Naxi (纳西族)
People of Lijiang, Yunnan, with the world's only living pictographic script (Dongba), known for Dongba ritual arts and Baishag archaic music.
The Soul of the Naxi
People of Lijiang, Yunnan, with the world's only living pictographic script (Dongba), known for Dongba ritual arts and Baishag archaic music.
The Naxi have cultivated a distinct cultural identity expressed through language, music, dance, craft, and ritual — a living heritage that has been passed down through countless generations. Their traditions reflect a profound relationship with their environment and a resilient spirit of cultural continuity.
Central to their identity is the Preserved orally — a vessel for cultural memory and spiritual knowledge. The Naxi worldview is fundamentally interconnected, viewing their surroundings not merely as terrain, but as a living environment where spirit and nature are inseparable.
Cultural DNA
- Identity
- Naxi
- 纳西族
- Population
- ~32万
- 0.02% of China
- Language Family
- Preserved orally
- Primary Regions
- Ancestral lands across China
- Representative Heritage
- MusicDanceCraftsRitualsOral
- Status
- Active · Living Tradition
The Heritage Constellation
Cartography of the Homeland
An exploration of sacred geography, settlements, and historical migration pathways of the Naxi.
Living Traditions
Intangible knowledge passed through generations.
Neighboring Peoples
The Naxi share cultural landscapes and historical exchange with neighboring ethnic communities across the region.
The Ritual Cycle
Festivals mark the rhythms of life for the Naxi — celebrating harvests, honoring ancestors, and strengthening community bonds through music, dance, and feasting.
No festival relations recorded. Explore festival calendar