Yangwan Town of Malipo County in Wenshan Prefecture

Yangwan Township (杨万乡) is located on the China-Vietnam border 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 Anmin County (安明县) of Vietnam to the southeast, Babu Township (八布乡) to the southwest, Liuhe Township (六河乡) to the northwest, and Tiechang Township (铁厂乡) to the northeast. The township government is seated in Longlin Village (龙林村), about 80 kilometers from the Malipo County (麻栗坡县) seat.

History and Culture

Yangwan Township (杨万乡) has a long history of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic period. Its administrative status has undergone several changes: from 1950 to 1953 it was part of Longlong District (龙龙区) under Malipo City (麻栗坡市); from 1954 to 1957 it belonged to Yangwan Township (杨万乡) in Babu District (八布区); from 1958 to 1962 it was the Yangwan Management Area (杨万管理区) under Tongchang Commune (铜厂公社); from 1963 to 1969 it was Yangwan Commune (杨万公社) under Babu District (八布区); in 1970 it was separated to form its own Yangwan Commune (杨万公社); in 1984 it was renamed Yangwan District (杨万区); and in 1988 it officially became Yangwan Township (杨万乡).

Local Customs

Yangwan Township (杨万乡) is home to a diverse ethnic population, with ethnic minorities such as Zhuang (壮族), Miao (苗族), and Yao (瑶族) making up 66.3% of the total population. These groups retain vibrant traditional customs, including:

  • Miao Huashan Festival (花山节): A traditional Miao celebration typically held from the 3rd to the 9th day of the first lunar month, featuring lusheng dances, antiphonal singing, and horse racing.
  • Yao Panwang Festival (盘王节): A sacred festival of the Yao people to worship their ancestor Panwang and pray for peace and abundant harvests.

Weather and Best Visiting Time

Yangwan Township (杨万乡) has a South Asian tropical monsoon climate with distinct vertical climatic zones. The average annual temperature is 19.6°C, with extreme highs of 32°C and lows of -1°C. It receives about 1,300 mm of rainfall annually, mostly between June and September, and has over 350 frost-free days. 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 Ticket Info

Yangwan Martyrs’ Cemetery

Visiting Time: 1–2 hours
Ticket: Free
Overview: A patriotic education site built in memory of those who died in the border self-defense war.

Zheyin Mountain Tea Plantation

Visiting Time: 2 hours
Ticket: Free
Overview: Located at the foot of Zheyin Mountain (者阴山) at an altitude of 1,200 meters, this tea-growing area features a mild climate, high humidity, and fertile soil.

Tongchang Village

Visiting Time: 1 hour
Ticket: Free
Overview: A village rich in ethnic traditions where visitors can immerse themselves in local folk culture.

Transportation

Public Transportation

Take a shuttle bus from Malipo County (麻栗坡县) to Yangwan Township (杨万乡), approximately 2 hours.

Self-Driving

Travel along the Mayang Highway (麻杨公路); the total distance is about 80 kilometers with good road conditions.

Local Cuisine

Yangwan Township (杨万乡) offers local specialties such as:

  • Tuorou (坨肉): A traditional local dish known for its rich, savory flavor.
  • Chicken Stewed with Tsaoko (草果炖鸡): A dish using tsaoko, a local spice that adds a unique fragrance and taste.

Shopping

Local specialties such as tea (茶叶), bananas (香蕉), and tsaoko (草果) are popular and make excellent souvenirs.

Accommodation

Several rural guesthouses and homestays are available in Yangwan Township (杨万乡), offering affordable prices and a comfortable environment for experiencing local life.

Travel Tips

  • Some attractions are in mountainous areas—wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection and mosquito repellent.
  • Respect local customs, especially in ethnic minority villages.
  • Protect the environment—do not litter and take care of natural sites.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive at Malipo County (麻栗坡县), travel to Yangwan Township (杨万乡) by public transport or car, and visit the Yangwan Martyrs’ Cemetery (杨万烈士陵园) to reflect on the patriotic spirit.

Day 2

Visit Zheyin Mountain Tea Plantation (者阴山茶园) to admire the scenic tea fields and experience tea culture. In the afternoon, explore Tongchang Village (铜厂村) to enjoy the ethnic customs.

Day 3

Savor local dishes at a countryside homestay and purchase local products as souvenirs before concluding your journey.

Yangwan Township (杨万乡) is a place filled with natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you’re here to enjoy breathtaking landscapes or delve into rich folk traditions, your experience will be truly rewarding. We hope you have an unforgettable stay.