Guzhan Hui Ethnic Town in Lintan County, Gannan

Overview

Guzhan Township (古战乡) is located in the western part of Lintan County (临潭县), Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (甘南藏族自治州), Gansu Province (甘肃省). The township is situated approximately 5 kilometers from the county seat and covers an area of 53.6 square kilometers. The population is around 6,000, with Hui (回族) making up 33% and Tibetan (藏族) 19%. The Mincao Highway (岷（县）合（作）公路) runs through the area. Guzhan Township comprises five village committees: Guzhan (古战), Jiurika (九日卡), Lazhi (拉直), Ganni (甘尼), and Kashuoka (卡勺卡). The region features a mixed terrain of mountains and valleys, with agriculture as the primary occupation, producing wheat, barley, peas, sesame, and rapeseed.

Historical Development

  • 1962: Guzhan Commune (古战公社) was established.
  • 1983: The commune was restructured into a township.
  • 1985: It was renamed Guzhan Hui Township (古战回族乡).

Geographic Environment

Location

Guzhan Township is located in the western part of Lintan County, characterized by a mixed terrain of mountains and valleys. The average elevation is 2,912 meters. The township covers an area of 43.6 square kilometers, with an agricultural population of 1,285 households and 5,560 people as of the end of 2008. The township government is based in Guzhan Village (古战村), situated 5 kilometers from the county seat. The S306 Mincao Highway (岷（县）合（作）公路) traverses the area. Notable historical sites include the Niu Tou City ruins (牛头城遗址) built during the Eastern Jin Dynasty.

Natural Conditions

  • Agricultural Land: The township has 16,728.07 acres of agricultural land, including 8,987.16 acres of paddy fields and 7,740.91 acres of dry land.
  • Forestry Land: The area includes 232,620 acres of forestry land, the largest in the county, with notable trees like the “Sky-raising Tree” (擎天大树) located within Baihe Township (百合乡).
  • Climate: Guzhan Township has a subtropical climate with an average annual temperature of 21.5°C. The highest recorded temperature is 39.6°C, and the lowest is 13.4°C. The annual rainfall averages around 1,270 millimeters. The highest point in the township is Mount Guihuang (规匡山) in Nahua Village (那化村), with an elevation of 1,388 meters.
  • Rivers: The main river in the area is the Baihe River (百合河), which connects to the Delong River (德隆河), flows through Qinghua (清华), and merges with the Beidou River (北斗河) to enter the Bainan River (百南河). The river is approximately 23 kilometers long with a drainage area of 320 square kilometers. The maximum flow rate is 431 cubic meters, and the lowest flow rate during dry periods is 1.5 cubic meters per second. The annual runoff is approximately 389 million cubic meters.

Development History

Guzhan Township’s development strategy focuses on three main areas:

  • Agriculture: Aims to increase farmers’ income and promote rural economic development with goals such as “Strengthening the Township through Eight-Sided Cinnamon and Enriching the People through Animal Husbandry and Aquaculture.”
  • Industry: Focuses on project construction and attracting investment to accelerate the development of the non-public economy in the township.
  • Commerce: Prioritizes the construction of market infrastructure, enhancing market functions, and promoting commodity trade and small-town development.

This approach has significantly advanced social development, strengthened the Party’s construction, and achieved coordinated development in various areas.

Transportation and Travel Tips

Getting There

  • By Road: Guzhan Township can be reached via the S306 Mincao Highway (岷（县）合（作）公路), which passes through the township. The road is generally in good condition, but it’s advisable to check current road conditions before traveling.
  • By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Linxia City (临夏市). From there, you can drive or take a bus to Guzhan Township.
  • By Air: The closest major airport is in Lanzhou (兰州). From Lanzhou Airport, you can drive or take a bus to the township.

Travel Tips

  • Accommodation: Accommodation options within Guzhan Township may be limited. It is recommended to stay in Lintan County or nearby towns for more facilities and visit Guzhan Township for day trips.
  • Local Attractions: Explore the historical ruins of Niu Tou City (牛头城遗址) and the scenic mountain and valley terrain of the township. The area offers a glimpse into the local Hui and Tibetan cultures.
  • Weather: Prepare for a subtropical climate with varying temperatures. Bring clothing suitable for both warm and cooler weather.
  • Local Services: Services such as medical facilities and shops may be limited. It’s advisable to stock up on necessary supplies and ensure access to essential services before traveling.

Guzhan Township provides an interesting mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for those interested in exploring traditional Hui and Tibetan culture and highland landscapes.