The Cultural Value of the Babao Tongling Dance of the Tujia Ethnic Group in Enshi, Hubei

Li Ang, Juju Masunah

Abstract


The Babao Tongling Dance is a unique traditional dance of the Tujia ethnic group in Enshi, Hubei, carrying rich cultural connotations and ethnic spirit. With the development of modern society, this intangible cultural heritage faces difficulties in inheritance. This research focuses on systematically exploring the cultural value (historical, artistic, social), current state of inheritance, and protection strategies of the Babao Tongling Dance. The research methodology combines literature analysis and field investigation, obtaining first-hand data through a systematic review of domestic and international literature (15 core documents in total) and field visits to Xuan'en County, Enshi, Hubei, in April 2025. Analysis and discussion indicate that the Babao Tongling Dance possesses significant historical witness value, artistic expressiveness, and social cohesion, but its inheritance faces multiple challenges such as a broken lineage, impact from commercialization, and insufficient policy support. Findings and insights suggest that multiple strategies, including inheritor training, cultural-tourism integration, and digital preservation, are needed to achieve its living inheritance and sustainable development. This study aims to provide theoretical reference and practical pathways for the protection of intangible cultural heritage

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References


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