Xingjie Town of Xichou County in Wenshan Prefecture

Xingjie Town (兴街镇) is located in the southwestern part of Xichou County (西畴县), Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It borders Fadou Township (法斗乡) and Bailin Township (柏林乡) to the east, Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to the south, Xinmajie Township (新马街乡) and Lianhuatang Township (莲花塘乡) to the west, and Banggu Township (蚌谷乡) to the north. The town government is based in Xingjie Village (兴街村), approximately 29 kilometers from the county seat. Xingjie Town is a strategic junction connecting four counties and cities: Xichou (西畴), Malipo (麻栗坡), Maguan (马关), and Wenshan (文山).

History and Culture

Xingjie Town (兴街镇) has a long history, with its name originating from the Guangxu era of the Qing Dynasty when a street market began to flourish—“Xing” (兴) means prosperity. Historically, it belonged to Lin’an Prefecture (临安府) and Kaihua Prefecture (开化府). During the Republic of China era, the name changed multiple times. In 1941, it became Xingyi Town (兴义镇), and in 1987, it was officially renamed Xingjie Town (兴街镇).

Local Customs

Xingjie Town (兴街镇) is home to a diverse population, including Han, Zhuang, Miao, and Yi ethnic groups. Rich in ethnic traditions, local festivities include the Zhuang people’s “San Yue San” (三月三) and the Yi people’s Torch Festival (火把节). The town is also known for its unique embroidery and star anise (八角) cultivation culture.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Xingjie Town (兴街镇) enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with warm and humid weather. The average annual temperature is about 18°C, and the annual rainfall is approximately 1,200 mm. The best time to visit is from May to October when the climate is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Baoxing Wind-Rain Bridge

  • Visiting Time: Around 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Built during the Guangxu era of the Qing Dynasty, this bridge spans the Chouyang River (畴阳河) and showcases strong local ethnic architectural styles.

Source of the Chouyang River

  • Visiting Time: Around 2 hours
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Xingjie Town (兴街镇) is the origin of the Chouyang River (畴阳河), with picturesque scenery along the riverbanks, perfect for a relaxing walk.

Liangfeng Cave

  • Visiting Time: Around 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Located in Huoyan Mountain (火焰山), this beautiful karst cave once housed a temple and offers a cool, mystical retreat.

Transportation

External Transportation

From the county seat of Xichou (西畴县城), regular buses travel to Xingjie Town (兴街镇), taking approximately 1 hour. For drivers, the 29-kilometer journey along the Mengchuan Highway (蒙船公路) offers smooth road conditions.

Internal Transportation

Travel within the town relies mainly on rural roads. Motorcycles and local vehicles can be rented for trips to scenic spots.

Local Cuisine

Xingjie Town (兴街镇) is known for the following local delicacies:

  • Xingjie Oranges (兴街桔子): Sweet and flavorful, these are a popular regional fruit.
  • Star Anise (八角): A fragrant local specialty used in cooking and medicine.

Shopping

Visitors can purchase local agricultural products and handicrafts such as oranges, star anise, and embroidery.

Accommodation

Several rural guesthouses and homestays are available in Xingjie Town (兴街镇), offering affordable prices, comfortable environments, and an authentic local experience.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are in mountainous areas—wear comfortable walking shoes and prepare for sun and insect protection.
  • Respect local customs, especially in ethnic minority villages.
  • Protect the environment—do not litter and help preserve natural scenery.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Xichou County (西畴县), then travel to Xingjie Town (兴街镇) by public transportation or self-driving. Visit Baoxing Wind-Rain Bridge (保兴风雨桥) to experience the charm of historical architecture.

Day 2:
Visit the source of the Chouyang River (畴阳河源头) and enjoy the natural beauty. In the afternoon, explore the wonders of Liangfeng Cave (凉风洞府).

Day 3:
Savor local cuisine at a rural guesthouse and shop for specialties as souvenirs, concluding a memorable trip.

Xingjie Town (兴街镇) is a destination full of natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you’re admiring scenic views or experiencing ethnic traditions, you’ll find your visit deeply rewarding. We hope your time here is unforgettable.