Tiechang Town of Malipo County in Wenshan Prefecture

Tiechang Township (铁厂乡) is located in the northeast 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 borders Donggan Town (董干镇) to the east, shares its northeastern boundary with Anmin County (安明县) of Vietnam, adjoins Liuhe Township (六河乡) and Yangwan Township (杨万乡) to the south, connects with Dongma Township (董马乡) of Xichou County (西畴县) to the northwest, and borders Majie Township (马街乡) to the north. The township government is located in Tiechang Village (铁厂村), about 44 kilometers from Malipo County (麻栗坡县) seat.

History and Culture

Tiechang Township (铁厂乡) got its name from iron-smelting activities initiated by Luo Shiqi (骆施祺) of Tuanshanbao (团山堡) during the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty. It was established as Tiechang Commune (铁厂公社) in 1958 and renamed Tiechang Township (铁厂乡) in 1988. Human activity here dates back to the Neolithic period.

Local Customs

Tiechang Township (铁厂乡) is home to multiple ethnic groups, including Miao (苗族), Yao (瑶族), and Zhuang (壮族). Each group retains rich and colorful folk traditions, such as:

  • Miao Huashan Festival (花山节): One of the most important traditional Miao festivals, usually held from the 3rd to the 9th day of the first lunar month. Activities include lusheng dancing, antiphonal singing, and horse racing.
  • Yao Panwang Festival (盘王节): A traditional festival to worship the ancestor Panwang, praying for peace and good harvests.

Weather and Best Visiting Time

Tiechang Township (铁厂乡) has a subtropical monsoon climate with dry winters and springs and cool summers and autumns. The annual average temperature is 15.6°C, and the frost-free period lasts about 300 days. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Ticket Info

Tiechang Martyrs’ Cemetery

Visiting Time: 1–2 hours
Ticket: Free
Overview: Built to commemorate the martyrs who died in the border self-defense war, this site serves as a patriotic education base.

Guangao Dengcaoping Meadow

Visiting Time: 2 hours
Ticket: Free
Overview: An open, scenic meadow ideal for enjoying natural views.

Pulong Village

Visiting Time: 1 hour
Ticket: Free
Overview: A village rich in ethnic charm, where visitors can experience local folk customs.

Transportation

Public Transportation

Take a shuttle bus from Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to Tiechang Township (铁厂乡), which takes about 1 hour.

Self-Driving

Drive along the Madong Highway (麻董公路). The total distance is about 44 kilometers with good road conditions.

Local Cuisine

Specialties of Tiechang Township (铁厂乡) include:

  • Tuorou (坨肉): A traditional local dish known for its rich flavor.
  • Chicken Stewed with Tsaoko (草果炖鸡): Tsaoko is a distinctive local spice that gives the dish a unique taste.

Shopping

Visitors can buy local specialties such as tsaoko (草果) and ginger (生姜). These products are not only tasty but also make great souvenirs.

Accommodation

Several rural homestays and guesthouses are available in Tiechang Township (铁厂乡), offering affordable prices and a comfortable environment that allows you to experience local hospitality.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are located in mountainous areas. Wear comfortable sports shoes and bring sun protection and mosquito repellent.
  • Respect local customs, especially in ethnic minority villages.
  • Protect the environment—do not litter and cherish the natural scenery.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive at Malipo County (麻栗坡县) and travel to Tiechang Township (铁厂乡) by public transport or car. Visit the Tiechang Martyrs’ Cemetery (铁厂烈士陵园) and immerse yourself in patriotic education.

Day 2

Go to Guangao Dengcaoping Meadow (关告灯草坪) to enjoy the natural scenery, then visit Pulong Village (普龙村) in the afternoon to experience local culture.

Day 3

Enjoy local cuisine at a rural homestay and purchase some local specialties as souvenirs to end your pleasant trip.

Tiechang Township (铁厂乡) is full of natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you’re here to appreciate the landscape or explore ethnic customs, you’ll have a truly rewarding experience. We hope you enjoy an unforgettable stay.