INGENIEUR
INGENIEUR
Miao villages as tourist destinations
With China ’ s rapid economic development , young villagers began to move to towns and cities for employment from the 1980s onwards as the limited agricultural land in these mountainous areas offered less opportunity for gainful employment compared with the urban economic zones .
However , with Miao ’ s unique village features and local culture , Miao villages have been transformed into tourist destinations with special performances by local elderly folks and local girls . Visitors will be entertained by a welcoming ceremony right at the entrance to the village with performances of gun shooting and Miao traditional dances at the village square .
Photo 13 : Basha Miao villagers welcoming ceremony at the entrance to the village
Worship of trees
Miao ’ s tradition of tree worship is still faithfully followed . The Miao believe trees have protected them since ancient times from external attack .
The villagers still observe the strict rule that trees in the Miao village cannot be cut unless necessary and with the village committee ’ s consent .
The Miao culture of tree worship can be summarised as follows :
a ) Tree of life When a Miao child is born , a tree will be planted dedicated solely to him .
b ) Protector tree When a child reaches 15 years old , he will be taken to a selected mature tree as his protector tree to protect his safety in the next phase of his life . This protector tree can be shared with others .
c ) Evergreen tree When the person finally dies , the tree that the parent planted for him at birth will be cut to make his coffin for his burial . There will be no tombstone but a small tree , called ‘ Evergreen Tree ’, will be planted in its place to signify new life .
Photo 14 : A ‘ Tree of Life ’ planted in Basha Village when a person was born .
Conclusion
Miao tribal houses are a reflection of the cultural heritage , environmental adaptation , and craftsmanship of the Miao people . Through their distinctive architecture , construction techniques , and the use of natural materials , Miao houses embody the rich cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs of this ethnic minority group in southern China .
78 VOL 99 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2024