Dongshu Village of Xinmajie Town in Xichou County, Wenshan

Location

Dongshu Village (懂述村) is located in Xinmajie Township (新马街乡), Xichou County (西畴县), Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It lies in the southwest of Xichou County (西畴县), bordered by Xingjie Town (兴街镇) to the east, Daping Town (大坪镇) of Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to the south, across the Panlong River (盘龙河) from Mabai Town (马白镇) and Pojiao Town (坡脚镇) of Maguan County (马关县) to the west, and adjacent to Lianhuatang Township (莲花塘乡) to the north. The government office of Xinmajie Township (新马街乡政府) is about 49 kilometers from Xichou County seat (西畴县城).

History and Culture

Dongshu Village (懂述村) is a Zhuang ethnic settlement with a long history and rich cultural heritage. In recent years, the village has showcased traditional Zhuang culture and customs through events such as the Huafan Festival (花饭节).

Local Customs

The Zhuang people of Dongshu Village (懂述村) have preserved many unique folk traditions. During the annual Huafan Festival (花饭节), villagers dress in festive costumes, carry colorful flower rice dishes, and, under the guidance of village elders, gather under the ancient Dracaena tree (竜树) to perform rituals such as chicken sacrifice, wine offerings, and formal bows, praying for peace, happiness, and good fortune.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Xichou County (西畴县) enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons and mild weather. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Admission

Dongshu Village (懂述村):
Visitors can experience Zhuang folk culture and traditional crafts.
Recommended visiting time: Half a day.
Admission: Free.

Nearby Attractions:
Xichou National Karst Desert Park (西畴国家石漠公园), a theme park showcasing the “Xichou Spirit” (西畴精神).
Recommended visiting time: One day.
Admission: Free.

Transportation

Public Transport:
Take a bus from Xichou County seat (西畴县城) to Xinmajie Township (新马街乡), which takes about one hour, then transfer to local transportation or walk to Dongshu Village (懂述村).

Self-Driving:
From Xichou County (西畴县城), drive along Amu Road (阿木公路) to Xinmajie Township (新马街乡), then continue to Dongshu Village (懂述村). The total distance is about 49 kilometers.

Local Cuisine

Zhuang Specialties:
Try traditional dishes such as Flower Rice (花米饭) and Five-Color Sticky Rice (五彩糯米饭).

Local Snacks:
Fresh fruits and vegetables like Xichou Toona Sprout (西畴香椿) and Chinese Bayberry (杨梅) are also worth trying.

Shopping

Ethnic Handicrafts:
Purchase traditional Zhuang clothing, embroidery, silver jewelry, and other unique handicrafts.

Local Products:
Local specialties include Xichou Amomum (西畴草果) and Mountain Black-bone Chicken (山地乌骨鸡).

Accommodation

Homestays:
Stay in a Zhuang village to experience authentic ethnic life.

Hotels:
Several hotel options are available in the Xichou County (西畴县城).

Travel Tips

Respect Local Customs:
When visiting Zhuang villages and participating in folk activities, please respect local traditions.

Protect the Environment:
When visiting natural scenic areas, please take care of the environment and avoid littering.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Xichou County (西畴县), check into a hotel, visit Dongshu Village (懂述村) in Xinmajie Township (新马街乡) to experience Zhuang folk culture.

Day 2:
Visit Xichou National Karst Desert Park (西畴国家石漠公园) to explore the natural landscapes and learn about local culture.

Dongshu Village (懂述村) is a place full of ethnic charm and natural beauty. Here, you can experience the warm hospitality of the Zhuang people, enjoy unique natural scenery, and immerse yourself in rich ethnic culture. We hope your journey is filled with joy and unforgettable memories.