Ecological development revives, preserves Chinese reindeer tribe (3)

Tourists interact with a reindeer at Gu Musen's breeding area at Aoluguya nationality township in Genhe, Inner Mongolia autonomous region, on Aug 6, 2020. [Photo by Zhao Shiyue/chinadaily.com.cn]

As Gu Musen's videos gained popularity on social media platforms, he gradually recognized his responsibility to inherit and spread the tribe's traditional culture. "I used to show little ethnic identity towards my hometown, and considered reindeer breeding tiring and old-fashioned work," Gu said. "However, I've developed a deep connection with these lovely creatures, which exists as belief and spiritual support for Ewenkis."

When talking of the future, Gu Musen decided to further expand the reindeer population and partner with schools on education, spreading the minority group's heritage from one generation to the next.