Hakka

The Hakka are a Han Chinese ethnic subgroup known for their distinct language, culture, and historical migrations. The term Hakka, or Kejia in Mandarin, literally means “guest families” and reflects centuries of north-to-south movement. Hakka communities are concentrated in southern China, especially Guangdong, Fujian, Jiangxi, Guangxi, and Hainan, with large diaspora communities in Taiwan and across Southeast Asia, the Americas, and Europe.

The Hakka language (Kèjiāhuà) is a branch of the Sinitic languages within the Sino-Tibetan family. It is not mutually intelligible with Mandarin or Cantonese. Within Hakka, several dialect groups exist (including Meixian, Yongding, Sixian, and Dabu), which differ in pronunciation and vocabulary but share core grammar. Hakka literature and media use Chinese characters, and the language often coexists with Mandarin or regional languages in bilingual settings.

Historically the Hakka originated in northern China and began relocating southward during repeated upheavals from antiquity through the medieval period, with large waves during the Ming and Qing dynasties. They established fortified rural settlements, notably the tulou—circular earthen buildings in Fujian—built for defense against banditry and war. Distinctive cultural practices include Hakka cuisine (featuring tofu dishes and lei cha, or ground-tea), traditional music, and opera.

Today the Hakka are a widely dispersed group. In Taiwan and Southeast Asia, Hakka language and culture remain vibrant; in mainland China and other countries, Hakka education and media help preserve dialects alongside Mandarin and other local languages.