People and Population in Lijiang

Lijiang, renowned for its vibrant cultural fabric, is a confluence of numerous ethnic groups. In addition to the Han majority, Lijiang is home to 12 indigenous minority ethnic groups and a total of 22 different minority groups. The Naxi ethnic group is the most populous, with approximately 233,700 people, followed by the Yi ethnic group with about 201,400 people. According to year-end 2023 statistics, the permanent resident population of Lijiang city stands at 1.25 million. The urban built-up area covers an area of 51.31 square kilometers, with an urbanization rate of 50.44%. Lijiang is a place where 47 minority ethnic groups, including Naxi, Yi, Lisu, Bai, Pumi, Dai, Miao, Hui, and others, coexist harmoniously, accounting for 55.8% of the total population. The total population of Lijiang city is about 1.04 million, with minority ethnic groups making up approximately 58% of the population.

The Naxi ethnic group, one of the predominant minorities in Lijiang, boasts a profound and splendid culture that is a significant attraction for tourists. The Dongba culture of the Naxi people is ancient and enduring. Dongba script, the only pictographic writing system still in use in the world, is acclaimed as the “living pictographic script.” In Lijiang, visitors can witness Dongba priests’ sacrificial rituals and experience the ancient Dongba culture, feeling its mystery and solemnity. In addition, other minority ethnic groups such as the Yi, Bai, and Lisu also live in harmony here, and their festive celebrations, folk dances, handicrafts, and more add infinite charm to Lijiang.

The residential architecture of the Naxi people has undergone historical changes from felt houses to earthen houses, wooden frame houses, and Han-style buildings, with various types depending on the ethnic distribution area. Naxi men’s clothing is characterized by a cross-collared jacket and a self-woven felt cap (known as “Shipuli” (师普哩) in the Naxi language). Women’s clothing varies by region. In the Dayan Ancient Town (大研古镇) area of Lijiang, women wear a cross-collared wide-sleeved robe with sleeves rolled up to the elbows, plus a purple or dark blue vest, pleated skirts or trousers, an apron around the waist, and a “Seven-Star Sheepskin” on their backs. The sheepskin is sewn with two white straps at the top, which are draped over the shoulders, crossed in front of the chest, and tied around the waist, serving both as warmth and a cushion for carrying loads. The sheepskin shawl is the most important symbol of Naxi women’s clothing. It is generally made from a whole piece of black wool sheepskin, shaped with a square top and a round bottom. The top is sewn with a black edge about 6 centimeters wide, adorned with seven colorful embroidered circular cloth disks arranged in a horizontal row, with two white sheepskin tassels hanging from the center of each disk, representing the Big Dipper. This is commonly known as “carrying the stars and the moon,” symbolizing the hardworking and capable nature of Naxi women who toil from dawn to dusk.

Lijiang is inhabited by 48 ethnic groups, including the Han, Naxi, Yi, Bai, and others, offering a diverse and colorful folk culture that provides visitors with a unique experience. “China’s Traditional Ancient Village” Pu Ji Village (普济村), known for its excellent air quality and beautiful living environment, attracts many residents every year. To enrich the life experience of these residents, Pu Ji Village holds a variety of folk activities during festivals such as the Spring Festival, Sanduo Festival (三多节), and Torch Festival.