Dongba Gathering of Naxi Ethnic Minority

Chinese Name: 纳西族东巴集会
English Name: Dongba Gathering of Naxi Ethnic Minority in Lijiang

The Dongba Gathering (东巴会) is a traditional festival of the Naxi people (纳西族) held annually in Lijiang (丽江), Yunnan. The festival takes place on the 5th day of the third lunar month, at Yushuizhai (玉水寨), a sacred site for Dongba culture. This cultural event honors Dongba Shiluo (东巴什罗), the founding figure of the Dongba Religion, and serves as a platform for the exchange and preservation of Dongba culture. The gathering features a variety of religious rituals, cultural performances, and educational activities related to the Dongba tradition.

History and Origin

The Dongba Gathering was first held on October 23, 2001, and since 2002, it has been celebrated annually on the 5th day of the third lunar month. The festival’s core activity is a ritual to honor Dongba Shiluo, the ancestral figure of the Dongba religion. This festival is a rare opportunity for Dongba priests to demonstrate their unique skills, including chanting sacred texts, performing traditional dances, and showcasing their knowledge of Dongba culture.

In addition to the religious ceremonies, the festival also serves as a forum for cultural exchange among various ethnic groups from the Dian-Chuan-Tibet region (滇川藏地区), and as a space for Dongba practitioners to meet and share experiences.

Key Activities

Rituals and Ceremonies

Worship of Dongba Shiluo: Dongba priests perform sacred rituals, wearing ceremonial robes, chanting prayers, and offering sacrifices to honor Dongba Shiluo.

Worship of Natural Gods: Prayers are offered at the Tianxiang Furnace (天香炉) in Yushuizhai, seeking good weather and a bountiful harvest.

Cultural Exchange and Preservation

Dongba Dance Performance: Traditional Lebaduo (勒巴舞) and Dongba Shaman Dance (东巴跳神舞) are performed to showcase Naxi spiritual heritage.

Degree Conferment and Training: New Dongba (Daba) degrees are awarded, and preservation grants are distributed to practitioners and students.

Inter-Ethnic Dialogue: Representatives from the Bön Religion (苯教) and Pumi Ethnicity (普米族) engage in cultural exchanges and discussions.

Modern Festival Elements

Cultural and Tourism Integration: The festival draws local and international tourists, becoming a signature event of traditional festivals in Lijiang.

Intangible Cultural Heritage Market: Local artisans display traditional crafts like Dongba paper, pictographic calligraphy, and other cultural items.

Cultural Significance

Religious and Cultural Importance

The Dongba Gathering reflects the Naxi people’s reverence for Dongba Shiluo and their continued connection with nature worship. The event emphasizes the community’s cultural identity and their commitment to preserving the Dongba religion, which is an integral part of their heritage.

Preservation and Education

As of 2025, there are 173 registered Dongba priests and over 1,000 learners of Dongba culture. The festival continues to serve as a major platform for the transmission of the Dongba tradition.

Visitor Information

Transportation

The Yushuizhai (玉水寨) is located about 30 minutes by bus from downtown Lijiang. Take the Route 6 bus from the city center for direct access.

Important Notes

Respect the Rituals: Please refrain from taking photos during the core segments of the ceremony unless explicitly allowed.

Check the Official Schedule: Visit the official Yushuizhai website to get the most up-to-date schedule for the 2025 festival.

New for 2025

In 2025, the Dongba Gathering will feature a “Digital Dongba” project, including live-streaming and VR experiences, allowing virtual participation for those who cannot attend in person.

The Dongba Gathering is a significant cultural and religious event that showcases the rich traditions of the Naxi people. It serves as a celebration of their history, spirituality, and the preservation of their unique cultural heritage. By integrating religious ceremonies, cultural performances, and educational activities, this event continues to strengthen the bond within the Naxi community while also offering a fascinating experience for visitors from around the world.