About Hainan
Culture
Hainan Island has a long history with many different nationalities immigrating to the island, which has resulted in a rich diverse island culture with many different nationalities represented, such as Li, Miao, Han and Hui.
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The mixing of different customs has come together to create a truly unique and unforgettable experience for anyone spending time on the Island.
There are many special festivals in Hainan, which provide a wide range of events that reflect the rich cultural experience, and lets you enjoy the genuine friendliness of the people here on Hainan.
From the Name Zhan'er to Li
"Zhan'er", homage to the legendary founder of their tribe. The word "Li" was first used in reference to the group in the late Tang Dynasty, and was a set expression by the Song Dynasty (AD 950 - 1279).
There are many special festivals in Hainan, which provide a wide range of events that reflect the rich cultural experience, and lets you enjoy the genuine friendliness of the people here on Hainan.
From the Name Zhan'er to Li
"Zhan'er", homage to the legendary founder of their tribe. The word "Li" was first used in reference to the group in the late Tang Dynasty, and was a set expression by the Song Dynasty (AD 950 - 1279).
Many local handicrafts produced in Li inhabited areas, such as pearls, hawksbill, gharu-wood and five-colour cane, were presented to the feudal courts as tributes, or as goods sold for export to mainland China. The Han people migrated southward in great numbers to flee the frequent wars and turmoil plaguing central China after the five Dynasty Period (907-970). Some of them resettled on Hainan , most living in the coastal areas mixing with the Li ethnic group. The Li language belongs to the Zhuang/Dong language branch of the Chinese - Tibetan language family. There at least five different dialects.
Hainan Oldest Culture
The tropical forests and the mountain regions of Hainan are the home of the Miao and Li ethnic groups. The Li are the earliest original inhabitants of Hainan. They are believed to be the descendants of the ancient Yue tribes of China , who settled on the island more than 3000 Years ago. The Li culture has taken shape in the beautiful natural environment and unique historical conditions of Hainan . Over the course of cultural exchanges with mainland China dating back to the Qin and Han dynasties, the Li culture has acquired three characteristics: adaptability, individuality and diversity. The word "Li" is an expression used by other people to address this ethnic group, and they are also referred to as the "Ha", "Qi", "Run", "Sai" and "Meifu". However, the ethnic group calls itself "Sai" in their native tongue.
Hainan Oldest Culture
The tropical forests and the mountain regions of Hainan are the home of the Miao and Li ethnic groups. The Li are the earliest original inhabitants of Hainan. They are believed to be the descendants of the ancient Yue tribes of China , who settled on the island more than 3000 Years ago. The Li culture has taken shape in the beautiful natural environment and unique historical conditions of Hainan . Over the course of cultural exchanges with mainland China dating back to the Qin and Han dynasties, the Li culture has acquired three characteristics: adaptability, individuality and diversity. The word "Li" is an expression used by other people to address this ethnic group, and they are also referred to as the "Ha", "Qi", "Run", "Sai" and "Meifu". However, the ethnic group calls itself "Sai" in their native tongue.
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The Belief System of the Li
The Li belief system is a combination of ancestor worship and animism. They believe that every thing has its own soul and every soul is immortal. Their religion includes elements of magic, superstition, and totem worship. Among the Han and areas co-inhabited by the Han and Li people, Taoism, Buddhism and Christianity are practised. In the Li religion, the concept of god is closely linked with relics and the worship of ancestors penetrates every aspect of their daily lives. The spirits of ancestors are regarded as powerful forces and no Li will speak their names out loud. |