Dongbao Town of Guangnan County in Wenshan Prefecture
Geographical Location
Dongbao Township (董堡乡) is located in the central-southern part of Guangnan County (广南县), Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), about 25 kilometers from the county seat of Guangnan (广南县). To the east, it borders Yangliu Jing Township (杨柳井乡); to the west, it adjoins Jiumo Township (旧莫乡); to the south, it neighbors Nanping Town (南屏镇) and Shuguang Township (曙光乡); and to the north, it connects with Liancheng Town (莲城镇). The total area of the township is 221 square kilometers, with the terrain being higher in the southeast and lower in the northwest. The average elevation is 1,270 meters.
Cultural History
Dongbao Township (董堡乡) has a long history. In the 5th year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty (道光五年, 1825), it was part of Xiyang Camp (西洋营) (equivalent to a district or township), with the administrative center in Xiyang Village (西洋村). During the Republic of China era (民国时期), it was part of several regions, including the Central District (中区), District 1 (第一区), and Lianhua Township (莲花乡). After 1949, the administrative divisions were adjusted several times, and in 1988, it was officially designated as a township. Dongbao Township (董堡乡) is named after Dongbao Village (董堡村), where the township government is located. The term “Dong” refers to the plain, while “Bao” refers to a hillock, as the plain is surrounded by mountains.
Folk Customs
Dongbao Township (董堡乡) is home to the Zhuang people (壮族), and its folk culture is rich and diverse. Local ethnic dances such as the “Suona Toast” (唢呐敬酒) and “Handkerchief Dance” (手巾舞) are popular, as well as the “Ya Wei” culture (娅歪文化) and other unique traditions. Additionally, Zhuang opera (Sha Xi) (壮剧, 沙戏) is an important intangible cultural heritage of the area and is listed in the national intangible cultural heritage catalog.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Dongbao Township (董堡乡) has a subtropical monsoon climate, with an annual average temperature of 16.6°C and average annual rainfall of 1,149 millimeters. The best time to visit is in the spring (from March to May), when the climate is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.
Recommended Scenic Spots, Visit Duration, and Ticket Prices
Mulu Village Nongren Valley Scenic Area (牡露村侬人谷景区)
Description: Located in Mulu Village (牡露村), Dongbao Township (董堡乡), this is a purely Zhuang (壮族) village that preserves the complete Zhuang ethnic customs, with a long history of rice cultivation. The scenic area includes attractions such as a glass walkway and glass slide.
Recommended visit time: 3 hours
Ticket price: 50 RMB
Xiyangjiang Grand Canyon (西洋江大峡谷)
Description: Situated within Dongbao Township (董堡乡), this canyon features magnificent views and combines both natural and cultural landscapes.
Recommended visit time: 2 hours
Ticket price: Free
Transportation
From Guangnan County (广南县), take the Guangnan to Nanping Highway (广南至南屏公路) to reach Dongbao Township (董堡乡), about 25 kilometers away, with a travel time of around 40 minutes. The main modes of transport within the township are motorcycles and small vans, which make it convenient for visitors to access the various scenic spots.
Cuisine
Dongbao Township (董堡乡) is known for its local delicacies, including:
- Smoked Pork (烤烟腊肉): Made using local smoking techniques, it has a unique flavor.
- Zhuang Sticky Rice (壮族糯米饭): Soft and sticky rice, paired with local dishes, offering a distinctive taste.
Shopping
Visitors can purchase local agricultural products in Dongbao Township (董堡乡), such as honey (蜂蜜) and smoked pig feet (腊猪脚). Additionally, there are Zhuang (壮族) embroidery (刺绣), clothing (服饰), and other handicrafts available for sale.
Accommodation
Dongbao Township (董堡乡) offers several homestays and rural guesthouses at affordable prices, providing a comfortable environment. It is recommended to make reservations in advance to ensure suitable accommodation arrangements.
Travel Tips
- Respect the customs and traditions of the local ethnic minorities, particularly when participating in folk activities.
- Protect the environment by not littering.
- Pay attention to safety, especially when exploring canyons and mountainous areas.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Dongbao Township (董堡乡), visit Mulu Village Nongren Valley Scenic Area (牡露村侬人谷景区), experience Zhuang folk culture, and stay at a local homestay.
Day 2: Head to Xiyangjiang Grand Canyon (西洋江大峡谷) for sightseeing, enjoy the natural scenery, and feel the Zhuang culture. In the afternoon, return to Guangnan County (广南县) to end the trip.
Dongbao Township (董堡乡) is a charming destination with both rich historical culture and unique natural landscapes. Whether you are interested in folk culture or enjoy natural scenery, you will find something to enjoy here. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Dongbao Township (董堡乡).
