Mali Town of Malipo County in Wenshan Prefecture

Malipo Town (麻栗镇) is located in the southwestern part of Malipo County (麻栗坡县), Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the county. It borders Xiajinchang Township (下金厂乡) to the east, Vietnam’s Hà Giang Province (越南河江省) to the south, Tianbao Town (天保镇) to the west, and Xichou County (西畴县) to the north. The town government is located in the Caixi Community (菜溪社区) of Caixi Neighborhood (菜溪小区), only 11.5 kilometers from the county seat.

History and Culture

Malipo Town (麻栗镇) was named after the native Malishu tree (麻栗树) that grows nearby. In 1949, it served as the headquarters of the Malipo Special Area (麻栗坡特别区). From 1958 to 1962, it was managed as an administrative zone, then changed to a commune from 1963 to 1964, and officially designated as a town in 1965. In 1988, Malipo District (麻栗坡区) was merged into Malipo Town.

Local Customs

Malipo Town (麻栗镇) is a multi-ethnic settlement with Han, Zhuang, Miao, Yi, Yao, and other ethnic groups. Rich cultural traditions are preserved among these communities, such as:

  • Zhuang “Flirtatious Street” (风流街)
  • Miao Huashan Festival (花山节)
  • Yao Panwang Festival (盘王节)

In addition, traditional folk arts like dragon and lion dancing are also actively practiced.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Malipo Town (麻栗镇) has a subtropical monsoon climate with abundant sunshine and a mild, spring-like climate year-round. The average annual temperature is 16.8°C, and the frost-free period lasts up to 348 days. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Nanyou Village

  • Visiting Time: Approximately 2 hours
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: A charming Zhuang village surrounded by lush greenery and water, offering a mix of modern rural scenery and traditional Zhuang culture.

Dawangyan

  • Visiting Time: Approximately 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: One of the major mountains in Malipo Town (麻栗镇), featuring cliff paintings valuable for the study of ancient cultures.

Cizhubadalong Fort

  • Visiting Time: Approximately 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: The highest point in Malipo Town (麻栗镇), standing at 2,208 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the entire town.

Transportation

External Transportation

From Malipo County (麻栗坡县), visitors can take public transport or drive to Malipo Town (麻栗镇); the journey takes about 20 minutes.

Internal Transportation

Travel within the town relies on rural roads. Motorbikes and local vehicles can be rented to reach various attractions.

Local Cuisine

Signature dishes of Malipo Town (麻栗镇) include:

  • Cardamom Chicken Stew (草果炖鸡): A local specialty using regional cardamom for a unique flavor.
  • Original-Flavor Lamb Rice Noodles (本味羊肉米线): A popular local snack with rich, savory taste.

Shopping

Local specialties such as cardamom (草果), star anise (八角), and bananas (香蕉) are available. Additionally, Zhuang handicrafts from Nanyou Village (南油村) are well worth purchasing.

Accommodation

Malipo Town (麻栗镇) offers various accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses. A notable choice is the Guohao Zixi Heyuan Hotel (国豪紫溪和苑酒店), which features a beautiful environment and full amenities.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are in mountainous areas—comfortable sports shoes, sun protection, and insect repellent are recommended.
  • Respect local customs, especially in ethnic villages.
  • Protect the environment by avoiding littering and preserving natural sights.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Malipo County (麻栗坡县), then take public transport or drive to Malipo Town (麻栗镇). Visit Nanyou Village (南油村) to experience Zhuang traditions.

Day 2:
Explore Dawangyan (大王岩) and Cizhubadalong Fort (茨竹坝大龙堡) to enjoy natural scenery and cultural heritage.

Day 3:
Enjoy local cuisine and shop for special products such as cardamom and handmade crafts before concluding your trip.

Malipo Town (麻栗镇) is a destination full of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re exploring scenic landscapes or engaging with ethnic traditions, your journey here is sure to be fulfilling. We hope you have an unforgettable experience.