Introduction

 

The Naxi language group of China has a population of about 300,000 people. They are located in the Northwest Yunnan Province; a majority (over 200,000) are in Yulong (formerly Lijiang) Naxi autonomous county. Some are scattered through Weixi, Zhongdian, Ninglang, Deqing, Yongsheng, Heqing, Jianchuan, and Lanping counties. Some are in Sichuan Province, Yanyuan, Yanbian, and Muli counties. A few are in Tibet Autonomous Region, in Mangkang county.

The Naxi language is classified as Sino-Tibetan, Tibeto-Burman, Northeastern Tibeto-Burman, Naic. The ISO code is nxq. The autonym for this language is Naqxi. Alternate names include: Lomi, Mu, Nahsi, Nakhi, Nasi. There are three dialects: Lapao, Lijiang, and Ludian.

Naxi is used as the medium of communication in several Naxi area primary schools. Taught in some schools as a subject for 1 or 2 years. Literature and other media (radio, videos) have been developed. There are positive attitudes regarding the Naxi language, but some young people are using Mandarin Chinese in certain settings.