Dulongjiang Township, also known as the “secret land of southwest China,” sits in the deep Nujiang Valley with harsh climatic and geographical conditions. For decades, over 4,000 Derung people lived in hay huts on mountain slopes. It was one the most poorest areas in southwest China’s Yunnan Province and even the entire country.
Since 1964, the only way out of Dulongjiang was a bridle path suitable just for horse riding.
“Villagers took this path for going to cities for shopping or going to schools. Sometimes we needed to climb up the mountain crest as well,” Wang Shirong, head of Bapo Village in Duloangjiang Township, told CGTN.
On September 9, 1999, the first Dulongjiang Highway was constructed over a 3000-meter snowline on the Gaoligong Mountains with an investment of more than 100 million yuan (14.5 million U.S. dollars), ending Dulongjiang’s decades-long isolation.
However, the only way to communicate with the outside world was blocked due to heavy snow from November to May the next year.
In 2014, the 6.68-kilometer Gaoligong Mountain Tunnel was ready for use, putting an end to the seasonal isolation of Dulongjiang. The highway shortened Dulongjiang’s distance from the nearest city, Cikai, to 80 kilometers from 96.2 kilometers, reducing the driving time from eight hours to less than two hours.
The development of basic transportation has provided Dulongjiang with opportunities to get rid of poverty. Today, well-constructed roads, electricity, radio and television, and mobile 4G network have reached 28 villages in Dulongjiang Township along with other infrastructural facilities.
More than 1,000 families have moved into newly-built houses on the foothills of the Gaoligong Mountains. The per capita economic income of Dulongjiang increased from 805 yuan (117 U.S. dollars) in 2008 to 6122 yuan (887 U.S. dollars) in 2018, lifting the entire Derung ethnic group out of poverty.
“Now that the bridges and roads are well-constructed, and our Derung people can connect to the outside world,” said Wang.
Profile
Lu Jiya(路济亚) is a skillful woman who was born in 1957, a Bangda villager of Dulong Nu Autonomous County, Gongshan(迪庆贡山县棒打村民).
Personal Experiences
Her father is a Nu ethnic minority. Though her mother is Tibetan ethnic minority. Due to the influence of geographical environment, her mother know very well about the process of making felt textile craft(毡子纺织技艺). Under the influence of her mother, she began to learn the textile technology of Nu blankets in her teens. After the age of 16, she mastered all kinds of carpets. She is a local textile expert of making textile craft.
Achievement
She is the first batch of inheritor of provincial intangible cultural heritage.
Chinese Version: http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2677.html
Translated by Lynette Fu/ 付云锐
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Like other inheritors of bamboo weaving traditions in various regions, Azhen (阿真) began learning bamboo weaving skills from a young age. Through years of diligent practice, he has mastered the complete process of bamboo weaving—from selecting materials, splitting bamboo, slicing bamboo strips, to weaving techniques and methods of assembling and binding. He is capable of skillfully turning bamboo into thin strips and weaving them into a variety of exquisite handicrafts, such as bamboo trays (竹盘) and bamboo baskets (竹箩).
Commitment to Tradition
Bamboo weaving is a cultural treasure of ethnic heritage. As an inheritor, Azhen (阿真) deeply understands its significance and therefore spares no effort in passing down and promoting this traditional craft. Like the bamboo weavers of Dulongjiang Township (独龙江乡), who face the challenge of traditional handcrafts becoming lost over generations, he may actively participate in various training sessions and exchange events, continuously learning new weaving techniques and integrating them with traditional methods—ensuring that the bamboo weaving craft evolves while staying rooted in its heritage.
Boosting Local Development
Azhen (阿真) could use his skills to promote the development of the local bamboo weaving industry and help villagers increase their income. For example, he could organize training for villagers to learn bamboo weaving techniques, collaborate in producing bamboo products, and sell them through various channels.
For Chinese version please go to:
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2676.html
Acainiu (阿才妞) is a member of the Bai Lemo people (白族勒墨人) from Baodeng Village (保登村) in Luobenzhuo Bai Ethnic Township (洛本卓白族乡), Lushui County (泸水县), Diqing Prefecture (迪庆州). Born in 1950, she belongs to a branch of the Bai ethnic group that resides in the Nujiang Grand Canyon (怒江大峡谷) and self-identifies as “Baini (白尼)”.
Mastery of Traditional Craftsmanship
At the age of 15, Acainiu (阿才妞) began learning to sew traditional Lemo women’s and men’s costumes from the elders in her village. Through years of learning and hands-on experience, she mastered the styles and sewing techniques of the Baini (白尼) people’s clothing, successfully inheriting and preserving these traditional skills. She has also actively passed them on to younger Baini women, helping them gain proficiency and ensuring the continuity of this cultural heritage.
Preserving Bai Lemo Costume Culture
Acainiu’s work in cultural transmission has not only protected the traditional costume culture of the Bai Lemo people but has also significantly contributed to the preservation of local culture and the strengthening of ethnic identity. As a bearer of the Bai Lemo costume-making techniques, she employs various methods to engage younger generations in learning this traditional art:
Integrating Modern Design Elements
When teaching traditional costume-making, Acainiu (阿才妞) emphasizes combining traditional elements with modern design. She simplifies traditional patterns and improves costume styles to better suit contemporary aesthetics and the fashion preferences of young people. For example, she blends traditional colors with trendy ones to create garments that are both culturally rich and visually appealing to modern tastes.
Conducting Hands-On Teaching Activities
Beyond teaching at home, Acainiu actively collaborates with schools and community organizations to conduct hands-on learning sessions. By offering live demonstrations and step-by-step instruction, she allows young people to experience the charm of traditional costume-making. This interactive approach sparks interest and provides a relaxed environment for learning.
Using Modern Communication Channels
Acainiu utilizes modern platforms such as social media and e-commerce to showcase the costume-making process and finished products of the Bai Lemo (白族勒墨) tradition. These platforms help her reach a broader audience and attract the interest of young people. She also shares cultural insights through interactions with tourists and students.
Developing Cultural and Creative Products
To further appeal to younger generations, Acainiu combines her traditional skills with the development of cultural and creative products. She creates practical and culturally inspired items like small pendants and keychains. These products not only have everyday use but also carry strong cultural symbolism, making them more accessible and appealing to young people.
Emphasizing the Importance of Cultural Heritage
During her teaching, Acainiu always stresses that the Bai Lemo costumes are not just garments but vital carriers of ethnic culture. By sharing the stories and cultural significance behind the clothing, she inspires a sense of identity and pride in young learners, motivating them to take initiative in learning the craft.
Through these methods, Acainiu has not only successfully attracted young people to learn the art of Bai Lemo costume-making but also revitalized this traditional skill with fresh energy for its ongoing development.
For Chinese version please go to:
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2675.html
Li Guilan (李桂兰) is a provincial-level inheritor of Lisu (傈僳族) costume-making techniques from Yongchun Township (永春乡), Weixi County (维西县) in Diqing Prefecture (迪庆州). She was born in 1963 in Meiluo Village (美洛村), Pantiange Township (攀天阁乡). Li Guilan inherited the traditional Lisu costume-making skills from her family, developing a strong interest in the craft under the influence of her mother. In addition to preserving the traditional techniques, she has introduced stylistic and pattern innovations to adapt the costumes to modern aesthetics.
Inheritance Activities and Innovative Measures
Training and Transmission
Li Guilan actively participates in local intangible cultural heritage preservation efforts. She conducts training sessions and workshops to teach younger generations the techniques of Lisu costume-making. Alongside other inheritors, she regularly organizes exchange activities to share knowledge and skills.
Integrating Modern Design
While retaining the traditional features of Lisu costumes, Li Guilan incorporates modern design elements. She uses new materials such as cotton and wool yarn to weave double-layered fabrics and adds colorful lace and patterns to the garments. This innovation enhances the visual appeal of the costumes and attracts more interest from younger audiences.
Promoting Industrial Development
By participating in various exhibitions and cultural events, Li Guilan has brought Lisu costumes to broader markets. Her works are well-received locally and have also been showcased at international exhibitions in cities like Shanghai (上海) and Shenzhen (深圳), where they have garnered positive feedback.
Addressing Challenges in Inheritance
Facing challenges such as raw material shortages and declining interest among the youth, Li Guilan collaborates with local governments and cultural departments to gain support. Through the “Intangible Cultural Heritage Poverty Alleviation Workshop” model, she encourages local women to learn the craft and increase their income.
Achievements in Inheritance
Li Guilan’s efforts have yielded remarkable results. Currently, Weixi County (维西县) has 810 intangible cultural heritage practitioners engaged in Lisu traditional costume-making, including 420 households that have been lifted out of poverty. Her apprentices actively participate in the inheritance work, and more and more young and middle-aged women are beginning to learn the craft.
Li Guilan’s dedication not only preserves the traditional Lisu costume-making techniques, but also contributes significantly to local economic development and cultural preservation.
For Chinese version please go to:
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2674.html
He Jixi is an inheritor of Dongba culture in Mingyin Township (鸣音乡), Yu Long County (玉龙县), Lijiang City (丽江市). Growing up immersed in Dongba culture, he learned from his elders and systematically mastered Dongba script, scriptures, calligraphy, painting, and other related knowledge. As a custodian of Dongba culture, he has a comprehensive understanding of Dongba rituals and cultural practices. His calligraphy and painting works are characterized by their simplicity, roundness, and unique charm.
Inheritance and Promotion of Dongba Culture
He Jixi is actively involved in the inheritance of Dongba culture in the Lijiang area and has participated in numerous cultural exchange activities both domestically and internationally. He has showcased the unique appeal of Dongba culture on the international stage, introducing this ancient culture to a broader audience. Additionally, he actively participates in teaching at Dongba culture training classes, passing on his knowledge and experience to the younger generation and cultivating more inheritors of Dongba culture.
Protection and Development of Dongba Culture
In recent years, Yu Long County in Lijiang City has placed great emphasis on the protection and inheritance of Dongba culture. Through activities such as organizing training classes and establishing inheritance sites, systematic protection of Dongba culture has been promoted. As an inheritor, He Jixi actively participates in these activities and has made significant contributions to the inheritance and development of Dongba culture. His efforts have not only revitalized Dongba culture in Yu Long County but also injected new vitality into the transmission and development of traditional Chinese culture.
Driven by his passion and dedication to Dongba culture, He Jixi continues to move forward on the path of inheritance and innovation, becoming a pillar in the transmission of Dongba culture in Yu Long County.
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2673.html
Wang Ciding is a Naxi mural artist from Yong Ning Township (永宁乡), Ning Lang Yi Autonomous County (宁蒗彝族自治县), Yunnan Province. Located in the northern part of Ning Lang County, Yong Ning Township is at the junction of three counties in Sichuan and Yunnan provinces and is also the site of the national scenic spot, Lugu Lake (泸沽湖). Growing up in an environment rich in ethnic culture, Wang Ciding developed a strong interest in Naxi murals. Through long-term study and practice, he has mastered the traditional skills of Naxi murals and has achieved remarkable success in this field.
Mural Art and Inheritance
Wang Ciding’s mural works not only showcase the traditional artistic style of the Naxi people but also incorporate modern elements, giving his works a contemporary feel and greater观赏性. His works often focus on the history, culture, folk customs, and natural landscapes of the Naxi people. With delicate brushstrokes and rich colors, he vividly portrays the unique charm of the Naxi ethnic group. On the basis of inheriting traditions, Wang Ciding continuously innovates, infusing new vitality into the ancient Naxi murals.
Cultural Contributions
Wang Ciding is not only an outstanding mural artist but also a transmitter and promoter of Naxi culture. He actively participates in various cultural activities, showcasing the unique charm of Naxi mural art through exhibitions and lectures. In addition, he is committed to training the younger generation of mural artists, making significant contributions to the inheritance and development of Naxi murals.
Driven by his passion and dedication to Naxi mural art, Wang Ciding continues to move forward on the path of inheritance and innovation, becoming an outstanding representative of Naxi mural art in Ning Lang County.
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2672.html
Shangguan Shaorong, male, Han ethnicity, began his schooling at the Chenghuang Temple School (城隍庙学堂) in 1945 and progressed to junior high school in 1950. During his studies, he learned paper-cutting and ceramic painting from his aunt, Shangguan Zhi (上官治), and others, laying a solid foundation in the arts. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, he joined the Yongsheng local enterprise, the Flower-baking Society (烘花社). He was later transferred to the Yuanyang Highway to support border construction. In 1966, he returned to his hometown and was assigned to guard the forests of Dalingshan in Nanhu Township (南华乡冷水青大尖山). In 1983, he became a farmer. Amidst his time surrounded by nature, he befriended wild trees, mountain flowers, fluttering butterflies, and chirping birds. In his spare time, he would embroider flowers, paint, and cut paper, often helping neighbors with weddings, funerals, and other celebrations. His dedication earned him the deep respect of his community.
Paper-cutting Art and Inheritance
Shangguan Shaorong’s paper-cutting works are rich in cultural connotations and demonstrate exquisite craftsmanship. His pieces cover a wide range of subjects, from traditional auspicious patterns to local customs, natural scenery, and more. Building on traditional techniques, he continuously innovated by incorporating modern elements into his works, giving them a contemporary feel and greater aesthetic appeal. He actively participated in various cultural activities and exhibitions, showcasing the charm of paper-cutting through live performances and teaching sessions. His works have been exhibited in numerous art shows and published in provincial and municipal newspapers and magazines.
Cultural Contributions
As a paper-cutting artist, Shangguan Shaorong was not only dedicated to creation but also to the cultivation of the younger generation’s interest in paper-cutting. He held paper-cutting workshops and training classes, passing on his skills to many, and making significant contributions to the inheritance and development of this traditional art form. His efforts revitalized paper-cutting in Yongsheng County and injected new vitality into the transmission and development of traditional Chinese culture. He had only one true successor, a woman from Fujian named Wang Lihong (王丽红).
Driven by his passion and commitment to paper-cutting, Shangguan Shaorong continued to move forward on the path of inheritance and innovation, becoming an outstanding representative of paper-cutting art in Yongsheng County. He passed away at his home in Yongbei Town (永北镇) on January 13, 2008. His artistic journey and works have left a precious legacy for paper-cutting in Yongsheng County and inspired many to engage in the inheritance and development of traditional folk arts.
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2671.html
Lai Youhong – Wood Carving Craftsman in Longchuan County, Dehong
陇川县户撒乡木雕艺人 – 赖有洪
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2670.html
Xiang Hen – Artist of Dai Wall Painting in Ruili City, Dehong
瑞丽市姐勒乡傣族壁画艺人 – 相很
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2669.html
Gong Si – Master of Dai Folk Carving in Lianghe County, Dehong
梁河县遮镇街傣族民间雕刻艺人 – 龚四
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2668.html
Beng Deliang – Dai Folk Artist in Lianghe County, Dehong
梁河县芒东乡傣族民间美术艺人 – 蚌德亮
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2667.html
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Dulongjiang Township, also known as the “secret land of southwest China,” sits in the deep Nujiang Valley with harsh climatic and geographical conditions. For decades, over 4,000 Derung people...
Lu Jiya – Inheritor of Nu Ethnic Felt Textile Craft in Gongshan County, Diqing
Profile Lu Jiya(路济亚) is a skillful woman who was born in 1957, a Bangda villager of Dulong Nu Autonomous County, Gongshan(迪庆贡山县棒打村民). Personal Experiences Her father is a Nu ethnic...
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Like other inheritors of bamboo weaving traditions in various regions, Azhen (阿真) began learning bamboo weaving skills from a young age. Through years of diligent practice, he has mastered...
A Cainiu – Inheritor of Lemo Ethnic Costume-making Skill in Lushui County, Diqing
Acainiu (阿才妞) is a member of the Bai Lemo people (白族勒墨人) from Baodeng Village (保登村) in Luobenzhuo Bai Ethnic Township (洛本卓白族乡), Lushui County (泸水县), Diqing Prefecture (迪庆州). Born in...
Li Guilan – Inheritor of Lisu Ethnic Costume-making Skill in Weixi County, Diqing
Li Guilan (李桂兰) is a provincial-level inheritor of Lisu (傈僳族) costume-making techniques from Yongchun Township (永春乡), Weixi County (维西县) in Diqing Prefecture (迪庆州). She was born in 1963 in...
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Shangguan Shaorong – Paper-cut Craftsman in Yongsheng County, Lijiang
Shangguan Shaorong, male, Han ethnicity, began his schooling at the Chenghuang Temple School (城隍庙学堂) in 1945 and progressed to junior high school in 1950. During his studies, he learned...
Lai Youhong – Wood Carving Craftsman in Longchuan County, Dehong
Lai Youhong – Wood Carving Craftsman in Longchuan County, Dehong 陇川县户撒乡木雕艺人 – 赖有洪 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2670.html...
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Xiang Hen – Artist of Dai Wall Painting in Ruili City, Dehong 瑞丽市姐勒乡傣族壁画艺人 – 相很 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2669.html...
Gong Si – Master of Dai Folk Carving in Lianghe County, Dehong
Gong Si – Master of Dai Folk Carving in Lianghe County, Dehong 梁河县遮镇街傣族民间雕刻艺人 – 龚四 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2668.html...
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Beng Deliang – Dai Folk Artist in Lianghe County, Dehong 梁河县芒东乡傣族民间美术艺人 – 蚌德亮 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-2667.html...
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