Ganhe Yi Ethnic Town in Yanshan County, Wenshan

Ganhe Yi Ethnic Township (干河彝族乡) is located in the central-northeastern region 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 is 15 kilometers from the county seat. It borders Zhela Township (者腊乡) to the east, Jiangna Town (江那镇) to the south, Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡) to the west, and Aji Township (阿基乡) to the north. The township covers a total area of 237.1 square kilometers, featuring a typical karst landscape with higher terrain in the northeast and lower elevations in the southwest.

History and Culture

The name “Ganhe” (干河) derives from a seasonal river that flows past Ganhe Village (干河村). In 1933, the area was incorporated into the administrative unit of Xiaoweimo County (小维摩县) during the Republic of China era. In 1935, it was renamed Sanhe Town (三河镇). In 1971, it was separated from Weimo Commune (维摩公社) and established as a district-level commune. It was changed to Ganhe District (干河区) in 1984, and in 1988, officially designated as Ganhe Yi Ethnic Township (干河彝族乡).Ganhe Yi Ethnic Town of Yanshan County in Wenshan Prefecture Ganhe Yi Ethnic Town of Yanshan County in Wenshan Prefecture-06 Ganhe Yi Ethnic Town of Yanshan County in Wenshan Prefecture-05 Ganhe Yi Ethnic Town of Yanshan County in Wenshan Prefecture-03

Local Customs

Ganhe Yi Ethnic Township (干河彝族乡) is home to multiple ethnic groups, including Yi, Zhuang, Han, Miao, and Yao. The Yi people make up 34.3% of the total population. The local communities are warm, hospitable, and culturally rich, with vibrant music and dance traditions. Ethnic festivals provide opportunities for intergroup communication and celebration. Major Yi festivals include the Torch Festival (火把节) and the Grass Horse Festival (草马节). The Torch Festival, held annually on June 24th, features flaming torches, singing, and dancing, traditionally used to drive away disease and evil spirits.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Ganhe Yi Ethnic Township (干河彝族乡) enjoys a subtropical climate with mild temperatures. The annual average temperature ranges from 16.1°C to 16.7°C. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Baiyin Cave

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Located in Xiaxinzai Village (下新寨村), about 3 kilometers from the township government office, Baiyin Cave stretches for 1 kilometer and has great potential for development.

Ganhe Village

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: The central area of the township, where visitors can experience local ethnic culture and rural life.

Biyun Village

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: A key village in Ganhe Yi Ethnic Township (干河彝族乡), known for its beautiful natural scenery, ideal for leisurely walks and nature appreciation.

Transportation

External Transportation

Visitors can take a passenger bus from Yanshan County (砚山县) to Ganhe Yi Ethnic Township (干河彝族乡), with a travel time of about 30 minutes. For those driving, the route follows National Highway G323, covering about 15 kilometers with good road conditions.

Internal Transportation

The township relies mainly on rural roads. Motorcycles or local vehicles can be rented to reach various attractions.

Local Cuisine

Ganhe Yi Ethnic Township (干河彝族乡) offers a variety of local specialties:

  • Yanshan Tianqi Steamed Chicken (砚山三七汽锅鸡): A nutritious dish made with “tianqi” (三七), a local medicinal herb.
  • Luokezhe Chili (倮可者辣椒): A regional chili variety with a unique flavor.

Shopping

Visitors can purchase local agricultural products and handicrafts such as tianqi (三七), chili peppers, and Yi embroidery (彝族刺绣).

Accommodation

There are several rural inns and homestays in Ganhe Yi Ethnic Township (干河彝族乡), offering affordable prices and a comfortable environment that allows guests to experience local culture and hospitality.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are located in mountainous areas—wear comfortable walking shoes and take sun protection and insect repellent.
  • Respect local customs, especially in ethnic minority villages.
  • Help preserve the environment by avoiding littering and protecting natural landscapes.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Yanshan County (砚山县), then travel to Ganhe Yi Ethnic Township (干河彝族乡) by public transportation or car. Visit Ganhe Village (干河村) to explore local ethnic culture.

Day 2:
Head to Baiyin Cave (白银洞) in the morning for a cave exploration experience. In the afternoon, visit Biyun Village (碧云村) for its picturesque landscapes.

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

Ganhe Yi Ethnic Township (干河彝族乡) is a place filled with natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re drawn to its scenic landscapes or its vibrant traditions, you’re sure to leave with unforgettable memories. We hope you enjoy your time here.