Wuzhu Town of Guangnan County in Wenshan Prefecture
Geographic Location
Wuzhu Township (五珠乡) is located in the southwest of Guangnan County (广南县), Wenshan Prefecture (文山州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It borders Jiumo Township (旧莫乡) to the east, Nasai Town (那洒镇) to the south, Ameng Town (阿猛镇) of Yanshan County (砚山县) to the west, and Zhulin Town (珠琳镇) to the north. The township government is situated 97 kilometers from the Guangnan county seat (广南县城) and 85 kilometers from the Wenshan prefectural capital (文山州府), covering a total area of 257 square kilometers.
History and Culture
Wuzhu Township (五珠乡) was originally named “Muzhuhei (母猪黑),” which was later changed due to its inelegant connotation. Because of the abundance of antimony and other mineral resources in the area, the name was refined to “Wuzhu (五珠).” In the fifth year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty (1825), Jiuke Battalion (九克营) was established in the current area. During the Republic of China period, it successively belonged to Xiaonan District (小南区, now Nasai 那洒), Fifth District, and Huaide Township (怀德乡). After 1949, it was part of Huaide District (怀德区). In 1958, the Hongzhuan Commune (红专公社) was established after separating from Nasai District (那洒区). In 1961, it was reorganized into a district, with Wuzhu merged back into Nasai District Office (那洒区公所). In 1971, it became the Wuzhu Commune (五珠公社) again, and in 1984, it was converted into a district office. In 1988, it was officially established as a township.
Local Customs
Wuzhu Township (五珠乡) is home to multiple ethnic groups, including Han, Zhuang, Miao, Yi, and Yao. The Miao, Zhuang, and Yi are the main ethnic minorities in the region. The area preserves many unique customs and traditions, such as the Zhuang people’s “Third of March” Flower Street Festival (三月三花街节), a celebration of free love among young people. Other traditional art forms include the Nongyawei Show (弄娅歪表演), Paper Horse Dance (纸马舞), and Handkerchief Dance (手巾舞).
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Wuzhu Township (五珠乡) has a subtropical monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 16.5°C and an annual precipitation of about 940 millimeters. The frost-free period averages 298 days per year. The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.
Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Admission
Qixing Lake (七星湖):
This lake covers over 300 mu (20 hectares) and is named after seven independent limestone hills within it. The lake features crystal-clear water and a beautiful natural setting, ideal for relaxation and sightseeing. Recommended visiting time: 2–3 hours. Free admission.
Traditional Villages in Wuzhu Township (五珠乡):
Explore well-preserved traditional architecture and experience the unique ethnic culture and natural beauty. Recommended visiting time: 2 hours. Free admission.
Transportation
Public Transportation:
Take a bus from Guangnan County (广南县城) to Wuzhu Township (五珠乡). The journey takes about 2 hours.
Self-Driving:
Drive from Guangnan County (广南县城) along the county road for approximately 97 kilometers, with a travel time of about 1.5 hours.
Local Cuisine
Wuzhu Township (五珠乡) and its surrounding areas offer a variety of local delicacies, such as sticky rice cakes (糯米粑), flower rice (花米饭), roasted shredded meat (烤肉丝), and cold chicken (凉鸡).
Shopping
Local specialty agricultural products such as tea (茶叶), star anise (八角), and sugarcane (甘蔗) are available.
Accommodation
There are several farmhouse inns and guesthouses in Wuzhu Township (五珠乡) and surrounding areas, with affordable prices typically ranging from 50–100 RMB per person per night. For more comfortable lodging, hotels in Guangnan County (广南县) are a good option.
Travel Tips
- Respect local customs, especially when visiting traditional villages or participating in cultural activities.
- Protect the environment and avoid littering.
- If planning outdoor or hiking activities, check the weather forecast in advance and take proper safety precautions.
Itinerary
Day 1:
Depart from Guangnan County (广南县) and travel to Wuzhu Township (五珠乡). Visit the traditional villages to experience the ethnic culture and natural scenery. Stay overnight in a local farmhouse inn.
Day 2:
Visit Qixing Lake (七星湖) for a nature tour. Return to Guangnan County (广南县) in the afternoon to conclude the trip.
Wuzhu Township (五珠乡) is a captivating destination with a diverse population of ethnic minorities, stunning natural scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re walking through ancient villages or admiring the serene beauty of nature, you’ll find yourself immersed in an atmosphere full of ethnic charm. We hope your journey here will be an unforgettable experience.
