The Kachin people consist of several ethno-linguistic people groups who largely inhabit the Kachin Hills in northeast Myanmar's Kachin State. The Kachin peoples include the Jingpho (Chingpaw or Singhpo in India), Rawang (Nung), Zaiwa, and Lisu (Yawyin), Maru (ROP3 106361, Naingvaw or Zi), and Lashi (ROP3 114158, Letsi or Acye). In Myanmar, each of these Kachin people groups have overlapping territories and integrated social structures.

The Kachin peoples speak a variety of languages. The majority, though, are Jingpho speakers, and Jingpho is one of the officially recognized minority languages of China.

Kachin peoples worship various gods as well as the spirits of their ancestors. Their ancestor is worshipped as a spirit or god. They believe that spirits reside everywhere, from the sun to the animals, and that these spirits bring good or bad luck.

All living creatures are believed to have souls. Rituals are carried out for protection in almost all daily activities, from planting of crops to warfare. Buddhism is also a major religion.

Many Kachin have embraced Christianity. As such, many of their formerly animist events and symbols have been largely re-interpreted as "folkloric" celebrations and items.