Ganzhuang Subdistrict of Yuanjiang County, Yuxi

Ganzhuang Subdistrict (甘庄街道) is located in the northeastern part of Yuanjiang Hani, Yi, and Dai Autonomous County (元江哈尼族彝族傣族自治县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). The Kunming–Mohei Expressway (昆磨高速公路) runs through the entire area from northeast to southwest, making it a key transportation hub connecting Yuxi (玉溪) and Kunming (昆明) in the north, Simao (思茅) and Jinghong (景洪) in the south, and Honghe Prefecture (红河州) to the east. The subdistrict office is located 19 kilometers from the county seat, covering a total land area of 591 square kilometers.

History and Culture

Ganzhuang Subdistrict (甘庄街道) has a long history. In January 1978, it was named Qinglongchang Commune (青龙厂公社), then changed to Qinglongchang District Office (青龙厂区公所) in January 1984. In January 1988, it was converted into Qinglongchang Town (青龙厂镇). On March 13, 2009, the Ganzhuang Overseas Chinese Farm (甘庄华侨农场) was incorporated into Qinglongchang Town, and in August 2011, the town was restructured into Ganzhuang Subdistrict. The name “Ganzhuang” derives from the Ganzhuang Overseas Chinese Farm.

Local Customs

Ganzhuang Subdistrict (甘庄街道) is rich in ethnic customs and traditions. It is home to various ethnic groups including the Hani (哈尼族), Yi (彝族), and Dai (傣族) peoples. Among them, the “Huashan Festival” (花山节) celebrated by the Hani people is one of the most important traditional festivals. During the event, Miao (苗族) villagers don festive attire, sing, dance, and host vibrant cultural activities.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

The average annual temperature in Ganzhuang Subdistrict (甘庄街道) is around 19°C, with January averaging 14°C and July around 25.9°C. The average annual rainfall is 1,100 millimeters. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time

Former Site of the Yunnan People’s Anti-Chiang Self-Defense Army, Pengcheng Headquarters (云南人民讨蒋自卫军朋程建军旧址)
Learn about the revolutionary history of southern Yunnan and experience the local red culture.
Suggested visiting time: 1 hour

Former Site of the Cuoke Uprising (撮科起义旧址)
Immerse yourself in the depth of local revolutionary history.
Suggested visiting time: 1 hour

Ganzhuang Community (甘庄社区)
Experience the local customs and the unique culture of the overseas Chinese settlements.
Suggested visiting time: 2 hours

Transportation

Public Transport: You can take a local bus or minibus from Yuanjiang County (元江县城) to Ganzhuang Subdistrict (甘庄街道); the journey takes about 30 minutes.
Self-Driving: Navigate to Ganzhuang Subdistrict Office (甘庄街道办事处, located in Hongxin Community 红新社区); the drive takes about 20 minutes.

Local Cuisine

Ganzhuang Subdistrict (甘庄街道) and its surrounding areas offer many local delicacies, such as:

• Yuanjiang Mango (元江芒果): Sweet and fragrant, a signature tropical fruit.
• Yuanjiang Dragon Fruit (元江火龙果): Nutritious and locally grown.

Shopping

Local Handicrafts: Traditional Hani embroidery (哈尼族刺绣), bamboo weaving, and other ethnic crafts are available at local markets and handicraft shops.
Local Produce: Fresh mangoes, dragon fruits, and other local agricultural products can be found in farmers’ markets.

Accommodation

Hotels: There are several hotels in Yuanjiang County (元江县城), just a short drive away from Ganzhuang Subdistrict (甘庄街道).
Guesthouses: A number of local-style guesthouses can be found in and around Ganzhuang Subdistrict, offering a chance to experience the local lifestyle.

Travel Tips

• Respect Local Culture: When visiting historical sites and participating in cultural activities, be mindful and respectful of local customs.
• Environmental Protection: Please refrain from littering to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
• Safety: When engaging in outdoor activities, ensure your personal safety and follow local regulations.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Yuanjiang County (元江县城), travel to Ganzhuang Subdistrict (甘庄街道), and visit the Former Site of the Pengcheng Headquarters (朋程建军旧址) to explore revolutionary history.
Day 2: Visit the Former Site of the Cuoke Uprising (撮科起义旧址) in the morning to experience the area’s revolutionary legacy. In the afternoon, head to Ganzhuang Community (甘庄社区) to enjoy the local customs.
Day 3: Return to Yuanjiang County (元江县城) for shopping and sampling local food, concluding your enjoyable journey.

Ganzhuang Subdistrict (甘庄街道) attracts visitors with its rich historical and cultural heritage, vibrant ethnic traditions, and beautiful natural scenery. Whether you’re strolling through Ganzhuang Community (甘庄社区) or immersing yourself in local festivals and traditions, you’ll discover the unique charm of this land. We hope you have an unforgettable experience in Ganzhuang Subdistrict.