Miao traditional musical instrument preserved in Guizhou

Maniao village in Danzhai county, Southwest China's Guizhou province, is the original production area of Sidishui Lusheng, a traditional musical instrument of the Miao ethnic group. [Photo by Huang Xiaohai/provided to China Daily]

Sidishui Lusheng, a traditional musical instrument of the Miao ethnic group, originated in Maniao village, Danzhai county, Southwest China's Guizhou province. It is an intangible cultural heritage item with a history of hundreds of years and a unique tune.

It is widely used by the Miao people in neighboring areas during daily life and festivals.

The making of a Sidishui Lusheng involves dozens of complicated procedures, and each craftsman can make just one set of four Sidishui Lushengs per month.

Only a few people still make Sidishui Lusheng today. [Photo/ddcpc website]

Over the years, many people have given up making the instrument due to its difficulty, and only a few people are still engaged in the ancient craft in the village.

In recent years, with the enrichment of people's cultural lives, the demand for Sidishui Lusheng from the Miao people has increased significantly. The local government encourages young people in Maniao village to participate in the production of Sidishui Lusheng and develop it into a cultural industry of the village.

Making the Sidishui Lusheng is expected to increase the incomes of local villagers and vitalize the village.