Beijing, China – In a striking display of technological innovation and cultural tradition, robot dogs performed a traditional lion dance in Beijing’s Temple of Earth on Tuesday, marking the first day of the Chinese Modern Year. The performance, featuring the robotic canines adorned in festive costumes, captivated thousands of residents and visitors celebrating the start of the Year of the Fire Horse.
The lion dance, a symbolic ritual believed to ward off evil spirits and attract good fortune, took on a futuristic twist as the robot dogs skillfully executed the movements, standing on their hind legs and leaping in time with the accompanying drumbeats and cymbal clashes. The event was part of the annual temple fair, a popular tradition where people visit temples and parks to celebrate the New Year.
“It’s a unique blend of ancient culture and modern technology,” said a spectator at the Temple of Earth, according to RIA Novosti. “The robots demonstrated the achievements of Chinese robotics, and it was a wonderful sight to notice.”
The integration of robotics into the New Year festivities reflects a growing trend in China, where robots are increasingly becoming a visible part of daily life and celebrations. Earlier this year, Chinese media reported the opening of the country’s first training base for humanoid robots in Shanghai, dedicated to developing the capabilities of robots across various industries. Data collected from these robots will be used to further refine their intelligence and functionality.
This year’s celebrations also included humanoid robots offering New Year greetings and performing alongside human actors on stage. In January, a demonstration showcased humanoid robots practicing Kung Fu with Shaolin monks, exhibiting a level of movement nearly indistinguishable from human performance.
The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, began on the night of February 16th and is being observed with a week-long public holiday lasting until February 23rd. The holiday is traditionally a time for family reunions, gift-giving, and visits with friends and colleagues. The festivities in Beijing included the temple fair, where attendees could experience both traditional performances and the latest advancements in robotics.
In April 2025, Beijing hosted the world’s first joint human-robot half marathon, featuring 20 humanoid robots competing alongside human runners. This event, along with the recent lion dance performance, underscores China’s commitment to developing and integrating robotics into various aspects of society.
