· Origin
The ancestors of the Achang people can be traced back to the ancient Qiang tribes in the western regions of China. According to historical records and oral traditions, they gradually migrated to their current areas in Yunnan over a long period. Through continuous integration with local indigenous populations and interactions with other ethnic groups, they formed the modern - day Achang ethnic group.

· Development
Historically, the Achang people were mainly engaged in agriculture. They cultivated crops such as rice, maize, and wheat, adapting their farming techniques to the local climate and soil conditions in the mountainous and valley areas of Yunnan. Hunting and fishing were supplementary activities, providing additional food sources and materials. The Achang people also had trade interactions with neighboring ethnic groups, such as the Dai and Han people, exchanging agricultural products, handicrafts, and other goods, which promoted economic development and cultural exchanges.

· Modern Times
In modern times, with the rapid development of the economy and society, the areas inhabited by the Achang people have undergone significant changes. The government has implemented a series of policies to support economic development, improve infrastructure, and promote education. The Achang people have actively participated in the modernization process while striving to preserve and promote their traditional culture. Tourism has gradually emerged as an important industry, attracting visitors to experience the unique Achang culture and the beautiful natural scenery in their homeland.

· Quantity
As of the 7th National Population Census in 2020, the Achang population in China is approximately 43,775, making them one of the smaller ethnic minorities in the country.

· Distribution
The majority of the Achang people live in Longchuan, Lianghe, and Luxi counties in Dehong Dai - Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. These areas have a subtropical monsoon climate, suitable for agriculture and the growth of various crops. A small number of Achang people have migrated to other parts of Yunnan for work, study, or cultural exchange, contributing to the spread of Achang culture.

· Traditional Economy
Traditionally, the Achang economy was based on agriculture. They used traditional farming methods such as plowing with oxen and manual sowing. In mountainous areas, they built terraced fields to make full use of the land for rice cultivation. Maize and wheat were also important crops, grown on slopes and in valleys. Hunting was an important supplementary activity, with hunters using bows, arrows, and traps to catch wild animals. Fishing in rivers and lakes provided a source of freshwater fish. Handicrafts, such as blacksmithing, weaving, and bamboo - weaving, were well - developed. Blacksmiths produced agricultural tools, knives, and other metal products, which were essential for daily life and agricultural production.

· Modern Economy
In modern times, the Achang economy has diversified. Agriculture remains an important sector, but there has been an increase in the cultivation of cash crops such as tea, sugarcane, and fruits. Animal husbandry has also developed, with the raising of cattle, pigs, and poultry. Industry in Achang - inhabited areas has gradually grown, including food processing, textile manufacturing, and handicraft production. Tourism has emerged as a new economic growth point, providing opportunities for employment and income generation for the Achang people. The development of tourism has also promoted the preservation and promotion of Achang traditional culture.

· Language and Script
The Achang language belongs to the Sino - Tibetan language family. It has its own unique vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, with some influences from Chinese and neighboring ethnic languages. The Achang people did not have a widely - used written script in the past. In modern times, they use Chinese characters for communication and education. Efforts are being made to record and study the Achang language to promote its preservation and use.

· Religious Beliefs
The Achang people practice a combination of Theravada Buddhism, ancestor worship, and some primitive religious beliefs. Theravada Buddhism has a significant influence on their daily life, with many Achang villages having Buddhist temples. Monks play an important role in religious ceremonies and social life, providing spiritual guidance and performing rituals. Ancestor worship is also an important part of their religious beliefs, and they hold regular ceremonies to honor their ancestors, offering food, drinks, and incense. Primitive religious beliefs, such as the worship of natural gods and spirits, still exist in some areas, reflecting the traditional cultural heritage of the Achang people.

· Clothing
Traditional Achang clothing reflects their cultural identity and aesthetic preferences. Men usually wear a short - sleeved or long - sleeved shirt, paired with wide - legged trousers. They may also wear a headscarf, which can be made of cloth and has different colors and patterns depending on the occasion. Women's clothing is more colorful and decorative. They wear a long - sleeved blouse with intricate embroidery on the cuffs, collars, and hems, paired with a long skirt. The skirt is often made of multiple layers of fabric and has colorful patterns. Women also wear a variety of accessories, such as silver earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and headpieces, which add to their beauty and cultural charm. In modern times, while traditional clothing is still worn on special occasions, daily clothing has become more similar to that of the mainstream Chinese population.

· Literature
Achang literature has a rich oral tradition, including folk tales, legends, and proverbs. Folk tales often convey moral lessons and cultural wisdom, passed down from generation to generation through storytelling. The legends reflect the history, beliefs, and values of the Achang people, often featuring heroes, gods, and magical events. Proverbs are short and pithy sayings that express the Achang people's life experiences and philosophical thinking. In recent years, there has been an increasing effort to collect, translate, and publish Achang literature to make it more accessible to a wider audience. Some Achang writers have also started to write in Chinese, introducing Achang culture to a broader readership.

· Transportation
In the past, due to the geographical environment of their habitat, the Achang people mainly relied on walking and horses for transportation. Horses were an important means of transportation, especially in the mountainous areas, for carrying goods and people. Carts pulled by oxen or horses were used for transporting larger quantities of goods over longer distances. In areas with rivers, boats were used for water transportation. In modern times, with the development of infrastructure, motorcycles, cars, and buses have become common means of transportation in Achang - inhabited areas. However, in some remote villages, traditional means of transportation are still used, especially for short - distance travel and accessing areas with poor road conditions.

· Medicine
Traditional Achang medicine has a long history and is influenced by traditional Chinese medicine and local folk medicine. Achang healers have extensive knowledge of local herbs and plants and use them to treat a wide range of diseases. They also pay attention to the balance of the body's energy and the harmony between the body and the environment. Traditional Achang medical practices include herbal remedies, massage, and some simple acupuncture - like techniques. In recent years, with the improvement of medical conditions in Achang - inhabited areas, traditional Achang medicine has been integrated with modern medical systems to provide more comprehensive medical services for the people.

· Calendar
The Achang people mainly use the solar calendar for daily life and modern economic activities, as it is more widely used in the global context. However, they also have some traditional time - keeping methods related to agricultural activities and religious festivals. For example, they may mark the beginning and end of the farming season according to natural phenomena such as the blooming of flowers and the migration of birds. They also have specific dates based on the lunar calendar for important religious festivals and traditional ceremonies, which are closely related to their agricultural cycles and cultural beliefs.

· Music
Achang music is characterized by its unique melodies and rhythms, often reflecting religious beliefs, daily life, and the natural environment of the Achang people. Folk songs are an important form of Achang music, covering topics such as love, labor, and the beauty of nature. Traditional Achang musical instruments include the "tuliao (a bamboo flute)", "gong and drum sets", and various stringed instruments. During religious festivals, weddings, and other important celebrations, Achang people gather together to sing and play music, creating a joyful and lively atmosphere.

· Dance
Achang dance is often performed during festivals, weddings, and social gatherings. The dances are usually energetic and expressive, with movements that are closely related to religious rituals, agricultural activities, and daily life. For example, the "Farming Dance" imitates the movements of plowing, sowing, and harvesting crops, showing the Achang people's close relationship with agriculture. The "Wedding Dance" is performed during wedding ceremonies, expressing joy and blessings. The dancers often wear traditional clothing, adding to the visual appeal of the performances.

· Architecture
Traditional Achang architecture is adapted to the local climate and geographical conditions. In mountainous areas, Achang houses are often built with wood and bamboo, with a sloping roof to facilitate the drainage of rainwater. The houses usually have a small courtyard, which can be used for daily activities and drying crops. In valley areas, some houses are built with bricks and wood, with a more spacious layout. Traditional Achang houses often have decorative elements such as carvings on the doors and windows, reflecting the artistic taste of the Achang people. In modern times, with the influence of modern architecture, some new buildings have been constructed in Achang - inhabited areas, but traditional architectural elements are still preserved in many places.

· Arts and Crafts
Achang arts and crafts are renowned for their fine workmanship and unique designs. Traditional Achang crafts include blacksmithing, weaving, and bamboo - weaving. Blacksmithing is a highly skilled craft, and Achang blacksmiths produce high - quality agricultural tools, knives, and other metal products. Weaving is used to produce beautiful fabrics for clothing and household items, with designs often featuring traditional Achang motifs. Bamboo - weaving is used to create various daily necessities such as baskets, mats, and fans, with exquisite patterns and practical functions. Silver - making is also a popular craft, and Achang artisans produce beautiful silver jewelry, such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, which are popular among the Achang people and also attract tourists.

· Etiquette
Achang etiquette is based on respect, hospitality, and politeness. When guests arrive at an Achang home, they are usually greeted warmly with a smile and a handshake. The host will offer tea or other refreshments to the guests, and it is customary to accept these offerings as a sign of respect. During meals, guests are often served the best food, and it is polite to praise the host's hospitality. The Achang people also place great importance on greetings, and young people should show proper respect to elders by using formal titles and polite language. In social interactions, it is important to maintain a harmonious and friendly atmosphere.

· Marriage Customs
Achang marriage customs are a combination of traditional practices and modern influences. Marriages are usually arranged by the families of the bride and groom to some extent, but the consent of both parties is also important. The engagement ceremony is an important step, during which the groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, including jewelry, clothing, and livestock. The wedding ceremony is a grand event that combines traditional and modern elements. The bride and groom wear traditional clothing, and there are a series of ceremonies, such as the exchange of vows, the blessing of the elders, and the cutting of the wedding cake. After the wedding, there is usually a wedding feast to celebrate the union of the two families.

· Festivals
The Achang people celebrate a variety of festivals throughout the year, including religious festivals and traditional festivals. The "Huajie Festival" is an important traditional festival, usually held in the first lunar month. During this festival, people hold various activities such as traditional performances, sports competitions, and food fairs. The "Buddhist Temple Festival" is a significant religious event, where people gather at temples to worship Buddha, enjoy traditional performances, and participate in various activities. In addition, the Achang people also celebrate some national festivals such as the Spring Festival and the Mid - Autumn Festival, following the general customs of the Chinese nation.

· Diet
Achang cuisine is a delicious blend of local agricultural products and traditional cooking methods. Staple foods include rice, maize, and wheat. Meat, especially pork, beef, and chicken, is an important part of the Achang diet. Common dishes include "stewed pork with bamboo shoots," "roast chicken," and "maize porridge." The Achang people also like to eat pickled vegetables and fermented foods, which add unique flavors to their meals. Tea is an important beverage and is often served to guests as a sign of hospitality.

· Funeral Customs
Achang funeral customs are based on a combination of traditional beliefs and modern practices. When a person dies, the family and relatives will hold a series of ceremonies to mourn the deceased. The body is usually washed and dressed in traditional clothing. There are religious rituals performed by monks or elders to pray for the soul of the deceased. During the funeral period, family and friends gather to pay their respects and offer condolences. After the funeral, there may be a period of mourning, during which the family avoids certain activities and follows specific customs to show respect for the deceased.