Zhujie Town of Guangnan County in Wenshan Prefecture
Geographical Location
Zhujie Town (珠街镇) is located in the southwestern part of 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), approximately 48 kilometers from the county seat. It borders Shuguang Township (曙光乡) to the east, Zhuanjiao Township (篆角乡) to the south, Nasha Town (那洒镇) to the west, and Jiumo Township (旧莫乡) to the north. The town enjoys convenient transportation, as National Highway 323 (国道323线) and Provincial Highway Xixi Line (省道西西线) intersect here, and the Hengkun Expressway (衡昆高速公路) also passes through the town.
Cultural History
The history of Zhujie Town (珠街镇) dates back to the 5th year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty (道光五年, 1825), when it was part of the Bahao Camp (坝皓营). During the Republic of China period, it was known as the Xiaonan District (小南区) and the Fifth District (五区). In 1940, after the district was changed to a township, Zhujie separated from the Fifth District to establish Suijing Township (绥靖乡). In 1949, it became Suijing District (绥靖区), and in 1951, it merged with Huaide District (怀德区) to form the Fifth District Government. In 1958, it was renamed as Qunying Commune (群英公社), and Zhujie was included. In 1961, Zhujie separated from Nasha District (那洒区) to establish the Zhujie District Government (珠街区公所), and in 1988, it was officially designated as a town.
Folk Customs
Zhujie Town (珠街镇) is home to a diverse population of ethnic groups, including Han (汉), Zhuang (壮族), Miao (苗族), Yao (瑶族), and Yi (彝族). The folk culture here is rich and varied, with the Zhuang (壮族) Bronze Drum Dance (铜鼓舞) and Handkerchief Dance (手巾舞) being unique cultural activities. In addition, Zhujie Town (珠街镇) celebrates traditional festivals such as the Flower Street Festival (花街节) and the Bullfighting Festival (斗牛节).
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Zhujie Town (珠街镇) has a subtropical, low-latitude plateau monsoon climate, with an annual average temperature of 14.6°C and annual precipitation of 1,148 millimeters. The frost-free period lasts for an average of 295 days each year. The best time to visit is in spring (from March to May), when the climate is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.
Recommended Scenic Spots, Visit Duration, and Ticket Prices
Zhujie Village (珠街村)
Description: Zhujie Village (珠街村) is the central area of Zhujie Town (珠街镇) and preserves a rich history and ethnic charm. The name “Zhujie” originates from the old custom of trading on the 亥 (pig) and 巳 (snake) days of the lunar calendar, which was later changed from “Zhu Street” (猪街) to “Zhujie” for better connotation.
Recommended visit time: 2 hours
Ticket price: Free
Shuke Village (树科村)
Description: Shuke Village (树科村) is an important village in Zhujie Town (珠街镇), known for its traditional architecture and ethnic customs.
Recommended visit time: 1 hour
Ticket price: Free
Transportation
From Guangnan County (广南县), you can travel to Zhujie Town (珠街镇) via National Highway 323 (国道323线) or Provincial Highway Xixi Line (省道西西线), a distance of approximately 48 kilometers, with a travel time of about 1 hour. The town’s internal transportation mainly consists of motorcycles and small vans, making it easy for visitors to access the various scenic spots.
Cuisine
Zhujie Town (珠街镇) offers several local specialties, including:
- Zhuang Sticky Rice (壮族糯米饭): Soft and glutinous rice paired with local dishes, offering a unique flavor.
- Copper Pot Stewed Chicken (铜锅炖鸡): A dish made with locally raised chickens, offering a fresh and flavorful taste.
Shopping
Visitors can purchase Zhuang (壮族) embroidery, Handkerchief Dance (手巾舞) props, and other handicrafts, as well as local agricultural products like corn (玉米) and rice (水稻).
Accommodation
Zhujie Town (珠街镇) has several homestays and rural guesthouses offering affordable prices and comfortable environments. If you prefer more luxurious accommodations, it is recommended to return to Guangnan County (广南县) for lodging.
Travel Tips
- Respect the customs and traditions of the local ethnic minorities, especially when participating in folk activities.
- Protect the environment by not littering.
- Pay attention to safety, especially when visiting mountainous areas and reservoirs.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Guangnan County (广南县), travel to Zhujie Town (珠街镇), visit Zhujie Village (珠街村), experience the ethnic culture, and stay at a local homestay.
Day 2: Visit Shuke Village (树科村), explore traditional architecture and ethnic customs. In the afternoon, return to Guangnan County (广南县) to end the trip.
Zhujie Town (珠街镇) is a charming destination with rich history and culture, as well as unique natural scenery. Whether you are interested in folk culture or enjoy natural beauty, you will find something to appreciate here. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Zhujie Town (珠街镇).