Mosuo People: The "Mysterious Kingdom of Women" with Unique Matriarchal Traditions

In the 21st century, the Mosuo people retain a matriarchal family structure, earning them the nickname "mysterious kingdom of women"—a cultural phenomenon that fascinates scholars and visitors worldwide. A key aspect is their "walking marriage" practice.

In this matriarchal society, men and women rarely interact alone during the day. If a man is attracted to a woman, they arrange a meeting. He visits her "flower tower" at night, entering through a window, and hangs an item like a hat outside to signal their privacy. He leaves before dawn.

However, as ethnic groups increasingly integrate into mainstream culture, only about 30% of Mosuo now adhere to walking marriages. This blend of enduring tradition and gradual change makes their society a compelling subject for understanding cultural preservation amid modernization.