Ala Yi Ethnic Town in Guandu District, Kunming 

Ala Yi Ethnic Town is located in the eastern suburbs of Kunming, Yunnan Province, 8 kilometers away from the city center. It is bordered by Dabanqiao Town to the east, Luoyang Town in Chenggong County to the south, Jinma Subdistrict Office to the northwest, and Xiaobanqiao Subdistrict Office and Kunming Economic and Technological Development Zone to the southwest.

Ala Yi Ethnic Town has a long history and is the only ethnic minority town in Guandu District. It is named after the Yi ethnic group (Sani branch) residing in Ala Forest. During the Qing Dynasty, it belonged to Kunming County. In 1950, it was under the jurisdiction of Kunming County’s Third District. In 1953, it was incorporated into Kunming City’s Sixth District. In 1956, it became part of Guandu District. In 1958, it was established as Ala Commune. In 1984, it was renamed Ala Office, and in 1987, it was officially designated as Ala Yi Ethnic Town.

The Sani people, a sub-branch of the Yi ethnic group, have their own language, but their written script has largely been lost. They have a rich cultural heritage, including traditional festivals such as the Torch Festival and the Insect King Festival. Sani women’s traditional attire is distinctive, featuring elements like the “rooster comb hat,” which symbolizes good fortune and happiness. Traditional dances include the Flat Drum Dance and Bamboo Stick Dance, and they are known for their folk songs and handicrafts.

Ala Yi Ethnic Town has a diverse economy, with agriculture and industry as the mainstays. The agricultural sector focuses on crops like vegetables and corn, while the industrial sector has developed rapidly in recent years. The town is home to several industrial parks and enterprises, contributing significantly to the local economy. In recent years, the town has also seen growth in the service industry, particularly in tourism and cultural industries.

Ala Yi Ethnic Town has a well-developed transportation network, with convenient access to major highways and railways. The town is connected to Kunming’s main urban areas by multiple bus routes, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Ala Yi Ethnic Town is rich in tourism resources, featuring unique Yi ethnic culture and natural scenery. Attractions include the Sani Folklore Exhibition Hall, where visitors can learn about the history and traditions of the Sani people. The town also hosts vibrant ethnic festivals such as the Torch Festival and the Insect King Festival, which attract numerous visitors each year. Additionally, the town’s natural landscapes and rural experiences offer visitors a chance to connect with nature and local culture.