Dadi Shui Ethnic Town in Leishan County, Qiandongnan
Dadi Shui Ethnic Township黔东南苗族侗族自治州雷山县达地水族乡 is located in the southern part of Leishan County, Guizhou Province, China, and is part of the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture. It is bordered by Tashi Yao and Shui Ethnic Townships and Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township to the east, Wubu Township and Yangfu Township in Sandu Shui Autonomous County to the south, Yahui Township in Danzhai County to the west, and Yongle Town to the north. The township covers a total area of 71.93 square kilometers. As of the end of 2020, the registered population of Dadi Shui Township was 11,500 people.
The township has a rich history, dating back to the Qing Dynasty when it was part of the Dujing jurisdiction. In 1992, it was designated as Dadi Shui Ethnic Township, and as of October 2021, the township governs one community and ten administrative villages.
In 2020, Dadi Shui Ethnic Township had two industrial enterprises and 28 general stores or supermarkets with a business area of over 50 square meters.
Historical Development
- Qing Dynasty: The area was part of the Dujing jurisdiction.
- 1913: Established as Dadi Township.
- 1935: Reorganized as Dadi United Protection, under Sandu County.
- 1952: Transferred to Danzhai County, becoming part of the Second District.
- 1957: Renamed Dadi Shui Ethnic Township.
- 1958: Became Dadi Commune, under Kaili County.
- 1961: Dadi returned to Leishan County’s Yongle District.
- 1992: Converted from Dadi Town to Dadi Shui Ethnic Township.
Administrative Divisions
As of 2021, Dadi Shui Ethnic Township administers 1 community and 10 administrative villages, which include:
- Dadi Shui Ethnic Township Community
- Dale Village
- Xiao Wu Village
- Dadi Village
- Pai Lao Village
- Li Yong Village
- Bei Lue Village
- Wu Da Village
- Gao Che Village
- Wu Kong Village
- Ye Meng Village
The township government is located in Dale Village.
Geography and Environment
Location and Boundaries
Dadi Shui Ethnic Township is situated in the southern part of Leishan County. It is bordered by various ethnic townships and counties, occupying a total area of 71.93 square kilometers.
Topography
The township lies on a sloping region transitioning from the Guizhou Plateau to the hilly basin of western Hunan. The landscape is marked by significant elevation changes, with an average altitude of 903 meters. The highest point is Daping Mountain at 1,322.1 meters, and the lowest point is at the mouth of the Yama River, at 484 meters, resulting in a vertical drop of 838.1 meters.
Climate
Dadi Shui Ethnic Township enjoys a mild climate with an average annual temperature of 15°C. The frost-free period lasts between 230-250 days annually. The average annual rainfall is 1,400 mm, with about 70% of the precipitation occurring from April to August. The township also experiences an average of 1,225 hours of sunlight per year.
Natural Disasters
The township is susceptible to natural disasters such as heavy rainfall and snowstorms. On average, three heavy rain events occur annually, with the most severe one recorded in May 2008 in Xiao Wu Village, causing significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and farmland, amounting to a direct economic loss of 553,000 yuan.
Natural Resources
As of 2011, Dadi Shui Ethnic Township had 7,486 acres of arable land, 6,500 acres of usable grassland, and 83,300 acres of forested land.
Population
By the end of 2011, the township had a population of 10,076 people, with 2,511 migrant residents. The gender ratio was 55.12% male and 44.88% female. The population consisted of a majority of Shui people (42.14%) and other ethnic groups like Miao, Han, and Yao. The birth rate was 12.88‰, and the natural population growth rate was 6.44‰. By the end of 2020, the population had grown to 11,500 people.
Transportation
Dadi Shui Ethnic Township has developed a road-based transportation network. In 2011, the passenger volume reached 100,000 people, and the freight volume was 5,000 tons. The main road, the Tashi-Dadi Highway, connects all the villages, ensuring accessibility across the township.
How to Get There
To reach Dadi Shui Ethnic Township, travelers can take buses or hire private cars from major cities in Guizhou Province, such as Kaili or Guiyang. The most direct route is via Leishan County, which is connected by a network of provincial and county roads. The roads are generally well-maintained, and driving through the scenic mountain landscapes can be a rewarding experience.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Dadi Shui Ethnic Township is between April and October, during the warmer months. The rainy season occurs from April to August, so be prepared for wet weather if visiting during this time.
- Local Markets: The township has been a hub for trade since the Qing Dynasty. Visitors can explore local markets to experience traditional Shui culture and buy local handicrafts.
- Altitude Awareness: With varying altitudes, it is advisable to acclimatize if you are sensitive to elevation changes.
- Road Conditions: The mountainous terrain can make some roads challenging, especially during the rainy season. Travelers should check weather conditions and road accessibility before heading out.
Cultural Heritage
Origin of the Name
The township’s name originates from its location in Dadi Village, which has been a local trading center since the late Qing Dynasty. After the establishment of the commune in the 20th century, the township was named after the village.
Dadi Shui Ethnic Township offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life and culture of the Shui people, alongside its picturesque mountainous landscape and historical significance.
