Gekui Village of Gekui Town in Lvchun County, Honghe
Chinese Name: 绿春县戈奎乡戈奎村
English Name: Gekui Village of Gekui Town in Lvchun County, Honghe
Ge Kui Village is located in Ge Kui Township, Lvchun County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is situated in a mountainous area with challenging transportation access. The village is divided into several sub-villages and is known for its agricultural and cultural significance.(中寨、哈窝、规东、阿双、折龙、牛洞上、牛洞中、牛洞下、大寨、普朵轰马)
Geographic and Demographic Information
- Area: 19.91 square kilometers
- Elevation: 1,460 meters above sea level
- Climate: Average annual temperature of 17.5°C; annual precipitation of 1,215 mm
- Population: 3,273 people in 745 households
- Labor Force: 2,504 people, with 2,421 engaged in primary industry (agriculture)
Agriculture and Economy
- Arable Land: 2,602.96 acres, averaging 0.8 acres per person
- Forest Land: 6,262.5 acres
- Main Crop: Tea, which is the village’s primary economic activity. In 2008, tea sales generated 581,000 yuan, contributing 14.29% to the village’s total income.
Cultural and Historical Background
- Name Origin: In the Hani language, “Ge” means west or below, and “Kui” means horn. The village is named for its location on a mountain ridge that resembles a horn.
- Historical Context: Before the liberation, Ge Kui Village was impoverished with outdated concepts and minimal education. Since the reform and opening up, the village has seen significant improvements due to government support and development initiatives.
Modern Developments
- Infrastructure: The village has seen improvements in housing and infrastructure, including the construction of new concrete houses and the development of essential facilities.
- Economic Diversification: The village is focusing on agricultural technology, green industries, and the cultivation of economic crops such as tea, star anise, and lacquer.
Ethnic and Cultural Characteristics
- Ethnic Group: The Hani people are the primary ethnic group in Ge Kui Village.
- Festivals and Celebrations:
- Za Te Te (哈尼十月年): A major festival held in the lunar month of October, marking the Hani New Year. It is a time for celebration, with activities including cooking special foods, wearing new clothes, and participating in community festivities.
- Ang Ma Tu (哈尼长街宴): Known as the “Long Street Feast,” this festival involves setting up long banquet tables in the village street to honor the village deity and ancestors.
- Gu Niang Jie (姑娘节): The “Girl’s Festival,” celebrated annually in August or September, is a traditional event where young women look forward to the festival to find a partner.
- Traditional Cuisine:
- Chicken with Dipping Sauce: A distinctive dish featuring a variety of spices and ingredients, known for its rich flavor and complexity.
- Konjac (魔芋): A local delicacy known for its translucent appearance and unique taste.
Ge Kui Village offers a blend of agricultural productivity and rich cultural heritage, showcasing the resilience and traditions of the Hani people. Its tea industry and cultural festivals highlight its significance in both local economy and cultural preservation.
