Chunhe Subdistrict of Hongta District, Yuxi
Geographical Location
Chunhe Subdistrict is located in the northwest of Hongta District (红塔区), Yuxi City (玉溪市). It borders Liqi Subdistrict (李棋街道) to the east, Yudai Subdistrict (玉带街道) to the southeast, Dayingjie Subdistrict (大营街街道) to the south, Luohe Township (洛河乡) to the southwest, Jinning County (晋宁县) to the northwest, and Beicheng Subdistrict (北城街道) to the northeast. The administrative center of Chunhe Subdistrict is Majing Street (马井街), situated at 102°3′ east longitude and 24°24′ north latitude, with an elevation of 1,634 meters.
Cultural History
Chunhe Subdistrict derives its name from Chunhe Village (春和村). During the early Ming Dynasty, it was called Handong Village (寒冬村) due to its cold climate. In the Qing Dynasty, it was renamed Chunhe, symbolizing “the arrival of spring after winter.” In September 1952, it was designated as the Sixth District, marking its first independent administrative division. In July 1966, it was reorganized into Chunhe People’s Commune and Maqiao People’s Commune. In February 1970, Maqiao was merged into Chunhe People’s Commune. In January 1984, Chunhe People’s Commune became Chunhe District, and in January 1988, it was renamed Chunhe Town. On March 7, 2011, Chunhe Town was officially upgraded to Chunhe Subdistrict.
Folk Customs
Chunhe Subdistrict boasts a rich folk culture, including traditional festivals such as the Rice Noodle Festival (米线节). This festival, originating in the Ming Dynasty, has a history of several hundred years. In 2011, the Yuxi Rice Noodle Culture Festival was recognized by the World Record Association as the “World’s Longest-Running Festival.”
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Chunhe Subdistrict enjoys a subtropical semi-humid plateau monsoon climate with mild winters and cool summers, making it pleasant year-round. The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is comfortable and the scenery picturesque.
Recommended Attractions & Suggested Visit Duration
Hongta Mountain Park (红塔山公园):
A serene park with lush greenery, winding trails, and the iconic Hongta Tower standing atop the mountain—a landmark of Yuxi City and the symbol of Hongta Group.
Suggested visit duration: 2-3 hours.
Blue and White Porcelain Street (青花街):
Features the Blue and White Porcelain Industrial Heritage Museum, ceramic art studios, boutique hotels, authentic Yuxi rice noodles, local snacks, and Yuxi’s first pet-friendly zoo. Known as the “New Landmark of Yuxi Cultural Tourism.”
Suggested visit duration: Half a day.
Liu Zongqi Community (刘总旗社区):
Hosts the traditional Rice Noodle Festival annually, themed “Divine Snake Brings Blessings, Rice Noodle Feast,” celebrating Chinese culture and fostering community harmony.
Suggested visit duration: Half a day.
Transportation
By Car:
About 90 km from Kunming (昆明), taking approximately 2 hours. Navigate to “Chunhe Subdistrict, Hongta District, Yuxi City.”
Public Transport:
Take a long-distance bus to Yuxi City, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Chunhe Subdistrict.
Local Cuisine
Yuxi Rice Noodles (玉溪米线):
A beloved local dish with numerous varieties, celebrated annually during the Rice Noodle Festival. Recommended spots: Beicheng Cold Rice Noodles, Hongji Cold Rice Noodles, Yuxi Rice Noodles, and Wangji Snacks.
Pine-Needle Roast Duck (青松毛烤鸭):
Duck roasted over dried pine needles, renowned for its golden color and aromatic flavor. Recommended vendors: Zhou Guohong Roast Duck and Qianji Roast Duck.
Shopping
Blue and White Porcelain Street (青花街):
Offers Yuxi blue-and-white porcelain souvenirs.
Xiaomiao Street (小庙街):
A bustling pedestrian street in downtown Yuxi, featuring historic sites like Wenxing Pavilion (文星阁) and Confucius Temple (文庙), along with unique boutique shops.
Accommodation
Nearby Hotels:
Various hotels and guesthouses, such as Yuxi Youshi Homestay (玉溪有时民宿).
Hot Spring Resorts:
Dayingjie Hot Spring Resort (大营街温泉度假区) provides relaxing hot spring experiences.
Travel Tips
Safety:
Be cautious when hiking to avoid slipping. Mountain peaks can be windy, so wear warm clothing.
Eco-Friendly Travel:
Avoid littering to protect the environment.
Reservations:
Some attractions require advance booking—check opening hours and reservation policies beforehand.
Suggested Itinerary
- Hongta Mountain Park (红塔山公园): Hike to learn about Hongta Group’s history and enjoy scenic views.
- Blue and White Porcelain Street (青花街): Experience Yuxi’s porcelain culture and sample local snacks.
- Liu Zongqi Community (刘总旗社区): Join the Rice Noodle Festival to immerse in local traditions.
- Dayingjie Hot Spring Resort (大营街温泉度假区): Unwind in the hot springs.
With its stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage, Chunhe Subdistrict attracts an increasing number of visitors. Here, you can experience the poetic beauty of “spring following winter” and embrace nature’s grandeur. We hope you have a memorable time in Chunhe Subdistrict.
