Ancient, passed down orally through Hezhen generations
quyi
UNESCO Intangible Heritage
Northeast China
endangered
Yimakan is the oral storytelling tradition of the Hezhen people, one of China's smallest ethnic groups in Heilongjiang Province along the Amur River. Performed without instrumental accompaniment, the narrator uses different vocal styles to portray multiple characters — men, women, heroes, and animals. Episodes recount hunting and fishing exploits, shamanic journeys, and the heroic deeds of ancestors. The tradition faces severe challenges with only a handful of elders remaining.
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