The Wind Lion Belief in Coastal Minnan Society: A Case Study of the Wind Lion Gods in Kinmen

Lions were introduced to China via the overland Silk Road during the Han dynasty and later through the Maritime Silk Road during the Song and Yuan dynasties, reaching the southeastern coastal regions. As the “King of Beasts,” the lion is believed to possess an imposing presence that wards off evil spirits and malevolent forces, preventing them from causing harm. Consequently, lions came to be regarded as auspicious symbols in Chinese culture and gradually evolved into spiritual creatures that repel evil and bring blessings. Due to their diverse appearances—sometimes majestic, sometimes playful—lions became popular and widespread guardian deities in the Minnan (Southern Fujian) region. This paper explores the transformation of the lion’s image and function in China, using the Wind Lion God belief on Kinmen Island, located in the Minnan region, as a case study to examine the dissemination and influence of lion-related folk beliefs.