Taojiazui Village of Xingmeng Town in Tonghai County, Yuxi
Taojiazhui Village (桃家嘴村) is located in Xingmeng Mongolian Township (兴蒙蒙古族乡), Tonghai County (通海县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province. It lies in the southern part of Xingmeng Township, just 2 kilometers from the township government. The access road is paved with cement, making transportation convenient. The village spans a total area of 1,623.08 mu and sits at an altitude of 1,800 meters. The average annual temperature is 15.6°C.
Historical and Cultural Background
Taojiazhui Village (桃家嘴村) is one of the few Mongolian ethnic villages in Yunnan Province. Its inhabitants are descendants of Mongolian soldiers who followed Kublai Khan (忽必烈) during his southern expeditions in the Yuan Dynasty, giving the village a history of over 760 years. In December 2016, it was listed in the fourth batch of Traditional Villages of China. It was further recognized in December 2021 and December 2022 as a “Beautiful Village” at the municipal and provincial levels under Yunnan’s Rural Revitalization “Hundred-Thousand-Ten Thousand” Project.
Folk Customs
The village retains a rich Mongolian cultural heritage, including a distinct language, traditional clothing, folk music and dance, and culinary customs. Local culture includes the tradition of the “Three Cups” (三杯杯) drinking ritual, as well as signature dishes such as Xingmeng Roast Duck (兴蒙烤鸭), Tai Chi Eel (太极鳝鱼), and Hand-Pulled Mutton (手扒羊肉). Celebrations like the Naadam Festival (那达慕大会), Luban Festival (鲁班节), Ancestral Remembrance Festival (忆祖节), and Melon Festival (甜瓜节) are all uniquely adapted to the southern highland Mongolian community.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
With a mild year-round climate and an average annual temperature of 15.6°C, Taojiazhui Village (桃家嘴村) experiences no extreme cold in winter or heat in summer. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.
Recommended Attractions and Suggested Visit Durations
Taojiazhui Mongolian Culture Exhibition Hall: Learn about the history and culture of the Mongolian people.
Suggested visit duration: 1 hour
Traditional Residences and Village Scenery: Explore distinctive Mongolian-style homes and tranquil village views.
Suggested visit duration: 1–2 hours
Surrounding Natural Scenery: The area around Taojiazhui Village (桃家嘴村) offers excellent opportunities for hiking and photography.
Suggested visit duration: 2–3 hours
Transportation
- Public Transport: Take a local bus within Tonghai County (通海县) to reach Xingmeng Township (兴蒙乡), then transfer to a local vehicle to Taojiazhui Village (桃家嘴村).
- Self-Driving: From Tonghai County (通海县), follow road signs to the village. The total distance is about 12 kilometers.
Local Cuisine
Taojiazhui Village (桃家嘴村) and nearby areas are known for Mongolian specialty dishes such as Xingmeng Roast Duck (兴蒙烤鸭), Tai Chi Eel (太极鳝鱼), and Hand-Pulled Mutton (手扒羊肉). Other local products include Yuxi tobacco (玉溪烟叶), Tonghai Bean Sugar (通海豆末糖), and Tonghai Pickles (通海酱菜).
Shopping
There are many handicraft shops in the village where visitors can purchase locally made Mongolian-style souvenirs and artisan goods.
Accommodation
- Local Homestays: Experience rural life through comfortable family-run guesthouses.
- Nearby Hotels: Hotels in Tonghai County (通海县) are also available and conveniently located close to the village.
Travel Tips
- Environmental Awareness: Please help protect the environment by not littering during your visit.
- Cultural Respect: When participating in local customs or festivals, respect local traditions and practices.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning: Arrive at Taojiazhui Village (桃家嘴村) and visit the Mongolian Culture Exhibition Hall (蒙古族文化展示馆)
- Noon: Enjoy a local specialty lunch
- Afternoon: Tour the traditional residences and learn about Mongolian customs
- Evening: Stay overnight at a local homestay
Day 2
- Morning: Hike or explore the nearby natural landscapes, ideal for photography
- Noon: Lunch at the homestay
- Afternoon: Return to Tonghai County (通海县) or Yuxi City (玉溪市) to conclude your journey
Taojiazhui Village (桃家嘴村) attracts visitors with its rich Mongolian culture and picturesque surroundings. Whether you’re strolling through its ancient lanes or participating in local traditions, you’ll be enchanted by the village’s distinctive charm. We hope you have a memorable and meaningful trip in Taojiazhui Village.
