Shalatuo Town of Yuanyang County, Honghe

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Shalatuo Township (沙拉托乡) is located in the western part of Yuanyang County (元阳县), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), between longitude 102°31′–102°38′E and latitude 23°03′–23°09′N. It borders Niujiaozhai Township (牛角寨乡) to the east, Ezhaxiang Township (俄扎乡) to the south, Gekui Township (戈奎乡) of Lüchun County (绿春县) to the west, and Azhe River Township (阿扎河乡) of Honghe County (红河县) to the north. It is about 68 kilometers from Nansha Town (南沙镇), the county seat.

History and Culture

Shalatuo Township (沙拉托乡) has a long and rich history. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, it was under the jurisdiction of the Naluo Chadian Native Officialdom (纳楼茶甸长官司) of Lin’an Prefecture (临安府). In the Qing Dynasty, after 1794 (Qianlong 59th year), it belonged to Taiheli and Yongshanli under the Naluodian Native Officialdom. From 1922 to 1949, it was under Taihe Township (太和乡) and Mengnong Township (勐弄乡) of Jianshui County (建水县), including Caoguodong (草果洞) and other areas. In 1951, it belonged to Xinmin County (新民县). In 1970, five villages—Potou (坡头), Manjianghe (漫江河), Fuzhai (富寨), Aga (阿嘎), and Caoguodong (草果洞)—were separated from Niujiaozhai District to form Shuguang Commune (曙光公社), which was renamed Shalatuo Commune (沙拉托公社) in 1972. In April 1984, it became Shalatuo District (沙拉托区), and in January 1988, it was officially named Shalatuo Township (沙拉托乡).

Local Customs

Shalatuo Township (沙拉托乡) is home to various ethnic groups, mainly the Hani (哈尼族) and Yi (彝族) people. It boasts vibrant cultural traditions and a variety of festivals such as the Long Table Banquet (长龙宴), Tenth Month New Year (十月年), Yi Torch Festival (彝族火把节), New Rice Festival (吃新米节), and Dragon Worship Festival (祭龙). The Long Table Banquet of the Hani people is one of the most distinctive local events, offering visitors a chance to enjoy authentic traditional cuisine.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Shalatuo Township (沙拉托乡) enjoys a mild subtropical mountain monsoon climate with distinct mountainous features. The annual average temperature is 16.5°C, and annual rainfall ranges from 1,200 to 2,000 mm. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time

Shalatuo Rice Terraces 
These magnificent terraced fields are a testament to the ingenuity of the Hani people.
Recommended visiting time: 2–3 hours.

Caoguodong Village 
A village that preserves traditional Hani architecture and folk customs—perfect for cultural exploration.
Recommended visiting time: 1–2 hours.

Niuluo Tea Plantation 
A great place to enjoy scenic tea gardens and learn about local tea culture.
Recommended visiting time: 1 hour.

Transportation

Public Transport:
From Nansha Town (南沙镇), take a bus to Shalatuo Township (沙拉托乡). The journey takes about 1.5 hours.

Self-Drive:
Drive from Nansha Town (南沙镇) along well-maintained roads for about 68 kilometers.

Local Cuisine

Hani-style Grilled Meat:
Made with local ingredients and grilled to aromatic perfection.

Yi-style Specialties:
Including dishes like “Tuotuo Meat” (坨坨肉), a traditional Yi delicacy known for its rich flavor.

Shopping

The region offers a variety of local handicrafts and agricultural products. Recommended souvenirs include Hani embroidery (哈尼族刺绣) and locally produced tea (茶叶).

Accommodation

Shalatuo Township (沙拉托乡) provides a range of lodging options, including ethnic-style guesthouses and farmhouse stays at affordable prices.

Travel Tips

• Respect local ethnic customs, especially during visits to villages and participation in traditional festivals.
• Help protect the environment—do not litter.
• Some paths in the rice terrace areas are steep; wear comfortable walking shoes.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive at Nansha Town (南沙镇), check into a hotel, travel to Shalatuo Township (沙拉托乡), and visit Caoguodong Village (草果洞村) to experience Hani culture.

Day 2:
Explore the Shalatuo Rice Terraces (沙拉托梯田), then visit Niuluo Tea Plantation (牛倮茶场) to learn about tea production.

Day 3:
Return to Nansha Town (南沙镇) and conclude your journey.

Shalatuo Township (沙拉托乡) is a land full of ethnic charm and natural beauty. Whether you’re discovering the traditional culture of the Hani and Yi people or admiring the breathtaking terraced landscapes, this place offers unforgettable experiences. We hope you enjoy your journey here．