The types, characteristics, and contemporary implications of the Interaction-Exchange-Integration History of Chinese religious-cultures

Abstract Historically, China’s religious culture centered on the triumvirate of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, fostering a diverse, multi-ethnic, and multi-faceted communication model. Whether through grand narratives of official diplomacy, subtle and organic grassroots interactions, or the catalytic efforts of scholars, these exchanges consistently promoted interaction, exchange, and integration among numerous ethnic groups in China. The harmonious coexistence and vibrant interactions of multiple ethnicities and diverse religious beliefs not only enriched and expanded the mainstreams of traditional Chinese culture, namely Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism—developing flourishing branches and generating new innovations—but also infused fresh vitality into each ethnicity’s cultural practices. Together, these exchanges formed the profound, enduring, diverse and unified Chinese culture. This article primarily examines the types and characteristics of Interaction-Exchange-Integration History among diverse religious cultures of ethnic groups such as the Han, Tibetan, and Mongolian in Chinese history and derives insights from them for the contemporary era.