Jiumo Town of Guangnan County in Wenshan Prefecture

Geographical Location

Jiumo Township (旧莫乡) is located in the central 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). To the east, it borders Liancheng Town (莲城镇) and Dongbao Township (董堡乡); to the south, it connects with Shuguang Township (曙光乡), Zhujie Town (珠街镇), and Nasa Town (那洒镇); to the west, it reaches Wuzhu Township (五珠乡) and Zhulin Town (珠琳镇); and to the north, it neighbors Zhetu Township (者兔乡) and Naluo Township (那伦乡). The township government is located at No. 36, Ping’an Street (平安街), Jiumo Village (旧莫村), approximately 29 kilometers from the county seat of Guangnan (广南县).

Cultural History

Jiumo Township (旧莫乡) has a long history and is one of the “Historical and Cultural Towns of Yunnan Province” (云南省历史文化名镇). Its history dates back to the Qin and Han Dynasties (秦汉时期), when it was part of the ancient Jutian territory (句町故地). The township is home to five ethnic groups: Zhuang (壮族), Han (汉族), Miao (苗族), Yao (瑶族), and Yi (彝族), with ethnic minorities accounting for 83% of the total population. These ethnic groups have preserved rich cultural traditions, such as the Zhuang rice culture, bronze drum culture, festival culture, the Miao lusheng dance (芦笙舞), and the Yao “Shoujie Dance” (受戒舞).

Folk Customs

The folk culture of Jiumo Township (旧莫乡) is vibrant and diverse. Local ethnic customs include the Zhuang (壮族) headscarf dance, Nongya Wei (弄娅歪) (cow head play), the Miao lusheng dance (芦笙舞), and the Yao “Shoujie Dance” (受戒舞), among other distinctive cultural activities. Additionally, the traditional costumes of the Zhuang people, such as Zhuang brocade, embroidered shoes, and tiger hats, are beloved by visitors.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Jiomo Township (旧莫乡) has a moderate subtropical highland monsoon climate, with an annual average temperature of 16°C and an average of 1,860 hours of sunshine per year. The climate is mild, with no severe cold in winter or intense heat in summer. The best time to visit is in the spring (from March to May), when peach blossoms are in full bloom and the scenery is pleasant.

Recommended Scenic Spots, Visit Duration, and Ticket Prices

Wang Family Courtyard: Located in the center of Jiumo Town (旧莫集镇), this courtyard was built in the late Qing Dynasty (清末) and is a typical courtyard compound from that period, covering an area of 2,360.81 square meters. Recommended visit time is 1 hour, and admission is free.
Xiyangjiang Grand Canyon: This scenic spot is near Jiomo Township (旧莫乡) and is famous for its stunning canyon views, making it ideal for hiking. Recommended visit time is 3 hours, and ticket price is approximately 50 RMB.
Bamei Village: Located not far from Jiomo Township (旧莫乡), this picturesque village is known for its unique Karst landforms and rich ethnic culture. Recommended visit time is 2 hours, and ticket price is approximately 30 RMB.

Transportation

Jiomo Township (旧莫乡) is 29 kilometers away from Guangnan County (广南县), and can be accessed by long-distance bus from the county seat. The travel time is about 1 hour. Within the township, transportation is mainly provided by motorcycles and small vans, which make it easy for tourists to reach various scenic spots.

Cuisine

The local cuisine of Jiomo Township (旧莫乡) features distinctive local flavors, including:

  • Xiluo Smoked Pork (西洛烟筒肉): Known for its unique smoky flavor and tender meat.
  • Xiaoguo Wine (小锅酒): A locally brewed rice wine with a rich, mellow taste.
  • Gaofeng Beef (高峰牛): Tender beef that is a local specialty.

Shopping

Visitors can purchase local handicrafts in Jiomo Township (旧莫乡), such as Zhuang brocade (壮锦), embroidered shoes (绣花鞋), and tiger hats (虎帽). Additionally, local agricultural products like roasted tobacco (烤烟), tea leaves (茶叶), and eight-treasure rice (八宝米) are also popular souvenirs.

Accommodation

Jiomo Township (旧莫乡) offers several homestays and rural guesthouses, which are affordable and comfortable. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance to ensure availability.

Travel Tips

  • Respect the customs and traditions of local ethnic minorities, especially when participating in folk activities.
  • Protect the environment and avoid littering.
  • Pay attention to safety, particularly when exploring canyons and mountainous areas.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Jiomo Township (旧莫乡), visit the Wang Family Courtyard (王氏宅院), experience local folk culture, and stay in a local homestay.
Day 2: Hike through the Xiyangjiang Grand Canyon (西洋江大峡谷), enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty, and return to Jiomo Township (旧莫乡) in the afternoon for a taste of local cuisine.
Day 3: Visit Bamei Village (坝美村), experience the unique Karst landscapes and ethnic culture, then return to Guangnan County (广南县) in the afternoon to conclude the trip.

Jiomo Township (旧莫乡) is a charming destination with rich historical and cultural heritage, as well as unique natural landscapes. Whether you are interested in folk culture or enjoy scenic views, there is something for everyone here. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Jiomo Township (旧莫乡).