The Li people, an ethic group living on Hainan island in southern China, still reflect many customs handed down from the past. By viewing their customs, people can get a glimpse of life under the matriarchal system in ancient and rural China. Tattoos are also listed as an intangible cultural heritage. /VCG photo

Split into five branches, the Li used different patterns on their faces to reflect the religious beliefs of different families. The patterns are also used to tell if a Li man is related to a potential spouse, which determines their compatibility for marriage. /VCG photo.

However, the arrival of modern civilization transformed the Li culture dramatically. Among the 1.2 million Li people, there are only 2,000 with tattoos on their bodies. According to a local population survey, the oldest tattooed Li is 90 years old and the youngest one is 72 years old. /VCG photo

In the past, to celebrate a Li girl reaching adulthood, her face was tattooed. It was also a symbol that she was eligible for marriage. /VCG photo