Shuanglongying Town of Qiubei County in Wenshan Prefecture
Geographical Location
Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇) is located in the northeastern part of Qiubei County (丘北县), Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It borders Wenliu Township (温浏乡) to the east, Jinping Town (锦屏镇) to the south, Yuezhe Town (曰者镇) to the west, and Shizong County (师宗县) in Qujing City (曲靖市) to the north. The town government is located in Shuanglongying Village (双龙营村), 24.5 kilometers from Qiubei County (丘北县) and covers a total area of 648.09 square kilometers.
Cultural History
Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇) was originally called “Zudi” (足底) and later renamed “Duli” (独犁). The name “Shuanglongying” (双龙营) was adopted because there were two clear dragon pools near the government seat. The area was established as Shuanglongying in the late Qing Dynasty during the Xianfeng era. In 1911, the town became part of the Beiqu District, and in 1938, it was incorporated into the Second District. Over the years, it experienced multiple administrative changes, including being designated as a commune in 1958 and later as a township in 1987. In 2005, Gehan Township (戈寒乡) was merged into Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇).
Folk Customs
Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇) is home to several ethnic groups, including Han (汉族), Zhuang (壮族), Miao (苗族), Yi (彝族), Bai (白族), and Yao (瑶族), with ethnic minorities making up 45.4% of the population. The region celebrates various ethnic festivals, such as the Yi Torch Festival (彝族火把节) and the Zhuang “San Yue San” (壮族的“三月三”), during which there are rituals, singing, and dancing.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇) has a subtropical monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 19°C. The average temperature in January is 8°C, and in July, it is 26°C. The region has an average of 280 frost-free days annually and receives about 1,050 millimeters of rainfall. The best time to visit is during the summer (June to August), when the climate is cool and suitable for escaping the heat.
Recommended Scenic Spots, Visit Duration, and Ticket Prices
Shuanglongying Wenmiao (双龙营文庙)
Description: Located in Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇), it is the third batch of provincial-level cultural heritage sites in Wenshan Prefecture (文山州).
Recommended visit time: 1 hour
Ticket price: Free
Puzhehei Village (普者黑村)
Description: Located in the western part of Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇), 14 kilometers from the town government. It is easily accessible.
Recommended visit time: 2 hours
Ticket price: Free
Xiong Mountain (雄山)
Description: Named after a battle fought by a military unit during the Liberation period, in honor of the heroes.
Recommended visit time: 1 hour
Ticket price: Free
Transportation
From Qiubei County (丘北县), travel along the road to Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇), which is approximately 24.5 kilometers away and takes about 30 minutes by car. The town’s transportation is mainly by motorcycle and small vans.
Cuisine
Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇) offers local specialties, including:
- Yi Roast Meat (彝族烤肉): Made from locally sourced goats or pork, it has a unique flavor.
- Buckwheat Cake (荞麦粑粑): Made from buckwheat flour, it has a soft and sticky texture, often served with honey.
Shopping
Visitors can purchase Yi embroidery (彝族刺绣), handicrafts, and local agricultural products such as tobacco (烤烟) and chili peppers (辣椒).
Accommodation
Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇) offers a few homestays that are affordable and comfortable. For more luxurious accommodation, visitors are advised to return to Qiubei County (丘北县) for better options.
Travel Tips
- Respect the local ethnic groups’ customs, especially when participating in folk activities.
- Protect the environment by not littering.
- Be cautious for safety, especially when exploring mountainous areas and rivers.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Qiubei County (丘北县), travel to Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇), visit Shuanglongying Wenmiao (双龙营文庙) to experience local history and culture, and stay at a local homestay.
Day 2: Visit Puzhehei Village (普者黑村) to experience local customs and culture, then head to Xiong Mountain (雄山) to learn about the local history. In the afternoon, return to Qiubei County (丘北县) to conclude the trip.
Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇) is a charming destination with rich history and unique natural scenery. Whether you are interested in folk culture or enjoy the beauty of nature, there is something for everyone here. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Shuanglongying Town (双龙营镇).
