Facial tattooing of girls from age 9 at the Chin Tattoo village, Mrauk U, Myanmar

Facial tattooing of girls from age 9 at the Chin Tattoo village, Mrauk U, Myanmar

Speaking of mr.hotsia's latest trip to Myanmar, what amazed and impressed me deeply was experiencing the ancient lifestyle and culture of the Chin people at the facial tattoo village in Mrauk U area, Rakhine State, Myanmar. This village still intensely preserves the “art of facial tattooing” just like in ancient times, especially tattooing girls from age 9 and up.

Getting here is not easy. For adventurous travelers like mr.hotsia, preparation is essential because the village is located not far from the ancient city of Mrauk U, which holds historical significance in Rakhine State. Rakhine itself is a province rich in diverse ethnic cultures and deep history, similar to what I have experienced inKachin Statein the far north of Myanmar

Mrauk U is a small village where people still adhere to the facial tattoo ritual, a symbol of beauty and womanhood among the Chin people. Historically, facial tattoos were done to prevent being captured as slaves or to show social status. Today, although the reasons have changed, the practice is strictly preserved. Girls here start facial tattooing from age 9 using needles and black ink made from natural materials.

I had the chance to closely observe the tattooing process. The tattooists are skilled elderly women who carefully prick the girls' facial skin slowly with small needles. This process sometimes takes several hours. The children must be very brave and patient because it is painful and requires great endurance.

What I liked most was talking with the villagers. They said facial tattooing is not just about beauty but also a connection to ancestors and traditional beliefs that are rare to find nowadays. Seeing little girls smile despite the pain from the tattoo needles is a powerful image that shows some beauty and culture hold deep value that should never be forgotten.

The Mrauk U village is not only about facial tattoos but also surrounded by the simplicity and warmth of its people. I strolled around the village, seeing traditional wooden houses and a lifestyle that remains simple, much like what I encountered atIndawgyi Lakein Kachin State, home to Red Tai and Kachin people who firmly preserve their traditional ways of life.

During my stay in Mrauk U, I tried local food that differs from larger cities like Yangon or Bagan. The dishes use fresh natural ingredients such as freshwater fish and local vegetables. My favorite was the rich and aromatic Burmese-style chicken curry, similar to what I described in the articlemr.hotsia@Rakhine 15/20: Enjoying Rakhine cuisinewhich I must say is a flavor hard to find elsewhere.

If anyone plans to travel and deeply experience Myanmar's lifestyle, I recommend visiting the facial tattoo village of Mrauk U. Although the journey is challenging, you will gain a unique experience and truly understand the Chin culture. I, mr.hotsia, also recorded video clips as memories to share with everyone so you can clearly see the meaning and beauty of girls' facial tattooing here (watch the video atthis link)

For travelers who love exploring and learning about local cultures, I suggest planning trips toKachin StateorIndawgyi Lakewhich are nearby, to fully and deeply experience Myanmar's ethnic diversity.

The facial tattoos of girls in Mrauk U are not just marks on the skin but carry beliefs, beauty, and valuable culture passed down for generations. Seeing it with your own eyes and feeling the atmosphere in this small village, I, mr.hotsia, assure you will fall in love with the hidden beauty in the simple life of the Chin people.