14.08.2026
In Search of Cuan Homeland – Long Kaiyu
Today's presentation about the cultural and natural heritage of Qujing is brought to you by Long Kaiyu from Qujing University of Medicine & Health Sciences. It's dedicated to the great culture of Cuan!
Good morning. Today, we embark on a journey not just across a landscape, but through time itself. We are 'In Search of the Cuan Homeland,' to uncover the millennium-old heritage and the timeless river tales that lie at the very source of the Pearl River.
Our story begins at the source, in Qujing. This is where the Pearl River takes its first breath. The Niulan River is not just a river; it is a cradle for a civilization whose story we are about to uncover.
For over five centuries, the Cuan Kingdom stood as a powerful and independent realm. What made them truly unique was their ability to practice a kind of cultural alchemy. They took the traditions of the Han and blended them with the rich flavors of local ethnic cultures, creating a civilization that was entirely their own, a beacon of art and innovation.
If the Cuan Kingdom had a voice, it would be the voice of their unique calligraphy. Carved into stone steles, this script is a masterpiece of raw power and rustic beauty. These are not just characters; they are epic poems, chronicling the soul of a civilization and bridging the gap between ancient and modern art.
The story of the divine buffalo that tamed the Niulan River is more than a myth. It reflects the Cuan people's deep belief in strength, perseverance, and living in harmony with nature. These tales are the living memory of a culture, whispered by the river itself.
This culture is not dead. It thrives in the vibrant lives of the Yi, Miao, and Buyei people. Their festivals are not just celebrations; they are rituals that connect them to their Cuan ancestors. In their music and dance, we hear the echoes of a great kingdom, alive and thriving in the present.
The Cuan Kingdom's power was built on its copper, and the ancient Copper Road was its lifeblood. This was more than a trade route; it was an artery of civilization, carrying not just goods, but ideas and culture across the land. The stone bridges we see today are silent witnesses to this golden age.
The story of the Cuan is not over. Today, we are witnessing a renaissance. A new generation of artisans and innovators are reviving the Cuan spirit, creating beautiful new works that honor the past while embracing the future. The Cuan culture is being reborn.
In the end, the Cuan culture is more than a chapter in a history book. It is a living soul that flows through the river, the land, and the people. It is a bridge connecting our roots to our future, a powerful reminder of our shared heritage.
Our journey ends here, but the story continues. We invite you to join us in preserving and celebrating this incredible heritage. Become part of the story. Thank you.