Yi People
Overview
The Yi people are one of the largest ethnic minorities in China, with approximately 5 million people across Yunnan, Sichuan, Guizhou, and Guangxi provinces. In Yunnan, they are particularly concentrated in Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture. The Yi people are most famous for the Torch Festival, often called the 'Oriental Carnival.' This festival celebrates on the 24th or 25th day of the sixth month of the Yi calendar. The festival commemorates the legendary wrestler Atilabia, who drove away a plague of locusts using torches made from pine trees. The Yi people have their own language, script (Yi script is one of the six ancient scripts still in use in China), calendar system, and rich cultural traditions.
Cultural Traditions
Torch Festival (Huobajie)
The most important Yi festival, lasting three days. Features massive torch processions, bonfire dancing, wrestling competitions, and bullfighting.
Yi Calendar System
An ancient solar calendar with 10 months of 36 days each, plus 5-6 festival days. This sophisticated system has been used for over 1,000 years.
Fire Worship Culture
Fire holds sacred significance in Yi culture, symbolizing light, warmth, and the power to ward off evil.
Yi Script and Literature
One of six ancient scripts still in use in China. Used to record epic poems, historical records, and religious texts.
Major Festivals
Torch Festival
24th-26th of the 6th lunar month (August)
The grandest Yi celebration with torch processions, bonfire dancing, horse racing, wrestling, and bullfighting.
Yi New Year
Varies by region
Traditional new year celebration with family reunions, ancestor worship, and festive meals.
Cultural Practices
- •Distinctive colorful traditional costumes
- •Intricate embroidery and lacquerware
- •Traditional musical instruments (hulusheng, yueqin)
- •Epic poetry and oral literature traditions
Visiting Tips
- ✓Visit Chuxiong for the most authentic Torch Festival experience
- ✓Explore Yi villages to see traditional architecture
- ✓Attend Yi musical performances featuring traditional instruments
- ✓Learn about Yi astronomical calendar and ancient knowledge
Experience Yi Culture
Discover authentic cultural experiences and connect with local communities