The Zhongfan (Jian'ou Flagpole Balancing Performance). [Photo/fujian-szwhg.chaoxing.com]

The Zhongfan (Jian'ou Flagpole Balancing Performance), formerly known as "Jian'an Flagpole", "Jianzhou Flagpole", and "Jianning Flagpole", is a traditional banner dance originating in the Nanping region of Fujian province that is listed as one of the first batch of national-level intangible cultural heritage representative projects in the categories of traditional sports, entertainment, and acrobatics.

The Jian'ou Flagpole Balancing Performance originated in the late Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) when the national hero Zheng Chenggong recruited a large army to cross the Strait, expel the Dutch, and retake Taiwan.

Upon their triumphant return, the soldiers from Jian'ou raised the battle flags they had brought back on bamboo poles, proudly displaying them in commemoration. Over time, this evolved into the "tiao fan" (flagpole balancing) activity, which has now been practiced for over 340 years.

The Jian'ou Flagpole consists of seven parts such as the banner pole, banner top, and flagpole. The design requires the use of locally abundant large bamboo for the banner pole, with a hexagonal pagoda made of bamboo strips and colored silk at the end. Above this, two square-shaped tower-shaped decorations and a triangular flag are placed in sequence.

Hanging down along the banner top is a four-meter-long colorful red banner, where auspicious verses or advertising slogans can be displayed as needed. The entire banner is over ten meters long, weighing around 10-20 kilograms, standing upright on the ground magnificently and grandly.

The Jian'ou Flagpole Balancing Performance requires both strength and skill with performers raising a 10-meter-tall banner upright for several minutes with ease without falling off. When the dancing becomes more intense, the banner top spins like a whirlwind, providing a powerful and aesthetically pleasing experience. In particular, incorporating hula hoops into the banner-raising adds a touch of acrobatics, making the performance highly entertaining.

The Jian'ou Zhongfan is also unique form of cultural entertainment and physical fitness. Its colorful performances, accompanied by traditional costumes and folk drum music, exude a combination of boldness and elegance, showcasing the rich historical and cultural heritage blending Central Plains culture with the culture of Fujian and Yue.