Dongma Town of Xichou County in Wenshan Prefecture

Dongma Township (董马乡) is located in the eastern 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). It borders Tiechang Township (铁厂乡) of Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to the east, Liuhe Township (六河乡) of Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to the south, neighbors Fadou Township (法斗乡) to the west, and is adjacent to Jijie Township (鸡街乡) to the north. The township government is situated in Dongma Village (董马村), 32 kilometers from the county seat, with an average elevation of 1,104 meters.

History and Culture

Dongma Township (董马乡) has a long history. In 1927 (the 16th year of the Republic of China), it was established as Dongma Bao (董马保), and in 1941 renamed Dongsheng Township (东升乡). In 1952 it became Dongma District (董马区), turned into Dongma Commune (董马公社) in 1958, reverted to Dongma District (董马区) in 1983, and was officially established as Dongma Township (董马乡) in 1987. The name “Dongma” originates from the Zhuang language, where “Dong” means “valley” and “Ma” means “horse,” named for its location in a small mountain basin and a northeastern mountain resembling a horse.

Local Customs

Dongma Township (董马乡) is a multi-ethnic area, mainly inhabited by Zhuang and Miao people. It boasts rich cultural traditions, including the Yi Hulusheng Dance (彝族葫芦笙舞) and Zhuang Fish Drum performances (壮族渔鼓). Traditional festivals such as the Torch Festival (火把节) of the Yi people and “San Yue San” (三月三) of the Zhuang are still celebrated here.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Dongma Township (董马乡) is located in a subtropical monsoon climate zone with mild weather and four distinct seasons. The average annual temperature is around 16°C, and the average annual rainfall is about 1,100 millimeters. The best time to visit is from May to October when the climate is most pleasant for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Dongma Village

  • Visiting Time: Around 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: The central village of Dongma Township (董马乡), ideal for experiencing local culture and rural life.

Tongxinpo Village

  • Visiting Time: Around 2 hours
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Located in the northwest of Dongma Township (董马乡), this elevated village offers views of karst landscapes and natural scenery.

Qincaitang Village

  • Visiting Time: Around 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Named after its abundant celery production, this village is perfect for a leisurely nature walk and relaxation.

Transportation

External Transportation

From the Xichou County (西畴县) seat, visitors can take a bus to Dongma Township (董马乡), with a travel time of about 40 minutes. Self-driving is also an option via a well-maintained 32-kilometer road.

Internal Transportation

Within the township, transportation is primarily via rural roads. Motorcycles or local vehicles can be rented to reach various attractions.

Local Cuisine

Specialties of Dongma Township (董马乡) include:

  • Dongma Pit-Fermented Liquor (董马土窖酒): A traditionally brewed local wine with a rich, mellow flavor.
  • Zhuang Five-Color Sticky Rice (壮族五色糯米饭): Made with natural plant dyes, this colorful and fragrant sticky rice is a festive delicacy.

Shopping

Visitors can purchase local agricultural products and handicrafts such as Dongma Pit-Fermented Liquor (董马土窖酒), Zhuang embroidery (壮族刺绣), and hulusheng (葫芦笙).

Accommodation

Dongma Township (董马乡) offers several rural guesthouses and homestays. These are affordable, comfortable, and offer an authentic experience of local customs and hospitality.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are located in mountainous areas. Wear comfortable walking shoes and prepare for sun protection and insect repellent.
  • Respect local customs, especially in ethnic minority villages.
  • Protect the environment by not littering and preserving the natural landscape.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Xichou County (西畴县), then take public transport or drive to Dongma Township (董马乡). Visit Dongma Village (董马村) to explore local customs.

Day 2:
Travel to Tongxinpo Village (通心坡村) to enjoy its natural beauty. In the afternoon, visit Qincaitang Village (芹菜塘村) for a relaxing countryside experience.

Day 3:
Have a meal at a local guesthouse featuring regional specialties, shop for local products as souvenirs, and wrap up your enjoyable journey.

Dongma Township (董马乡) is a place of natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you’re admiring the scenery or experiencing traditional customs, you’re sure to be rewarded with a rich and memorable trip. We hope you enjoy your time here.