Pubei Yi Ethnic Town in Yimen County, Yuxi

Pubei Yi Nationality Township (浦贝彝族乡) is located in the southeast of Yimen County (易门县), Yuxi City (玉溪市). It is bordered by Longquan Street (龙泉街道) to the north, Shijie Yi Nationality Township (十街彝族乡) to the south, and Tongchang Yi Nationality Township (铜厂彝族乡) to the west. The township government is 7.2 kilometers away from the county seat.

History and Culture

Pubei Yi Nationality Township has a long history. It was known as “Pubei Township” during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The area is rich in cultural heritage, including the “Jie Tiao Kiln” (阶梯窑) site and the “Yang Shi Family Temple Prohibition of Gambling Stele” (杨氏家庙戒赌碑记). The township is also famous for its traditional Yi ethnic culture and customs.

Ethnic Customs

The township is predominantly inhabited by the Yi ethnic group, who make up 53.07% of the population. The Yi people are known for their vibrant cultural traditions, including traditional festivals such as the “Opening New Street” (开新街) and the “Migaha Festival” (咪嘎哈节). The township is also famous for its traditional Yi dances, music, and rituals.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Pubei Yi Nationality Township has a subtropical plateau monsoon climate with distinct seasons. The average annual temperature is around 16.7°C. The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is beautiful.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time

  • Jie Tiao Kiln Site (阶梯窑遗址): A historical site with cultural significance. Suggested visiting time: 1 hour.
  • Shi Lian Temple Spring (石莲寺泉): Known for its clear mountain spring water. Suggested visiting time: 1 hour.
  • e-Agriculture Digital Innovation Square (e农数字融创广场): A modern facility that combines culture and technology. Suggested visiting time: 2 hours.

Transportation

  • Public Transport: Take a local bus or minibus from the county seat of Yimen to Pubei Yi Nationality Township. The journey takes about 1 hour.
  • Self-Drive: Navigate to the Pubei Yi Nationality Township People’s Government on Pubei Road. The drive takes about 40 minutes.

Cuisine

  • Yi Ethnic Group’s Traditional Dishes: Such as “ba ba” (粑粑), a traditional snack made from glutinous rice.
  • Local Specialties: Including “Pu Bei Yang Quan Xi” (浦贝羊全席), a complete lamb feast, and “Dou Chi” (豆豉), a fermented soybean paste.

Shopping

  • Local Specialty Products: Pubei Yi Nationality Township is known for its agricultural products such as walnuts, citrus fruits, and various types of mushrooms. These can be purchased at local farmers’ markets.
  • Handicrafts: Traditional handicrafts such as bamboo weaving and ethnic embroidery are also available.

Accommodation

  • Hotels: There are several hotels in Pubei Yi Nationality Township with basic facilities.
  • Homestays: Experience local ethnic culture by staying in a traditional homestay.

Travel Tips

  • Respect Local Culture: When visiting historical sites and participating in ethnic activities, be mindful of and respect local cultural customs.
  • Protect the Environment: Do not litter during your visit to preserve the local natural environment.
  • Safety First: Pay attention to personal safety and follow relevant regulations when engaging in outdoor activities.

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Pubei Yi Nationality Township and visit the Jie Tiao Kiln Site to learn about the local ceramic history.
  • Day 2: Explore Shi Lian Temple Spring and enjoy the natural scenery. Visit the e-Agriculture Digital Innovation Square to experience modern technology.
  • Day 3: Shop for local specialties and enjoy local cuisine in Pubei Yi Nationality Township before concluding your trip.
Pubei Yi Nationality Township is a charming destination with its rich natural landscapes and unique ethnic culture. Whether you are exploring the historical sites or immersing yourself in the ethnic festivals, you will surely be captivated by the unique charm of this land. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Pubei Yi Nationality Township.