Shupi Yi Ethnic Town in Qiubei County, Wenshan

Geographic Location

Shupi Yi Ethnic Township (舒皮彝族乡) is located in the southern 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 Jinping Town (锦屏镇) and Tianxing Township (天星乡) to the east, adjoins Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡), Jiayi Town (稼依镇), and Pingyuan Town (平远镇) of Yanshan County (砚山县) to the southwest, and is adjacent to Badaoshao Yi Ethnic Township (八道哨彝族乡) and Nijiao Township (腻脚乡) to the north. The township is situated in the karst region of southeastern Yunnan, featuring classic karst landforms and abundant natural scenery.

Cultural and Historical Background

The Yi people (彝族) are one of the ancient ethnic groups of Wenshan Prefecture (文山州). As early as 1,200 years ago during the Tang Dynasty, the ancestors of the Yi people migrated in large numbers to this region. Shupi Yi Ethnic Township (舒皮彝族乡) boasts a long and rich cultural history, preserving many traditional customs and cultural traits. The traditional attire of the Yi people is colorful and intricately crafted, showcasing distinctive ethnic characteristics.

Local Customs

The Yi people of Shupi Yi Ethnic Township (舒皮彝族乡) retain many unique folk customs. One example is the “Buckwheat Festival” (荞菜节), established to commemorate how buckwheat helped the Yi people survive through famine. It is usually celebrated on the first Dragon Day of the fourth lunar month. Another important festival is the “Mizhi Festival” (密枝节), a major celebration among the Sani people (撒尼人), a branch of the Yi ethnic group. It typically begins on the first Rat Day of the eleventh lunar month and lasts for seven days.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Qiubei County (丘北县) enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities, as well as for admiring the karst landscapes and natural scenery.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Times, and Ticket Prices

Puzhehei Scenic Area (普者黑景区): Located within Qiubei County (丘北县), 13 kilometers from the county seat, it is a national scenic spot and a national 5A tourist attraction. The area includes 265 sites featuring karst formations, lakes, caves, and wetlands.

  • Recommended visiting time: 2–3 days
  • Ticket price: 120 RMB/person

Mizhi Forest (密枝林): A sacred site for the Sani people (撒尼人) with significant cultural importance.

  • Recommended visiting time: Half a day
  • Ticket price: Free

Transportation

  • Public Transport: Take a bus from Qiubei County (丘北县) to Shupi Yi Ethnic Township (舒皮彝族乡); the journey takes about one hour.
  • Self-Driving: Departing from Qiubei County (丘北县), drive along Provincial Road S323 for about 30 kilometers to reach the township.

Local Cuisine

  • Yi Ethnic Specialty Dishes: Visitors can enjoy traditional Yi dishes such as Buckwheat Pancakes (荞粑粑), Roasted Suckling Pig (烤乳猪), and Steamed Pork with Buckwheat (坨坨肉).
  • Local Snacks: A variety of fresh fruits and vegetables are available, including the famous Qiubei Chili Pepper (丘北辣椒), a local specialty.

Shopping

  • Yi Handicrafts: Traditional Yi clothing, embroidery, and silver jewelry are excellent choices for souvenirs.
  • Local Specialties: Qiubei Chili Pepper (丘北辣椒) and Panax Notoginseng (三七) are also popular local products worth buying.

Accommodation

  • Homestays: Staying in Yi villages allows visitors to experience the ethnic customs firsthand.
  • Hotels: Several hotels are available in the county seat, offering comfortable and reasonably priced options.

Travel Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: When visiting Yi villages or participating in folk activities, please respect local traditions and customs.
  • Protect the Environment: When touring natural scenic areas, please help protect the environment by not littering.

Suggested Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Qiubei County (丘北县) and visit Puzhehei Scenic Area (普者黑景区) to experience the karst landscapes and lakes.
  • Day 2: Travel to Shupi Yi Ethnic Township (舒皮彝族乡), visit Yi villages, and learn about Yi culture and customs.
  • Day 3: Explore Mizhi Forest (密枝林) and experience the mystical culture of the Yi people.

Shupi Yi Ethnic Township (舒皮彝族乡) is a place full of ethnic charm and natural beauty. Here, you will experience the warm hospitality of the Yi people, admire the unique karst landscapes, and enjoy the richness of nature. May your journey be filled with joy and unforgettable memories.