Yanjing Town of Yanjin County in Zhaotong

Yanjing Town (盐井镇) is located in Yanjin County (盐津县) in Zhaotong City (昭通市), Yunnan Province. It lies in the central part of Yanjin County, with borders to Fengle Township (丰乐乡) in Jianli County (筠连县), Sichuan Province to the east, Miaoba Town (庙坝镇) and Shizi Town (柿子镇) to the south, Dousha Town (豆沙镇) and Zhonghe Town (中和镇) to the west, and Zhonghe Town, Luoyan Township (落雁乡), and Niuzhai Township (牛寨乡) to the north.

Basic Information

• Area: 234 km²

• Population: 60,684 (as of 2019)

• Government Office: Wenxing Community (文兴社区), County Street (县大街) 160

• Postal Code: 657500

• Area Code: 0870

• License Plate Code: Yun C (云C)

• Key Attractions: Wenxing Community (文兴社区), Salt Wells (盐井)

History

The history of Yanjing Town spans centuries:

• 1731: During the Qing Dynasty (Yongzheng’s reign), it was part of the Daguan Qing Military Administration.

• 1915: During the Republic of China period, it was included in Daguan County (大关县).

• 1917: After Daguan County split, Yanjin County was established, and Yanjing Town became part of it.

• 1958: The town was merged into Daguan County.

• 1970: It was renamed as Yanjing Commune.

• 2006: The town was officially established by merging with Aitian Township.

Administrative Structure

As of 2020, Yanjing Town is made up of 7 communities and 10 administrative villages. The government is located in Wenxing Community (文兴社区). The region is divided into several communities, including Shuijing Community (水井社区), Huadian Community (花田社区), and Laojie Community (老街社区).

Communities and Villages

• Communities: Wenxing, Shuijing, Huadian, Lao Jie

• Villages: Lishan, Huabao, Taozi, Changgou, Bajiao, Gaogiao, Baishu, Shuitian, Renhe, Jiazi

Geography and Terrain

Yanjing Town is located at the foot of the Phoenix Mountain Range (凤凰山脉) and is surrounded by mountains with rivers and streams that divide the land into deep valleys. The highest point is Mount Dali (大黎山) with an elevation of 1,941 meters, while the lowest point is Jiaozi Village (椒子村) at an elevation of 385 meters.

Climate

Yanjing Town enjoys a mild climate, with an average annual temperature of 17.8°C and average annual rainfall of 1,220 mm. The frost-free period lasts 328 days per year, with an average of 884.3 hours of sunshine annually.

Hydrology

The Guan River Basin (关河流域) runs through the region, with a total length of 38 kilometers. The river experiences variable flow levels, from 5750 cubic meters per second during floods to 65.6 cubic meters per second during dry seasons. The town is fed by 11 perennial streams and rivers, including Zhangjiagou (张家沟) and Yidouya Creek (一豆芽物).

Natural Resources

The town is rich in underground resources, including anthracite coal, limestone, copper, iron, and lead, with 1.4 million tons of anthracite coal reserves. Other natural resources include gallnuts (五倍子), oil trees (油桐), tea, lacquer, and various fruits such as walnuts, kiwi, and citrus.

Economy and Infrastructure

Yanjing Town has 16 industrial enterprises, three of which are large-scale. There are also 65 retail shops and supermarkets in the area, contributing to its commercial growth. The town’s infrastructure includes a well-developed transportation network of roads and railways.

Transportation

• Roads: There is a network of 461.5 kilometers of roads, including county highways, village roads, and railway connections.

• Public Transport: The town is served by 2 bus routes and a train station.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Historical Sites

• Yuan Zi’s Cliff Inscription (袁滋题记摩崖石刻): This inscription, located 15 kilometers southwest of Yanjing Town, commemorates Yuan Zi’s diplomatic mission to the Nanzhao Kingdom during the Tang Dynasty. It is a national cultural relic.

• Sanguanlou Stone Pagoda (三官楼石塔): Located 150 meters north of the town, this pagoda is known for its intricate carvings and artistic significance, making it an important cultural heritage site.

Intangible Cultural Heritage

• Yanjin Baba (盐津粑粑): A traditional food from the town, which includes various types of dumplings, cakes, and pastries. It is an important part of the local food culture and is listed in Yunnan’s Intangible Cultural Heritage catalog.

Famous Attractions

Salt Well Scenic Area (盐井风景区)

Located 22 kilometers from Yanjin County, this scenic area features natural landscapes and historical sites, including the ancient roads and inscriptions. It has become a key tourist destination in the region.

Mount Dafu (大佛山)

Mount Dafu, located near Zhonghe Town, is one of the two major mountains in Yanjin County. It is known for its stunning views and popular hiking trails, with Caiyun Cave (彩云洞) and Stone Pillar Slope being some of its highlights.

Local Specialties

Yanjing Town is known for its local delicacies, such as Wugui Chicken Stew with Bamboo Shoots (乌骨鸡炖笋) and Piggy Cakes (猪儿粑), which reflect the town’s culinary heritage.

Recognition and Honors

Yanjin County and Yanjing Town have been recognized for their contributions to ecological and rural development:

• 2019: Yanjin County was named a National Ecological Civilization Demonstration County.

• 2021: Yanjin County was identified as a Key County for National Rural Revitalization.

Yanjing Town offers a unique combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and rich culture, making it an attractive destination for visitors exploring Yunnan Province. With modern infrastructure and a focus on economic and ecological development, the town is poised to continue its growth and serve as a key part of the region’s heritage and future.