Shangxincheng Town of Yuanyang County in Honghe Prefecture

Shangxin Township (上新城乡) is located in the eastern 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). It lies between longitude 102°54′–102°57′ and latitude 22°59′–23°11′. It borders Xiaoxinjie Township (小新街乡) to the east, Jinping Miao, Yao, and Dai Autonomous County (金平苗族瑶族傣族自治县) to the south, Ganiang Township (嘎娘乡) to the west, and faces Baohe Township (保和乡) of Gejiu City (个旧市) across the Honghe River (红河). It is located 16.9 km from the county seat of Yuanyang.

History and Culture

Shangxin Township (上新城乡) has a long history. As early as 1659 (the 16th year of the Shunzhi era, Qing Dynasty), it was under the jurisdiction of Lin’an Prefecture (临安府). In 1781 (the 46th year of the Qianlong era), part of the area was assigned to the Gaowu local chieftain. During the Republic of China period, it was once part of Gejiu County (个旧县) and called Waixi District (外西区), later reassigned to Mengzi County (蒙自县). In 1950, it belonged to Nagen Township (纳更乡) of Xinmin County (新民县), was renamed Xincheng District (新城区) in 1956, changed to Xincheng Commune (新城公社) in 1970, became Shangxin District (上新城区) in 1984, and finally became Shangxin Township (上新城乡) in 1988.

Local Customs

Shangxin Township (上新城乡) is home to ethnic minorities such as the Hani (哈尼族) and Yi (彝族) peoples, with rich and colorful ethnic customs. Traditional Hani festivals like “Opening the Rice Seedling Gate” (开秧门), the “Sixth Month New Year” (六月年), and the “Torch Festival” (火把节) create a joyful and harmonious atmosphere. The “Long Street Banquet” (长街宴), a signature event of the Hani people, allows visitors to enjoy a wide variety of traditional foods.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Shangxin Township (上新城乡) enjoys a subtropical mountain monsoon climate, known for its vertical climatic variation: “four seasons on one mountain, different weather every mile.” The average annual temperature is 15.9°C, with an average annual precipitation of 1588.3 mm. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is cooler and the terraced fields offer their most spectacular views.

Recommended Attractions and Visit Duration

Laohuzui Rice Terraces:
Located in the southern part of Yuanyang County (元阳县), this is one of the core scenic areas of the Hani rice terraces, renowned for its breathtaking views.
Recommended visit time: 2–3 hours

Qingkou Hani Folk Culture Eco-tourism Village:
Located 35 km from the county seat, this is a key part of the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces Scenic Area (红河哈尼梯田风景区), preserving traditional Hani architecture and culture.
Recommended visit time: 1–2 hours

Mengnong Yamen:
Built in 1735 (the 13th year of the Yongzheng era, Qing Dynasty), it is a historical site reflecting Hani culture and governance.
Recommended visit time: 1 hour

Transportation

Public Transport: Take a bus from Nansha (南沙), the county seat of Yuanyang County (元阳县), to Shangxin Township (上新城乡). The journey takes about 1 hour.

Self-driving: From Nansha, drive toward the Honghe River (红河) direction for approximately 16.9 km. The road conditions are good.

Local Cuisine

Hani Spicy Beef Floss: Made from premium beef that is marinated, air-dried, roasted, and pounded with spices like Sichuan peppercorn and star anise. The taste is spicy and savory.

Bitter Orchid Root: A type of wild vegetable with a slightly bitter taste. It can be paired with Hani fermented black beans and glutinous rice, offering cooling and detoxifying effects.

Shopping

Local handicrafts and agricultural products are available in Shangxin Township (上新城乡) and its surroundings, including Hani embroidery (哈尼族刺绣) and red rice from the terraced fields (梯田红米).

Accommodation

There are various accommodation options in Shangxin Township (上新城乡) and nearby areas, such as local guesthouses and rural homestays. Prices are affordable and reflect strong ethnic characteristics.

Travel Tips

• Respect the customs and traditions of local ethnic minorities, especially when visiting villages or participating in festivals.
• Protect the environment—do not litter.
• Some paths in the terraced areas are steep; comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Nansha (南沙), the county seat of Yuanyang County, and visit Mengnong Yamen (猛弄司署) to explore Hani history and culture.
Day 2: Visit Qingkou Hani Folk Culture Eco-tourism Village (箐口哈尼族民俗文化生态旅游村), experience traditional Hani life, and enjoy local cuisine.
Day 3: Head to Laohuzui Rice Terraces (老虎嘴梯田) to admire the magnificent views.

Shangxin Township (上新城乡) is a land full of ethnic charm and natural beauty. Whether you are exploring the traditional Hani culture or marveling at the spectacular terraced landscapes, this place offers an unforgettable experience. We hope you have a wonderful journey here.