Nansha Town of Yuanyang County, Honghe

Nansha Town is located in the northern part of Yuanyang County, between 102°04′–102°51′ east longitude and 23°09′–23°07′ north latitude. It borders Ganang Township to the east, Xinchai Town to the south, Majie Township to the west, and is across the Honghe River from Jianshui County and Gejiu City to the north. The town covers a total area of 168.72 square kilometers. Situated in the southern part of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, at the southern end of the Ailao Mountain Range, and on the southern bank of the Honghe River, Nansha Town lies in the Honghe River valley and some river alluvial areas. The terrain slopes from the northwest to the southeast, with the central part being lower and the sides higher. This unique geographic location endows Nansha Town with distinctive natural scenery and climatic conditions, providing tourists with a warm and pleasant tourist environment.

As of the end of 2019, Nansha Town had a registered population of 29,843, including 8,279 Dai people (27.7%), 6,503 Yi people (21.8%), 4,693 Han people (15.7%), and other ethnic minorities such as Hani, Zhuang, and Yao. Nansha Town is a multi-ethnic settlement where people of different ethnicities live in harmony, creating a unique ethnic culture and atmosphere. Tourists can experience a variety of colorful ethnic festivals here, such as the Dai Water-Splashing Festival and the Yi Torch Festival. They can also taste various local specialties, including Dai-style barbecue, bamboo rice, Yi-style roast meat, and feel the strong ethnic atmosphere.

Nansha Town has a long history. In the 14th year of the Hongwu reign during the Ming Dynasty (1382), it belonged to Anzheng Li of the Nadou Chieftain’s Office. In the 15th year of the Shunzhi reign during the Qing Dynasty (1658), Wumu Zhangzhai was established, and later Wubang Zhangzhai was set up. In 1950, it was incorporated into Xinmin County. In June 1974, Nansha Commune was separated from Xinchai Commune. In 1984, Nansha Commune was changed into a district. In January 1988, Nansha District was changed into Nansha Dai Ethnic Township. In April 1999, Nansha Dai Ethnic Township was changed into Nansha Town. Over the long course of history, Nansha Town has undergone several administrative divisions changes, witnessing its development and transformation. Here, tourists can visit some historically significant buildings and cultural sites, learn about local historical stories and cultural heritage.

Nansha Town boasts a variety of natural landscapes, including Hongye Hot Spring Resort and Hushan Banana Plantation. The Hongye Hot Spring Resort attracts numerous tourists with its natural hot spring resources and beautiful environment. The hot spring water here is rich in various minerals, which is beneficial for the skin and health. Tourists can relax in the hot springs and enjoy the gifts of nature. The Hushan Banana Plantation, with its vast banana plantations and unique tropical charm, is a great place for tourists to experience nature. Here, tourists can stroll through the banana plantations, feel the tropical atmosphere, and taste fresh bananas.

Nansha Town is well-connected in terms of transportation, with the Hongnan Second-Class Highway and the Yuanlv Second-Class Highway passing through. As of the end of 2011, Nansha Town had 12 county and township-level roads, with a total length of 125.35 kilometers. The transportation network of Nansha Town connects with many surrounding areas, providing convenient travel conditions for tourists. Whether by private car or public transportation, tourists can easily reach Nansha Town and start an unforgettable journey.