Nujiang, a mountainous region in Yunnan Province, has undergone rapid change in recent years. Once one of China's poorest areas, it is now a place where modern homes and infrastructure sit alongside centuries-old traditions. The local ethnic groups, including the Lisu, Nu and Dulong, also spelt Derung, have embraced new opportunities while holding on to their cultural roots.

The government's efforts to improve living standards have been significant. Large-scale poverty alleviation projects have relocated thousands of people from remote villages to towns with better facilities, schools and health care. Roads that once took days to travel now take minutes. Vocational training and education have opened doors for younger generations.

Today, new roads crisscross the mountains, connecting remote villages to towns, and the Internet reaches homes that once lacked electricity. The impact of the government's poverty alleviation efforts is obvious, yet what impresses even more is how the people of Nujiang have managed to preserve their traditional culture while embracing progress.

The people of Nujiang continue to practice their traditional crafts and customs despite important changes in the development of their region. Embroidery, weaving and dance remain part of daily life. This blending of old and new is not accidental—it reflects a broader understanding that development does not mean erasing identity.

The cultural heritage of Nujiang's ethnic groups is seen as a strength, not a hindrance. These traditions provide a sense of future with confidence. At the same time, they attract tourists and create economic opportunities through cultural tourism and handicrafts. This approach aligns with China's wider policy of celebrating ethnic diversity while pursuing national progress.

Nujiang's success story shows that modernization and cultural preservation can go hand in hand. The region's development is a reminder that improving lives does not require abandoning history. Instead, it is about finding ways to keep traditions alive in a changing world.

In a Lisu village, it's very common to see a woman weaving tricky textiles using techniques passed down through generations. The patterns and motifs reflect their history, beliefs and connection to the land. These textiles are not merely decorative; they are an integral part of their identity, worn during festivals, weddings and other important ceremonies. These cultural practices are not relics of the past but living traditions that continue to evolve and adapt to the present.

Tourism has emerged as a significant source of income, with visitors drawn to Nujiang's stunning scenery and vibrant cultural scene. Local entrepreneurs have also found innovative ways to market traditional handicrafts, creating livelihoods that both preserve cultural heritage and generate income.

China's journey to becoming a global economic power has been fueled by many factors, including strategic investments in infrastructure, education and technology. However, it is equally important to recognize the role that cultural values have played in this transformation. Values such as community cohesion, respect for elders, and a strong work ethic have long been integral to Chinese society, fostering social stability and driving economic growth. These values are particularly evident in rural communities like those in Nujiang, where people rely on each other for support and work together to overcome challenges.

Moreover, China's emphasis on unity and national identity has been crucial in mobilizing resources and achieving common goals. As the country continues to modernize, it is essential to preserve and promote these cultural values, ensuring that economic progress does not come at the expense of social cohesion and cultural diversity.

The values embedded in these ethnic cultures—respect for nature, community solidarity, and the passing down of knowledge—have contributed to China's broader social and economic progress. They have helped build a society where diverse identities coexist and contribute to national strength.

Nujiang offers a clear example of how development can be inclusive and culturally sensitive. It shows that preserving cultural identity is not just about looking back, but also about shaping a future that honors the past. BR

The author is a Rwandan contributor to ChinAfrica magazine

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