Location
Xiazhe Pian Village is located in Zhetu Township (者兔乡), Guangnan County (广南县), Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), and is situated in a semi-mountainous area. The village is approximately 57 kilometers from the Zhetu Township government and 63 kilometers from the county seat of Guangnan. The village is surrounded by high mountains, with terraced fields and the Qing Shui River (清水江) flowing from the south to the north along the west side of the village.
History and Culture
Xiazhe Pian Village is a Zhuang ethnic village with a history of several hundred years, maintaining the original ecological layout of traditional Zhuang settlements. In December 2016, it was included in the fourth batch of China’s traditional villages list. The name “Xiazhe Pian” in Zhuang language means “place” (者) and “remote” (偏), named for its remote location.
Folk Customs
Xiazhe Pian Village retains rich Zhuang cultural traditions, including the traditional “Diaojiaolou” (吊脚楼) stilt houses, as well as authentic folk customs like spinning, weaving, embroidery, pounding rice cakes, dyeing flower rice, and frying “Zailong” rice cakes. Additionally, the village preserves intangible cultural heritage such as Dongjing music (洞经音乐).
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Zhetu Township has a subtropical monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 16°C and an average annual rainfall of 1,011 mm. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn, when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities.
Recommended Attractions, Suggested Visit Time, and Entrance Fees
Xiazhe Pian Village: You can experience Zhuang folk culture and traditional handicrafts. Suggested visit time: half a day. Entrance fee: free.
Nearby Attractions: Includes sites like the Xiyangjiang Grand Canyon (西洋江大峡谷), Bamei Village (坝美村), and Nong’s Tusi Government Office (侬氏土司衙署), which are perfect for further exploring local natural beauty and historical culture.
Transportation
Public Transport: Take a bus from Guangnan County to Zhetu Township, which takes about 1.5 hours. From there, transfer to local transport or walk to Xiazhe Pian Village.
By Car: Drive from Guangnan County along local roads to Zhetu Township, then proceed to Xiazhe Pian Village.
Food
Zhuang Traditional Cuisine: You can try traditional Zhuang dishes such as flower rice (花糯米饭), Bahang chicken (岜夯鸡), and Dalian rice cakes (褡裢粑).
Farmhouse Cuisine: The village offers local farmhouse restaurants that serve fresh vegetables and poultry.
Shopping
Ethnic Handicrafts: You can buy traditional Zhuang costumes, embroidery, and other unique handicrafts.
Local Products: Such as Guangnan Tianpi Dendrobium (广南铁皮石斛), Diwei Tea (底圩茶), and Guangnan Eight-Treasure Rice (广南八宝米).
Accommodation
Homestays: You can choose to stay in local Zhuang villages to experience the ethnic culture.
County Hotels: Guangnan County offers several hotel options.
Travel Tips
Respect Local Customs: When visiting and participating in folk activities, please respect the customs of the local residents.
Protect the Environment: While touring natural scenic areas, please protect the environment and refrain from littering.
Suggested Itinerary from Small to Large Destinations
Day 1: Arrive in Guangnan County, check in at a hotel, and then visit Xiazhe Pian Village in Zhetu Township to explore the Zhuang village and experience the folk culture.
Day 2: Visit the Xiyangjiang Grand Canyon or other nearby attractions to enjoy the natural scenery and learn more about the local ethnic culture.
Xiazhe Pian Village is a place full of ethnic charm and cultural depth. Here, you can feel the warm hospitality of the Zhuang people, enjoy unique natural scenery, and immerse yourself in rich ethnic culture. We hope your journey will be filled with joy and unforgettable memories.
