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túSeptember 28, 2025

屠姓

The Tu surname is an ancient, multi-origin Chinese clan with key historical roots in Chenliu and Guangping commanderies. Theories on its origin include descent from the Jiuli tribe, the Shang royal family, or a professional occupation. Today, it ranks 275th in population, with a widespread presence across China.

Ranked #275
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Tu Family

Family Name: Tu (Tú)

Distribution of the Tu Family

  • Chenliu Commandery: Established by Emperor Qin Shi Huang as Chenliu County, later reorganized during the Han Dynasty. It is located in the present-day Kaifeng area of Henan Province.
  • Guangping Commandery: Established by Emperor Jing of Han. It is situated in the vicinity of present-day Yongnian County in southern Hebei Province.

Origins of the Tu Family

There are four theories regarding the origin of the Tu surname:

  1. From the Jiuli Tribe: Tu is said to be a descendant of Chi You. In ancient times, the Yellow Emperor and the Yan Emperor joined forces to fight against the Jiuli Tribe and captured Chi You, incorporating his people into their own tribe. Some of those who wished to submit settled in the areas of Zou and Tu, giving rise to the surnames Zou and Tu, both named after their places of residence. These places are within present-day Shandong Province. (Source: "Shiyi Ji")
  2. From the Zi Clan: Descendants of the royal family of the Shang Dynasty. After the establishment of the Shang Dynasty, members of this clan were granted fiefs. One branch was granted the fief of Xuan, and they later adopted the name Xuan as their surname. Later, they changed it to Tu, as the character for "Tu" has the same pronunciation as a character meaning "tea" (荼), indicating a connection to this place. (Source: "Qianfu Lun")
  3. From a Professional Occupation: Some people in ancient times made a living by butchering animals, and those in this profession adopted the surname Tu. For example, during the Spring and Autumn Period, there was a person named Tu Kui who was a butcher. (Source: Various historical records)
  4. From Existing Surnames: The Tu surname also existed among other historical clans. (Source: Various historical records)

Hall Names: Shuzhai Tang (Study Hall); Chenliu Tang (Chenliu Hall)

Prominent Family Members:

  • Chi You, Xianzi, Shentu, Xiutu Wang (all mentioned in historical texts)

Common Couplets for Tu Family Ancestral Halls:

  • Four-Character Couplets:
    • "The Tu surname originated in the ancient state of Tu; Its prestige can be seen in Chenliu." (Alluding to the family's origins and historical significance.)
    • "Legends abound; Poetry and prose are their forte." (Celebrating the family's literary achievements.)
    • "Their words are noble and pure; Their reputation resonates in the scholarly community." (Highlighting their moral integrity and influence.)
    • "The Tu family has a long history; Their legacy endures through the ages." (Reflecting the family's longevity and heritage.)

Distribution of the Tu Family: The Tu family is an ancient, multi-ethnic, and multi-originated group, ranking 275th on current surname rankings with a population of approximately 246,000 people, accounting for about 0.015% of the national population. In ancient times, most prominent Tu families came from the Guangping Commandery. Today, Tu families are found in various regions including Yueqing County, Xiangshan District, Fenghua City, Shengzhou County, Jiaxing City, Ninghai City, Huangyan District, Wuxing County, Yinxian County in Zhejiang Province; Xiaoshan District in Hangzhou City; and other places in China and abroad.

The Tu family has a rich heritage and a diverse distribution across different regions.