· Origin
The ancestors of the Jinuo people are believed to have lived in the mountainous regions of Xishuangbanna for a long time. They gradually formed their own distinct cultural identity through long - term isolation and adaptation to the local ecological environment. The geographical features of the rainforest, with its abundant resources and complex terrain, influenced their way of life and cultural development.

· Development
Throughout history, the Jinuo people have had interactions with neighboring ethnic groups such as the Dai, Hani, and Lahu. Through trade, they exchanged goods like forest products, handicrafts, and agricultural products. Cultural exchanges also took place, including the sharing of traditional songs, dances, and religious beliefs. For example, some elements of Dai art and religious rituals have had an impact on the Jinuo's own cultural expressions. They also participated in local economic activities, contributing to the development of the region's agriculture and handicraft industries.

· Modern Times
In modern times, with the implementation of China's ethnic minority policies, the living conditions of the Jinuo people have improved significantly. The government has invested in infrastructure construction in Jinuo - inhabited areas, including roads, schools, and medical facilities. This has facilitated better access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The Jinuo people actively participate in the modernization process while striving to preserve their traditional culture. They have adopted modern agricultural technology to improve crop yields and engage in tourism - related activities to showcase their unique culture to the outside world.

· Quantity
As of the 7th National Population Census in 2020, the population of the Jinuo Nationality in China is approximately 26,025, making them one of the smaller ethnic minority groups in China.

· Distribution
The majority of the Jinuo people live in Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, especially concentrated in the Basu and Keru areas of Jinuo Mountain. These areas are located in the tropical rainforest zone of southern Yunnan, with a warm and humid climate. The region is characterized by dense forests, abundant water resources, and diverse biological species. There are also small Jinuo communities in adjacent areas, where they have adapted to the local ecological environment and engaged in activities such as agriculture, forestry, and handicrafts.

· Traditional Economy
Traditionally, the Jinuo economy was mainly based on slash - and - burn agriculture, supplemented by hunting, gathering, and fishing. They cleared small plots of land in the forest to grow crops such as upland rice, maize, and sweet potatoes. Hunting was an important economic activity, with the Jinuo people using simple hunting tools such as bows and arrows, traps, and spears to hunt wild animals for food and fur. Gathering of forest products such as wild fruits, nuts, and medicinal herbs was also a significant part of their livelihood. Fishing in rivers and streams provided an additional source of protein. Handicrafts, such as basket - weaving, wood - carving, and blacksmithing, were developed to meet daily needs, using locally available materials.

· Modern Economy
In modern times, the Jinuo economy has diversified. While traditional slash - and - burn agriculture is still practiced in some areas, more modern agricultural techniques have been introduced, increasing crop yields and improving the quality of agricultural products. They now grow a wider variety of crops, including rubber, tea, and fruits. Livestock farming, mainly raising pigs, chickens, and cattle, has also become more common. Tourism has emerged as an important economic sector. The unique Jinuo culture, beautiful tropical rainforest scenery, and traditional villages attract a growing number of tourists. Many Jinuo communities have developed cultural tourism projects, offering services such as homestays, guided rainforest tours, and traditional performances, which have increased the income of local residents. Additionally, some Jinuo people are engaged in small - scale businesses, such as opening shops and restaurants.

· Language and Script
The Jinuo language belongs to the Tibeto - Burman branch of the Sino - Tibetan language family. In the past, the Jinuo people did not have a widely - used written script. In modern times, the Latin script is used to write the Jinuo language, which helps in language teaching, cultural preservation, and communication with the outside world. Education plays a crucial role in language preservation, with efforts being made to offer Jinuo - language courses in some schools in Jinuo - inhabited areas to promote the inheritance and development of the Jinuo language.

· Religious Beliefs
Ancestor worship and animism are the core of the Jinuo people's religious beliefs. They believe that their ancestors have the power to protect and guide them, and they hold regular rituals to honor their ancestors. They also believe in the existence of various spirits in nature, such as mountain spirits, river spirits, and tree spirits. During festivals or important events, they perform rituals to show respect and seek protection from these spirits. In certain areas, there are influences from Theravada Buddhism, which has been introduced through interactions with the Dai people. Buddhist temples or shrines may exist in some Jinuo communities, providing a place for religious activities and cultural preservation.

· Clothing
Traditional Jinuo clothing is closely related to their tropical rainforest lifestyle and local climate. Men usually wear a short - sleeved shirt made of cotton or linen, paired with loose - fitting trousers. In cold weather, they wear a jacket made of animal hides or a thick cloth. A hat made of bamboo or cloth is often worn to protect against the sun and rain. Women's clothing is more elaborate. They wear a long - sleeved blouse with a high collar, usually decorated with colorful embroidery, beads, and shells. A long skirt made of bright - colored cloth is worn below the blouse, and a belt is tied around the waist. Women also wear various accessories such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings made of beads, shells, and metals. 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 Han and Dai populations in urban areas.

· Literature
Jinuo 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 Jinuo people. Folk tales often feature heroes, magical creatures, and moral lessons, reflecting the Jinuo people's imagination and their understanding of the world. Written literature is relatively less developed in the past due to the lack of a traditional written script. However, in recent years, with the use of the Latin script and other means, more Jinuo writers have started to express their thoughts and feelings about life, culture, and society in written form, contributing to the development of Jinuo literature.

· Transportation
In the past, due to the mountainous and forested living environment, the Jinuo people mainly relied on foot for transportation. They were skilled at building and using suspension bridges across deep valleys and rivers to facilitate travel. For short - distance travel within the villages, they used simple sledges in some areas. In modern times, with the development of infrastructure in Jinuo - inhabited areas, roads have been built, and motorcycles, cars, and buses have become common means of transportation on land. However, in some remote mountainous areas, foot is still an important means of transportation, especially for accessing difficult - to - reach places in the rainforest.

· Medicine
Traditional Jinuo medicine is based on a combination of local herbal knowledge and some folk medical practices. Jinuo healers have extensive knowledge of local herbs and plants and use them to treat various diseases. They believe in the balance of the body's energy and the harmony between the body and the environment. Traditional medical practices include herbal remedies, massage, and bone - setting. In recent years, with the improvement of medical conditions in Jinuo - inhabited areas, traditional Jinuo 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 Jinuo people have their own traditional calendar system based on the observation of natural phenomena such as the growth cycles of plants, the migration patterns of animals, and the changes in weather. This calendar helps them determine the best time for agricultural activities, hunting, and gathering. In modern times, they also use the Gregorian calendar for daily life and modern economic activities, but the traditional calendar still plays an important role in guiding their traditional economic and cultural practices.

· Music
Jinuo music is characterized by its lively and rhythmic tunes, often reflecting the life, emotions, and religious beliefs of the Jinuo people. Folk songs are an important form of Jinuo music, covering topics such as love, labor, and nature. Traditional Jinuo musical instruments include the "julipi" (a kind of bamboo flute), the "gong" (a type of drum), and various types of stringed instruments. During religious festivals, weddings, and other important celebrations, Jinuo 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 spirits and ancestors.

· Dance
Jinuo dance is often performed during religious festivals and social gatherings. The dances are usually lively and energetic, with movements that reflect the characteristics of Jinuo culture and religious beliefs. For example, some dances imitate the actions of hunting, animal movements, and religious rituals, showing the deep - rooted connection between the Jinuo people and their traditional lifestyle. 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 Jinuo architecture is designed to meet the needs of their local environment and cultural lifestyle. Jinuo villages are usually built on hillsides or in valleys, with houses arranged in a clustered manner. Traditional houses are mainly made of wood and bamboo, with a raised floor to prevent moisture and pests. The roof is usually sloped and covered with thatch or wooden shingles to shed rainwater. The interior of the house is divided into several rooms, including a living room, a bedroom, and a kitchen. Some houses have a fireplace in the center of the living room, which is used for cooking, heating, and gathering. In modern times, with the improvement of living standards, some Jinuo people have built brick - and - concrete houses, but they still retain some traditional architectural elements, such as the sloped roof and the layout of the rooms.

· Arts and Crafts
Jinuo arts and crafts are renowned for their fine workmanship and unique designs. The most famous crafts include wood - carving, bamboo - weaving, and blacksmithing. Jinuo artisans use local wood, bamboo, and iron to create various figures, animals, religious symbols, and daily - use items. The wood - carving products are often decorated with intricate patterns and carvings, showing high artistic value. Bamboo - weaving is used to make baskets, mats, and other household items, which are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Blacksmithing is used to make tools such as knives, axes, and hoes, as well as decorative items.

· Etiquette
Jinuo etiquette is based on respect, hospitality, and politeness. When guests arrive at a Jinuo home, they are usually greeted warmly with a smile and a bow. The host will offer tea or homemade wine 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 Jinuo 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
Jinuo marriage customs are a combination of traditional practices and religious rituals. Marriages are usually arranged by the families of the bride and groom, but the consent of the couple is also essential. The engagement ceremony is an important step, during which the groom's family presents gifts such as livestock, jewelry, and forest products 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 by the religious leaders (if applicable), the exchange of gifts, 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 Jinuo people celebrate a variety of festivals throughout the year, including religious festivals and some national festivals. The major religious festivals are related to their indigenous beliefs and often involve rituals to worship nature, ancestors, and spirits. For example, the "Kuoshi Festival" is an important religious festival of the Jinuo people, during which they hold grand ceremonies to pray for a good harvest, good weather, and the well - being of the family. During these festivals, people wear traditional clothing, hold religious ceremonies, and participate in various cultural activities such as singing, dancing, and sports competitions. The Spring Festival and the National Day are also celebrated by the Jinuo people following the general customs of the Chinese nation, which helps strengthen their sense of national identity and unity.

· Diet
Jinuo cuisine is influenced by their tropical rainforest lifestyle and local ingredients. Meat, especially pork, beef, and wild game meat, is an important part of their diet, and is often cooked in stews, grilled, or roasted. Dairy products are not as common as in some other ethnic groups. Vegetables and wild herbs are widely used in their cooking, with dishes featuring bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and various wild greens. Tea is an important beverage and is often served with meals or during social gatherings. "Puer tea" is a well - known local specialty that is popular among the Jinuo people and also has a wide market outside the region.

· Funeral Customs
Jinuo funeral customs are based on their indigenous beliefs and religious rituals. When a person dies, the body is cleaned and dressed in clean clothes. The family and relatives hold a wake, during which they chant prayers and perform rituals to guide the soul of the deceased. The funeral ceremony is then performed, usually with the participation of religious leaders (if applicable). The body is usually buried according to local customs and religious requirements, and some rituals are carried out to ensure the smooth transition of the soul to the afterlife. 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.