Haoxi Hui Ethnic Town in Qingchuan County, Guangyuan
Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township (Hāoxī Huízú Xiāng, 蒿溪回族乡) is located in the northwest of Qingchuan County, Guangyuan City, Sichuan Province, China. To the east, it borders Qiaozhuang Town (乔庄镇) and Daba Township (大坝乡); to the south, it connects with Le’ansi Township (乐安寺乡); to the west, it shares borders with Sanguo Township (三锅乡); and to the north, it adjoins Wen County (文县) in Gansu Province. The township covers an area of 109.92 square kilometers and, as of the end of 2019, has a registered population of 3,870 residents.
History and Development
The township’s history dates back to 1935 during the Republic of China era when a system called “Haoda Joint Security” (薅大联保) was established. In 1958, it was converted into a commune under the jurisdiction of Quhe District (曲河区). In 1984, the Haoxi Commune was restructured into Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township, recognizing its large Hui Muslim population. By 1994, the township was officially renamed Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township and has since continued to develop under direct administration from Qingchuan County.
Administrative Divisions
As of June 2020, Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township governs four administrative villages: Diping Village (地坪村), Qingguang Village (青光村), Tanhe Village (炭河村), and Guanghui Village (光辉村). The local government is based in Haoxi Village (蒿溪).
Industry and Economy
In 2019, Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township had one industrial enterprise and five comprehensive shops or supermarkets, each with a business area of more than 50 square meters, supporting the local economy.
Geography and Environment
Location
Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township is situated in the southwestern part of the Qinling Mountains (秦岭山脉), featuring high terrain in the northwest and lower terrain in the southeast. The township spans an area of 109.92 square kilometers.
Topography
The highest point in the township is located at Tuanbao (团包) with an elevation of 2,784 meters, while the lowest point is at Xing’er Shuwany (杏儿树湾里), standing at 790 meters above sea level.
Climate
The township enjoys a subtropical humid monsoon climate with an average annual temperature of 13.6°C. It receives an average annual rainfall of 1,021 mm and experiences 1,337.6 hours of sunshine annually.
Rivers and Hydrology
Several rivers flow through Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township, including Diping River (地坪沟), Haoxi River (蒿溪河), and Manaoshui River (马尿水沟). These rivers originate from the northern parts of the township and flow southward, providing water resources to the area.
Natural Resources
The township is rich in mineral resources, including iron, copper, zinc, gold, mercury, uranium, quartz, limestone, dolomite, and coal. Although the deposits are scattered and small, the limestone reserves are abundant and of high quality. The area is also home to rare tree species such as gingko, eucommia, and torch pine.
Natural Disasters
The region is prone to natural disasters, including droughts, floods, landslides, and earthquakes. The most devastating event occurred during the Wenchuan Earthquake on May 12, 2008, which resulted in 20 fatalities, 5 severe injuries, and widespread damage to infrastructure, causing an economic loss of 370 million yuan.
Population and Demographics
By the end of 2019, Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township had a total registered population of 3,870 people. The township’s population has been steadily decreasing, from 4,329 in 2011 to 3,167 in 2017.
Transportation
In 2011, the township was traversed by Provincial Highway 105, with 10.4 kilometers running through the region. Additionally, 65 kilometers of rural roads connect the villages, 40 kilometers of which are paved with cement, providing convenient access to the township.
Travel Tips and How to Get There
To visit Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township, you can travel via Guangyuan City (广元市), the nearest major transportation hub. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach Qingchuan County (青川县), which is about 50 kilometers from Haoxi Township. The roads leading to the township are generally well-maintained, and the scenic mountain drive offers breathtaking views of the Qinling Mountains.
Travel Tips:
- Best Time to Visit: The mild climate makes spring and autumn the best times to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and natural scenery is at its peak.
- Local Culture: The township is home to the Hui Muslim ethnic group, so visitors are advised to respect local customs, particularly when visiting mosques or interacting with locals.
- Accommodation: There are limited accommodation options in the township, but Qingchuan County offers hotels and guesthouses for tourists.
- Outdoor Activities: The mountainous terrain makes Haoxi an excellent destination for hiking and exploring nature, particularly for those interested in unique geology and flora.
Honors and Recognition
In January 2021, Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township was recognized as a National Model Unit for Ethnic Unity and Progress by the National Ethnic Affairs Commission. Additionally, in April 2021, the township was selected for the “Agricultural Industry Strong Town” initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, highlighting its role in rural development.
By visiting Haoxi Hui Ethnic Township, you can experience the blend of natural beauty, rich history, and ethnic diversity that defines this unique part of Sichuan Province.
