Dongshan Yi Ethnic Town in Wenshan City, Wenshan

Dongshan Yi Ethnic Township is located in the northeastern part of Wenshan City (文山市), Yunnan Province (云南省), at approximately 23°N latitude and 104°E longitude. The township government is located in Chaluba (岔路坝), about 10 kilometers from downtown Wenshan. It borders Zhuilijie Town (追栗街镇) to the east, Kaohua Subdistrict (开化街道) to the south, and Yanshan County (砚山县) to the north and west. The total area of the township is approximately 128.3 square kilometers.

Cultural History

Dongshan Yi Ethnic Township is named for its location on the eastern hill behind Wenshan City. During the Qing Dynasty, it was part of Kaihua Li (开化里). In 1910 (the 2nd year of Xuantong), it was divided into the Southern and Northern Districts. After 1939, in the Republic of China era, it was under Yunjizhen (云集镇) and Xinping Township (新平乡). In 1950, it belonged to the Central District. In 1951, it became part of District 1 (Hongqi Commune and Panzhihua District). In 1966, it was renamed Qianjin Commune. In 1985, it became Dongshan District. In 1988, it was renamed Dongshan Yi Ethnic Township.

Local Customs

Dongshan Yi Ethnic Township is home to various ethnic groups including the Yi, Miao, Han, and Zhuang. The Yi ethnic group makes up 73% of the population. Yi culture is vibrant, with the traditional Torch Festival held annually on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month. Additionally, Miaogu Village (妙姑村) holds a unique “Mute Festival (哑巴会)” on the 10th day of the 2nd lunar month, featuring feasts and rituals to worship the “Nine Dragons and Three Elephants,” praying for good weather and peace throughout the year.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Dongshan Yi Ethnic Township has a subtropical monsoon climate, with mild winters and cool summers. The average annual temperature is 17.1°C, and the annual precipitation is about 1268.5 mm. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is most pleasant.

Recommended Attractions, Visit Duration, and Ticket Information

Qianjin Village

  • Visit Duration: 1 hour recommended
  • Ticket: Free
  • Description: Home to the township government, this village offers a great opportunity to experience local folk culture and rural life.

Miaogu Village

  • Visit Duration: 2 hours recommended
  • Ticket: Free
  • Description: Hosts the annual “Mute Festival (哑巴会)” on the 10th day of the 2nd lunar month—a unique cultural experience highlighting Yi traditions.

Ganhai Village

  • Visit Duration: 1 hour recommended
  • Ticket: Free
  • Description: A village rich in ethnic charm where visitors can experience traditional local lifestyles.

External and Internal Transportation

External Transportation

You can take a bus from Wenshan City to Dongshan Yi Ethnic Township, with a travel time of about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive along the Wenyan Highway (文砚公路) for about 10 kilometers.

Internal Transportation

The township relies primarily on rural roads. Motorcycles and local vehicles can be rented to visit various attractions.

Local Cuisine

Specialties of Dongshan Yi Ethnic Township include:

  • Wenshan Sanqi Steamed Chicken (文山三七汽锅鸡): A nutritious dish featuring the local Sanqi herb.
  • Yi-style Hand-pulled Rice (彝族手抓饭): Crispy and aromatic traditional Yi cuisine.

Shopping

Local specialties and handicrafts such as Wenshan Sanqi (文山三七) and Yi embroidery (彝族刺绣) are available for purchase.

Accommodation

There are several farmhouse inns and guesthouses in Dongshan Yi Ethnic Township. These accommodations are affordable, comfortable, and offer a close-up experience of local life and culture.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are located in mountainous areas, so it is advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes and take sun and insect protection measures.
  • Respect local customs, especially in villages inhabited by ethnic minorities.
  • Help protect the environment—do not litter and care for the natural landscape.

Recommended Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Wenshan City, then take public transportation or drive to Dongshan Yi Ethnic Township. Visit Qianjin Village and experience the local folk culture.

Day 2

Head to Miaogu Village to enjoy traditional Yi cultural activities. In the afternoon, visit Ganhai Village for natural scenery and traditional life.

Day 3

Enjoy local delicacies at a farmhouse inn, shop for local specialties as souvenirs, and conclude your enjoyable trip.

Dongshan Yi Ethnic Township is full of natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you’re here to explore scenic landscapes or immerse yourself in ethnic traditions, you’re sure to have a rewarding and memorable experience. We hope you enjoy every moment of your visit.