Brief information on Naxi Ancient Music  

The Naxi Ancient Music is the oldest mode of music in China, first created by the ancient Naxi people in the 14th century and is reputed as a National Treasure. It combines Taoist rites, Confucian ceremony, and literary lyrics, poetic topics and musical tones of the Tang, Song and Yuan Dynasties.  

The music is made up of two sections: Baisha Xiyue and Dongjing Yinyue. The former, is believed to be the music of the Yuan dynasty with a 200 year history; the latter, is a kind of music combining Naxi and Taoist backgrounds, introduced to Lijiang during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Incorporating three characteristics: ancient music pieces, ancient musical instruments and older musicians in its performance (most of the performers are over seventy), Naxi Ancient Music is also called “The Three Treasures”. Members of the bands are drawn from all kinds of occupations including teachers, artisans, farmers, butchers, clerks. The only way of instruction for the music is from master to apprentice. By listening to the music, one can not only enjoy the music itself, but also have a taste of ancient Naxi culture.

The music reemerged in 1986 and started to be performed publicly in 1988. It has been performed in many countries and regions, such as Great Britain, America, Norway, Holland, Belgium, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Naxi Ancient Music, a legacy of ancient Chinese music, is an indispensable part of the ancient town.

*You can download the bilingual note to show it to a taxi driver or someone else to find your way to Naxi Ancient Music if you plan to visit Naxi Ancient Music and have language problems.