Mengdong Yao Ethnic Town in Malipo County, Wenshan

Mengdong Yao Ethnic Township (猛硐瑶族乡) is located in the southwestern part of Malipo County (麻栗坡县), Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), about 50 kilometers from the county seat. It borders Yangwan Township (杨万乡) to the east, Laosai Village (老寨社) and Nanting Village (南汀社) of Weichuan County (渭川县), Vietnam (越南) to the south, Dulong Town (都龙镇) of Maguan County (马关县) to the west, and Tianbao Town (天保镇) to the north. The township covers an area of approximately 217 square kilometers, with terrain sloping from northeast to southwest and mountain ranges stretching east to west.

History and Culture

Mengdong Yao Ethnic Township (猛硐瑶族乡) has a long history and has undergone multiple administrative changes. From 1950 to 1956, it belonged to Dulong District (都龙区) of Maguan County (马关县). In 1957, it was reassigned to Malipo County (麻栗坡县), but returned to Maguan County (马关县) in 1958. In 1961, the Mengdong area was incorporated into Nanwenhe Township (南温河乡). In 1970, Bazic Commune (坝子公社) was established, and in 1973 the commune’s office moved to Mengdong (猛硐), retaining the name Bazic Commune. In 1985, it became Mengdong District (猛硐区), and in 1988, it was officially renamed Mengdong Yao Ethnic Township (猛硐瑶族乡).

Local Customs

Mengdong Yao Ethnic Township (猛硐瑶族乡) is the only designated ethnic township in Malipo County (麻栗坡县), predominantly inhabited by the Yao (瑶族), along with Miao (苗族), Zhuang (壮族), and Han (汉族) ethnic groups. The Yao culture is vibrant and diverse, with traditional festivals such as the Panwang Festival (盘王节) and the Bronze Drum Dance (铜鼓舞). The Yao people are known for their warm hospitality, often serving guests with ancient arbor tea, a craft passed down through generations.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Mengdong Yao Ethnic Township (猛硐瑶族乡) experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, with distinct seasons, synchronized rain and warmth, and ample sunshine. The annual average temperature is around 18°C. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Xiaopingzhai Village

• Visiting Time: 2 hours
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Description: Located in the core of Laoshan (老山), known as "the first village of Laoshan," Xiaopingzhai preserves Yao traditions such as the Panwang Festival, traditional wedding customs, and crossbow competitions.

Koulin Mountain

• Visiting Time: 3 hours
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Description: Situated on the China-Vietnam border in the southeastern part of the township, it was one of the main battlegrounds during the border defense war in the 1980s.

Ancient Arbor Tea Plantation

• Visiting Time: 2 hours
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Description: The township boasts nearly 4,000 mu of ancient tea plantations, known for diverse tea varieties and high-quality leaves.

Transportation

External Transportation

• Public Transport: Shuttle buses are available from Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to Mengdong Yao Ethnic Township (猛硐瑶族乡), with a travel time of about 1 hour.
• Self-Drive: Drive along the main road from Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to the township, covering about 50 kilometers on well-maintained roads.

Internal Transportation

• Inside the township, most travel is by village roads. Visitors can rent motorcycles or hire local vehicles to reach attractions.

Local Cuisine

Specialty dishes of Mengdong Yao Ethnic Township (猛硐瑶族乡) include:

• Yao Cured Meat (瑶族腊肉): A traditional Yao delicacy with a rich, distinctive flavor.
• Ancient Arbor Tea (古树茶): A regional specialty with a strong aroma and lingering sweetness.

Shopping

Local specialties and handicrafts are available for purchase, including ancient arbor tea (古树茶), Yao ethnic clothing (瑶族服饰), silver ornaments (银饰), and embroidered pouches (荷包).

Accommodation

Several family-run inns and guesthouses are available in Mengdong Yao Ethnic Township (猛硐瑶族乡), offering affordable prices and a comfortable environment for a more immersive cultural experience.

Travel Tips

• Some attractions are in mountainous areas, so wear comfortable sports shoes and prepare for sun and insect protection.
• Respect local customs, especially in ethnically diverse villages.
• Protect the environment—avoid littering and help preserve natural sites.

Suggested Itinerary (From Small to Major Attractions)

Day 1:
Arrive in Malipo County (麻栗坡县), then take public transport or drive to Mengdong Yao Ethnic Township (猛硐瑶族乡). Visit Xiaopingzhai Village (小坪寨) to experience Yao folk culture.

Day 2:
In the morning, head to Koulin Mountain (扣林山) to explore historical battle sites. In the afternoon, visit the Ancient Arbor Tea Plantation (古树茶园) to enjoy the scenery and sample fresh tea.

Day 3:
Savor local cuisine at a family inn, shop for local specialties as souvenirs, and conclude your memorable trip.

Mengdong Yao Ethnic Township (猛硐瑶族乡) is a destination rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you're here to enjoy the landscapes or immerse yourself in ethnic traditions, your visit will be deeply rewarding. We hope you have an unforgettable experience here.