Nanlao Town of Maguan County in Wenshan Prefecture

Geographical Location

Nanlao Township (南捞乡) is located on the northwestern foothills of Mount Laojun (老君山) in the eastern part of Qiubei County (马关县). It is separated by a river from Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to the east, borders Dulong Town (都龙镇) to the south, adjoins Mabai Town (马白镇) to the west, and shares a boundary with Xichou County (西畴县) to the north. The township government is 25.5 kilometers from the county seat, and the total land area of the township is 185 square kilometers.

Cultural History

Nanlao Township (南捞乡) has a long history. As early as the Western Han Dynasty (西汉), it was part of the Zangqi County (牂牁郡) in the Jingxiang County (进桑县) region. Due to its location on the northwestern slopes of Mount Laojun (老君山), the region has a relatively high elevation, a mild climate, and is suitable for living and farming, leading to the formation of several multi-ethnic villages. The exact origin of the name “Nanlao” is not definitively documented, but the area’s rich ethnic culture and historical sites suggest that it has long been a place of ethnic exchange and integration.

Folk Customs

Nanlao Township (南捞乡) is home to multiple ethnic groups, including the Zhuang (壮族), Miao (苗族), and Yi (彝族), with Zhuang culture being especially prominent. The Zhuang people’s traditional “Flower Rice Festival” (花饭节) is one of the most important cultural events in the area, attracting numerous visitors each year. Additionally, the “Jingji” July Festival in Fazjie Village (法姐村) is a unique local folk activity, where people pray for favorable weather and a good harvest by holding a sacrificial ceremony to “Saifa” (天子).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Nanlao Township (南捞乡) has a subtropical monsoon climate with an average annual temperature of 16.9°C and an annual rainfall of 1318.3 mm. The frost-free period lasts for 323 days. The best time to visit is during the summer (June to August), when the climate is cool and suitable for a summer retreat.

Recommended Scenic Spots, Visit Duration, and Ticket Prices

Nanlao Village (南捞村)
Description: The political, economic, and cultural center of the township.
Recommended visit time: 1 hour
Ticket price: Free

Fazjie Village (法姐村)
Description: Famous for its unique Zhuang folk culture, especially the “Jingji” July Festival, making it an excellent destination to experience Zhuang sacrificial traditions.
Recommended visit time: 2 hours
Ticket price: Free

Bamei Village (八梅村)
Description: A place where Zhuang people celebrate the “Flower Rice Festival” with the making of colorful flower rice, singing, and dancing in a lively atmosphere.
Recommended visit time: 2 hours
Ticket price: Free

Transportation

From Qiubei County (马关县) to Nanlao Township (南捞乡), travel along the highway for approximately 25.5 kilometers, which takes about 30 minutes by car. Within the township, transportation is mainly by motorcycle and small vans, making it easy for visitors to access various scenic spots.

Cuisine

Nanlao Township (南捞乡) offers local specialties, including:

  • Zhuang Flower Rice (壮族花米饭): Sticky rice dyed in multiple colors using natural plant dyes, offering a unique flavor.
  • Yi Roast Meat (彝族烤肉): Locally sourced goat or pork, roasted with a distinct flavor.

Shopping

Visitors can purchase Zhuang (壮族) embroidery, handicrafts, and local agricultural products, such as Sanqi (三七) and grass fruit (草果).

Accommodation

Nanlao Township (南捞乡) has several affordable and comfortable homestays. For more luxurious accommodations, it is recommended to return to the county seat of Qiubei (马关县).

Travel Tips

  • Respect the customs of the local ethnic minorities, especially when participating in folk activities.
  • Protect the environment by not littering.
  • Pay attention to safety, especially when visiting mountainous areas and villages.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Qiubei County (马关县), travel to Nanlao Township (南捞乡), visit Nanlao Village (南捞村) to experience local culture, and stay at a local homestay.
Day 2: Visit Fazjie Village (法姐村) to experience the Zhuang (壮族) “Jingji” July Festival sacrificial culture, then head to Bamei Village (八梅村) to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the “Flower Rice Festival.” Return to Qiubei County (马关县) in the afternoon to conclude the trip.

Nanlao Township (南捞乡) is a charming place, rich in cultural history and unique natural landscapes. Whether you’re interested in folk culture or enjoying the beauty of nature, you will find something delightful here. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Nanlao Township (南捞乡).