· Origin
The ancestors of the Tu people can be traced back to the ancient Xianbei tribes. Over time, through a series of migrations, interactions with other ethnic groups, and cultural assimilation, they gradually formed the modern - day Tu ethnic group. Some historical records suggest that they had connections with the Tuyuhun Kingdom, which once existed in the northwestern regions of China. The Tuyuhun people had a significant impact on the formation and development of the Tu culture.

· Development
Historically, the Tu people were mainly engaged in agriculture, supplemented by animal husbandry and handicrafts. They cultivated crops such as wheat, barley, and potatoes in the high - altitude areas of Qinghai. Animal husbandry mainly involved raising sheep, cattle, and horses. Handicrafts, including weaving, pottery - making, and metal - working, were also well - developed. The Tu people had a close relationship with neighboring ethnic groups such as the Tibetans, Mongolians, and Han Chinese, through which they exchanged cultural elements, technologies, and trade goods.

· Modern Times
In modern times, with the development of the economy and social progress, the Tu people have experienced significant changes. The government has implemented various policies to promote economic development in Tu - inhabited areas, improving infrastructure such as transportation, communication, and education. The Tu people have actively participated in the modernization process, while also making efforts to preserve and promote their traditional culture. Tourism has become an important industry, attracting visitors to experience the unique Tu culture and beautiful natural landscapes.

· Quantity
As of the 7th National Population Census in 2020, the Tu population in China is approximately 271,935, making them one of the smaller ethnic minorities in the country.

· Distribution
The majority of the Tu people live in Huzhu Tu Autonomous County, Minhe Tu and Hui Autonomous County, and Datong Hui and Tu Autonomous County in Qinghai Province. These areas are characterized by high - altitude plateaus, mountains, and rivers, which have influenced the Tu way of life. A small number of Tu people have migrated to other parts of China for work, study, or cultural exchange, contributing to the spread of Tu culture.

· Quantity
As of the 7th National Population Census in 2020, the Tu population in China is approximately 271,935, making them one of the smaller ethnic minorities in the country.

· Distribution
The majority of the Tu people live in Huzhu Tu Autonomous County, Minhe Tu and Hui Autonomous County, and Datong Hui and Tu Autonomous County in Qinghai Province. These areas are characterized by high - altitude plateaus, mountains, and rivers, which have influenced the Tu way of life. A small number of Tu people have migrated to other parts of China for work, study, or cultural exchange, contributing to the spread of Tu culture.

· Language and Script
The Tu language belongs to the Altaic language family, with some similarities to Mongolic languages. However, it has its own unique vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The Tu people originally did not have a written script. In modern times, they use the Chinese characters to write the Tu language for communication and education purposes. Efforts are being made to standardize the Tu written language and develop educational materials to promote the use and preservation of the Tu language.

· Religious Beliefs
The Tu people have a complex religious belief system. Tibetan Buddhism has a significant influence on their culture, with many Tu people visiting Buddhist temples and participating in religious activities. Shamanism is also deeply rooted in Tu culture, with shamans playing important roles in religious ceremonies, healing, and divination. In addition, some traditional folk beliefs still exist, such as the worship of natural spirits and ancestors. These beliefs are often intertwined with religious practices, forming a unique spiritual world for the Tu people.

· Clothing
Traditional Tu clothing is colorful and distinctive, reflecting their cultural identity and aesthetic preferences. Men usually wear long - sleeved shirts, wide - legged trousers, and a short jacket. They may also wear a hat made of felt or fur, which provides protection from the cold. In winter, they wear heavy fur coats. Women's clothing is more elaborate, with long - sleeved dresses featuring intricate embroidery and colorful patterns. They often wear a variety of jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings, which are made of silver, coral, and turquoise. The headscarf is an important part of women's attire, and it can be decorated with beads, sequins, or embroidery.

· Literature
Tu literature has a rich oral tradition, including folk tales, epics, and proverbs. Folk tales often feature moral lessons and cultural wisdom, passed down from generation to generation through storytelling. The Tu epics, although not as well - known as some other ethnic epics, reflect the history, values, and beliefs of the Tu people. In recent years, there has been an increasing effort to collect, translate, and publish Tu literature to make it more accessible to a wider audience. Some Tu writers have also started to write in Chinese, introducing Tu culture to a broader readership.

· Transportation
In the past, due to the mountainous and plateau terrain of their habitat, the Tu people mainly relied on horses, mules, and yaks for transportation. These animals were well - adapted to the local environment and could travel long distances across the mountains and plateaus. In modern times, with the development of infrastructure, motorcycles, cars, and buses have become common means of transportation in Tu - inhabited areas. However, in some remote mountainous areas, horses and mules are still used for transportation, especially for carrying goods and accessing remote villages.

· Medicine
Traditional Tu medicine has a long history and is influenced by both Tibetan medicine and traditional Chinese medicine. Tu healers, known as "bonpos," 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 Tu medical practices include herbal remedies, massage, and acupuncture. In recent years, with the improvement of medical conditions in Tu - inhabited areas, traditional Tu medicine has been integrated with modern medical systems to provide more comprehensive medical services for the people.

· Calendar
The Tu people have their own traditional calendar, which is based on a combination of lunar and solar cycles. The traditional calendar is closely related to agricultural activities, religious festivals, and daily life. It divides the year into 12 months and has specific names for each month, which are often associated with natural phenomena or agricultural events. 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
Tu music is characterized by its unique melodies and rhythms, often reflecting the natural environment, religious beliefs, and daily life of the Tu people. Folk songs are an important form of Tu music, covering topics such as love, labor, and the beauty of nature. Traditional Tu musical instruments include the "huluqin" (a two - stringed bowed instrument), "kouxi" (a wind instrument), and various types of drums. During religious festivals, weddings, and other important celebrations, Tu people gather together to sing and play music, creating a joyful and lively atmosphere.

· Dance
Tu 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 "Sheep - Herding Dance" imitates the movements of sheep - herding, showing the Tu people's close relationship with animals. The "Rain - Praying Dance" is performed during droughts, with dancers praying for rain through their movements. The dancers often wear traditional clothing, adding to the visual appeal of the performances.

· Architecture
Traditional Tu architecture is adapted to the local climate and geographical conditions. In mountainous areas, Tu houses are often built with stones and wood, with sloping roofs to prevent the accumulation of snow and rain. The houses usually have a central courtyard, which serves as a space for family activities and social gatherings. In some areas, Tu people also build earth - houses, which are warm in winter and cool in summer. In modern times, with the influence of modern architecture, some new buildings have been constructed in Tu - inhabited areas, but traditional architectural elements are still preserved in many places.

· Arts and Crafts
Tu arts and crafts are renowned for their fine workmanship and unique designs. Traditional Tu crafts include weaving, pottery - making, and metal - working. Tu textiles are famous for their colorful patterns and high - quality materials. They are often used to make clothing, blankets, and wall hangings. Tu pottery is made from local clay and has a distinctive style, with simple yet elegant shapes. Tu metal - working, especially silver - smithing, produces high - quality jewelry and decorative items, which are popular among both the Tu people and tourists.

· Etiquette
Tu etiquette is based on respect, hospitality, and politeness. When guests arrive at a Tu 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 Tu 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
Tu 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 livestock, jewelry, and clothing. 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 Tu 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 Tu people celebrate a variety of festivals throughout the year, including both traditional Tu festivals and those influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and other religions. The "Nadun Festival" is an important traditional Tu festival, which is usually held in the seventh or eighth month of the lunar calendar. During this festival, people gather together to perform dances, sing songs, and engage in various sports activities. It is a time for the community to come together, celebrate the harvest, and祈福 (pray for blessings) for a good future. The "Tibetan New Year" and other Buddhist festivals are also celebrated by the Tu people who follow Tibetan Buddhism, involving religious prayers, family gatherings, and the sharing of food.

· Diet
Tu cuisine is a delicious blend of agricultural and nomadic influences. Staple foods include wheat, barley, and potatoes, which are used to make a variety of dishes such as noodles, steamed buns, and porridge. Meat, especially lamb and beef, is also an important part of the Tu diet. Common dishes include "tuo tuo meat," which is a kind of stewed meat, and "hand - pulled noodles." The Tu people also like to drink tea, especially butter tea, which is made from tea leaves, butter, and salt. Tea is an important part of their diet and is often served to guests as a sign of hospitality.

· Funeral Customs
Tu 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 Tibetan Buddhism, the body may be cremated or buried according to Buddhist rituals. Family and friends will gather to pay their respects and offer condolences. During the mourning period, special prayers and religious ceremonies may be held to comfort the bereaved family and祈福 (pray for blessings) for the deceased.