Chongge Village of Jinping Town in Qiubei County, Wenshan
Geographic Location
Chonge Village (冲搁村) is located in Jinping Town (锦屏镇), Qiubei County (丘北县), within the Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州) of Yunnan Province (云南省). It lies approximately 15 kilometers from the county seat of Qiubei. Jinping Town is situated in the northwestern part of Qiubei County and is one of its important towns.
Cultural and Historical Background
Chonge Village is predominantly inhabited by the Yao ethnic group (瑶族). The traditional indigo dyeing technique practiced here has a history of over 600 years and is still preserved today. This technique uses 100% natural plant materials to produce indigo dye, which is then used in traditional textile crafts such as cloth dyeing.
Customs and Traditions
The Yao people of Chonge Village have maintained many unique cultural customs. The most famous is the indigo dyeing technique. Additionally, traditional Yao festivals such as the “Panwang Festival” (盘王节) are celebrated with vibrant song and dance performances, as well as sacrificial ceremonies.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Qiubei County experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons and mild temperatures. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities.
Recommended Attractions, Visiting Duration, and Admission Fees
- Chonge Village: Experience Yao folk culture and traditional handicrafts, and observe the indigo dyeing process. Recommended visiting time: Half a day. Admission: Free.
- Nearby Attractions: Such as the Puzhehei Scenic Area (普者黑景区), which is a national-level scenic spot located near Chonge Village, ideal for further exploration of the local natural landscapes.
Transportation
- Public Transport: Take a passenger bus from Qiubei County to Jinping Town (approximately 20 minutes), then walk or transfer to local transportation to reach Chonge Village.
- Self-Drive: Depart from Qiubei County, drive along local roads to Jinping Town, and then proceed to Chonge Village, covering a total distance of about 15 kilometers.
Local Cuisine
- Yao Ethnic Cuisine: Sample traditional Yao dishes such as cured meat and glutinous rice.
- Farmhouse Cuisine: The village offers farmhouse restaurants serving fresh vegetables and poultry.
Shopping
- Ethnic Handicrafts: Purchase traditional Yao clothing, embroidery, indigo-dyed fabrics, and other unique handicrafts.
- Local Specialties: Such as Qiubei chili peppers (丘北辣椒) and Panax notoginseng (三七).
Accommodation
- Homestays: Stay in local Yao village accommodations to experience ethnic customs.
- County Hotels: Qiubei County has several hotels available for selection.
Travel Tips
- Respect Local Customs: When visiting and participating in cultural activities, please respect the customs and traditions of the ethnic minorities.
- Protect the Environment: While touring natural scenic areas, be mindful of environmental protection and avoid littering.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Qiubei County, check into a hotel, then proceed to Chonge Village in Jinping Town to observe the indigo dyeing process and experience Yao folk culture.
Day 2: Visit the Puzhehei Scenic Area to enjoy the natural scenery and learn about the local ecological culture.
Chonge Village is a place rich in ethnic charm and cultural heritage. Here, you can experience the hospitality of the Yao people, enjoy unique natural landscapes, and delve into the profound ethnic culture. We hope your journey is filled with joy and unforgettable memories.