Treasures of Four Ethnic Groups
Discover the intangible cultural heritage of Uyghur, Kyrgyz, Mongolian, and Kazakh peoples and experience the charm of their millennium-old traditions.
Twelve Muqam
Listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2005
A large-scale classical Uyghur suite with 12 movements. Each movement comprises three parts: Qongnai E Man, Dastan, and Meshrep. The pinnacle of Uyghur musical art.
Manas Epic
Listed in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage of 2006
A grand-scale heroic epic spanning 600,000 lines, recounting the story of eight generations of the Manas family defending their homeland. The spiritual totem of the Kyrgyz people.
Long Song
Listed in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage of 2006
Mongolian folk song art features melodic, resonant tunes and free, expansive rhythms that convey the vastness of the grassland and the emotional lives of herders.
Aken Aytes
Listed in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage of 2006
Improvisational singing duet art where two Akyns (folk poets) compete through spontaneous song and verse, showcasing wisdom and talent. A unique cultural expression of the Kazakh people.
The Jangar Epic
Listed in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage of 2006
A thousand-year epic song, recounting how Khan Jangar led warriors to defend their homeland. An essential oral literature heritage of the Mongolian people.
Komuz Art
Listed in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage of 2006
Traditional plucked string instrument. The komuz features a crisp, pleasant tone and diverse playing techniques, making it the most iconic instrument of the Kyrgyz people.
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Each intangible cultural heritage item carries deep historical and cultural significance. Click to view details and learn more about these precious cultural treasures.
Explore Ethnic Instruments