Their language is unwritten; in the past the Derung have transmitted messages and have made records by making notches on wooden logs.

They also paid yearly tribute to China; the local Lama, called Changputong, was in charge of sending it to Weixi.

Prior to 1949, there were several other names used for this ethnic group; they were known as Qiao during the Yuan and Qiu and Qu during the Qing.

Prior to the formation of the People's Republic of China, Derung society was based on a system of clans.

They are two stories in height; the second floor is designed as the living quarters for the family whereas the first level serves as a barn and stable.