Origin

The ancestors of the Naxi people can be traced back to the ancient Qiang people who lived in the northwestern regions of China. Over time, they migrated southward and settled in the areas around Lijiang. Through long - term interactions and integrations with the local indigenous tribes and other ethnic groups in the region, they gradually formed the distinct Naxi ethnic group with their own language, customs, and beliefs.

Development

Historically, the Naxi people were mainly engaged in agriculture, especially the cultivation of rice, wheat, and barley in the fertile river valleys. They also practiced animal husbandry, raising livestock such as cattle, sheep, and horses. In addition, the Naxi were skilled in handicrafts, including wood - carving, silver - smithing, and textile weaving. The Lijiang area, where most Naxis lived, became an important trading center on the ancient Tea - Horse Road, facilitating cultural and economic exchanges between different regions. This trade route brought new ideas, technologies, and goods, further enriching Naxi culture.

Modern Times

In modern times, with the development of China's economy and the increasing emphasis on cultural preservation, the Naxi people have experienced both modernization and cultural revitalization. The government has invested in infrastructure construction in Naxi - inhabited areas, improving transportation, communication, and living conditions. Education has been greatly promoted, with more Naxi children having access to quality schooling. At the same time, efforts have been made to protect and promote Naxi culture, including the Dongba script, traditional music, dance, and architecture. Tourism has also played a crucial role in the modern development of the Naxi community, providing economic opportunities while also raising awareness of their unique culture.

Quantity

As of the 7th National Population Census in 2020, the Naxi population in China is approximately 323,767, making them one of the smaller ethnic minorities in the country.

Distribution

The majority of the Naxi people live in Lijiang City, Yunnan Province, particularly in Gucheng District and Yulong Naxi Autonomous County. This area is characterized by its beautiful natural landscapes, including snow - capped mountains, deep valleys, and clear rivers, which have shaped the Naxi way of life. A small number of Naxi people have migrated to other parts of China for work, study, or cultural exchange, contributing to the spread of Naxi culture beyond their traditional homeland.

Traditionally, the Naxi economy was based on agriculture and handicrafts. In agriculture, they built terraced fields on the hillsides to make full use of the limited land resources for growing crops. The fertile soil and favorable climate in the Lijiang area allowed for the cultivation of a variety of agricultural products. Handicrafts were an important part of the Naxi economy, with wood - carving being one of the most well - known. Naxi wood - carvings were used for decorating buildings, making furniture, and creating religious artifacts. Silver - smithing was also highly developed, and Naxi silver jewelry was famous for its exquisite craftsmanship and unique designs.

In modern times, the Naxi economy has diversified. Agriculture remains an important sector, but there has been an increase in the cultivation of high - value cash crops such as medicinal herbs and fruits. The tourism industry has become a major economic driver in the Naxi area. Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts millions of tourists each year with its well - preserved traditional Naxi architecture, unique culture, and beautiful scenery. Many Naxi people are involved in the tourism industry, offering services such as homestays, guiding, and cultural performances. Handicrafts continue to be an important source of income, with Naxi wood - carvings, silver jewelry, and textiles being popular among tourists.

Language and Script

The Naxi language belongs to the Tibetan - Burmese branch of the Sino - Tibetan language family. It has several dialects. The most unique aspect of Naxi culture is the Dongba script, which is one of the few pictographic writing systems still in use in the world today. The Dongba script was created by the Naxi Dongba priests and is mainly used for religious texts, folk tales, and historical records. In modern times, the Chinese characters are commonly used for writing in daily life, education, and official documents. However, efforts are being made to preserve and promote the use of the Dongba script through cultural activities, research, and the development of educational materials.

Religious Beliefs

The Naxi people have a complex religious belief system. The Dongba religion is the native religion of the Naxi, centered around the worship of nature, ancestors, and various deities. Dongba priests play a crucial role in religious ceremonies, using the Dongba script to recite prayers and perform rituals. Tibetan Buddhism also has a significant influence on Naxi culture, especially in the Lijiang area where there are several Tibetan Buddhist temples. Many Naxi people practice both Dongba religion and Tibetan Buddhism, and some also follow Taoism and Confucianism to some extent. Religious beliefs have a profound impact on Naxi art, literature, and social customs.

Clothing

Traditional Naxi clothing reflects the influence of different cultures and the local climate. Men usually wear short - sleeved shirts, long trousers, and a sheepskin vest in winter. They may also wear a hat made of black cloth or felt. Women's clothing is more colorful and elaborate. They wear long - sleeved blouses with intricate embroidery, long skirts, and a large apron. The apron is often decorated with colorful patterns and is an important part of Naxi women's attire. Women also wear a variety of jewelry, including silver earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, which are not only decorative but also have cultural and symbolic meanings.

Literature

Naxi literature has a rich oral tradition, including folk tales, epics, and religious texts. Folk tales are passed down through generations by storytellers and often feature moral lessons and cultural values. Epics are long narrative poems that recount the heroic deeds of ancestors or legendary figures, reflecting the history and spirit of the Naxi people. The most famous Naxi epic is the "Creation Epic of Dongba," which describes the origin of the world, humanity, and the Naxi culture. Religious texts, written in the Dongba script, are an important part of Naxi literature, guiding the religious beliefs and moral behavior of the people. In recent years, there has been an increasing effort to collect, translate, and publish Naxi literature to make it more accessible to a wider audience.

Transportation

In the past, due to the mountainous terrain of their habitats, the Naxi people mainly relied on walking and horses or mules for transportation. Horses were especially important for traveling on the steep mountain trails and for carrying goods. In some areas, they also used donkeys for transportation. In modern times, with the development of infrastructure, motorcycles, cars, and buses have become common means of transportation in Naxi - inhabited areas. However, in some remote villages, walking and traditional animal - drawn vehicles are still important ways of getting around, especially for accessing remote fields and forests.

Medicine

Traditional Naxi medicine has a long history and is influenced by both indigenous knowledge and traditional Chinese medicine. Naxi 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 Naxi medical practices include herbal remedies, massage, and acupuncture. In recent years, with the improvement of medical conditions in Naxi - inhabited areas, traditional Naxi medicine has been integrated with modern medical systems to provide more comprehensive medical services for the people.

Calendar

The Naxi people have their own traditional calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle and is closely related to agricultural activities and religious festivals. The traditional Naxi calendar divides the year into 12 months and has specific names for each month. It is used to determine the best time for planting, harvesting, and performing religious ceremonies. At the same time, they also use the solar calendar for daily life and modern economic activities, as it is more widely used in the global context.

Music

Naxi music is characterized by its unique melodies and rhythms, often reflecting religious themes, daily life, and the beauty of nature. Folk songs are an important form of Naxi music, covering topics such as love, labor, and the mountains and rivers. Traditional Naxi musical instruments include the "bawu" (a free - reed mouth organ), "suona" (a double - reed horn), and various types of drums and cymbals. During religious festivals and social gatherings, Naxi people gather together to sing and play music, creating a solemn and joyful atmosphere.

Dance

Naxi dance is often performed during religious festivals, weddings, and other important celebrations. The dances are usually energetic and expressive, with movements that are closely related to religious rituals and daily life. For example, the "Dongba Dance" is a traditional Naxi dance performed by Dongba priests during religious ceremonies. It involves specific gestures and steps that symbolize the communication with deities and ancestors. The "Baisha Fine Music Dance" is another well - known Naxi dance, which combines music and dance in a graceful and elegant way, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Naxi people.

Architecture

The traditional Naxi architecture is a unique blend of indigenous styles and influences from Han and Tibetan cultures. The most famous example is the Lijiang Old Town, which features well - preserved traditional Naxi houses. These houses are usually built with wood and stone, with tiled roofs and intricate wood - carvings on the doors, windows, and eaves. The houses are arranged in a compact and orderly manner around narrow streets and canals, creating a charming and picturesque urban landscape. Traditional Naxi houses often have a central courtyard, which serves as a gathering place for the family and a space for various activities. In modern times, while new buildings are being constructed, efforts are being made to preserve the traditional architectural style and cultural heritage of the Naxi people.

Arts and Crafts

Naxi arts and crafts are renowned for their fine workmanship and unique designs. Traditional Naxi crafts include wood - carving, silver - smithing, and textile weaving. Naxi wood - carvings are used for decorating buildings, making furniture, and creating religious artifacts. The wood - carvings often feature scenes from nature, folk tales, and religious symbols, with exquisite details and high artistic value. Silver - smithing is another important Naxi craft, and Naxi silver jewelry is famous for its unique designs and high - quality craftsmanship. Textile weaving is also a traditional Naxi skill, and Naxi textiles are known for their colorful patterns and durable quality.

Etiquette

Naxi etiquette is based on respect, hospitality, and politeness. When guests arrive at a Naxi home, they are usually greeted warmly with a handshake and a smile. The host will offer tea or 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 hospitality. The Naxi 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

Naxi marriage customs have undergone some changes over time but still retain many traditional elements. In the past, marriages were often arranged by the families of the bride and groom, with the consent of both parties. The engagement ceremony was an important step, during which the groom's family presented gifts to the bride's family, including jewelry, clothing, and livestock. The wedding ceremony was a grand event that followed traditional customs. The bride and groom would wear traditional clothing, and there would be a series of rituals, such as the exchange of gifts, the blessing of the elders, and a wedding feast. In modern times, while arranged marriages are less common, many Naxi people still follow some traditional marriage customs to some extent, and the wedding ceremony remains an important and joyous occasion for the families and the community.

Festivals

The Naxi people celebrate a variety of festivals throughout the year, including both traditional Naxi festivals and those influenced by other cultures. The "San朵节" (Sanduo Festival) is the most important traditional Naxi festival, dedicated to the Naxi protective deity Sanduo. During this festival, which usually takes place in the second lunar month, Naxi people gather at the Sanduo Temple to offer sacrifices, pray for good luck and a bountiful harvest, and participate in various cultural and sports activities. The Torch Festival is also celebrated by the Naxi people, especially in some areas. It is a festival of light and joy, during which people light torches and carry them around the villages to drive away evil spirits and bring good fortune. In addition, the Naxi people also celebrate some Chinese traditional festivals such as the Spring Festival and the Mid - Autumn Festival, but with some unique Naxi customs and traditions.

Diet

Naxi cuisine is a delicious blend of local ingredients and cooking methods. Staple foods include rice, wheat, and corn, which are used to make various types of dishes. Common dishes include "Naxi bacon," which is made from locally raised pork and has a unique flavor, and "Lijiang粑粑" (Lijiang pancake), a traditional Naxi snack made from flour, sugar, and oil. The Naxi people also like to eat fresh vegetables and fruits grown in the local area. They have a tradition of using local herbs and spices to flavor their food, giving it a distinct taste. Tea is an important part of Naxi diet, and the Naxi people have a long - standing tea - drinking culture. They often serve tea to guests as a sign of hospitality.

Funeral Customs

Naxi funeral customs are based on a combination of religious beliefs and traditional customs. When a person dies, the family will notify relatives and friends, and the body will be washed and dressed in clean clothes. The funeral ceremony may vary depending on the religious beliefs of the deceased. For those who follow the Dongba religion, Dongba priests will perform religious rituals to guide the soul of the deceased to the afterlife. The body is usually buried in a cemetery, and family and friends will gather to pay their respects and offer condolences. During the mourning period, special prayers and ceremonies may be held to comfort the bereaved family and祈福 (pray for blessings) for the deceased.