A distinctive of the Xibe is the value they place on education. They are also expert archers who hold archery competitions in every village during the slack season in winter and on festival days. The Xibe practice shamanism, turning to shamans to cure the sick, communicate with the gods and control events. Their gods include the Insect King, the Dragon King, the Earth Spirit, the Smallpox Spirit and Xilimama and Hairkan. These last two provide domestic tranquility and protect livestock respectively.
Ancestor worship is still common.
Some Xibe have adopted Lama Buddhism. In Life Styles of China's Ethnic Minorities. Peace Book Co. Ltd., 1991. For additional information, follow the links below.