Eya Village, located in the Sichuan-Yunnan border region of China, is known as the country’s only polygamous village and is primarily inhabited by the Naxi ethnic group. This remote village practices polyandry, where one woman may marry multiple men, typically brothers. This arrangement is deeply rooted in local traditions and has served practical purposes over generations, helping to address challenges posed by the village’s isolated location, limited arable land, and harsh living conditions.
Historically, the Naxi community adopted this unique marital structure as a means to maintain family unity, distribute agricultural labor, and cope with the challenging mountain environment. In many cases, polyandrous arrangements have helped to conserve resources and prevent the division of family land. Given the village’s rugged terrain, where transportation was once limited to cable cars and narrow paths, such a family structure allowed for shared responsibilities and facilitated survival
Today, with improvements in infrastructure and access to the outside world, the polyandrous lifestyle is less common among younger generations in Eya Village, as more residents are exposed to modern lifestyles. Tourism has also started to influence the village, attracting visitors interested in its unique culture and lifestyle. Despite the increased interaction with the outside world, the older generation still upholds these traditions, though younger people often prefer monogamous relationships, reflecting a gradual cultural shift driven by economic development and education.
Eya Village is a fascinating example of how traditional practices can endure over time while adapting to changes brought by modernization. As tourism grows, the village remains a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its people, balancing heritage with the evolving preferences of its youth.
