Fadou Town of Xichou County in Wenshan Prefecture

Fadou Township (法斗乡) is located in the southeastern 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 19 kilometers from the county seat. It borders Dongma Township (董马乡) to the east, Liuhe Township (六河乡) and Babu Township (八布乡) of Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to the southeast, Bolin Township (柏林乡) and Xingjie Town (兴街镇) to the southwest, Banggu Township (蚌谷乡) to the west, and shares its northern boundary with Jijie Township (鸡街乡) and Xisa Town (西洒镇). The total land area is 223.79 square kilometers, with higher elevations in the northwest and lower elevations in the southeast, characterized by prominent karst landforms.

History and Culture

Fadou Township (法斗乡) has a long history. The name “Fadou” comes from the Zhuang language and means “sky summit,” reflecting the area’s high mountains and frequent mists that give the impression of touching the sky. In 1927, the region was established as Fadou Bao (法斗保) under Dongma District (董马区). It was renamed Dongyou Township (董有乡) in 1952, changed to Nanchang Commune (南昌公社) in 1958, then renamed Fadou Commune (法斗公社) in 1962. It became Fadou District (法斗区) in 1983, and was officially designated as Fadou Township (法斗乡) in 1987. In 2006, the former Pingzhai Township (坪寨乡) was merged into Fadou Township (法斗乡).

Local Customs

Fadou Township (法斗乡) is home to a multi-ethnic population, including Han, Zhuang, Miao, Yi, and Mongolian communities. The area is rich in ethnic cultural traditions, such as the Yi Hulusheng Dance (彝族葫芦笙舞) and the Zhuang Fish Drum (壮族渔鼓). Traditional festivals are still widely celebrated, including the Yi Torch Festival (火把节) and the Zhuang “San Yue San” (三月三).

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Fadou Township (法斗乡) has a subtropical monsoon climate with mild weather and distinct seasons. The average annual temperature is approximately 15.5°C, and the annual rainfall is around 1,605 millimeters. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Shuijing Stone Ridge

  • Visiting Time: Around 2 hours
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: The highest point in Fadou Township (法斗乡), with an elevation of 1,785 meters, offering panoramic views of the entire area and showcasing the beauty of karst landscapes.

Xiaoqiaogou Nature Reserve

  • Visiting Time: Around 3 hours
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: A national-level nature reserve that is home to rare and endangered species, including the huagai tree (华盖木). A must-visit for nature and ecology lovers.

Fadou Village

  • Visiting Time: Around 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: The central village of Fadou Township (法斗乡), where visitors can experience rural life and local cultural traditions.

Transportation

External Transportation

From Xichou County (西畴县), travelers can take a direct bus to Fadou Township (法斗乡), with a journey time of about 30 minutes. Alternatively, self-driving along the well-maintained 19-kilometer road is also convenient.

Internal Transportation

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

Local Cuisine

Fadou Township (法斗乡) offers the following local delicacies:

  • Zhuang Five-Color Sticky Rice (壮族五色糯米饭): Made using natural plant dyes, this colorful sticky rice is aromatic and slightly sweet.
  • Yi Roast Suckling Pig (彝族烤乳猪): A traditional Yi dish known for its crispy skin and rich flavor.

Shopping

Visitors can purchase local agricultural products and handmade crafts such as Zhuang embroidery (壮族刺绣) and hulusheng instruments (葫芦笙).

Accommodation

Fadou Township (法斗乡) has several rural guesthouses and homestays. These offer affordable prices and comfortable environments, providing an authentic experience of local hospitality.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are in mountainous areas, so wear comfortable athletic shoes and take sun protection and insect repellent.
  • Respect local customs, especially in villages inhabited by ethnic minorities.
  • Protect the environment—do not litter, and preserve the natural landscape.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Xichou County (西畴县), then take public transport or drive to Fadou Township (法斗乡). Visit Fadou Village (法斗村) to explore local customs and rural life.

Day 2:
Head to Shuijing Stone Ridge (水晶石梁子) to enjoy the natural scenery, then spend the afternoon in Xiaoqiaogou Nature Reserve (小桥沟自然保护区) appreciating the area’s biodiversity.

Day 3:
Enjoy local specialties at a rural guesthouse, buy local products as souvenirs, and conclude a memorable trip.

Fadou Township (法斗乡) is a destination full of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re here to admire the landscapes or immerse yourself in local traditions, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories. We hope you enjoy your time in this beautiful and welcoming place.