Bazhai Town of Maguan County in Wenshan Prefecture

Geographical Location

Bazhai Town (八寨镇) is located in the western part of Qiubei County (马关县), Yunnan Province (云南省). The town government is situated 46.7 kilometers from the county seat and 65 kilometers from the prefecture capital of Wenshan (文山). Covering a total area of approximately 326.3 square kilometers, Bazhai Town (八寨镇) serves as a transportation hub connecting two prefectures (Wenshan Prefecture, 红河州 and Honghe Prefecture, 文山州) and four counties (Wenshan City, 文山市; Qiubei County, 马关县; Pingbian County, 屏边县; Hekou County, 河口县).

Cultural History

Bazhai Town (八寨镇) has a long history. During the Ming Dynasty (明朝), it was known as Ayacheng (阿雅城), and during the Qing Dynasty (清朝), it was called Yongpingli (永平里). In the Republic of China era, Bazhai Town (八寨镇) underwent several administrative changes. In 1930, it was part of the western district of Qiubei County (马关县). In 1940, it was renamed Lianxi Township (廉喜乡). In 1950, it was part of the Fourth District, and in 1969, it became a commune. In 1984, the commune was converted into a district, and in 1988, Bazhai Town (八寨镇) was officially established. The town is named after the eighth military camp of the Minglong clan (明龙氏土司), where the town government is currently located.

Folk Customs

Bazhai Town (八寨镇) is home to 12 ethnic groups, including Han (汉族), Zhuang (壮族), Miao (苗族), Yi (彝族), Yao (瑶族), Hui (回族), and Bouyei (布依族). The town boasts a rich variety of ethnic cultures, including Ayage Music (阿雅古乐), Dian Drama (滇剧), the Qingzhan Drum Dance (打清蘸), and Shehuo (社火). There are also numerous local ethnic festivals such as the Miao “Huashan Festival” (花山节) and the Zhuang “San Yue San” (三月三).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Bazhai Town (八寨镇) has a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct vertical variations in climate. The average annual temperature is 16.5°C. The best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is cool and ideal for escaping the heat.

Recommended Scenic Spots, Visit Duration, and Ticket Prices

Ayacheng Ruins (八寨阿雅城遗址)
Description: Located about 1500 meters north of Bazhai Village (八寨村), this site is an ancient Ming Dynasty (明代) ruin.
Recommended visit time: 1 hour
Ticket price: Free

Site of the First Party Branch of the Communist Party of Qiubei County (中共马关县第一个党支部成立旧址)
Description: Located in the former Bazhai Central School (八寨中心校) San Sheng Gong (三圣宫), this site is an important historical landmark.
Recommended visit time: 1 hour
Ticket price: Free

Huaba Shengu (花坝神谷)
Description: Situated in Bazhai Town (八寨镇), this is a green ecological tourist destination that integrates ecological agriculture, sightseeing, specialty dining, leisure sports, and water-based activities.
Recommended visit time: 2 hours
Ticket price: Free

Transportation

From Qiubei County (马关县), travel along the highway to Bazhai Town (八寨镇), a distance of approximately 46.7 kilometers, taking about 1 hour by car. The town’s transportation mainly consists of motorcycles and small vans.

Cuisine

Bazhai Town (八寨镇) offers a variety of local specialties, including:

  • Bitter Buckwheat Cake (苦荞饼): A local snack with a sweet and aromatic taste.
  • Green Vegetables (青菜): Sweet and tender, these are the town’s specialty vegetables.

Shopping

Visitors can buy Zhuang (壮族) embroidery, handicrafts, and local agricultural products such as cardamom (草果) and star anise (八角).

Accommodation

Bazhai Town (八寨镇) has several homestays that offer affordable prices and comfortable environments. For more luxurious accommodation, it is recommended to return to Qiubei County (马关县) for your stay.

Travel Tips

  • Respect the customs of local ethnic minorities, especially when participating in folk activities.
  • Protect the environment by not littering.
  • Pay attention to safety, especially when exploring mountainous areas and ancient ruins.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Qiubei County (马关县), head to Bazhai Town (八寨镇), visit the Ayacheng Ruins (八寨阿雅城遗址) to experience the historical culture, and stay at a local homestay.
Day 2: Visit the Site of the First Party Branch of the Communist Party of Qiubei County (中共马关县第一个党支部成立旧址) to learn about revolutionary history, then head to Huaba Shengu (花坝神谷) to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational activities. Return to Qiubei County (马关县) in the afternoon to conclude the trip.

Bazhai Town (八寨镇) is a fascinating place, rich in both historical culture and unique natural landscapes. Whether you’re interested in folk culture or enjoying the scenic beauty, you’ll find something to enjoy here. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Bazhai Town (八寨镇).