The Miao (苗族) is an ancient ethnic group spread across the world, primarily concentrated in the provinces of Guizhou (贵州), Hunan (湖南), Hubei (湖北), Sichuan (四川), Yunnan (云南), Guangxi (广西), Hainan (海南), as well as Southeast Asia, including Laos (老挝), Vietnam (越南), and Thailand (泰国). The Miao population also exists in countries like the United States (美国) due to migration in recent history.

According to historical records and Miao oral traditions, the ancestors of the Miao first lived in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River (黄河), with their roots traced back to Chi You (蚩尤), a legendary figure. During the Three Miao period (三苗), they migrated to the Jianghan Plain (江汉平原), and later, due to wars and other reasons, they gradually moved southward and westward into the Southwest Mountainous Areas and Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau (云贵高原). From the Ming Dynasty (明朝) and Qing Dynasty (清朝), many Miao people migrated to Southeast Asia, and more recently, to Europe and America.

Population and Language

The Miao language belongs to the Hmong-Mien language family within the Sino-Tibetan language family. It is divided into three main dialect groups: Western Hunan, Eastern Guizhou, and the Sichuan-Guizhou-Yunnan dialect. Due to the long-term interaction with the Han Chinese (汉族), many Miao people are bilingual and can also speak Chinese (中文) and use Chinese characters (汉字).

The religious beliefs of the Miao are primarily centered around nature worship and ancestor worship. According to the China Statistical Yearbook 2021, the Miao population in China is about 11 million, with a total global population of approximately 13 million.

Population and Distribution

Population: Approximately 13 million globally

Primary Distribution Areas: China, Laos (老挝), Vietnam (越南), United States (美国)

Language: Miao language

Religious Beliefs: Nature worship and ancestor worship

Historical Names: “Jingchu” (荆楚), “Jingman” (荆蛮), “Southern Barbarians” (南蛮)

Language Family: Sino-Tibetan, Miao-Yao branch

Ethnonyms and Historical Naming

The Miao people call themselves Hmub, Hmongb, Hmaob, or maob, depending on the region. In certain areas, they use terms like ghab nus, ghab Xongb, or deb songb. Other distinctions include terms like “Long Skirt Miao,” “Short Skirt Miao,” “Red Miao,” “White Miao,” “Green Miao,” and “Flower Miao.” Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, they have been collectively referred to as the Miao people in Chinese, and in English, the terms Miao or Hmong are used.

Historically, the Miao were referred to as “Jingchu,” “Jingman,” or “Southern Barbarians” during ancient times. After the Three Miao War (三苗之战) led by Emperor Yu (禹), historical records stopped referencing the “Three Miao” directly. These terms were used broadly for the Miao community, but by the Song Dynasty (宋朝), the name “Miao” emerged as the singular and formal designation for the ethnic group.

History

Legendary Era

The origins of the Miao (苗族) can be traced back to around 5,000 to 6,000 years ago during the era of the Yan Huang (炎黄) legend. At that time, the Nine Li Tribes (九黎) alliance, led by Chi You (蚩尤), emerged along the lower reaches of the Yellow River (黄河) and Yangtze River (长江). At the same time, two other major tribal groups led by Emperor Yan (炎帝) and Emperor Huang (黄帝) were formed on the Loess Plateau (黄土高原) in Shaanxi (陕西) and Gansu (甘肃) regions.

Emperor Yan and Emperor Huang developed along the Yellow River from west to east, where they fought against Chi You in the Zhuolu (涿鹿) area. Chi You initially defeated Emperor Yan, and it is said, “Chi You drove the emperor out and fought at Zhuolu, leaving no territory untouched.” Later, Emperor Yan and Emperor Huang united their forces and defeated Chi You. “During the reign of Emperor Xuanyuan, Chi You was the most violent, and no one could defeat him. Emperor Huang then summoned the lords and waged war against Chi You at Zhuolu, eventually capturing and killing him.”

After Chi You’s death, chaos spread across the world, and Emperor Huang painted a portrait of Chi You to intimidate the people, bringing peace. Following Chi You’s defeat, the majority of his Nine Li Tribes moved southward, marking the beginning of the Miao people’s long and challenging history of migration. To this day, the Miao people widely revere Chi You as their ancestor.

The Legend of Chi You in Guizhou

In the Guianling area of Guizhou (贵州), the Legend of Chi You (蚩尤神话) is still passed down. According to the legend, the Miao originally lived along the Yellow River (黄河) in “eighty-one” villages, and their leader was Chi You. Chi You rid the people of the dangerous “Eared Witch,” allowing the Miao people to live in peace and prosperity. Later, the witch’s three demon children called upon the Red Dragon (赤龙) and Yellow Dragon (黄龙) (the legendary figures of Emperor Yan and Emperor Huang) to take revenge. Chi You led the Miao people to fight bravely, repeatedly defeating the two dragons. However, the two dragons united with Lei Lao Wu (雷老五) (the Thunder God), flooding the Miao army, capturing Chi You, and burning down the “eighty-one villages.” The remaining Miao people were forced to flee to other regions.

Migrations of the Miao People

According to expert studies, the Miao people have experienced five major migrations throughout their history. These migrations were driven by both external forces and internal developments, leading to the dispersion of the Miao across different regions. Below are the details of these five major migrations:

First Major Migration

The first migration of the Miao people occurred when their ancestors, originally residing in the upper and middle reaches of the Yalong River (雅砻江), Min River (岷江), Ba River (巴江), and Jialing River (嘉陵江) in Sichuan (四川), moved eastward along the Yangtze River (长江) to the middle reaches of the river. The southern group settled between Dongting Lake (洞庭湖) and Penglai (彭蠡), while the northern group reached the Jianghan Plain (江汉平原). This migration occurred approximately tens of thousands of years ago, during the early primitive society, and was prompted by the southward expansion of the Qiang people (羌人), forcing the Miao ancestors to migrate eastward.

Second Major Migration

After living for a long time in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, the Miao people, known as the “Nine Li” (九黎), grew in strength and clashed with the Yan Emperor‘s (炎帝) tribe. They defeated the Yan Emperor’s people and pursued them north, reaching the northern banks of the Yellow River (黄河). There, the Chiyou (蚩尤) tribe, a prominent leader born among the Nine Li, became the chief of the tribe, and under his leadership, they developed military weapons. However, they were later defeated by the Yellow Emperor (黄帝) after a series of battles, and Chiyou was killed. This migration, which occurred around 4,300 to 4,600 years ago, was from south to north.

Third Major Migration

Following Chiyou’s defeat, the remnants of the Nine Li tribe retreated southward after many years of wandering. They established the Sanmiao (三苗) tribal alliance between Dongting Lake (洞庭湖) and Penglai (彭蠡). This migration, from north to south, occurred approximately 4,200 to 4,100 years ago during the time of the Yellow Emperor to Emperor Yao (唐尧).

Fourth Major Migration

The Miao people, having established the Sanmiao alliance and grown stronger, eventually faced challenges during the reign of Emperor Yao (唐尧). Fearing the strength of the Sanmiao, Emperor Shun (虞舜) ordered the division of the Sanmiao tribe into smaller groups. Some of them were exiled to Youshou (幽州), Chongshan (崇山), and Sanwei (三危). Some Miao people even escaped to the East China Sea (东海). This migration, which happened around 4,100 years ago, was marked by the disbanding of the Sanmiao alliance.

Fifth Major Migration

The final major migration of the Miao people was marked by their retreat from the Sanwei Mountains (三危山) and their subsequent journey southward. The Miao people fled through the Snow Mountains (大雪山), crossing the Yellow River (黄河), and eventually migrated toward the south, passing through Gansu (甘肃), Qinghai (青海), and the “Tibetan-Qiang Corridor” (藏彝走廊), which includes areas inhabited by yak and camel herders. This migration ultimately took them to Southwest Sichuan, Northeast Yunnan, and Northwest Guizhou, forming the foundation of Miao settlements in these regions.

A subgroup of the Miao, who were exiled to Chongshan (崇山), migrated westward, reaching the Wuling Mountains (武陵山区) and later migrating to Xiangxi (湘西), Northeast Guizhou (黔东北), Southeast Sichuan (川东南), and Southwest Hunan (湘西南). These migrations marked the gradual spread of the Miao people across multiple regions.

In addition, a group of Miao people, who had originally migrated eastward, eventually left the coast and headed west. Some believe that, around 4,000 years ago, they may have even crossed the sea and reached Japan (日本).

 The Miao’s Legacy

The Miao people’s migrations were driven by warfare, natural disasters, and other external forces. These movements shaped the modern distribution of the Miao people, who now reside primarily in Guizhou (贵州), Hunan (湖南), Sichuan (四川), Yunnan (云南), and Guangxi (广西) in China, as well as in Southeast Asia. Over time, the Miao have faced numerous challenges but have managed to preserve their rich cultural heritage, including their unique language, traditions, and beliefs.

Miao Ethnic Minority Population Distribution

The following table presents the population distribution of the Miao ethnic minority across various provinces and regions in China.

Total Miao Population in China: 9,426,007

Note: The data is based on the 2010 China Population Census, where the Miao ethnic population ranks as the fourth-largest among the country’s minority groups.

In 2021, according to the China Statistical Yearbook – 2021, the Miao population in China was reported to be 11,067,929.

Miao Ethnic Minority Distribution in China

The Miao ethnic group in China is characterized by a large dispersion and smaller concentrated settlements. While there are many people living in concentrated areas, the majority of Miao individuals live in scattered locations.

Miao Ethnic Minority Autonomous Regions

Southeast Asia Distribution

The Miao ethnic group in Southeast Asia traditionally practiced slash-and-burn agriculture (also known as Swidden farming) and a migratory lifestyle. They do not have fixed farmlands, instead planting crops like rice and poppies in areas with poor soil that can be easily depleted. After farming the land for two or three years, they would move to new areas, often returning to previously abandoned lands after a few years to let the soil recover.

Vietnam (越南)

In Vietnam (越南), most Miao people identify as “Hmong” (Hmongb), with a small percentage identifying as “Na Miao” (那苗). The Miao in Vietnam are divided into five main branches:

White Miao (Hmongbdleub), known as “Meng Dou” (蒙豆)

Black Miao (Hmongb dlob), known as “Meng Na” (蒙那)

Red Miao (Hmongb shib), known as “Meng Xi” (蒙西)

Flower or Green Miao (Hmongb Lab or Hmongbnzhuab), known as “Meng Leng” (蒙冷) or “Meng Zhu” (蒙佐)

Han Miao (Hmongb shuab), known as “Meng Shua” (蒙刷)

According to a 1991 report, there are over 500,000 Miao people in Vietnam (越南), distributed across provinces such as Ha Giang (河江省), Lai Chau (莱州省), Cao Bang (高平省), and others. The Miao in Vietnam typically live in mountainous regions with elevations between 800 and 1700 meters, characterized by steep terrain and a subtropical monsoon climate.

Laos (老挝)

In Laos (老挝), Miao people, together with Yao people, are collectively referred to as “Lao Song” (老松人) or “Mountain Top Lao” (山顶寮人), signifying their mountain-dwelling lifestyle. By the early 21st century, Laos’ Miao population had reached over 300,000. They primarily reside in provinces such as Phongsaly (丰沙里省), Oudomxay (乌端木塞省), Xayabouly (塞亚布雷省), and others, particularly in highland areas with altitudes above 1000 meters. The Miao in Laos mostly identify as “Hmong” (蒙), with the majority being “White Miao” (Hmongb), known as “Meng Dou” (蒙豆), and a smaller number identifying as “Green Miao” (Hmongb shuab).

Thailand (泰国)

In Thailand (泰国), the Miao population reaches around 132,000, making up 15.10% of the total mountain ethnic population. The Miao are mostly concentrated in the northern provinces of Chiang Mai (清迈府), Chiang Rai (清莱府), and others. Thailand’s Miao primarily identify as “Hmong” (赫蒙), with the dominant subgroup being the “White Miao” (Hmong Njew).

Myanmar (缅甸)

In Myanmar (缅甸), the Miao population is around 10,000, primarily living in the Kokang region (果敢区) of Shan State (掸邦). They claim to have migrated from Guizhou (贵州), China.

Miao Migration to Europe, America, and Australia

The Miao people from Southeast Asia migrated in large numbers to Europe, America, and Australia in the late 20th century, primarily due to the Vietnam War (越南战争) and political instability in the region. Many Miao young men enlisted in the military, while others fled to Thailand (泰国) as refugees, where they were housed in camps. Starting in 1975, they began migrating to Western countries, including the United States (美国), France (法国), Canada (加拿大), and Australia (澳大利亚).

United States (美国)

By the end of the 20th century, over 200,000 Miao people had migrated to the United States (美国), mostly from Laos (老挝). The Miao community in the U.S. is mainly concentrated in Fresno (弗雷斯诺市), California (加利福尼亚州), and other smaller communities across states like Wisconsin (威斯康星州), Michigan (密西根州), and North Carolina (北卡罗来纳州). The Miao in the U.S. primarily speak the Miao language from the southwestern dialect group of Sichuan (四川), Guizhou (贵州), and Yunnan (云南), and the vocabulary and tone are similar enough for mutual understanding.

Australia (澳大利亚)

In the late 20th century, Australia (澳大利亚) received about 1,500 Miao people, mostly concentrated in major cities on the eastern coast such as Melbourne (墨尔本), Sydney (悉尼), and Canberra (堪培拉). Most Miao in Australia belong to the “White Miao” subgroup (Hmongb Ndawb), with a smaller portion identifying as “Green Miao” (Hmongb Njua). They have established schools to teach the Miao language and traditions with the help of the Australian government.

France (法国)

In the 1970s, two groups of Miao people arrived in French Guiana (法属圭亚那), where the local government helped them establish two villages: Cocoa Village (可可村) and Jao Hei Village (加乌黑村). The government also assisted in setting up schools that taught French and Miao, preserving their cultural heritage.

Miao Ethnic Minority Culture

Language and Script

The Miao language belongs to the Hmong-Mien language family within the Sino-Tibetan language group. In the early 1950s, the second linguistic survey team from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences conducted field research on the Miao language’s structure and divided it into three main dialects:

Western Hunan Dialect (湘西方言),

Eastern Guizhou Dialect (黔东方言),

Sichuan-Guizhou-Yunnan Dialect (川黔滇方言), also referred to as Eastern, Central, and Western dialects.

There are also seven sub-dialects and eighteen local variants within these major dialect groups.

The Western Hunan Dialect (湘西方言) is spoken in regions like Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (湘西土家族苗族自治州) and parts of Hubei Province (湖北省) and Chongqing Municipality (重庆市).

The Eastern Guizhou Dialect (黔东方言) is spoken mainly in the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture (黔东南苗族侗族自治州) and parts of Guangxi (广西), Hunan (湖南), and Guizhou (贵州).

The Sichuan-Guizhou-Yunnan Dialect (川黔滇方言) is widespread across Guizhou, Sichuan, and Yunnan provinces, with numerous local variations.

Despite differences in pronunciation, over 60% of the Miao dialects remain mutually intelligible.

Miao Script

It is believed that the Miao people once had their own script, potentially related to Chinese characters, although this is largely lost to history. In the early 20th century, some Miao intellectuals created scripts for the Miao language, including the Fangkuai Miao Script (方块苗文) developed in Xiangxi (湘西) and the Shiqigui Miao Shorthand (石启贵速记苗文). Later, missionaries also developed scripts for Miao people, though these did not gain widespread usage.

In the late 1950s, Miao intellectuals developed a Latinized alphabet for the Miao language. Today, most Miao people use Chinese characters for written communication, but the Latinized script still has limited use, especially in educational settings.

Religion

Miao people have a long history of religious beliefs, with variations depending on the region. While some Miao communities practice indigenous beliefs, such as nature worship, totemism, and ancestor veneration, others have converted to Christianity or Catholicism due to the influence of foreign missionaries in places like Weining (威宁) and Shimenkan (石门坎).

Nature Worship

Miao people’s nature worship centers on celestial and earthly elements such as the sky, earth, sun, moon, stones, trees, bamboo, mountains, and bridges. For instance, in Jinping (金平) and Malipo (麻栗坡) in Yunnan (云南), Miao communities hold ceremonies to worship the “Sky God and Earth Mother” during the harvest season, seeking blessings for bountiful crops.

Totem Worship

Miao people also practice totem worship, with many different totems associated with various Miao subgroups. Common totems include the phoenix (凤凰), maple tree (枫木), butterfly (蝴蝶), divine dog (盘瓠), dragon (龙), bird (鸟), and eagle (鹰). For example, in Eastern Guizhou (黔东南), Miao ancestors worshipped the maple tree (枫木) as their totem, while in other areas, the butterfly is revered, and the myth of the “Butterfly Mother” (蝴蝶妈妈) is central to their beliefs.

Ancestor Worship

Ancestor worship is still widely practiced in Miao communities today. In places like Guizhou (贵州) and Hunan (湖南), large-scale cattle-sacrificing ceremonies are held during festivals, particularly for the spirits of ancestors. The Miao people of Xiangxi (湘西) venerate the “Nuo Gong” (傩公) and “Nuo Mu” (傩母), regarded as their ancestral spirits.

Shamanistic Beliefs

Shamanistic practices are common among the Miao, with a belief in both benevolent and malevolent spirits. Shamans serve as intermediaries between the human and spiritual worlds and are highly respected within Miao society. They perform rituals like divination, exorcism, and soul retrieval to protect the community and ensure prosperity.

Clothing

Miao clothing is known for its vivid colors and intricate designs. Miao women’s attire, which includes over 100 different styles, is considered one of the most elaborate among Chinese ethnic groups. The traditional “formal dress” typically features various headpieces, including silver accessories, and vibrant embroidered patterns.

Miao women generally wear narrow-sleeved, wide-collared jackets paired with pleated skirts, either long or short, depending on the occasion. In daily wear, they often cover their heads with cloth, wear a short jacket, and embroidered pants. Miao men’s clothing is simpler, typically consisting of a short, right-shouldered coat or long robe, often worn with woolen cloaks decorated with geometric patterns.

Surnames

Miao surnames can be broadly categorized into two types: Miao surnames (苗姓) and Han surnames (汉姓). Historically, the Miao had their own system of surnames, but due to the lack of a written script for their language, many Miao adopted Chinese surnames. However, there are still many Miao surnames passed down through generations, especially within specific dialect regions.

Surnames in Different Regions

In the Eastern Hunan (湘西) dialect area, the six main Miao surnames are:

• Ghob Xot (仡削),

• Ghob Miel (仡芈),

• Ghob Ghueas (仡欢),

• Ghob Khad (仡卡),

• Ghob Lel (仡莱),

• Ghob Kheat (仡刊).

In the Eastern Guizhou (黔东方言) dialect region, common surnames include Fang (方), Li (黎), Xiang (向), and others.

The Sichuan-Guizhou-Yunnan (川黔滇方言) dialect region has numerous surnames due to the complexity of dialects and local subgroups. Some of the most prominent surnames in this area include Meng (蒙), with several branches such as Meng Zhou (蒙周), Meng Dang (蒙当), and Meng Ye (蒙耶).

Miao Ethnic Minority Literature

Concept

Miao literature can be divided into two main categories: folk literature and official literature. Folk literature refers to the oral traditions passed down through generations, while official literature involves written works created for the purpose of recording, spreading, and composing literary works. Folk literature is the most vital form of literature for any ethnic group, and it has strong primal vitality. The primary form of folk literature is poetic songs that can be chanted. Official literature, on the other hand, evolved from folk traditions and is characterized by being recorded and spread in written Chinese.

Folk Literature

Miao poetry is characterized by rhythm and rhyme, and it uses both five-character and seven-character lines, as well as a mix of long and short verses. The language is concise, harmonious, balanced, and easy to understand, expressing rich emotions and thoughts with strong artistic appeal. It is the most important form of Miao folk literature and is widely used in various life scenarios, such as:

Welcoming and bidding farewell to relatives and friends,

Love songs between men and women,

Mediation of disputes,

Formulation of local customs and rules,

Education of children,

Narration of family history and rules, and

Sometimes even using songs for practical purposes such as work motivation.

Creation Myths

The Miao people have ancient mythological songs that narrate the origin of the world, the sun, moon, and the creation of life. Famous examples include The Song of the Opening of the World (开天辟地歌) and The Song of the Origin of All Things (万物起源歌).

Ancestral Songs

Ancestral songs tell the stories of the origin of humans and the migration of Miao people. These include songs like The Song of Human Origin (人类起源歌) and The Song of the Great Flood (洪水滔天). These songs often reflect historical realities in an indirect manner and carry significant value for historical research.

Social and Ethical Songs

Social songs reflect the Miao people’s ancient social structure, narrating social ethics and behavioral norms. These songs encourage people to avoid evil and embrace good. They also provide guidance on moral behavior.

Migration Songs

The Miao people have a long history of migration, and each Miao community has its own migration songs. Famous examples include Crossing Mountains and Rivers (跋山涉水) from Qiandongnan (黔东南), Fixing Marriages (修相修玛) from Songtao (松桃) and Tongren (铜仁), and Yang Lu’s Story (杨鲁话) from Northwestern Guizhou (黔西北). These migration songs depict epic struggles between people and nature and are valuable for studying Miao history.

Uprising Songs

Also known as resistance songs, these compositions mainly denounce the darkness of the old society and celebrate the people’s resistance struggles. Representative examples include The Song of Zhang Xiumei (张秀眉之歌) from Qiandongnan (黔东南), Liu Tiancheng (柳天成) from Qiannan (黔南), and Tao Xinchun (陶新春) from Northwestern Guizhou (黔西北). These songs are passionate and full of combat spirit.

Work Songs

Many Miao communities have work songs, with the most complete collection found in Qiandongnan (黔东南). Examples include The Song of Embroidery (刺绣歌), The Song of Cotton Planting (种棉歌), The Song of Spinning and Weaving (纺纱织布歌), and The Song of Dyeing (蜡染歌). These songs are generally motivational, encouraging people to work hard and create a better life.

Love Songs

These songs are sung by young men and women expressing their love for each other. The lyrics are subtle, beautiful, and lyrical. The songs include declarations of love, question-and-answer forms, and often use nature or objects to express emotions.

Miao Wedding Songs

These songs reflect the evolution of Miao marriage customs, from clan-endogamy to exogamy, and from matriarchy to patriarchy. Famous examples include Brother and Sister Marrying (兄妹结婚), The Song of Marriage (开亲歌), The Song of the Bride’s Departure (男妇出嫁), and The Song of Changing Brides (换嫁歌) from different Miao regions. These songs are invaluable resources for studying the history of Miao marriage practices.

Official Literature

Miao official literature is more formal and structured compared to folk literature. The earliest representative figure of Miao official literature is Qu Yuan (屈原), although this is debated. A more widely accepted figure is Shen Congwen (沈从文), who is considered the true Miao writer. In recent years, numerous Miao authors have emerged, but few have had the same wide-reaching influence as Shen Congwen.

Miao Ethnic Minority: Science and Medicine

Astronomy and Calendars

The Miao people have a rich tradition of astronomical knowledge and have developed various types of calendars throughout history. These calendars evolved from early systems like the Xinfeng Calendar (信风历), Doubing Calendar (斗柄历), Lienshan Calendar (连山历), Tiansuo Yili Calendar (天索易历), Houchong Calendar (候虫历), Houbird Calendar (候鸟历), Wuhou Calendar (物候历), to advanced forms such as the Xingxiang Calendar (星象历), Solar Calendar (太阳历), Lunar Calendar (太阴历), and Combined Solar-Lunar Calendar (阴阳合历). While the early forms (like the Xinfeng Calendar) were more rudimentary, the advanced forms were based on astronomical observations and represented a more sophisticated understanding of the cosmos.

One of the historical Miao calendars, the Can Calendar (参历), originated from the Xia Dynasty (夏朝), derived from the Fuxi Taihao Long Calendar (伏羲太昊龙历). It used the Can Star (参宿) as a reference point for determining the months and was structured as a Ten-Month Solar Calendar. This calendar divided the year into two halves, consisting of five seasons, each with two months. The year had 360 days, with an additional 5 to 6 days called the Over-Year Days (过年日), which were not counted in either the old or new year.

Another calendar system used by the Miao people was the 84-Year Cycle Calendar (苗族八十四年历进制), which used an 84-day period as a counting cycle. Every day within this period had a specific name with symbolic meaning, such as otter, swan, and others. This calendar was described in ancient texts like “Miao Mythology Research” (苗族神话研究) and “Bazhai County Chronicles Draft” (八寨县志稿), and it played a key role in understanding the Miao’s cultural and spiritual practices.

Miao Medicine and Herbal Remedies

The Miao people reside in mountainous regions rich in medicinal plants, with a variety of species, large quantities, and excellent quality that surpass many plains regions. The range of medicinal herbs is vast, with more than 1500 species, of which 200 are commonly used. Some of the most well-known medicinal plants include various types of blood vines (血藤), iron chopsticks (铁筷子), hundred-gold vine (百金条), white dragon whiskers (白龙须), blue cloth zheng (蓝布正), earth star dormitory (地星宿), fruit leaves (果上叶), black bone vine (黑骨藤), flying dragon palm blood (飞龙掌血), wild aconite (草乌), big wind vine (大风藤), octopus gold (八爪金), epimedium (淫羊藿), sea sand (海金沙), and bone-penetrating fragrance (透骨香).

In addition to these common herbs, the Miao people also use rare medicinal plants like Star Anise Lotus (八角莲), September-born Herb (九月生), Golden Iron Lock (金铁锁), One Arrow Herb (一支箭), Immortal Peach Herb (仙桃草), Pangolin (穿山甲), Peace Grass (和气草), and medicinal Lingzhi Mushrooms (菌灵芝). These herbs are sometimes available for sale in local medicinal markets.

Across the large areas where Miao communities are concentrated, many medicinal plant cultivation bases have been established. These plants are actively cultivated for use in medicines, health products, and cosmetics. Some herbs have been incorporated into regional hospital formularies for use in medical treatments. Additionally, certain effective traditional remedies from Miao folklore have been identified, organized, and included in the “Ethnic Medicine Local Standards” (民族药地方标准), showcasing their potential for development into more widely available and scientifically tested treatments.

Miao Ethnic Minority: Arts and Culture

Traditional Music and Dance

The Miao people are known for their strong musical traditions, with songs and dances playing an integral part in their culture. Feige (飞歌), or “Flying Song,” is a unique and highly expressive form of folk music that is popular in southeastern Guizhou (贵州). It is characterized by powerful and energetic melodies, often sung loudly in the mountains. The songs include a variety of themes such as love songs, political songs, and others. Performances can be solo, duet, or group singing, often with impromptu lyrics.

Another distinctive musical form is Gabaifu (嘎百福歌), a type of narrative song popular in southeastern Guizhou, based on local folk poems and legends. The lyrics often reflect real-life events such as social disputes or daily life occurrences.

Miao culture also includes Pan Ge (盘歌), a traditional form of call-and-response singing. Young Miao men and women use this form of singing to express their feelings and showcase their talents. If a man wishes to court a woman, he must engage in a Pan Ge session, where both parties sing in turn to demonstrate their abilities. In the event of a successful exchange, the couple may agree to marry.

Miao musical instruments include the Lusheng (芦笙), a bamboo pipe, Suona (唢呐), Xiao (箫), Huqin (胡琴), and Yueqin (月琴), which are all essential in traditional performances and dances.

Miao Dance

The Miao people’s traditional dances are often accompanied by the Lusheng (芦笙) and are a central part of their festive celebrations. The Lusheng Dance (芦笙舞) is performed during various festivals, such as Lantern Festival (正月十五), March 3rd Festival (三月三), and Double Ninth Festival (重阳节), as well as for events like housewarming, harvest celebrations, and weddings. Typically, men lead the dance by playing the Lusheng, while others form a circle and dance energetically. The dance features intricate foot movements and is known for its lively atmosphere and the competition between dancers.

In Guizhou’s (贵州) Huaxi (花溪) district, young Miao men and women often gather during festivals to dance the Lusheng Dance. Women join the dance while also playing the Lusheng, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The circle formation of the dancers is akin to flowers blooming in a garden, or butterflies dancing in the air.

Architecture: Miao Stilt Houses

Miao architecture is uniquely adapted to the mountainous terrain they occupy. Due to their history of migration, Miao buildings have evolved distinctive features. Miao houses are generally wooden structures, usually built in three levels. The first floor is often used for storage or as a stable for animals, the second floor is the main living area, and the third floor serves as a granary. Some houses feature a “Meiren Kuo” (美人靠), a lookout platform for young women, where they can observe their surroundings and attract potential suitors.

In southeastern Guizhou (贵州), many Miao people live in stilt houses (吊脚楼), which are built on slopes. The foundation is shaped like a “factory” (厂), with long wooden posts supporting the structure. This design allows the houses to withstand the region’s rugged terrain and climate.

Miao Embroidery: A Craft of Tradition

Miao embroidery (苗族刺绣) is a well-known handcraft in Miao culture and represents the creativity and skill of Miao women. The embroidery features intricate patterns of dragons, birds, flowers, and other symbolic motifs, and is often used to decorate Miao clothing. The techniques used include flat stitch, picking stitch, pile stitch, lock stitch, appliqué stitch, and many more, each creating a different texture and effect.

Miao embroidery comes in two main types: single-color embroidery (单色绣), which uses primarily blue thread and has a simpler design, and colorful embroidery (彩色绣), which uses multiple colors to create vibrant and detailed designs. The latter often depicts scenes from nature, such as flowers, birds, and animals, with intricate patterns that seem to come to life.

Batik: A Miao Tradition

Batik (蜡染) is another significant art form among the Miao people, particularly in Danzhai (丹寨), Anshun (安顺), and Zhijin (织金) counties in Guizhou (贵州). This technique involves applying wax to fabric to create intricate patterns before dyeing the cloth. Batik has been passed down through generations, with each Miao woman learning the craft from a young age. The designs are symbolic and often depict elements of Miao life, such as animals, plants, and traditional rituals.

Batik is used to create everyday items such as clothing, bed linens, bags, and ceremonial garments. It is a deeply rooted tradition in Miao culture, representing both artistic expression and practical necessity. The wax dyeing process (蜡染技艺) is an essential part of the cultural heritage, and it has been designated as a national intangible cultural heritage (国家级非遗).

Miao Ethnic Minority: Customs and Social Structure

Drum Society System

Before the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the Miao people were organized into Drum Societies (鼓社), groups that were united by a common male ancestor. A Drum Society typically consisted of one or several natural villages of the same clan, ranging from a few dozen to several hundred or even a thousand households. Each society had a central Drum Ancestor Shrine (鼓祭祖), where people from the same society gathered for religious festivals, following shared traditions, regional beliefs, and customs. They wore the same clothes and spoke the same dialect. A Drum Society was often referred to as a “Black Society” (黑社), while subgroups within the society were known as “White Societies” (白社).

The society was governed by several leaders, including the Drum Heads (鼓头), who were responsible for leading various affairs, such as religious rituals, dispute resolution, and the maintenance of clan honor. These leaders included positions such as the Leader of the Drum Ancestor Shrine (果略), Leader of the Singing (果叙), Leader of the Rituals (果熙), and others collectively known as the “Nine Drum Heads” (鼓社九鼓头). The highest decision-making body was the Drum Society Assembly (鼓社节), held every 13 years, where major issues like social regulations, leadership elections, and the society’s customs were discussed. The Drum Society played a key role in organizing and developing the society’s economy, resolving marriage disputes, fostering population growth, and upholding military functions, including the defense of clan honor and vengeance.

However, the Drum Society system has largely disappeared in most areas, with the exception of the central dialect regions of Southeastern Guizhou (黔东南), where it continues to hold cultural significance.

Yilang System

The Yilang (议榔) system refers to the organization of villages or rural communes that were composed of families from different clans, creating a regional political and economic alliance. The system goes by different names in various Miao areas: it is called “Goulang” or “Gouhang” (构榔) in Southeastern Guizhou (黔东南), “Zaiyan” (栽岩) or “Maiyan” (埋岩) in Guangxi (广西), “He Kuan” (合款) in Western Hunan (湘西), and “Conghui” (丛会) or “Lishuo Huiyi” (里社会议) in Jinping County (金平县) of Yunnan (云南).

The Yilang Assembly (议榔大会) was the highest authority, where leaders were elected, and agreements or regulations were discussed. The assembly was tasked with addressing major issues, such as land disputes, marriage conflicts, and even military mobilization. In the Miao society, the head of a Yilang was known as the Yilang Head (榔头), with other positions like Military Leaders (老虎汉), Priests (祭司), and Judicial Officers (理老) managing various affairs. The Yilang was vital in maintaining local order, organizing collective actions, and enforcing customary laws.

Over time, the role of the Yilang system evolved in some regions, especially with the rise of class differentiation. In Southeastern Guizhou (黔东南), some of the village leaders took on roles such as Land Head (甲长) or Security Head (保长), becoming landowners and using the Yilang system to protect their interests. Despite these changes, the Yilang system has persisted in many Miao regions and now serves as an important supplement to local government structures, maintaining social order and contributing to economic stability.

Village Elder System

The Village Elder (理老) system is another traditional social structure in Miao communities. Village Elders were natural leaders, not elected or hereditary, and played a crucial role in resolving disputes and maintaining order. There were three levels of Village Elders:

Village Elder (寨老): Managed conflicts within a single village.

Clan Elder (鼓公): Mediated issues within the clan or Drum Society.

Regional Elder (勾珈 or 大理头): Handled more significant disputes across multiple villages.

The Village Elders were respected for their knowledge of traditional customs and laws, their ability to mediate disputes, and their integrity. Their influence was critical in ensuring that the community’s customs and social order were upheld, and they were viewed with high regard by the Miao people. In modern times, the role of Village Elders has diminished but continues to hold cultural significance in some areas.

Miao Ethnic Minority: Food and Dietary Customs

Traditional Miao Cuisine

The Miao ethnic minority has distinct dietary customs, influenced by their geographic location and cultural practices. In areas such as Southeastern Guizhou (黔东南), Western Hunan (湘西), Hainan Island (海南岛), and Guangxi Rongshui (广西融水), the Miao people primarily consume rice, along with other grains such as corn, sweet potatoes, and millet. In contrast, in regions like Northwestern Guizhou (黔西北), Southwestern Sichuan (川南), and Northeastern Yunnan (滇东北), corn, potatoes, buckwheat, and oats are more common staples.

Accompaniments and Fermented Dishes

Miao cuisine is rich in variety, and its accompaniments often include home-raised meats (such as poultry, livestock, and fish) and vegetables like beans, cabbage, and gourds. Additionally, wild vegetables are foraged, and fishing and hunting supplement their diet. Sour and spicy flavors are essential in Miao food, as these two tastes dominate their culinary experience. Historically, due to the lack of salt in mountainous areas, the Miao people became accustomed to sour and spicy flavors, which eventually became a part of their food culture.

Miao people are particularly fond of sour dishes, with almost every household making their own sour soup, pickled vegetables, and sour-spicy foods. Sour Soup Fish (酸汤鱼) is one of the most famous Miao dishes, known for its tender fish and fresh, fragrant broth.

Alcohol and Tea Traditions

The Miao people are also known for their love of alcohol. It is customary to drink alcohol during breaks from work to relieve fatigue, during visits from friends and relatives, and on festive occasions. In many areas, it is common to sing drinking songs while toasting guests. In the border regions between Hunan (湖南), Guangxi (广西), and Guizhou (贵州), the Miao people also drink Oiled Tea (油茶), which is not only a welcoming drink for guests but also consumed before or after meals. In some regions, Fried Rice Tea (炒米茶) is a special drink served during New Year celebrations or to entertain important guests.

Sour Soup

Sour Soup is made by fermenting rice soup or tofu water in a clay pot for 3-5 days. Once fermented, it is used to cook meats, fish, and vegetables. Preserving food through pickling is a common practice among the Miao, and vegetables, poultry, fish, and meat are often pickled to achieve a sour taste. Every Miao household usually has a pickling jar, known as the Sour Jar (酸坛), where fermented foods are stored.

Miao people have a long history of brewing alcohol, with a complete process involving fermentation, distillation, and aging. Oiled Tea is a popular daily beverage among the Miao, and some areas also make Wan Hua Tea (万花茶), a special tea variety. Certain Miao subgroups, such as the Yang (杨) family, have dietary taboos, such as avoiding pig hearts, but there are no widespread food restrictions apart from these.

Sticky Rice

Sticky Rice (糯米饭) is a staple in Miao cuisine and holds an important place in Miao life. It is loved by all ages, as it is considered filling and flavorful. People believe that sticky rice is more satisfying than plain rice and can be eaten without vegetables or chopsticks, making it very convenient to eat with hands. Sticky rice is often used in gifts during family visits and is also the main food for various festivals, such as Sisters’ Festival (姊妹节). Popular sticky rice dishes include steamed sticky rice, colored sticky rice, dumplings, rice cakes, and more.

Black Herb Stewed Chicken

Black Herb Stewed Chicken (小黑药炖鸡) is a delicacy served when guests visit Miao villages. The chicken is cooked with Black Herb (草三角枫), a perennial herb known for its medicinal properties. This herb is used to treat kidney deficiency, asthma, and other ailments. The stewed chicken has a unique fragrance, tender meat, and rich broth, and it is considered a nourishing dish, especially for postpartum women. This dish is regarded as both a gourmet treat and a medicinal remedy.

Taboos in Miao Culture

Everyday Life Taboos

In some Miao regions, there are taboos around washing food containers like rice baskets and bowls, which are only cleaned when new rice is harvested, as a way to welcome the new year’s rice. Drinking raw water from mountain streams is also forbidden unless it has been purified with a plant marker. Other common taboos include not touching clothing left by others by the roadside, avoiding children playing with small bows and arrows inside the house (for fear they might accidentally shoot an ancestor), and refraining from sitting on the same long bench as elders.

Birth-Related Taboos

New mothers have specific taboos, such as preventing outsiders from entering the birthing room. If someone mistakenly enters, they must wash their feet and drink a cup of cold water to prevent “drying up” the mother’s milk. New mothers are also forbidden from eating certain foods like beef from old cows, pork, rooster meat, small fish, and spicy foods.

Agricultural Taboos

Miao farmers follow several taboos related to agricultural practices. For instance, they are not supposed to meet outsiders when returning from fertilizing fields for the first time each year, and if they see fish in the rice fields, they avoid mentioning it, as it is believed that speaking of fish will harm the crops.

Funerary Taboos

There are specific funeral customs in Miao culture. In some areas, it is considered inappropriate for men to die during the day and women to die at night, as it is believed that their souls need to be accompanied by a member of the opposite sex. The family may invite a shaman to perform rituals to “correct” the death. Miao funeral customs also dictate that no iron, copper, or cotton objects should be placed in the coffin, as these are believed to prevent the deceased from getting water during their journey back to the East.

Miao Ethnic Minority: Festivals

The Miao ethnic minority is a people with a rich ancient civilization, and their festivals are distinct and full of tradition. The Miao people’s traditional festivals can be categorized based on their functional meanings:

Agricultural Festivals

Trade and Exchange Festivals

Social, Romantic, and Courtship Festivals

Sacrificial Festivals

Commemorative and Celebratory Festivals

Monthly Festivals and Activities

The Miao people divide the year into twelve months, with each month having one or more significant festival days.

January (鼠月 or 子月)

1–15th: New Year Festival (玩年节), with the first day marking Heavenly Age Festival (天岁节) where Miao people stay indoors, refraining from traveling far. The Earth Age Festival (地岁节) occurs on the first Chou Day (丑日), and between the first and second Chou Days, people visit relatives, exchange New Year greetings, and engage in activities like singing, dancing with dragon lanterns, and lion dances. The Tail Year Festival (尾巴年) is celebrated on the second Yin Day (寅日), with the burning of dragon lanterns.

February (兔月 or 卯月)

First Wei Day (未日): Ox King Festival (牛王节) also known as the April 8th Festival. This festival is for socializing between men and women and is celebrated with events like the Cherry Blossom Festival (樱桃会) and Buddha’s Birthday (佛生日).

March (龙月 or 辰月)

First Chen Day (辰日) and the second Yin Day (寅日) mark the Lesser Dragon Boat Festival (小端午节) and Greater Dragon Boat Festival (大端午节), respectively. The Lesser Dragon Boat Festival later evolved into a celebration in memory of the patriotic poet Qu Yuan (屈原), also known as Qu Yuan Festival (屈原节) or Song Master Festival (歌师节).

April (蛇月 or 巳月)

First Si Day (巳日): Dragon Festival (降龙节), also referred to as June 6th Festival (六月六), and New Grain Festival (吃新节), celebrating the maturity of barley.

May (马月 or 午月)

First Zi Day (子日): Lesser New Year Festival (小年节) or Seven Sisters Festival (七姊妹节) celebrating the Seven Stars of the Big Dipper (北斗七星).

June (羊月 or 未月)

Second Yin Day (寅日): Duck Festival (鸭节), followed by Autumn Festival (赶秋节) on the second Chen Day (辰日).

July (猴月 or 申月)

First Shen Day (申日): Wine Festival (酒节), celebrating the harvest of glutinous rice and the brewing of sweet rice wine.

August (鸡月 or 酉月)

Sacrifice Festival (祭祀节), which involves rituals such as slaughtering cattle, preparing pig dishes, and holding ceremonies to honor ancestors and spirits.

September (狗月 or 戌月)

Hunting Festival (狩猎节), where the Miao people perform sacrificial rites to the Three Gods of Meishan (梅山三神) and begin the hunting season.

October (猪月 or 亥月)

Mao Day (卯日) and Wu Day (午日): Pig Slaughtering Festival (吃猪泡汤节), when the New Year’s Pig (年猪) is slaughtered. This month also celebrates Kitchen God Festival (灶神节) and New Year’s Eve (大年夜), known as the Miao New Year (苗人十月过年).

Local and Regional Festivals

In addition to these widely recognized festivals, the Miao people also celebrate several regional and clan-specific festivals that reflect their unique local culture and traditions. One example is the Flower Mountain Festival (花山节), celebrated by certain Miao subgroups in different regions.