Weimo Yi Ethnic Town in Yanshan County, Wenshan

Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡) is located in the central-northern part of Yanshan County (砚山县), within Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It borders Ganhe Township (干河乡) to the east, Jiangna Town (江那镇) to the south, Binglei Township (秉烈乡) of Wenshan City (文山市) to the west, and Tianxing Township (天星乡) and Shupi Township (树皮乡) of Qiubei County (丘北县) to the north. The township government is located in the Tanfang Community (炭房社区), about 26 kilometers from the county seat of Yanshan (砚山县).

History and Culture

Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡) has a long and rich history. As early as the late period of the Dali Kingdom (大理国) during the Song Dynasty, it was home to the Weimo Tribe (维摩部). During the Yuan Dynasty, it became a Weimo Thousand-Household administrative area (维摩千户). In the 4th year of the Dade era (1300) of the Yuan Dynasty, Weimo Prefecture (维摩州) was established and placed under Guangxi Circuit (广西路). During the Republic of China era, Weimo’s administrative status changed several times. On April 8, 1949, the People’s Democratic Government of Yanshan County (砚山县人民民主政府) was established in Zhela (者腊), bringing Weimo under its administration. After Yanshan County (砚山县) was restored in 1961, Weimo became Weimo District (维摩区), and in 1988 it was officially designated as Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡).Weimo Yi Ethnic Town of Yanshan County in Wenshan Prefecture Weimo Yi Ethnic Town of Yanshan County in Wenshan Prefecture-04 Weimo Yi Ethnic Town of Yanshan County in Wenshan Prefecture-02

Local Customs

Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡) is inhabited by various ethnic groups including Yi, Zhuang, Miao, Han, Hui, and Dai. The Yi ethnic group has a particularly vibrant culture. One of their most unique festivals is the “Straw Horse Festival (草马节),” celebrated by the Aza subgroup (阿扎支系) on a day that falls on the horse or rat zodiac sign in the eighth lunar month. On the festival day, each household crafts straw horses decorated with wildflowers, creating colorful representations of fine steeds. In the evening, chickens are sacrificed to ancestors and the straw horses are placed in the fields outside the village. The following day, villagers display the straw horses along the main road for public viewing and evaluation, followed by a lively bullfighting event in the afternoon.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡) has a subtropical monsoon climate with an average annual temperature of 16.2°C. The average temperature in January is 9.1°C, and in July it’s 23°C. The frost-free period lasts an average of 303 days, and annual rainfall is approximately 1,050 millimeters. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Entry Fees

Yuxian Lake Scenic Area

  • Visiting Time: 2 hours
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: A provincial-level scenic spot known for its crystal-clear water, harmonious blend of islands and lake views, and picturesque mountain-water scenery that captivates visitors.

Weimo Village

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: Home to the township government, this village offers a firsthand experience of local customs and rural life.

Mufeile Village

  • Visiting Time: 1 hour
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Description: A village inhabited by Yi people, where rich cultural activities are held and visitors can experience traditional Yi lifestyle.

Transportation

External Transportation

From Yanshan County (砚山县), take a passenger bus to Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡), a journey of about 30 minutes. For self-driving, follow the Yanwen Highway (砚文公路) for approximately 26 kilometers on well-paved roads.

Internal Transportation

The township is served mainly by rural roads. Motorcycles and local vehicles are available for rent to access the various scenic spots.

Local Cuisine

Specialty dishes in Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡) include:

  • Sanqi Steamed Chicken in a Pot (三七汽锅鸡): Made with the locally grown medicinal herb sanqi (三七), this dish is nutritious and flavorful.
  • Yi-style Roast Suckling Pig (彝族烤乳猪): Crispy skin, tender meat, and a rich aroma make this a local favorite.

Shopping

Visitors can purchase local specialties and handcrafted items such as sanqi (三七), chili peppers, and traditional Yi embroidery (彝族刺绣).

Accommodation

There are several farmhouse inns and homestays in Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡). These offer affordable prices, comfortable environments, and the opportunity to experience the local lifestyle.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are located in mountainous areas. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and insect repellent are recommended.
  • Respect local customs, especially in ethnically diverse villages.
  • Protect the environment by not littering and preserving natural landscapes.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Yanshan County (砚山县), then take public transportation or drive to Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡). Visit Weimo Village (维摩村) to experience local culture.

Day 2:
In the morning, visit Yuxian Lake Scenic Area (浴仙湖风景名胜区) to enjoy the natural beauty. In the afternoon, explore Mufeile Village (幕菲勒村) to immerse yourself in Yi traditions.

Day 3:
Enjoy local delicacies at a farmhouse inn, then purchase some local specialties as souvenirs. Conclude your enjoyable journey.

Weimo Yi Ethnic Township (维摩彝族乡) is a destination rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you are drawn by its landscapes or intrigued by its ethnic traditions, your visit is sure to be rewarding. We hope you have a memorable and fulfilling experience here.