The lion and dragon dance competitions have been annually held in the Chinatown of Yangon since 2006.[Photo/Xinhua]

A Chinese traditional lion and dragon dance competition kicked off in the Chinatown of Myanmar's Yangon late Sunday.

Organized by the Myanmar Lion and Dragon Dance Federation, the 15th lion and dragon dance competition was inaugurated in Latha township of the Chinatown.

"Our aim is to preserve the long-standing tradition and to showcase the strong team spirit and unity of our dancers as well," Chairman U Kyaw Kyaw of Myanmar Lion and Dragon Dance Federation told Xinhua.

"Dance performance by a new 160-ft long dragon will be showcased, which is the special feature of this year's event," he said.