Food, song and dance: Bouyei route to preserving cultural heritage

Villagers demonstrate the traditional spinning technique at Yanyu village, Zhenfeng county, Guizhou province. CHINA DAILY

The Qianxinan Bouyei and Miao autonomous prefecture lies within the picturesque landscape of Southwest China's Guizhou province. The population of the Bouyei ethnic group in the prefecture exceeds 790,000 and this region is renowned for its unique traditions, language, and customs that have withstood the test of time.

Efforts are underway to safeguard this vibrant cultural heritage, from preserving traditional attire to the iconic slate house villages that dot the landscape. The region actively celebrates the essence of Bouyei identity through lively festivals, captivating performances, and educational programs, nurturing a deep sense of community pride and belonging.

A China Storyteller Partnerships tour of Guizhou, organized by China Daily, offers guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural legacy of the Bouyei ethnic group. At the heart of these preservation endeavors lies the Fenglin Bouyei scenic spot in Xingyi city, displaying over 600 Bouyei-style residences on the mountainside. This beautifully illustrates how Guizhou's karst topography intertwines with centuries-old Bouyei cultural traditions, showcasing cone-shaped karst formations, peaks, stalagmites, and caves.

Visitors to the region are treated to mesmerizing dances and melodic songs performed by the Bouyei people. Their artistic traditions have been honored as national intangible cultural heritage. Among these treasures is the Bouyei's "eight-tone sitting singing" music, renowned both at home and abroad for its harmonious melodies.

One gem awaiting exploration is the Yanyu village in Zhenfeng county, a veritable tourism haven. Regarded as the oldest and largest Bouyei village, Yanyu is a testament to the rich cultural history of the Bouyei people, comprising 11 villager groups containing 656 households with more than 2,500 residents.

Upon arrival at Yanyu village, hosts greet guests with the rice wine set to the dynamic cadence of traditional songs and dances. Immersive activities await, offering a glimpse into the unique Bouyei culture, from the art of bamboo pole dancing to the time-honored traditions of glutinous rice cake pounding, spinning, weaving, and the artful craft of creating indigo-dyed clothing.

The Bouyei people are revered for their masterful handicraft and batik techniques. They employ a distinctive resist printing process that lends a cracked appearance to cotton fabric.

Intricate embroidery and craftsmanship define Bouyei clothing. They serve as garments and expressions of cultural heritage, reflecting the deep-rooted connection of the Bouyei people to nature and their surroundings. Each garment weaves a narrative, intertwining elements of history and identity.

It is a privilege to encounter the well-preserved intangible cultural heritage and unique ethnic customs of the Bouyei people in China. They predominantly live in southern China, particularly in Guizhou, Yunnan, and Sichuan provinces.

Tourism and development in Guizhou can help promote the unique culture of the Bouyie people, while preserving the authentic agricultural practices, craftsmanship, language, and artistic performance integral to their way of life.

The intersection of tourism and development serves as a powerful catalyst for celebrating the Bouyei people's distinct culture, honoring their customs, and paving the way for sustainable initiatives to continue their rich heritage.

By promoting community involvement and meaningful engagement through responsible tourism, the Bouyei traditions can flourish, captivating and inspiring future generations.

Guizhou's Bouyei culture is upheld by vibrant festivals, thriving tourism, and progressive development, ensuring its enduring legacy.