nian (mythology)
A Nian is a Chinese mythology beast that lives under the sea or in the mountains. Once each spring, on or around Chinese New Year, it comes out of hiding to attack people, and prefers children. Weaknesses of the Nian are loud noises, and the colour Red. The Chinese Lion dance is known to have originated from the legend of the Nian.
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nian