Shibajia Yao Village

　　   Located in Shibajia Natural Village, Zhongliang Township, Jinxiu County, about 25 kilometers northeast of the county seat, it is a settlement of the Panyao people. The village is located on the mountainside of a river valley, embraced by towering mountains and lush pines and cypresses. A small stream flows gently in front of the village, creating an elegant environment. Most Yao homes are built against the mountains, with bamboo sun-drying platforms in front of each house. Yao villagers often wear traditional ethnic costumes, especially the women’s attire which is brightly colored — their heads wrapped in colorful silk ribbons, their clothes and trousers embroidered with exquisite patterns, and adorned with silver and jade ornaments. During major festivals such as the Spring Festival and the Panwang Festival, villagers sing and dance to the continuous sound of drums and music.

　　   The five subgroups of the Yao people — the Chashan Yao, Panyao, Aoyao, Shanzi Yao, and Hualan Yao — form a vibrant tapestry of Yao culture. The surrounding majestic mountains have turned the Greater Yao Mountain area into a secluded paradise, allowing it to preserve its ancient, simple, and richly colorful folk culture and strong traditional customs to this day.

　　   Du Jie, or the “Initiation Rite,” is a religious ceremony practiced by all five Yao subgroups in Jinxiu for passing on mystical powers. This ritual essentially includes three aspects: imparting mystical techniques, transmitting traditional culture, and providing ethical and moral education. The initiates are usually boys aged around sixteen or seventeen. After undergoing the rite, they gain the ability to “ascend spiritually and communicate with deities and spirits,” thus becoming qualified to participate in religious ceremonies. There are two types of initiates: Du Shigong, who expel demons and evil spirits, and Du Daogong, who conduct rituals for the souls of the deceased.

　　   The folk arts of the Yao people mainly include weaving and embroidery, carving, dancing, and music, which are important components of Yao folk culture.

　　   The living environments of the various Yao subgroups in Jinxiu differ from one another, and their architectural structures and house layouts also vary according to their residential settings, living habits, and functional needs. The diverse forms of housing and distinct living environments of the five Yao subgroups form the rich and distinctive architectural culture of the Yao people in Jinxiu, which is a significant part of the region's Yao folk cultural tourism resources.

　　   The 16th day of the 10th lunar month is the most grand festival of the Yao people in Jinxiu. It is a major traditional celebration for the Yao people to honor their ancestors.