Yanhe Subdistrict of Hongta District, Yuxi
Geographical Location
Yanhe Subdistrict is located in the southern part of Hongta District (红塔区), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province. It borders Tonghai County (通海县) to the east, Eshan Yi Autonomous County (峨山彝族自治县) to the south, Dayingjie Subdistrict (大营街街道) to the west, and Gaocang Subdistrict (高仓街道) to the north. The administrative office is situated at No. 194 Yanxing Street (研兴街), approximately 15 kilometers from downtown Yuxi and over 100 kilometers from Kunming City (昆明市).
Cultural History
The history of Yanhe Subdistrict can be traced back to 937 AD during the Later Jin period of the Five Dynasties, when it was established as Yanhe Qianhusuo (研和千户所) under the Dali Kingdom. In 1276 during the Yuan Dynasty, it became Yanhe County (研和县) under Xinxing Prefecture (新兴州). In 1386 during the Ming Dynasty, it was incorporated into Xinxing Prefecture. During the Qing Dynasty in 1683, Dongshan Village’s Wang Feng was appointed as the local magistrate with his office located in Dongshan Village (东山村). In the Republican era, it underwent several administrative changes before becoming Yanhe Commune in August 1958. After several transitions, it was officially established as Yanhe Subdistrict in March 2011.
Folk Customs
Yanhe Subdistrict boasts rich folk culture, featuring unique local art forms such as the Hook Scythe Dance (钩镰舞) and stone carving. Traditional festivals include the Rice Noodle Festival (米线节) which involves welcoming the local earth god.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Yanhe Subdistrict enjoys a subtropical semi-humid plateau monsoon climate with mild winters and cool summers. The optimal visiting periods are spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery most picturesque.
Recommended Attractions & Suggested Visit Duration
Yanhe Community (研和社区):
Experience local folk culture and historical charm.
Suggested visit duration: Half a day.
Surrounding Natural Landscapes:
Situated at the southwestern edge of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, the area features the Yanhe Basin surrounded by mountain ranges with rolling hills.
Suggested visit duration: Half a day.
Transportation
By Car:
About 100+ km from Kunming (昆明), taking approximately 2 hours. Navigate to “Yanhe Subdistrict, Hongta District, Yuxi City.”
Public Transport:
Take long-distance buses to Yuxi City, then transfer to local buses or taxis to Yanhe Subdistrict.
Local Cuisine
Yuxi Rice Noodles (玉溪米线):
A beloved local specialty with numerous varieties celebrated annually during the Rice Noodle Festival.
Pine-Needle Roast Duck (青松毛烤鸭):
Duck roasted over dried pine needles, known for its golden color and aromatic flavor.
Shopping
Yanhe Market (研和集市):
Purchase fresh agricultural products including vegetables and live poultry.
Nearby Shops:
Find local handicrafts and souvenirs in surrounding stores.
Accommodation
Nearby Hotels:
Various accommodation options including hotels and homestays.
Hot Spring Resorts:
Dayingjie Hot Spring Resort (大营街温泉度假区) offers excellent hot spring experiences.
Travel Tips
Safety:
Exercise caution when hiking and wear warm clothing as mountain peaks can be windy.
Eco-Friendly Travel:
Avoid littering to protect the environment.
Reservations:
Some attractions may require advance booking – check opening hours and policies beforehand.
Recommended Itinerary
- Yanhe Community (研和社区): Immerse in local folk culture
- Natural Landscapes: Enjoy the subdistrict’s scenic beauty
- Dayingjie Hot Spring Resort (大营街温泉度假区): Relax in hot springs
With its unique natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Yanhe Subdistrict attracts increasing numbers of visitors. Here you can experience the poetic transition from winter to spring while appreciating nature’s grandeur. We hope you have a memorable stay in Yanhe Subdistrict.
