Kyrgyz in China

The Kyrgyz in China are a part of the larger Kyrgyz ethnic group who reside primarily in the Xinjiang region of China. According to the 2000 census, there are approximately 202,200 Kyrgyz living in China.

History

The Kyrgyz people have a long history in the region, with their presence in Central Asia dating back to ancient times. The Kyrgyz in China are primarily concentrated in the Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, which was established to provide a degree of autonomy to the Kyrgyz population in the region.

Language

The Kyrgyz in China speak the Kyrgyz language, which is a member of the Turkic language family. Many Kyrgyz in China are also bilingual, speaking Chinese as a second language due to the influence of the surrounding Han Chinese population and the education system.

Religion

The majority of Kyrgyz in China practice Islam, which plays a significant role in their cultural and social life. Islamic traditions and customs are an integral part of Kyrgyz identity in the region.

Culture

Kyrgyz culture in China is rich and diverse, with traditional music, dance, and crafts being important aspects of their cultural heritage. The Kyrgyz people are known for their yurts, which are portable, round tents covered with skins or felt, traditionally used as dwellings by nomads in the steppes of Central Asia.

See also

• Kyrgyz people
• Kyrgyz in Pakistan
• Kyrgyz in Afghanistan
• Xinjiang

References

• Kyrgyz in China on WikiMD