Tonghongdian Yi and Miao Ethnic Town in Huaning County, Yuxi

Tonghongdian Yi and Miao Ethnic Township (通红甸彝族苗族乡) is located in the northeast of Huaning County (华宁县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is bordered by Xier Town (西二镇) of Mile City (弥勒市) across the Nanpan River (南盘江) to the east, adjoins Panxi Town (盘溪镇) to the south, connects with Qinglong Town (青龙镇) to the northwest and north, and neighbors Ningzhou Town (宁州镇) to the southwest. The township government is seated in Tonghongdian Village (通红甸村), which is 51 kilometers from the county seat of Huaning.

History and Culture

Tonghongdian Township (通红甸乡) has a long history. During the Qing Dynasty, it belonged to Beile Township (备乐乡) of Ningzhou (宁州), and in the Republic of China period, it was part of the Fifth District, Linjiang Town (临江镇). In April 1949, the New West District (新西区) was established here, and in 1988, Tonghongdian Yi and Miao Ethnic Township was officially founded. It is also the birthplace of the first people’s government in Huaning County, making it a site of significant revolutionary history.

Local Customs

Tonghongdian Township is home to a diverse population including Yi (彝族), Miao (苗族), and Han (汉族) ethnic groups, with the Yi and Miao making up the majority. The “Huashan Festival” (花山节) is a key traditional celebration of the Miao people. Visitors can participate in activities like stepping on flower mountains and watching performances to experience rich ethnic customs. Miao embroidery is another cultural highlight—local women gather to practice and display their vibrant, intricately patterned works.

Climate and Best Visiting Time

Tonghongdian Township falls under a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons and notable vertical climatic variation. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and natural scenery and cultural events are at their best.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time

Taiji Mandarin Duck Hot Springs
Located in Taiji Valley (太极谷), these hot springs are renowned for their hot and cold dual springs and are praised as “the most wondrous spring under heaven.” The mineral-rich waters offer health benefits, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.
Recommended time: 2–3 hours

Huashan Square in Dapo Zuo Village 
This is the main venue for the Miao Huashan Festival, where visitors can enjoy traditional Miao songs and dances.
Recommended time: 1–2 hours

Revolutionary Site of Xinfazhai 
The former headquarters of the northwest mountain area committee of Huaning and the New West District Government. A red tourism site for tracing revolutionary history.
Recommended time: 1 hour

Transportation

Tonghongdian Township is about 51 km from Huaning’s county seat.
By Car: Driving is recommended for convenience. Follow the signposted routes from Huaning.
By Public Transport: Take a scheduled coach from Huaning to Tonghongdian Township, which takes about 1.5 hours.

Local Cuisine

Try local specialties such as Huaning Dou Soup Rice Noodles (华宁豆汤米线) and traditional-style sausages. Ethnic delicacies include Yi-style Tuotuo Pork (坨坨肉) and Miao-style Lusheng Chicken (芦笙鸡), which offer both distinctive flavors and cultural insight.

Shopping

You can buy handmade ethnic crafts such as Miao embroidery and Yi silver jewelry. These finely crafted items hold great artistic and souvenir value.

Accommodation

There are a few rural homestays and guesthouses in the township that offer simple yet authentic local experiences. For higher comfort, stay in hotels in Huaning County (华宁县城).

Travel Tips

  • Respect local customs and religious beliefs, especially during ethnic festivals.
  • Protect the natural environment and historical relics; do not litter or damage vegetation.
  • Be mindful of safety during hot spring bathing or outdoor activities and follow staff instructions.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive in Huaning County (华宁县城), enjoy local food such as Huaning Dou Soup Rice Noodles. Overnight in a county hotel.

Day 2
Travel to Tonghongdian Township (通红甸乡). Visit the Revolutionary Site of Xinfazhai in the morning for red tourism. Enjoy traditional Yi and Miao dishes at a local homestay for lunch. In the afternoon, visit Huashan Square in Dapo Zuo Village for Miao performances. Return to the county for the night.

Day 3
Head to Taiji Mandarin Duck Hot Springs to relax in mineral-rich waters. Return to Huaning County in the afternoon to conclude your journey.

Tonghongdian Yi and Miao Ethnic Township (通红甸彝族苗族乡) is a captivating destination rich in natural beauty, ethnic heritage, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re soaking in a hot spring, admiring embroidery, or exploring revolutionary sites, your journey here will surely be a memorable one.