Architecture

The Dulongs living by the river have built their lives round the gorge. Villages of all sizes are on the steep mountain slopes and along the river. Their houses are often two storied wooden buildings with a ladder to go up and down. People live on the second story and their livestock is kept downstairs. Each hearth in the house symbolizes one little family unit - married sons and daughters don't separate from their parents; they just set up a new hearth in the house.