· Origin
The ancestors of the Jing people are believed to have migrated from Vietnam to the present - day areas in Guangxi, China, over several centuries. The migration was likely driven by various factors such as economic opportunities, population pressure, and social unrest in their original homeland. Over time, they gradually settled down and formed their own communities in the coastal regions of Guangxi.

· Development
Throughout history, the Jing people have had extensive interactions with neighboring ethnic groups, especially the Han Chinese and the Zhuang people. They engaged in trade, cultural exchanges, and intermarriages, which led to a blending of cultures. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Jing people's fishing and salt - making industries developed rapidly, contributing to the local economy. They also participated in maritime trade along the South China Sea coast, further expanding their economic and cultural horizons.

· Modern Times
In modern times, with the implementation of China's ethnic minority policies, the living conditions of the Jing people have improved significantly. The government has invested in infrastructure construction, education, and healthcare in Jing - inhabited areas. The Jing people actively participate in the modernization process while striving to preserve their traditional culture. They have embraced modern technology and education, which has opened up new opportunities for their economic and social development.

· Quantity
As of the 7th National Population Census in 2020, the population of the Jing Nationality in China is approximately 33,112, making them a relatively small ethnic minority group.

· Distribution
The majority of the Jing people live in Wanzai Town, Jiangping Town, and Shanxin Village in Dongxing City, Fangchenggang, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. This area is located in the coastal region of southern China, with a subtropical monsoon climate. The terrain is mainly flat coastal plains and low - lying hills, which are suitable for fishing, farming, and salt - making. There are also small Jing communities in other nearby areas, where they have adapted to the local ecological environment and engaged in various economic activities.

· Traditional Economy
Traditionally, the Jing economy was mainly based on fishing. They used various types of fishing boats and fishing gear, such as nets, traps, and hooks, to catch a wide variety of fish, shrimp, and crabs in the sea. Salt - making was also an important economic activity. The Jing people built salt pans along the coast to evaporate seawater and produce salt. Agriculture played a secondary role, with the cultivation of crops such as rice, sweet potatoes, and peanuts in the limited arable land areas. Handicrafts, including the production of fishing nets, boats, and pottery, were also an important part of their traditional economy, often used for daily life and trade with other ethnic groups.

· Modern Economy
In modern times, the Jing economy has diversified. While fishing and salt - making remain important, other industries such as tourism, aquaculture, and small - scale industries have also developed. The development of tourism has brought new economic opportunities to the Jing - inhabited areas. Tourists are attracted by the unique Jing culture, beautiful coastal scenery, and traditional fishing lifestyle. Many Jing communities have developed cultural tourism projects, offering services such as beach resorts, fishing experiences, and traditional performances, which have increased the income of local residents. Aquaculture has also become a promising industry, with the cultivation of shrimp, fish, and shellfish in coastal ponds and cages.

· Language and Script
The Jing language belongs to the Austro - Asiatic language family and is closely related to the Vietnamese language. In the past, the Jing people used a written form based on Chinese characters with some modifications to represent Jing words. In modern times, they use the Chinese characters for daily communication and writing. Efforts have been made to standardize and promote the Jing language, and some educational materials in the Jing language have been developed. Many Jing people are bilingual, speaking both Jing and Chinese, which helps them communicate with the outside world and integrate into the broader Chinese society. Education plays an important role in language preservation, with Jing - language courses being offered in some schools in Jing - inhabited areas.

· Religious Beliefs
Ancestor worship is the core of the Jing people's religious beliefs. They believe that their ancestors have the power to protect and bless the family and the community. They set up ancestral altars in their homes and perform regular rituals to offer food, incense, and prayers to their ancestors. Some Jing people also follow elements of Taoism and Buddhism, visiting Taoist temples and Buddhist monasteries to pray for good fortune and peace. Lamas (in the context of local Buddhist influence) and Taoist priests play important roles in conducting religious ceremonies and providing spiritual guidance.

· Clothing
Traditional Jing clothing is simple and practical, reflecting their coastal lifestyle. Men usually wear a short - sleeved shirt and loose - fitting trousers, often made of light - colored cotton fabric. They may also wear a conical hat to protect themselves from the sun and rain when fishing. Women's clothing is more colorful and decorative. They wear a long - sleeved blouse with a high collar, a long skirt, and a headscarf. The blouse and skirt are often decorated with embroidery and patterns, which showcase their excellent sewing skills. Women also wear a variety of jewelry, such as silver earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, which add to their beauty and cultural charm. In modern times, while traditional clothing is still worn on special occasions and religious festivals, daily clothing has become more similar to that of the mainstream Chinese population in urban areas.

· Literature
Jing literature includes both oral and written forms. Oral literature is rich and diverse, including folk tales, legends, songs, and proverbs. These oral works are passed down from generation to generation through storytelling and singing, conveying the history, values, and beliefs of the Jing people. Folk tales often feature heroes, gods, and moral lessons, reflecting the Jing people's imagination and their understanding of the world. Written literature has also emerged in recent years, with some Jing writers using Chinese to express their thoughts and feelings about life, culture, and society.

· Transportation
In the past, due to their coastal location, the Jing people mainly relied on boats for transportation. They used various types of boats, such as wooden sailing boats and rowing boats, to travel along the coast and engage in fishing activities. In modern times, with the development of infrastructure in Jing - inhabited areas, roads have been built, and motorcycles, cars, and buses have become common means of transportation on land. However, boats still play an important role in their daily life, especially for fishing and transportation between islands and the mainland.

· Medicine
Traditional Jing medicine is based on a combination of local herbal knowledge and some folk medical practices. Jing healers have extensive knowledge of local herbs and plants and use them to treat various diseases. They also pay attention to the balance of the body's energy and the harmony between the body and the environment. Traditional medical practices include herbal remedies, massage, and acupuncture - like techniques. In recent years, with the improvement of medical conditions in Jing - inhabited areas, traditional Jing medicine has been integrated with modern medical systems to provide more comprehensive medical services for the people. Modern medical facilities such as clinics and hospitals have been established, and medical staff are trained to combine traditional and modern medical knowledge.

· Calendar
The Jing people follow the lunar calendar for religious activities and festivals, similar to many other ethnic groups in China. The lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon and has 12 months in a year, with some months having 30 days and others having 29 days. An extra month is inserted every few years to adjust the calendar with the solar year. They mark important religious events and festivals according to this calendar. In modern times, they also use the Gregorian calendar for daily life and modern economic activities, but the lunar calendar still plays an important role in their religious and cultural life, guiding their religious observances and family gatherings.

· Music
Jing music is characterized by its unique rhythm and melody, often reflecting the life, emotions, and religious beliefs of the Jing people. Folk songs are an important form of Jing music, covering topics such as love, labor, and the sea. Traditional Jing musical instruments include the "daninh" (a two - stringed lute), the "flute", and the "drum". During religious festivals, weddings, and other important celebrations, Jing people gather together to sing and play music, creating a joyful and solemn atmosphere. Music is also an important part of religious ceremonies, used to express reverence and devotion to the ancestors and gods.

· Dance
Jing dance is often performed during religious festivals and social gatherings. The dances are usually lively and rhythmic, with movements that reflect the characteristics of the coastal lifestyle and religious beliefs. For example, some dances imitate the actions of fishing, sailing, and praying to the sea gods, showing the deep - rooted connection between the Jing people and the sea. The dancers often wear traditional clothing, adding to the visual appeal of the performances. Dance is not only a form of entertainment but also a way to pass on cultural traditions and strengthen community bonds.

· Architecture
Traditional Jing architecture is designed to meet the needs of their coastal and humid environment. Jing villages are usually built near the sea, with houses arranged in an orderly manner. Traditional houses are mainly wooden structures, with a raised floor to prevent moisture. The roofs are usually sloped and covered with tiles or thatch to facilitate drainage. Some houses have a small courtyard in front, which is used for daily activities and drying fish. In modern times, with the improvement of living standards, some Jing people have built brick - and - concrete houses, but they still retain some traditional architectural elements, such as the sloped roofs and the layout of the houses facing the sea.

· Arts and Crafts
Jing arts and crafts are renowned for their fine workmanship and unique designs. The most famous crafts include the production of fishing nets, boats, and pottery. Fishing nets are made from high - quality fibers and are woven into various shapes and sizes to suit different fishing needs. Boats are built with great skill, using local wood and traditional building techniques. Pottery is also an important craft, with Jing potters creating a variety of pots, jars, and bowls, often decorated with simple but beautiful patterns. In addition, Jing people are also skilled in shell carving, which is used to make jewelry and decorative items.

· Etiquette
Jing etiquette is based on respect, hospitality, and politeness. When guests arrive at a Jing home, they are usually greeted warmly with a smile and a bow. The host will offer tea, fruits, 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 cooking. The Jing people also place great importance on helping others, especially the poor, the elderly, and the disabled. In social interactions, it is important to be honest, sincere, and show genuine concern for others.

· Marriage Customs
Jing marriage customs are a combination of traditional practices and local customs. Marriages are usually arranged by the families of the bride and groom, but the consent of the couple is also important. The engagement ceremony is an important step, during which the groom's family presents gifts such as jewelry, clothing, and seafood to the bride's family as a sign of respect and goodwill. The wedding ceremony is a grand event that combines religious and civil elements. The bride and groom wear traditional wedding attire, and there are a series of ceremonies, such as the blessing of the ancestors, the exchange of vows, and the throwing of rice grains. After the wedding, there is usually a wedding reception to celebrate the union of the two families, with traditional music and dance performances.

· Festivals
The Jing people celebrate a variety of festivals throughout the year, including religious festivals and some national festivals. The major religious festivals include the Ha Festival, which is dedicated to the sea gods. During this festival, people offer sacrifices to the sea gods, pray for a good harvest of fish, and engage in various cultural activities such as dragon boat races and singing and dancing performances. The Spring Festival and the National Day are also celebrated by the Jing people following the general customs of the Chinese nation, which helps strengthen their sense of national identity and unity.

· Diet
Jing cuisine is influenced by their coastal lifestyle and local agricultural products. Seafood is the staple food, including fish, shrimp, crabs, and shellfish, which are cooked in various ways such as steaming, boiling, frying, and grilling. They also eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, and grains such as rice and sweet potatoes. Tea is an important beverage and is often served with meals. During festivals and special occasions, they prepare traditional dishes such as "roast fish" and "seafood hotpot" to share with family and friends.

· Funeral Customs
Jing funeral customs are based on ancestor worship and religious beliefs. When a person dies, the body is washed and dressed in clean clothes according to religious rituals. The funeral prayer is then performed by the family or a religious leader in the home or a temple. The body is usually buried in a local cemetery. During the funeral period, family and friends gather to pay their respects and offer condolences. After the funeral, there is a period of mourning, during which the family avoids certain activities and follows specific customs to show respect for the deceased, such as not wearing colorful clothes and not participating in joyful events.