Xiushan Subdistrict of Tonghai County, Yuxi

Xiushan Subdistrict is located in the southeastern part of Tonghai County (通海县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It borders Yangguang Town (杨广镇) to the east, Lishan Yi Ethnic Township (里山彝族乡) to the south, Jiulong Subdistrict (九龙街道) to the west, and faces Sijie Town (四街镇) and Nagu Town (纳古镇) across Qilu Lake (杞麓湖) to the north. Tonghai County is situated in central-southern Yunnan and the eastern part of Yuxi City. It shares borders with Huanning County (华宁县) to the east, Eshan County (峨山县) and Hongta District (红塔区) to the west, Shiping County (石屏县) and Jianshui County (建水县) of Honghe Prefecture (红河州) to the south, and Jiangchuan District (江川区) to the north.

History and Culture

Xiushan Subdistrict boasts a long history and rich cultural heritage. As early as the Neolithic Age, early inhabitants lived and thrived along the shores of Qilu Lake (杞麓湖). During the Nanzhao Kingdom of the Tang Dynasty, Tonghai was established as “Tonghai Town” (通海镇) and “Tonghai Dudu” (通海都督), initiating its cultural prominence. Under the Dali Kingdom of the Song Dynasty, “Xiushan Prefecture” (秀山郡) was established, making Tonghai the prefectural seat. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Tonghai flourished in culture and education, earning titles such as “The Most Elegant of Southern Yunnan” (秀甲南滇), “Land of Rites and Music” (礼乐名邦), and “Crown of the Southern Region” (冠冕南州). The ancient city layout of Xiushan Subdistrict is well-preserved, featuring over 200 Ming and Qing dynasty residences.

Local Customs

Tonghai County is known for its vibrant folk traditions. Xiushan Park (秀山公园) serves as a major cultural venue. During the Spring Festival, events like prayer ceremonies, Dongjing ancient music performances, and lantern riddles are held. Traditional customs such as the Spring Flower Market (迎春花街) are also celebrated in the area.

Weather and Best Visiting Time

Tonghai County experiences a mild climate with four distinct seasons and belongs to the subtropical monsoon climate zone. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and both natural and cultural sights are at their best.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Times

Xiushan Historical and Cultural Park (秀山历史文化公园): A national 4A-rated scenic area featuring the Xiushan Ancient Architecture Complex, including Yongjin Temple (涌金寺), Qingliang Terrace (清凉台), and Yuhuang Pavilion (玉皇阁), among eight major ancient structures. The site also houses over 200 couplet plaques and stone inscriptions, earning the nickname “Mountain of Plaques, Sea of Couplets” (匾山联海).
Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours.

Tonghai Confucian Temple (通海文庙): This architectural complex embodies Confucian rituals and music culture. The Wenming Archway (文明坊) is considered the finest in southern Yunnan.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours.

Dashu Community (大树社区): Nestled against Xiushan and facing Qilu Lake, the area features idyllic rural scenery and has become a model for rural tourism.
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours.

Transportation

Public Transportation: Xiushan Subdistrict is accessible by local bus routes such as Tonghai Bus No.1, No.2, and No.3.
By Car: From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming-Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速), covering about 137 km with an estimated drive time of 1.5 hours.

Local Cuisine

Famous Snacks: Sweet rice wine (甜白酒), ground bean candy (豆末糖), scallion pancakes (葱花饼), chilled rice cakes (小凉糕), and scissors candy (剪子糖).
Local Dishes: Tonghai pickled vegetables (通海酱菜), black fish fillets (乌鱼片), soy sauce chicken (酱油鸡), steamed hot pot (炊锅), and crispy layered pork (脆皮夹沙肉).

Shopping

Xiushan Subdistrict offers a variety of local specialties such as Tonghai pickled vegetables and handmade crafts. These can be purchased at local farmers’ markets or specialty shops.

Accommodation

Tongyin Hotel (通印大酒店): A three-star hotel located at 2 Lile East Road (礼乐东路).
Yuanheng Guesthouse (元亨客栈): Located at 45 Wenxianli (文献里), showcasing local architectural charm.
Xiushan Guesthouse (秀山客栈): Situated at 54 Wenmiao Street (文庙街), near scenic attractions.

Travel Tips

Cultural Preservation: Please refrain from touching or damaging historic structures and relics.
Responsible Tourism: Keep the environment clean and dispose of waste properly.
Safety First: Be cautious in scenic areas, especially when climbing or near the lake.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:

• Morning: Arrive in Tonghai County and visit Tonghai Confucian Temple to experience Confucian culture.
• Noon: Enjoy local specialty dishes.
• Afternoon: Explore Xiushan Historical and Cultural Park and admire ancient architecture and natural scenery.
• Evening: Check into a hotel and rest.

Day 2:

• Morning: Head to Dashu Community to enjoy rural landscapes and farming culture.
• Noon: Savor farm-to-table meals.
• Afternoon: Return to the county center and shop for local souvenirs before ending the trip.

Xiushan Subdistrict, with its profound historical heritage, vibrant folk culture, and beautiful natural scenery, attracts countless visitors. Whether strolling through ancient alleys or standing atop Mount Xiushan, you’ll experience the unique charm of this culturally rich destination. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Xiushan Subdistrict.