Ashe Yi Ethnic Town in Yanshan County, Wenshan

Ashe Yi Ethnic Township (阿舍彝族乡) is located in the western part of Yanshan County (砚山县), within Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It lies on the southwestern edge of Pingyuan Basin (平远坝子), bordering Dehou Town (德厚镇) of Wenshan City (文山市) to the east, Mingjiu Township (鸣鹫乡) of Mengzi City (蒙自市) in Honghe Prefecture (红河州) to the south, Beige Township (碑格乡) of Kaiyuan City (开远市) to the west, and Pingyuan Town (平远镇) to the north. The township government is located in Ashe Village (阿舍村), about 90 kilometers from the Yanshan county seat, covering a total area of 268 square kilometers.

History and Culture

“Ashe (阿舍)” is derived from the Yi language, originally called “Ashemi (阿舍迷),” meaning “not our place.” According to local legend, the area was once a horse caravan route where drivers avoided staying long, hence the name. During the Qing Dynasty, the area belonged to Pangdian Township (旁甸乡) of Ami Prefecture (阿迷州). In 1935, it became Shuikang Township (水康乡) under Kaiyuan County (开远县). In 1950, it was still under Kaiyuan County. In 1958, it was reassigned to Yanshan County (砚山县), then placed under Wenshan County (文山县) as Fengshou Commune’s Ashe Brigade (丰收公社阿舍大队). In 1959, it became Ashe Administrative Area (阿舍管理区) of Pingyuan Commune (平远公社). In 1961, it was returned to Yanshan County as Ashe Commune (阿舍公社) of Pingyuan District (平远区). In 1970, it was designated as Ashe District-level Commune (阿舍区级公社), and in 1984 changed to Ashe District (阿舍区). In January 1988, it was officially renamed Ashe Yi Ethnic Township (阿舍彝族乡).

Local Customs

Ashe Yi Ethnic Township (阿舍彝族乡) is home to multiple ethnic groups, including Yi, Zhuang, Miao, and Han. Yi culture is especially vibrant. The traditional “Torch Festival (火把节)” is celebrated annually on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month. It is a significant celebration of harvest and blessings for the Yi people. Local folk arts include the “Xianzi Dance (弦子舞蹈),” Miao embroidery, and textile crafts.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Ashe Yi Ethnic Township (阿舍彝族乡) has a subtropical monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 15.3°C. The average temperature in January is 1°C, and in July it’s 23°C. The average frost-free period is 240 days per year. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Ru Duku Catholic Church Ruins

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Built in 1908, this site is a key cultural relic under state protection in the prefecture.

Heiba Grassland

  • Visiting Time: 2 hours
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Located on the summit of Daxi Mountain (大黑山) in Luduku Village (鲁都克村), this vast grassland covers over 80,000 mu and is known as the “Southern Prairie (南国草原).”

Dounan Village

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: A significant hub for producing, crafting, and selling the Yi ethnic instrument known as the “xianzi (弦子).” Zhuang artisans here make a living by handcrafting these traditional instruments.

Transportation

External Transportation

From the Yanshan County seat (砚山县城), travelers can take a bus to Ashe Yi Ethnic Township (阿舍彝族乡), with a travel time of about 1.5 hours. For those driving, follow the main road from Yanshan to Ashe, approximately 90 kilometers, on well-maintained roads.

Internal Transportation

Within the township, rural roads connect the main attractions. Motorcycles and local vehicles are available for hire.

Local Cuisine

Specialty dishes in Ashe Yi Ethnic Township (阿舍彝族乡) include:

  • Sanqi Steamed Chicken in a Pot (三七汽锅鸡): A nutritious dish made with the local medicinal herb sanqi (三七).
  • Yi-style Roast Suckling Pig (彝族烤乳猪): Famous for its crispy skin and rich aroma.

Shopping

Local specialties and handicrafts are available for purchase, including sanqi (三七), chili peppers, and traditional Yi embroidery (彝族刺绣).

Accommodation

There are several farmhouse inns and homestays in Ashe Yi Ethnic Township (阿舍彝族乡), offering affordable prices, clean accommodations, and the opportunity to experience local culture.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are located in mountainous areas, so wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection and insect repellent.
  • Respect local customs, especially in ethnically diverse villages.
  • Protect the environment by not littering and preserving the natural scenery.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Yanshan County (砚山县), then take public transportation or drive to Ashe Yi Ethnic Township (阿舍彝族乡). Visit the Ru Duku Catholic Church Ruins (鲁都克天主教堂遗址) to appreciate the historical significance.

Day 2:
Head to Heiba Grassland (黑巴草场) in the morning to enjoy prairie landscapes. In the afternoon, explore Dounan Village (斗南村) and experience the culture of traditional Yi musical instruments.

Day 3:
Enjoy local delicacies at a farmhouse inn, shop for souvenirs and local specialties, and conclude your pleasant journey.

Ashe Yi Ethnic Township (阿舍彝族乡) is a place full of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re admiring scenic views or exploring ethnic traditions, your visit is sure to be fulfilling. We hope you have an unforgettable time here.