The local custom of Ewenki Ethnic Group

The Reindeer Culture (驯鹿文化) of the Ewenki People (鄂温克族)

Among all the cultural symbols of the Ewenki Ethnic Group (鄂温克族), none is more iconic than the Reindeer (驯鹿).

For centuries, the Ewenki people have lived in the dense forests of the Greater Khingan Mountains (大兴安岭), where reindeer have played a vital role in transportation, hunting, and daily life. Because these animals can travel easily through forests, swamps, and deep snow, they are often called the “Boats in the Sea of Forests” (森林之舟).

Today, the Ewenki are recognized as the only ethnic group in China that traditionally raises reindeer, making this culture a unique part of China's ethnic heritage.

Why Are Reindeer Called “Boats in the Sea of Forests”?

Perfect Companions for Forest Life

The forests of northeastern China are vast, mountainous, and often covered with snow for long periods each year.

Unlike horses or cattle, reindeer can move efficiently through:

• Dense forests
• Marshlands
• Snow-covered mountains
• Rugged wilderness

For generations, Ewenki hunters depended on reindeer to carry supplies, transport game, and move their belongings during seasonal migrations. Because they served as the primary means of transportation in the forest, people affectionately referred to them as the “Boats in the Sea of Forests.”

The Ewenki: China's Reindeer-Herding People

A Unique Ethnic Tradition

The ancestors of the Ewenki people traditionally lived by hunting, fishing, and reindeer herding in the forests around the Lake Baikal region before gradually moving eastward into northeastern China. Reindeer husbandry became an essential part of their livelihood and cultural identity.

Among the various Ewenki communities, the Aoluguya Ewenki (敖鲁古雅鄂温克人) are especially famous for maintaining reindeer-herding traditions to this day.

Reindeer in Daily Life

Transportation and Mobility

Before modern roads and vehicles reached remote forest areas, reindeer were indispensable.

They helped families transport:

• Hunting equipment
• Household goods
• Food supplies
• Temporary shelters

When Ewenki hunters moved from one camp to another, reindeer carried much of their equipment through difficult terrain.

Food and Survival

Traditionally, reindeer also provided important resources for daily life.

The Ewenki used:

• Reindeer milk (驯鹿奶)
• Reindeer hides (驯鹿皮)
• Reindeer antlers (鹿角)

These materials supported both practical needs and traditional crafts.

Reindeer and Traditional Dwellings

Life in the Cuoluozi (撮罗子)

Historically, many Ewenki families lived in a cone-shaped tent known as the Cuoluozi (撮罗子).

These portable shelters were built using wooden poles and covered with:

• Birch bark (桦树皮)
• Animal hides (兽皮)

When families moved through the forest, reindeer carried the materials needed to construct these homes.

The combination of reindeer and Cuoluozi allowed the Ewenki to maintain a flexible lifestyle closely connected with the forest environment.

Reindeer in Ewenki Spiritual Culture

A Sacred Relationship

For the Ewenki people, reindeer are far more than working animals.

They are viewed as trusted companions and important members of the community.

Traditional stories, songs, and legends frequently celebrate the bond between humans and reindeer. This relationship reflects the Ewenki belief in living harmoniously with nature and respecting all living beings.

Harmony with Nature

The traditional Ewenki lifestyle emphasizes:

• Respect for wildlife
• Sustainable use of natural resources
• Coexistence with the forest

Reindeer culture embodies these values and remains one of the strongest expressions of Ewenki identity.

Reindeer Culture in Modern Times

Although many Ewenki people now live in settled communities, reindeer herding continues to survive in certain regions of Inner Mongolia (内蒙古), particularly around Aoluguya (敖鲁古雅) near Genhe (根河). Reindeer are often allowed to roam freely in the forest while herders regularly check on them and protect them from predators.

Today, reindeer culture has become an important symbol of ethnic heritage, attracting visitors interested in learning about one of China's most unique indigenous traditions.

Cultural Significance

For the Ewenki Ethnic Group (鄂温克族), reindeer symbolize:

• Survival and adaptation
• Harmony with nature
• Forest traditions
• Community identity
• Cultural continuity

Known as the “Boats in the Sea of Forests” (森林之舟), reindeer have carried generations of Ewenki people through the mountains and forests of northern China and continue to represent the enduring spirit of Ewenki culture.