A photo of Tu women making handicrafts, taken by Jin Chiyuan in 1962. [Photo/ China Photographers Association]

Tu ethnic group

Owing to the geographical condition in the west China, the Tu people inhabiting Qinghai province work on stock husbandry and agriculture, specializing in sheep breeding. Their staple food is Qingke, a kind of highland barley, as well as wheat.

The tu people pay much attention to etiquettes. They treat guests warmly and there is a saying 'the visit of guests is the coming of happiness'. The Tu people will toast three cups of wine with their guests, which reflects their forthrightness.