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Shi Baohua, an inheritor of xi shi wu, or mat dance, performs in Meizhou, South China's Guangdong province, June 21, 2017. [Photo/VCG]

Xi shi wu, or mat dance, is a traditional folk dance of the Hakka people in Meizhou. The dance is often featured during prayer ceremonies in Buddhist temples. The early form of the dance was created and performed by monks.

During the performance, an artist will hold a large mat and imitate a lion's walking and jumping styles. The local people believe lions can prevent evils from harming them.

The vivid and amusing dance, which often lasts 20 minutes, is still popular among the locals.

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