BengE Town of Yanshan County in Wenshan Prefecture

Bang’e Township (蚌峨乡) is located in the southeastern part of Yanshan County (砚山县), within Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It borders Nasa Town (那洒镇) of Guangnan County (广南县) and Jijie Township (鸡街乡) of Xichou County (西畴县) to the east, Baga Township (八嘎乡) to the south, Zhela Township (者腊乡) to the west, and Ameng Town (阿猛镇) to the north. The total area of the township is approximately 397.9 square kilometers, and it is located 46 kilometers from the county seat.

History and Culture

The name “Bang’e” (蚌峨) comes from the Zhuang language, meaning “a spring at the foot of the mountain,” referring to a natural spring at the original village site. Bang’e has a long history—during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, it was under Baoning County (宝宁县) of Guangnan Prefecture (广南府), which is present-day Funing County (富宁). In 1935, it was established as Bang’e Town (蚌峨镇). In 1958, it was incorporated into Wenshan County (文山县) as a commune. In 1970, it was separated from Ameng District (阿猛区) and made a district-level commune. It became a district in 1984 and was officially renamed Bang’e Township (蚌峨乡) in 1988.

Local Customs

Bang’e Township (蚌峨乡) is home to multiple ethnic groups, including Han, Zhuang, Miao, Yi, and Yao. The locals are simple, warm-hearted, and culturally vibrant. Singing and dancing are integral to community life, and people celebrate and connect through their unique ethnic festivals. Traditional Zhuang festivals include “March 3rd Festival” (三月三) and “Qilang Festival” (七郎节), with the latter celebrated on the first day of the seventh lunar month. It is a grand and sacred occasion for the local Zhuang community.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Bang’e Township (蚌峨乡) features a mid-subtropical climate with an average annual temperature of 17–18°C, a frost-free period of 312 days, and an annual rainfall of about 1,190 mm. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the climate is mild and perfect for outdoor exploration.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Bang’e Village

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: The administrative center of the township, where visitors can experience ethnic customs and rural lifestyle.

Aozhang Village

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: A classic ancient Zhuang village, preserving traditional festivals and folk customs of the Zhuang people.

Nanping Village

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Named after a nearby pond, this village offers beautiful natural scenery and is ideal for a peaceful walk.

Transportation

External Transportation

Visitors can take a passenger bus from Yanshan County (砚山县) to Bang’e Township (蚌峨乡), with a travel time of approximately one hour. For self-driving, follow the Bang’e–Xichou (蚌峨–西畴) highway, covering about 46 kilometers in total, with good road conditions.

Internal Transportation

Transportation within the township relies mainly on rural roads. Motorcycles or local vehicles can be rented to reach various scenic spots.

Local Cuisine

Bang’e Township (蚌峨乡) offers a variety of local delicacies:

  • Yanshan Tianqi Steamed Chicken (砚山三七汽锅鸡): A nutritious dish prepared with “tianqi” (三七), a famous local herb.
  • Luokezhe Chili (倮可者辣椒): A locally grown chili variety with a distinctive taste.

Shopping

Visitors can purchase specialty agricultural products and handicrafts such as tianqi (三七), chili peppers, and Zhuang embroidery (壮族刺绣).

Accommodation

Several farmhouse inns and homestays are available in Bang’e Township (蚌峨乡), offering affordable rates, comfortable environments, and a chance to experience authentic local culture.

Travel Tips

  • Some scenic spots are located in mountainous areas, so wear comfortable sports shoes and bring sun protection and insect repellent.
  • Respect local customs, especially in ethnic minority villages.
  • Help preserve the environment by not littering and by protecting natural landscapes.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Yanshan County (砚山县), then take public transportation or drive to Bang’e Township (蚌峨乡). Visit Bang’e Village (蚌峨村) and immerse yourself in local culture.

Day 2:
In the morning, explore Aozhang Village (凹掌村) and experience traditional Zhuang culture. In the afternoon, visit Nanping Village (南屏村) for its scenic beauty.

Day 3:
Enjoy local cuisine at a farmhouse, shop for regional specialties, and conclude your delightful journey.

Bang’e Township (蚌峨乡) is a destination rich in both natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you’re admiring its landscapes or experiencing its ethnic traditions, you’ll leave with lasting memories. We hope your stay here is truly unforgettable.