Discovering Ancient Charm and Natural Beauty: Ethnic Culture in Chengbu County, Hunan Province

A folk activity: Jiyoujian Push

[Photo via the Publicity Department of the CPC Chengbu County Committee]

People learning how to sing folk songs

[Photo by Chen Kefan]

Chengbu Miao Autonomous County, located in Shaoyang, Hunan Province, is one of the five designated Miao autonomous counties in China. The region is home to 29 ethnic groups, including Miao, Han, Dong, and Yao, with ethnic populations comprising 63.8 percent of the total.

Known as the Waterside City, Chengbu is a cultural and artistic hub for the Yang Family Generals and the Wunuo Culture in southern China. The county boasts 39 folk songs and tunes, including Lilali, Helang Song, Liuliu Song, and Hangtu Song. In addition to its diverse music, Chengbu is renowned for traditional performances such as Danijiao mud throwing, Qinggutang dancing, and Nuo Opera.  The June 6 Folk Song Festival and other intangible cultural heritage items of Hunan further highlight the county's cultural landscape.

Chengbu's breathtaking landscapes, vibrant ethnic culture, and rich local traditions have significantly contributed to its charm and offered rich resources for developing integrated cultural tourism.

Qingxi ancient dwellings

[Photo by Chen Kefan]

A folk dance: bamboo pole dance

[Photo by Chen Kefan]

In recent years, the region has leveraged its ecological and cultural advantages to delve into traditional folk culture, actively pursue rural revitalization goals, and create innovative approaches to cultural preservation and economic growth. These efforts have paved a new way for the integrated development of its cultural and tourism industries.