Zhuanjiao Town of Guangnan County in Wenshan Prefecture
Geographic Location
Zhuangjiao Township (篆角乡) is located in the southern part of Guangnan County (广南县), Wenshan Prefecture (文山州), Yunnan Province (云南省), 73 kilometers from the county seat. It covers a total area of 232 square kilometers. The township borders Heizhiguo Township (黑支果乡) to the east, Malipo County (麻栗坡县) and Xichou County (西畴县) to the south, Nasa Town (那洒镇) to the west, and Zhujie Town (珠街镇) to the north. The terrain is higher in the northeast and lower in the southwest, with the highest elevation at 1,974 meters, the lowest at 1,020 meters, and an average elevation of 1,250 meters.
Cultural History
Zhuangjiao Township (篆角乡) got its name from the local custom of holding markets on Rooster (酉鸡) and Rabbit (卯兔) days, as well as its location at a corner of the county. It was originally called Zhuangjiao Jijie (篆角鸡街) before being renamed Zhuangjiao. In the fifth year of the Daoguang reign (1825), it belonged to Bahao Camp (坝皓营) (now Bahao (岜皓) in Nasa Town (那洒镇)). During the Republic of China period, it was under the Fifth District (Nasa) and Suijing (now Zhujie (珠街)). In 1958, it separated from Nasa to establish Chongtian Commune. In 1984, it became a district office, and in 1988, it was renamed Zhuangjiao Township.
Folk Culture
Zhuangjiao Township (篆角乡) is home to Han, Zhuang, Miao, Yi, Mongol, and other ethnic groups. The area boasts rich folk traditions, such as the Zhuang people’s “March 3rd Flower Street Festival,” a celebration for young Zhuang people to freely court. Other traditional art forms include Nongyawai (弄娅歪) performances, paper horse dances, and handkerchief dances.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Zhuangjiao Township (篆角乡) has a subtropical monsoon climate, with an annual average temperature of 16.7°C, an extreme high of 32°C, and an extreme low of -2°C. The average annual frost-free period is 348 days. 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 & Tickets
Traditional Villages of Zhuangjiao Township (篆角乡):
Visitors can explore well-preserved traditional architecture and experience unique ethnic culture and natural scenery.
Recommended visiting time: 2 hours
Free admission
Dama River (达马河) & Shisun River (石笋河):
The main rivers in the area, stretching 87.5 kilometers, are ideal for hiking and photography.
Recommended visiting time: 1-2 hours
Free admission
Transportation
Public Transport:
Take a bus from Guangnan County (广南县) to Zhuangjiao Township (篆角乡). The journey takes about 2 hours.
Self-Driving:
From Guangnan County (广南县), drive along Provincial Highway “Xixi Road (西西公路).” The total distance is about 73 kilometers, taking approximately 1.5 hours.
Local Cuisine
Zhuangjiao Township (篆角乡) and its surrounding areas offer many specialty foods, such as glutinous rice cakes, colorful rice, roasted shredded meat, and cold chicken.
Shopping
Visitors can purchase local agricultural products like tea, star anise, and sugarcane.
Accommodation
Zhuangjiao Township (篆角乡) and nearby areas have farm stays and guesthouses, with affordable prices ranging from 50-100 RMB per person per night. For more comfortable lodging, hotels in Guangnan County (广南县) are available.
Travel Tips
- Respect local customs, especially when visiting traditional villages or participating in folk activities.
- Protect the environment by not littering.
- If engaging in hiking or outdoor activities, check the weather in advance and take necessary safety precautions.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1:
Depart from Guangnan County (广南县) to Zhuangjiao Township (篆角乡). Visit traditional villages and experience ethnic culture and natural scenery. Stay overnight at a local farm stay.
Day 2:
Explore Dama River (达马河) and Shisun River (石笋河). Return to Guangnan County (广南县) in the afternoon to conclude the trip.
Zhuangjiao Township (篆角乡) is a charming multi-ethnic region with unique natural landscapes and rich cultural traditions. Whether strolling through ancient villages or admiring breathtaking scenery, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture. We hope you have an unforgettable journey here.