Pioneers of the Tropical Rainforest—Investigative Record of Hainan Li Village

Author: Li Lulu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: For a long time, I have longed for the opportunity to conduct field research on Hainan Island. The reason is simple: the local area is one of China's most important tropical rainforest regions and an island surrounded by the sea. The Li people living in the area are one of China's oldest ethnic groups and descendants of the Baiyue, with complex branches and diverse origins. Comparative research with other ethnic groups is one of the most promising topics in anthropological studies. It not only helps to analyze the origins of Li culture but also serves as a key to solving the early history of indigenous peoples in the south. The focus of this survey is Paiqi Village, which is part of the Shalili people. The reason for choosing this village as the research subject is that there are certain reasons: First, the village retains many characteristics of Shalili culture and is representative; second, the survey should follow the method of tracking research, but it must have a fixed village as a starting point; third, Hainan is currently building the Guangba Reservoir, and Paiqi Village is in the flooded area, with residents relocating to the northern hillsides. Although it is still called Paiqi Village, traditional artifacts and cultural heritage will be impacted by changing times. Therefore, our survey has a rescue nature, documenting the traditional culture of Paiqi Village before it is submerged.