Ewenki means "people living in the big mountain". Ewenki people used to live in the forest north of Lake Baikal and later moved east to the middle reaches of Heilongjiang River. They have been called "Suolun", "Tonggusi" and "Yakute". In 1957, the ethnic group was officially named Ewenki according to their own will.

Birch bark plays an important role in Ewenkis' daily life. Most of their utensils for hunting, fishing and milking are made of birch bark. Birch bark are also applied to make dishware, wine-brewing container, vessels, houses, and fences. They even wrap dead bodies with birch bark. What's more, Ewenki people make clothes with birch bark. Caps and shoes made of birch bark are very popular among Ewenki people. They decorate their birch bark containers with various kinds of beautiful patterns.

Ewenki people are very hospitable. They respect the elders. Young people will salute and greet the elders whenever they meet them. The common courtesies are going down on one's knees, turning sideways and making a bow with hands folded in front. Ewenki people think it a joyous occasion if guests visit them. People in the pasturing area entertain the guests with milk tea, and those living in the hunting area entertain their guests with breast meat of deer or reindeer milk.