The Bai (or Báizú) are one of the 56 officially recognized ethnic minorities in China, with a population exceeding 2.09 million as of 2020. They primarily reside in Yunnan Province, especially in the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture.
Meaning of the name: "Bai" means white in Chinese. This color symbolizes dignity and high status; it is the predominant color in their traditional clothing, which is often adorned with the "Wind, Flower, Snow, and Moon" motif.
Language: They have their own language (Sino-Tibetan family) with three or four main dialects. Although they historically used Chinese characters (Bowen), today Mandarin is the most widely used language.
Architecture: They are master builders, known for white-walled houses with the "three rooms and a screen wall" (sanfang yizhaobi) design. The Three Pagodas of Dali are their most iconic monument.
Benzhuism: Their indigenous religion based on the worship of the Benzhu (local lords or protective gods). They are also deeply influenced by Buddhism (especially the Azhali school), Taoism, and Confucianism.
Photo Gallery: © Jordi Zaragozà Anglès / China - 2016
Extended info about Bai People