Xigu Town of Wenshan City in Wenshan Prefecture
Xigu Township is located in the central part of Wenshan City (文山市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It borders Wolong Street (卧龙街道) to the east, Kaihua Street (开化街道), Pingba Town (平坝镇), and Xiaojie Town (小街镇) to the south, Baxin Township (坝心乡) to the west, and Matang Town (马塘镇) to the north. The township’s government is 24 kilometers from the Wenshan urban area.
Cultural History
The name Xigu (喜古) comes from the Yi language, meaning “village in the middle of the forest.” During the Ming Dynasty, the area was under the jurisdiction of Wangnong and Jiaohua. In the Qing Dynasty, it was part of Le Long and Kaihua. During the Republic of China era, it belonged to the western district. Before 1949, it was governed by Xigu Township, Taiji Township, and Shengping Town. In 1966, Xigu Commune was established by merging small communes from Matang, Pingba, and Panzhihua District.
Local Customs
Xigu Township is home to several ethnic minorities, including the Zhuang, Miao, Yi, Hui, Yao, and Dai peoples, with minorities making up 89.79% of the population. The Yi people’s traditional “Torch Festival” is held every year on the 24th day of the 6th month of the lunar calendar.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Xigu Township has a subtropical monsoon climate with an average annual temperature of 16.23°C and an annual precipitation of 685.9 mm. The best time to visit is from May to October.
Recommended Attractions, Visit Duration, and Ticket Information
Xigu Village
- Visit Duration: 1 hour recommended
- Ticket: Free
- Description: The location of the township government, offering the chance to experience local folk culture and rural life.
Guna Chong Village
- Visit Duration: 2 hours recommended
- Ticket: Free
- Description: There is a 12 km hiking route from Guna Chong Village to Laowudi Village, passing through the Miao Heart Kang Yao Wang Valley ruins and battle site, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
Gege Village
- Visit Duration: 1 hour recommended
- Ticket: Free
- Description: Nearby attractions include Junlong Lake Water Conservancy Scenic Area and Wenshan Xihua Park.
External and Internal Transportation
External Transportation
From Wenshan City, take a bus to Xigu Township, with a travel time of approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, drive along the road from the Wenshan urban area to Xigu Township, about 24 km in total.
Internal Transportation
The township mainly relies on rural roads. You can rent motorcycles or local vehicles to visit various attractions.
Local Cuisine
Xigu Township offers several unique local dishes, including:
- Ginseng Fruit (人参果): A local specialty with a unique taste.
- Wenshan Sanqi Steamed Chicken (文山三七汽锅鸡): A nutritious dish made with the local specialty, Sanqi.
Shopping
Visitors can purchase local specialties and handicrafts, such as ginseng fruit, Wenshan Sanqi, and Yi embroidery.
Accommodation
Xigu Township has several farmhouse inns and guesthouses available, offering affordable prices and a comfortable environment to experience local customs.
Travel Tips
- Some attractions are located in mountainous areas, so it’s advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes and take measures for sun protection and insect repellent.
- Respect local customs, especially in villages with minority populations.
- Protect the environment, avoid littering, and care for natural landscapes.
Recommended Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Wenshan City, take public transport or drive to Xigu Township, explore Xigu Village, and experience the local folk culture.
Day 2
Head to Guna Chong Village for a nature hike, and in the afternoon, visit Gege Village to enjoy surrounding tourist spots.
Day 3
Taste local specialties at a farmhouse inn, purchase local souvenirs, and conclude your journey with fond memories.
Xigu Township is a place full of natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you’re enjoying the natural scenery or experiencing the folk culture, it will offer you a rewarding experience. We hope you have an unforgettable time here.
