Bolin Town of Xichou County in Wenshan Prefecture

Bolin Township (柏林乡) is located in the southern part of Xichou County (西畴县), Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), about 57 kilometers from the county seat. It borders Babu Township (八布乡) of Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to the east, Jinchang Township (金厂乡) and Malipo Town (麻栗镇) to the south, Xingjie Town (兴街镇) to the west, and Fadou Township (法斗乡) to the north. The township government is located in Wandaozhai Village (弯刀寨村), Sanbanqiao Village Committee (三板桥村民委员会).

History and Culture

Bolin Township (柏林乡) has a long history. The name “Bolin” originated from the villages Baishiyan (白石岩) and Lin’anqing (林安箐), combining the first characters to form “Bailin” (白林), which later evolved into “Bolin” (柏林). In 1931, Baishiyan and Lin’anqing were organized as one administrative unit under the Southern District (南区, also known as Laojie 老街) of Xichou County (西畴县). From 1950 to 1951, Bolin Administrative Village (柏林行政村) was established with its office in Wandaozhai (弯刀寨), under Xingjie District (兴街区). In October 1958, Bolin, Sanbanqiao (三板桥), and Mati Village (马蹄寨) merged to form Bolin Commune (柏林公社), still under Xingjie District. In May 1983, it was restructured as Bolin District (柏林区), and in August 1987, it was officially renamed Bolin Township (柏林乡).

Local Customs

Bolin Township (柏林乡) is home to various ethnic groups, including Han, Miao, Yao, Yi, and Mongolian. The township preserves a rich ethnic culture, featuring traditional art forms such as the Yi Hulusheng Dance (彝族葫芦笙舞) and the Zhuang Fish Drum (壮族渔鼓). Traditional festivals like the Yi Torch Festival (火把节) and the Miao “San Yue San” (三月三) are still actively celebrated.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Bolin Township (柏林乡) has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild, humid, and foggy weather year-round, with a long frost-free period. The average annual temperature is approximately 16.5°C. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the climate is most comfortable for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Bolin Village (柏林村)

  • Visiting Time: Around 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: The central area of Bolin Township (柏林乡), where visitors can experience local folk culture and rural life.

Sanbanqiao Village (三板桥村)

  • Visiting Time: Around 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Named after three stone slab bridges within the village, this area offers beautiful natural scenery, ideal for leisurely walks.

Mati Village (马蹄寨村)

  • Visiting Time: Around 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Named for a horse-hoof-shaped mountain pass nearby, Mati Village (马蹄寨村) is one of Bolin Township’s key villages.

Transportation

External Transportation

From Xichou County (西畴县), travelers can take a direct bus to Bolin Township (柏林乡), with a journey time of about 1 hour. Alternatively, the 57-kilometer drive along well-maintained roads makes self-driving a convenient option.

Internal Transportation

Within the township, transportation relies primarily on rural roads. Visitors can rent motorcycles or hire local vehicles to reach different attractions.

Local Cuisine

Bolin Township (柏林乡) offers the following specialties:

  • Yi Roast Suckling Pig (彝族烤乳猪): A traditional dish with crispy skin and rich flavor.
  • Zhuang Five-Color Sticky Rice (壮族五色糯米饭): Sticky rice dyed with natural plant colors, visually vibrant and sweet in taste.

Shopping

Local specialties and handmade goods available for purchase include tea, star anise, ginger, and other agricultural products.

Accommodation

Bolin Township (柏林乡) has several rural guesthouses and homestays that are affordable and comfortable, offering a chance to experience authentic local life.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are located in mountainous areas, so wear comfortable sports shoes and prepare for sun protection and insect repellent.
  • Respect local customs, particularly in ethnic minority villages.
  • Protect the environment—avoid littering and preserve the natural surroundings.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Xichou County (西畴县), then take public transport or drive to Bolin Township (柏林乡). Visit Bolin Village (柏林村) to explore local folk culture.

Day 2:
Visit Sanbanqiao Village (三板桥村) and Mati Village (马蹄寨村) to enjoy the natural landscape and rural charm.

Day 3:
Enjoy local cuisine at a rural guesthouse, purchase local specialties as souvenirs, and conclude a pleasant journey.

Bolin Township (柏林乡) is a place rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re here for the scenic views or to experience traditional customs, you’ll leave with lasting memories. We hope your visit to this enchanting destination is truly unforgettable.