Yunnan Intangible Cultural Heritages

Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) refers to practices, expressions, knowledge, skills, and the instruments, objects, and cultural spaces associated with these traditions. UNESCO defines ICH as elements that form an integral part of a place’s cultural identity. Unlike tangible World Heritage sites, which focus on physical monuments, ICH highlights the intangible aspects of culture. In 2001, UNESCO surveyed states and NGOs to agree on a definition, and the Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage was drafted in 2003 to ensure its protection and promotion.

Efforts in Yunnan to Preserve ICH

Yunnan Province, located in southwestern China, is taking significant steps to protect and preserve its intangible cultural heritage, especially those traditions on the verge of extinction. The province has been actively working on the digitalization of its ICH to ensure that these traditions are preserved for future generations.

Digitalization of ICH

Since 2014, Yunnan has been digitizing its intangible cultural practices. The first group of 13 intangible cultural heritages has already been assigned digital identities. This includes:

  • Meige: A traditional Yi ethnic tune.

  • Achimugua (Goat Dance): A Lisu ethnic folk dance and song tradition.

The digitalization process involves recording these cultural practices through a combination of words, pictures, audio, and video. This initiative aims to protect these traditions by making them accessible through modern digital means.

The Role of Cultural Successors

Cultural successors, or those who carry on the traditions, are regarded as “living dictionaries” of intangible cultural heritage. Yunnan is home to more than 1,000 successors, who are vital to preserving and passing down these cultural practices. Their knowledge and skills are integral to keeping the intangible heritage alive and ensuring that these traditions are not lost over time.