Dahui Village (大回村) is located in Hexi Town (河西镇), Tonghai County (通海县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It lies approximately 21 kilometers northwest of the Tonghai county seat. The village is named “Dahui” (大回) because most of its residents are Hui (回族) people and it is relatively larger than a nearby village called Xiaohui (小回村).
History and Culture
Dahui Village (大回村) boasts a profound historical background that dates back to the Ming Dynasty (明代), during which a mosque was already established. Before 1949, it belonged to Xinggong Township (星拱乡), and after 1949, it was part of Hexi County’s second district. Following several administrative changes, it was renamed Dahui Village Committee in October 2002. In December 2016, it was listed as one of the fourth batch of Traditional Chinese Villages. In December 2021, it was selected as a Beautiful Village (County Level) of Yunnan Province (云南省美丽村庄（县级）).
Folk Customs
Dahui Village (大回村) is a mixed settlement of Hui (回族) and Han (汉族) people, with Hui being the majority. The village retains rich Hui folk customs, including mosque worship activities and traditional Hui architectural styles. The village also preserves unique caravan (马帮) culture, and the Majia Courtyard (马家大院) stands as a testament to this heritage.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
The climate in Dahui Village (大回村) is mild with an average annual temperature of around 15°C. Winters are not severe, and summers are not too hot. The best seasons to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is most pleasant and the natural scenery is at its best.
Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time
Majia Courtyard
Built by a caravan merchant during the early Republic of China era, it is a protected cultural heritage site of Yunnan Province. The courtyard consists of three residential compounds and covers an area of nearly 4,000 square meters. The architectural style blends Chinese and Western elements, offering great visual appeal.
Recommended visiting time: 1–2 hours
Mosque
Originally built in the Ming Dynasty, the mosque has undergone several renovations. It features a classical Chinese palace-style architecture and houses Arabic-scripted religious texts. It is a significant religious and cultural site for the local Hui community.
Recommended visiting time: 1 hour
Transportation
Public Transport
Take a local bus within Tonghai County (通海县) to Hexi Town (河西镇), then transfer to local transportation to reach Dahui Village (大回村).
Self-Drive
Departing from Tonghai County (通海县), follow road signs to Dahui Village (大回村). The total distance is approximately 21 kilometers.
Local Cuisine
Dahui Village (大回村) and its surrounding area offer a variety of Hui-style halal dishes, including traditional snacks and beef/lamb dishes. Visitors can also enjoy local specialties such as Tonghai Bean Candy (通海豆末糖) and Tonghai Pickles (通海酱菜).
Shopping
There are many handicraft shops in Dahui Village (大回村) where visitors can purchase unique Hui ethnic handicrafts.
Accommodation
Local Farm Stays
Offer accommodation and an authentic experience of local rural life.
Nearby Hotels
Hotels in Tonghai County (通海县) are conveniently located and close to Dahui Village (大回村).
Travel Tips
- Environmental Protection: Please protect the environment and do not litter during your visit.
- Respect Local Customs: When participating in folk activities, respect the local customs and traditions.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning: Arrive at Dahui Village (大回村), visit Majia Courtyard (马家大院) and learn about caravan culture
- Noon: Enjoy local Hui cuisine
- Afternoon: Visit the Mosque (清真寺) and experience the religious culture
- Evening: Stay at a local farmhouse and rest
Day 2
- Morning: Shop for local souvenirs in the village center
- Noon: Lunch at a farmhouse
- Afternoon: Return to Tonghai County (通海县) or Yuxi City (玉溪市) to conclude your trip
Dahui Village (大回村) attracts numerous visitors with its unique natural beauty and rich folk culture. Whether strolling through the ancient village or participating in traditional activities, you will be captivated by its distinct charm. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Dahui Village (大回村).
