He Guoyao – Inheritor of Naxi Dongba Culture in Yulong County, Lijiang 

He Guoyao (和国耀) is a Naxi Dongba culture inheritor from Da Ju Township (大具乡), Yu Long County (玉龙县), Lijiang City (丽江市). Born into a family with a long-standing tradition of Dongba culture, he has been deeply influenced by this cultural heritage since childhood. Dongba culture is a comprehensive cultural system of the Naxi ethnic group, encompassing Dongba script, scriptures, paintings, music, dances, and various sacrificial rituals. The Dongba script is particularly notable as a “living fossil of writing,” with a history older than that of oracle bone script.

He Guoyao has not only mastered a wide range of skills related to Dongba culture, such as Dongba papermaking, sacrificial rituals, dances, and paintings, but also actively promotes this unique culture. He has set up a cultural exhibition room in his home to showcase Dongba culture to tourists and scholars. Additionally, he has participated in numerous cultural exchange activities both domestically and internationally, with his footprints spread across 12 countries. These efforts have played a significant role in introducing Dongba culture to the global stage.

Moreover, He Guoyao is committed to training the next generation of Dongba culture inheritors through teaching and mentorship programs. He believes that preserving and promoting this ancient culture requires more attention and support from society. In recent years, local governments and cultural institutions have also been actively involved in the protection and inheritance of Dongba culture. Initiatives such as establishing training centers and organizing workshops have been implemented to help more people understand and learn about Dongba culture.

As an inheritor of Dongba culture, He Guoyao shoulders the responsibility of passing down this ancient cultural heritage. Through his dedication, he has enabled more people to appreciate the charm of Dongba culture and has shown the world the unique value of Naxi culture.