Dulong Tribe

The Dulong tribe calendar is a remarkable system of tracking time without writing, using carved wood and knotted ropes. Rooted in Dulong cultural heritage, this “wordless” method guides daily life and rituals in China’s remote Hengduan Mountains. Curious about other ancient systems? Explore our article on Yi Tribe Astronomy. Key Features of Dulong Timekeeping Method Purpose Example Wood Carving Records agreements, like taxes or military orders Large notch for leader, small for followers Rope Knotting Tracks days for travel or festivals One knot per day, untied daily Nature Calendar Guides farming and celebrations Harvest in “Gathering Month” Wordless Records: Carving and Knotting The Dulong tribe calendar relies on two unique systems—wood carving and rope knotting—to record events and time without writing. These methods, central to Dulong cultural heritage, are both practical and meaningful. Wood Carving: 3D Contracts Wood carvings act like official documents for the Dulong. Shaped like long swords (70-80 cm by 20 cm), they use notches and symbols to convey messages. Design: Large notches mark leaders; smaller ones count followers. Symbols: Arrows mean urgent action, chili peppers warn…