Mongolian ethnic presents intangible heritage

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The Mongolian ethnic minority in China is presenting its cultural diversity and intangible heritages to Asian countries. The ongoing Asia Arts Festival at Ordos in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region offers a perfect setting for the ethnic group to show off their own illustrious cultural legacy.

The art festival includes an exhibition showcasing the intangible heritage of the Mongolian ethnic minority.

One of the display is this dance, called "Chama", also known as "Jumping Ghost". It's a religious mask dance that dates back more than four-hundred years. It depicts the life of birds and animals of gods, and of servants. The style is sometimes grand and sober, sometimes cute and nimble. It can be danced as a solo, duet, and group. The dance is still hugely popular in the Mongolian area, and is frequently performed in temples at religious festivals.

Another exhibit is a Mongolian chess game, which is originated from the minority's long nomadic life, coming into being in the 9th Century. Its chessboard is exactly the same as that of the standard international chess game. But its chessman are unique. Elephants are carved as camels, and soldiers have been turned into coursers.

Visitors to the exhibition will also be able to enjoy the Mongolian folk songs, costumes, and traditional handicrafts.