Xinhua Town of Xinping County, Yuxi
Xinhua Township (新化乡) is located directly north of Xinping Yi and Dai Autonomous County (新平彝族傣族自治县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), on the south bank of the Lüzhi River (绿汁江). To the northeast, it borders Fuliangpeng Township (富良棚乡) in Eshan County (峨山县); to the southeast, it connects with Pingdian Township (平甸乡); to the west, it neighbors Jiasa Town (戛洒镇) and Mosha Town (漠沙镇); to the northwest, it meets Laochang Township (老厂乡); and to the north, it shares a boundary with Shuangbai County (双柏县), Chuxiong Prefecture (楚雄州), with the Lüzhi River (绿汁江) as the natural border. The township covers an area of approximately 490 square kilometers, with its administrative center in Xinhua Community (新化社区), located 29 kilometers from the county seat.
Cultural History
Xinhua Township (新化乡) has a long history. In 1495 during the Ming Dynasty, it was established as Xinhua Prefecture (新化州). In 1665 during the Qing Dynasty, it was incorporated into Xinping County (新平县). This area was once an important ancient transportation route with profound historical and cultural significance.
Folk Customs
Xinhua Township (新化乡) is predominantly inhabited by the Yi ethnic group, offering a rich and diverse folk culture. Every year on March 18th, the “Men’s Carnival Festival” is held in Xinhua Guzhou Yelin (新化古州野林), featuring activities such as war drumming, buffalo horn blowing, three-stringed lute performances, and folk singing. Other highlights include Yi antiphonal singing, top-spinning, wrestling, bride-carrying arm wrestling, and evening events like face-painting, bonfire parties, and cultural performances.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Xinhua Township (新化乡) has a varied vertical climate: hot in the flatlands, warm in the mid-mountain areas, and cool in the highlands, with an average annual temperature ranging between 15°C and 20°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 at its most beautiful.
Recommended Attractions & Suggested Visit Duration
Xinhua Guzhou Yelin
A 700-year-old primitive forest with over 300 species of higher plants, serving as a microcosm of the Ailao Mountain (哀牢山) primeval forest ecosystem.
Suggested visit duration: 2 hours.
Daiwei Laohushan Battle Site
Dating back to 1950, this is one of the first batch of municipal-level revolutionary sites in Yuxi City (玉溪市).
Suggested visit duration: 1 hour.
Former Site of the CPC Xinping North District Committee & Government
A site of significant historical importance.
Suggested visit duration: 1 hour.
Transportation
Public Transport
Take a local bus or minibus from Xinping County (新平县) to Xinhua Township (新化乡); the journey takes about 1 hour.
Self-Driving
Navigate to the Xinhua Township People’s Government (新化乡人民政府, Xinhua Community); the drive takes approximately 40 minutes.
Local Cuisine
Yi-style Hot Pot
Authentic Yi-style hot pot can be enjoyed during traditional festivals.
Ecological Beef and Goat Hot Pot
Savor ecological beef and goat hot pot in Xinhua Township (新化乡).
Shopping
Handicrafts
Purchase unique souvenirs such as Yi embroidery and bamboo weaving at local markets or handicraft shops.
Local Agricultural Products
Fresh produce like grapes can be found at local farmers’ markets.
Accommodation
Hotels
Several hotels are available in Xinping County (新平县), just a short drive from Xinhua Township (新化乡).
Homestays
Experience local life by staying at one of the charming homestays around Xinhua Township (新化乡).
Travel Tips
- Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of local customs when visiting historical sites or participating in folk activities.
- Protect the Environment: Avoid littering and help preserve the natural beauty.
- Safety First: Follow regulations and ensure personal safety during outdoor activities.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Xinping County (新平县), travel to Xinhua Township (新化乡), and visit Xinhua Guzhou Yelin (新化古州野林) to experience the primeval forest ecosystem.
Day 2: Explore the Daiwei Laohushan Battle Site (代味老虎山战斗遗址) in the morning, then head to the Former Site of the CPC Xinping North District Committee & Government (中共新平北区委、区政府旧址) in the afternoon to learn about revolutionary history.
Day 3: Shop and enjoy local cuisine in Xinping County (新平县) before concluding your trip.
Closing Remarks
Xinhua Township (新化乡) captivates visitors with its profound history, rich ethnic traditions, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether strolling through Xinhua Guzhou Yelin (新化古州野林) or immersing yourself in Yi culture, you’ll discover the unique charm of this land. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Xinhua Township (新化乡).
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