Yuezhe Town of Qiubei County in Wenshan Prefecture

Geographical Location

Yuezhe Town (曰者镇) is located in the western part of Qiubei County (丘北县), 34 kilometers from the county seat, covering an area of 343 square kilometers. The town administers 6 administrative villages: Yuezhe (曰者), Xinzai (新寨), Puke (普克), Chushui Zhai (出水寨), Honghua Mountain (红花山), and Damoshang (打磨山).

Cultural History

Yuezhe Town (曰者镇) has a long history and rich cultural heritage. There are six recognized cultural heritage sites in the town, all located in Yuezhe Village (曰者村), including the state-level protected site, the Lion Mountain Cliff Paintings (狮子山崖画), Songyunli Mosque (松云里清真寺朝真殿), and Hongqi Reservoir (红旗水库), which are well-known. During the development process, Yuezhe Town (曰者镇) emphasized preserving historical and cultural elements, focusing on projects such as the “Camellia Village (茶花村)—Lion Mountain Cliff Paintings (狮子山崖画)—Baxin Fruit and Vegetable Base (坝心果蔬基地)—Hedian Village (河边村)—Songyunli Mosque (松云里清真寺朝真殿)—Hongqi Reservoir (红旗水库)” route, highlighting history, culture, and ethnic characteristics.

Folk Customs

Yuezhe Town (曰者镇) is home to multiple ethnic groups, including Han (汉族), Hui (回族), Zhuang (壮族), Miao (苗族), Bai (白族), and Yi (彝族), with rich ethnic festivals and customs. In recent years, Yuezhe Town (曰者镇) has focused on the preservation and development of Zhuang (壮族) culture, especially in Camellia Village (茶花村), which was relocated for the construction of Hongqi Reservoir (红旗水库). The town integrates farming and bronze drum elements into unique murals and green village designs, and hosts non-heritage embroidery workshops and the Zhuang Peach Blossom Festival, featuring folk performances, traditional foods, and ethnic fashion displays.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Yuezhe Town (曰者镇) has a subtropical monsoon climate, with distinct seasons and a mild climate. The best time to visit is during the summer (June to August), when the weather is cool and ideal for escaping the heat.

Recommended Scenic Spots, Visit Duration, and Ticket Prices

Lion Mountain Cliff Paintings (狮子山崖画)
Description: Located in Yuezhe Village (曰者村), this is a state-level protected cultural heritage site with significant historical and cultural value.
Recommended visit time: 1 hour
Ticket price: Free

Songyunli Mosque (松云里清真寺朝真殿)
Description: Located in Yuezhe Village (曰者村), this mosque is a state-level protected cultural site with a unique architectural style.
Recommended visit time: 1 hour
Ticket price: Free

Hongqi Reservoir (红旗水库)
Description: Located in Yuezhe Village (曰者村), this reservoir is a state-level protected site surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Recommended visit time: 1 hour
Ticket price: Free

Camellia Village (茶花村)
Description: A village with Zhuang (壮族) cultural themes, integrating farming culture. It is a great place to experience folk customs.
Recommended visit time: 2 hours
Ticket price: Free

Transportation

From Qiubei County (丘北县), travel along the road to Yuezhe Town (曰者镇), approximately 34 kilometers away and about 40 minutes by car. The town’s transportation is primarily by motorcycle and small vans, making it easy to reach the various scenic spots.

Cuisine

Yuezhe Town (曰者镇) offers local specialties, including:

  • Yi Roast Meat (彝族烤肉): Made from locally sourced goats or pork, it has a unique flavor.
  • Buckwheat Cake (荞麦粑粑): Made from buckwheat flour, it has a soft and sticky texture, often served with honey.

Shopping

Visitors can purchase Yi embroidery (彝族刺绣), handicrafts, and local agricultural products such as tobacco (烤烟) and chili peppers (辣椒).

Accommodation

Yuezhe Town (曰者镇) offers a few homestays that are affordable and comfortable. For more luxurious accommodation, visitors are advised to return to Qiubei County (丘北县) for better options.

Travel Tips

  • Respect the local ethnic groups’ customs, especially when participating in folk activities.
  • Protect the environment by not littering.
  • Be cautious for safety, especially when exploring mountainous areas and reservoirs.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Qiubei County (丘北县), travel to Yuezhe Town (曰者镇), visit the Lion Mountain Cliff Paintings (狮子山崖画) and Songyunli Mosque (松云里清真寺朝真殿) to experience the historical culture, and stay at a local homestay.
Day 2: Visit Camellia Village (茶花村) to experience Zhuang folk culture, then head to Hongqi Reservoir (红旗水库) to enjoy the natural scenery. In the afternoon, return to Qiubei County (丘北县) to conclude the trip.

Yuezhe Town (曰者镇) is a fascinating destination, offering a combination of rich historical culture and unique natural beauty. Whether you are interested in folk customs or enjoying the picturesque landscapes, there is something for every visitor here. We hope you have an unforgettable experience in Yuezhe Town (曰者镇).