Exploration of the Formation and Cultural Essence of Qiang Ethnic Architectural Features from the Perspective of Cultural Geography: A Case Study of the Qiang Villages in the Lower Reaches of Zagunao River

This study aims to explore the influence of geographical environment on cultural formation from the perspective of cultural geography theory, and to explore the impact of geographical environment and culture generated by geographical environment on architecture. This will help to understand the process and characteristics of Qiang architectural formation in western China, as well as its cultural connotations. The study reveals the uniqueness of Qiang architecture formed under complex social historical backgrounds such as ethnic migration, natural topography, and climatic conditions, and the social customs, beliefs, and cultural connotations reflected in Qiang architecture. This study explores the factors affecting the formation of Qiang architectural characteristics from the aspects of ethnic migration, ecological and geographical environment, changes in agricultural types, integration of Han, Tibetan cultures, and Qiang culture, and explores the historical evolution, rich ethnic beliefs, and cultural connotations of Qiang from the perspectives of building materials, spatial design, and decorative art. The research results are of great significance for understanding the inheritance and development of Qiang culture in modern contexts, protecting the "original flavor" of architectural forms and patterns, villagers' lifestyles, natural environment, and humanistic environment.