Tibetannet

Kangba clothes show the masculinity of men and highlight the slender figures of women. Men also put Tibetan broadswords on their belt while women wear precious accessories made of amber and corallites. (Photo/chinadaily.com.cn)

Yushu Tibetan autonomous prefecture, located in China's Qinghai province, is known not only for its beautiful landscapes but also its rich and unique culture, including the traditional Kangba costumes that have been listed as a national intangible cultural heritage. The Kangba costumes are known for their rich colors and flowing tailoring. Five colors commonly used represent the five elements: yellow for the earth, blue for the sky, red for the solemnity of religion, white for purity, green for water and black for wealth. Kangba costumes are one branch of the Tibetan clothing culture which over the centuries has gradually developed its own style.

A woman’s amber and corallite accessories reflect her family's wealth. The richer her family is, the more decoration she displays, especially on important occasions such as a wedding. (Photo/chinadaily.com.cn)

The yellow round accessories are made of rare amber. The number of accessories reflects the economic condition of a woman's family. (Photo/chinadaily.com.cn)

Kangba men's costumes are simpler and looser than women's, highlighting masculinity and strength. Men's accessories are made of amber and their corallites are also larger and heavier. (Photo/chinadaily.com.cn)

Bright red is widely used. Kangba costumes are very practical at the same time, and the left half (shown above) of the outer layer can be taken off and fixed on the waist. (Photo/chinadaily.com.cn)

Bright colors, such as yellow, red, blue, are widely used, especially for young women's dresses. (Photo/chinadaily.com.cn)

Kangba costume is richly-colored and luxuriously decorated. (Photo/chinadaily.com.cn)