Geographic Location
Zhema Village is located in Zhetu Township (者兔乡), Guangnan County (广南县), Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (云南省文山壮族苗族自治州). The village is situated in a semi-mountainous area, 17 kilometers from the Zhetu Township government and 63 kilometers from Guangnan County. It borders Liduo Village (里夺村) to the east, Douyue Village (斗月村) to the south, Nanai Village (那耐村) to the west, and Zhetai Township (者太乡) to the north.
Cultural and Historical Background
Zhema Village was established during the Qing Dynasty. The name “Zhema” in the Zhuang language means “place” and “dog,” as the village is said to resemble the shape of a dog from the mountains. The village is also known for the legend of “respectful scolding,” which suggests that the area is so wealthy that even the chains and bells for the dogs are made of gold. In November 2014, Zhema Village was included in the third batch of China’s Traditional Village list, and in June 2019, it was added to the fifth batch of China’s Traditional Village list.
Ethnic Customs
Zhema Village preserves a rich Zhuang ethnic culture. The local traditional festivals are numerous and closely tied to nature worship, ancestor worship, and rice cultivation. Every year, village elders lead the head of each household in ceremonies to worship the sun, and to offer prayers to heaven, earth, and water. Other rituals include the worship of the “Dragon” and the “Tianba” (field) ceremonies. These are accompanied by folk performances, horse races, bullfights, and activities like throwing embroidered balls. In addition, the traditional Zhuang costumes in Zhema Village are colorful and unique, reflecting the distinctive ethnic style.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Zhema Village has a subtropical monsoon climate, with an elevation of 1,250 meters and an average annual temperature of 20°C. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities.
Recommended Attractions, Visit Time, and Entrance Fees
Zhema Village: Experience Zhuang ethnic customs and traditional handicrafts. Suggested visit time: Half a day. Entrance fee: Free.
Surrounding Attractions: Nearby sites include the Xiyangjiang Grand Canyon (西洋江大峡谷), Bamei Village (坝美村), and the Nong Clan Tusi Government Office (侬氏土司衙署), which are ideal for further exploration of local natural landscapes and historical culture.
Transportation
Public Transport: Take a bus from Guangnan County to Zhetu Township, which takes about 1 hour. Then, either walk or take local transport to Zhema Village.
By Car: From Guangnan County, drive along local roads to Zhetu Township, then proceed to Zhema Village, covering a total distance of about 63 kilometers.
Local Cuisine
Zhuang Ethnic Specialties: Taste traditional Zhuang dishes such as sticky rice dumplings (粽子), glutinous rice cakes (糯米粑), and cured pig feet (腊猪脚).
Farmhouse Cuisine: Local farmhouse restaurants offer fresh vegetables and poultry.
Shopping
Ethnic Handicrafts: Purchase traditional Zhuang clothing, embroidery, and other unique handicrafts.
Local Specialties: Popular local products include Guangnan iron-skin Dendrobium (广南铁皮石斛), Diyi tea (底圩茶), and Guangnan eight-treasure rice (广南八宝米).
Accommodation
Guesthouses: Choose to stay in a Zhuang ethnic village guesthouse to experience local customs.
Hotels in County: Several hotels are available in Guangnan County.
Travel Tips
Respect Local Customs: Please respect the local residents’ customs and habits when visiting and participating in folk activities.
Environmental Protection: Be sure to protect the environment when visiting natural scenic areas and avoid littering.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Guangnan County, check into a hotel, and travel to Zhetu Township to visit Zhema Village and experience Zhuang ethnic culture.
Day 2: Visit surrounding attractions such as Xiyangjiang Grand Canyon or Bamei Village to enjoy the local natural scenery and explore further cultural sites.
Zhema Village is a place rich in ethnic charm and cultural heritage. Here, you can experience the warm hospitality of the Zhuang people, enjoy the unique natural scenery, and immerse yourself in the abundant ethnic culture. We hope your journey is filled with joy and unforgettable memories.
