Village of Hui Ethnic Minority in Yunnan Ethnic Villages, Kunming
Overview of the Hui Ethnic Minority
The Hui ethnic minority (回族) in Yunnan Province (云南省) has a population of nearly 700,000. They are distributed across almost every county (市、区) in the province, characterized by a pattern of “large dispersion with small concentration” and living in clusters around mosques (清真寺). In urban areas, Hui people tend to form neighborhoods, while in rural settings, they establish villages. Their primary residence areas include transportation lines, flatland regions, river valleys, and towns.
The ancestors of the Hui people migrated to Yunnan from various regions, including Arabia (阿拉伯), Central Asia (中亚), West Asia (西亚), and parts of China’s Central Plains (中原) and Northwest (西北) during several historical periods. The Hui people strictly adhere to the teachings and regulations of Islam, following the Quran (《古兰经》) and the Hadith (圣训). They practice the Five Pillars of Islam (五大功修) and have developed their unique customs and traditions.
Each year, the Hui people celebrate three significant festivals:
- Eid al-Fitr (开斋节)
- Eid al-Adha (古尔邦节)
- Mawlid (圣纪节)
These festivals are based on the Islamic lunar calendar.
Architectural Features of the Hui Village
The Hui village in the Village of Hui Ethnic Minority in Yunnan Ethnic Villages (云南民族村–回族村寨) is characterized by its unique architectural ensemble. It primarily consists of:
- Residential buildings (民居楼)
- Mosques (清真寺)
- Various blocks of architecture
The area is beautifully adorned with gardens and landscaping, which collectively showcase the architectural layout and characteristics of Hui residences in Yunnan.
The architectural style of the Hui people reflects their cultural identity and traditions, creating a harmonious blend of functional living spaces and aesthetic beauty. The community layout is designed to foster social interactions and a sense of belonging among residents. The incorporation of gardens and greenery enhances the village’s environment, promoting a peaceful and inviting atmosphere.
