the festival the western world gave the event the name because of the dragon heads that were featured on the boats. In truth however that is not what the Chinese call the event but nonetheless the name that has been coined by the west has gained currency around the world.

The origination of the Dragon Boat Race is undeniably derived from the Chinese culture. However, many other countries on the Asian continent also have celebrations with boats decorated as dragons. Their meanings vary according to regions, but not are specific in regard to the Chinese zodiac calendar which is exclusive to China and its’ people.

Dragon boats were not always used for peaceful purposes. In fact the earlier boat racing rituals involved the opposing team members to engage in violent acts of throwing stones at each other and using bamboo sticks to topple each other. The aim was to topple the opposing team into the water and leave them to drown. The fate of the drowning team was regarded as being the will of the dragon.

Over the years however the sport became a lot more civilized with all the elements of violence being removed from it. Today the dragon boat is decorated in much the same way and can be seen sailing the waterways in many different countries.

Chinese Dragon Celebrations could make a nice gift for a loved one. For those who have not found the content you would like yet, maybe you can by visiting our facts on Chinese Tree Dragons.

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