Jichang Shui Ethnic Town in Duyun City, Qiannan
Jichang Shui Ethnic Township黔南布依族苗族自治州都匀市基场水族乡, which has been disbanded, was located in the southeastern part of Duyun City, Guizhou Province. It was part of the Qiannan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture and covered an area of 41.92 square kilometers. It was bordered by Fengle Town in Sandu Shui Autonomous County to the southeast, Yanghe Shui Ethnic Township to the southwest, Wangsi Town to the northwest, and Longquan Town in Danzhai County and Pu’an Town in Sandu Shui Autonomous County to the northeast. As of the end of 2011, Jichang Shui Ethnic Township had a population of 12,398 people.
In August 1984, Jichang Shui Ethnic Township was established under Wangsi District. However, in April 2014, Jichang Shui Ethnic Township, along with Fenghe Shui Ethnic Township and Yanghe Shui Ethnic Township, was disbanded to create a new Guilan Shui Ethnic Township.
In 2011, the township’s fiscal revenue was 400,000 yuan, and the per capita net income of farmers was 4,306 yuan, reflecting a 20.01% increase from the previous year.
Historical Development
- 1914: Duyun County was established.
- 1941: Jichang Township was first created as part of the county’s 21 townships.
- 1949: The county was restructured into 6 districts and 19 townships, with Jichang Township renamed from its former designation, and placed under the Fourth District.
- 1953: Jichang Township fell under Wangsi District.
- 1957: The township was transferred to Sandu County.
- 1961: Jichang Township was restored to Duyun City.
- 1984: Established as Jichang Shui Ethnic Township, part of Wangsi District.
- 2014: Jichang Shui Ethnic Township, along with other Shui ethnic townships, was abolished to form Guilan Shui Ethnic Township.
Administrative Divisions
As of the end of 2011, Jichang Shui Ethnic Township was divided into:
- 4 Villages: Jichang Village, Yangli Village, Wengjiang Village, and Wengqi Village.
- 36 Village Groups: The township included 58 natural villages.
As of August 2013, the township governed the same four administrative villages, with the township government located in Jichang Village.
Geography and Environment
Location and Boundaries
Jichang Shui Ethnic Township was situated in the southeastern part of Duyun City, with the following borders:
- Southeast: Fengle Town, Sandu Shui Autonomous County
- Southwest: Yanghe Shui Ethnic Township
- Northwest: Wangsi Town
- Northeast: Longquan Town in Danzhai County and Pu’an Town in Sandu Shui Autonomous County
The total area of the township was 41.92 square kilometers.
Topography
The township featured a typical mountain-valley terrain with significant elevation differences. The highest point was at Zhaozishan in the northwest, reaching 1,483 meters, while the lowest point was at Jichang and Minsheng Bazi in the south, at 540 meters. Approximately 90% of the soil in the region is sandy black soil with good drainage.
Climate
Jichang Shui Ethnic Township experienced a subtropical monsoon climate characterized by mild, humid conditions. Winters were not harsh, and summers were not extremely hot, with ample rainfall. The annual average rainfall was 1,000 mm, and the average annual temperature was 16.9°C. The frost-free period lasted about 305 days per year.
Hydrology
The region’s river system belongs to the Liuzhou River in the Pearl River Basin. The primary river is Jichang River, with five tributaries. It originates from the eastern foot of Zhaozishan. The river is 8 kilometers long with an average annual flow of 0.74 cubic meters per second and a minimum flow of 0.06 cubic meters per second during dry periods. The average riverbed gradient is 52.4‰.
Population
By the end of 2011, Jichang Shui Ethnic Township had a population of 12,398 people. The gender distribution was 52.4% male and 47.6% female, with a population density of 296 people per square kilometer.
Transportation
Jichang Shui Ethnic Township was accessible via County Road 901. The road network provided connectivity within the township and to surrounding areas.
How to Get There
To reach the former Jichang Shui Ethnic Township, travelers can start from Duyun City, which is well-connected by road to major cities in Guizhou. From Duyun, you can drive or take local transportation to the township. Ensure to check current road conditions and local travel options as the administrative changes might have affected some travel routes.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the region is from April to October when the weather is milder and there is less rainfall. Be prepared for occasional rain showers even in these months.
- Local Attractions: Explore the local culture of the Shui people and visit traditional markets.
- Climate Considerations: Dress in layers to adapt to the mild and humid conditions. Bring rain gear if traveling during the rainy season.
- Road Conditions: Check the latest travel advisories and road conditions as infrastructure updates may affect accessibility.
Cultural Heritage
Origin of the Name
The name “Jichang” is derived from an ancient market located about 2 kilometers southwest of Jichang Village. Originally, markets were held on the “You” day of the lunar calendar. The name evolved over time as the market moved to its current location. The term “Jichang” reflects this historical trading practice, and the township was named after the Shui ethnic group predominant in the area.
