Shui Nationality: An Ethnic Group Living Close To Water

Shuis, the descendants of ancient Baiyue ethnic group in Fujian (in Southeast China), Guangdong and Guangxi of China, have a population of over 340,000, most of whom live in Guizhou Province. Shuis in Yunnan number 12,500, most of whom live in Gugan Township of Fuyuan County, Qujing Prefecture.

Interesting Clothes and Ornaments of Shui Nationality

The clothes and ornaments of Shui women have their own traits. They wear jackets with buttons on the right and decorative laces on the edge and embroidered shoes. Most Shui people value the home-made Shui turbans. A turban delicately made can reveal the skills of its female maker.

"Tunkou": A Handicraft of Shui Nationality

In Gugan Village, many families hang a frightening wood-carving on the lintel of the main door which is called “Tunkou” by the Shuis. The colorful Tunkou looks like a human head with protruding eyes, two dog’s ears, a flat nose, buck teeth, an open mouth biting a sharp sword and a long tongue. Shuis believe “Tunkou” has the functions of expelling evils and safeguarding their family.