The Yi are an ethnic group primarily living in the mountainous regions of southwest China, with a population of more than 7.5 million. They are mainly concentrated in Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, with smaller communities in Guizhou and Guangxi.

The Yi language belongs to the Tibeto-Burman branch and includes several distinct dialects. Within the wider Yi linguistic and cultural sphere are related minority groups such as the Lisu, Naxi, Hani, Lahu and Bai peoples.

Traditionally, the Yi have practised a combination of hoe-based agriculture, livestock herding and hunting, adapted to the mountainous environments they inhabit. Their settlements are often spread across highland regions, particularly in Yunnan, which is home to the majority of the Yi population.

Historically, Yi society was divided into distinct social groups, including the Black Bone Yi, White Bone Yi and Jianu. These divisions once reflected hierarchical social structures that were formally ended in the mid-20th century, after which communities were reorganised under modern administrative systems.

Today, the Yi remain one of China’s largest ethnic minority groups, with cultural traditions closely tied to the landscapes of southwest China.