What does the custom of braiding in Lijiang mean?

The custom of Lijiang's braiding and distributing originated from the traditional culture of Naxi nationality and is called "Lijiang's braiding and distributing". This custom usually begins when girls are thirteen years old, that is to say, they have grown up and can start wearing adult clothes and headdresses.

It is said that this custom originated from the myths and legends of Naxi nationality. Legend has it that there is a goddess named Ashi. Her hair is so beautiful that people will be attracted by her beauty whenever she walks by. In order to make her hair as beautiful as the goddess Axi, Naxi girls began to learn to braid their hair.

On festivals and important occasions, girls will wear special braids to celebrate and commemorate. For example, in the Naxi New Year Festival "March Street", girls will tie colorful braids to express their wishes and joy for the New Year.

The meaning of braiding is also very rich. It not only indicates that girls have reached adulthood, but also symbolizes their beauty, wisdom and courage. In the traditional culture of Naxi nationality, women are regarded as the pillars of family and society, and editing and distributing has become a way for them to show themselves.

Generally speaking, Lijiang's braiding custom is an important part of Naxi traditional culture, which not only has a beautiful appearance, but also contains profound cultural connotation.