Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township (Jiuli Huizu Xiang, 九里回族乡) is located in Zhongxiang City (钟祥市), Jingmen (荆门市), Hubei Province, China. Positioned along the banks of the Han River, it lies in the central-eastern part of Zhongxiang, bordering Dako National Forest Park (大口国家森林公园) to the east, Yingzhong Subdistrict (郢中街道) to the west, Mingxian Mausoleum (明显陵), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the north, and Chaihu Town (柴湖镇) to the south. Covering a total area of 99.8 square kilometers, Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township had a population of 12,782 as of 2013, with 1 community and 8 administrative villages under its jurisdiction.

Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township is known as the main settlement for ethnic minorities in the Jingmen region and boasts a rich history and numerous cultural relics. It has been honored with the title of “National Advanced Collective for Ethnic Unity and Progress.”

Historical Development

The township derives its name from Jiuli Valley (九里冲), a 9-kilometer-long valley that runs from Lijiatai Reservoir (李家台水库) to Zhaomiao Grain Station (赵庙粮站) in the southern part of the township. In 1975, the Jiuli Management District was established under the Shuangqiao Commune. In December 1985, the Hubei provincial government approved the creation of Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township, under the administration of Huangzhuang District (皇庄区). By July 1987, Huangzhuang District was dissolved, and Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township was placed under the jurisdiction of Changtan District (长滩区). Later that same year, it was renamed Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township and administered independently.

Geography and Climate

Location

Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township is situated in the central-eastern part of Zhongxiang, with neighboring attractions such as Dako National Forest Park (大口国家森林公园) to the east, Yingzhong Subdistrict (郢中街道) to the west, Mingxian Mausoleum (明显陵) to the north, and Chaihu Town (柴湖镇) to the south. The township spans 99.8 square kilometers, with the township center located at 112°38′ E longitude and 31°10′ N latitude.

Terrain

The township is characterized by hilly and plain terrain, sloping from east to west, with an elevation generally below 500 meters.

Climate

Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township enjoys a northern subtropical monsoon climate, marked by four distinct seasons, ample sunlight, abundant heat, and moderate rainfall. The average annual temperature is 16°C, with a frost-free period of approximately 262 days. Annual sunshine hours range from 1,931 to 2,114, and the annual rainfall averages between 900 to 1,100 mm.

Population and Ethnicity

As of 2013, Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township had a total population of 12,782, with the urban population accounting for 4,165. The population is primarily composed of Han and Hui ethnic groups.

Natural Resources

Mineral Resources

The township is rich in mineral resources such as red sandstone, clay, and limestone. The limestone reserves, primarily located in the southern part of Bianfan Village (边畈村), are estimated at 250,000 cubic meters, while red sandstone can be found in Sanchakou Village (三岔河村).

Flora and Fauna

Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township boasts a variety of plant species, including pine, oak, poplar, willow, camphor, and bamboo, as well as medicinal herbs like angelica and honeysuckle. Wild animals in the area include wild boars, hares, foxes, and owls.

Cultural Heritage

The township is home to numerous cultural relics, including 110 provincial and municipal-level protected sites. Key attractions include:

• Qiangong Dam Bridge (千工坝桥) in Xiaodian Village (肖店村)
• Longquan Temple (龙泉寺) in Yangqiao Village (杨桥村)

Notable tombs in the region include those of Ming dynasty figures such as the brother and sister of Emperor Jiajing and the 24th son of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang.

Local Culture

Ethnic Dress

The Hui people in Jiuli have distinct traditional clothing. Men typically wear brimless Hui hats, with a preference for white hats. Some men wear head coverings made of white cloth. Women traditionally wear headscarves that vary by age and marital status—green for young girls, black for married women, and white for elderly women.

Dietary Customs

The Hui people’s diet is predominantly rice-based, supplemented by vegetables. They adhere to Islamic dietary laws, avoiding pork and preferring beef and lamb. Popular dishes include steamed beef, braised beef tendon, and beef dumplings.

Festivals

Major Islamic festivals celebrated in Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township include Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Mawlid, which are important occasions for the local Hui community.

Local Products

Spring Water Rice (山泉米)

Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township has over 20,000 acres of high-quality rice fields irrigated with natural mineral spring water from Dako National Forest Park (大口国家森林公园). The rice produced here is known as “Spring Water Rice.”

Longshan Grapefruit (龙山胡柚)

This locally grown grapefruit has a thick skin, low sugar content, and is believed to have cooling and detoxifying properties. It matures in late winter and is available around the Minor Cold solar term.

Transportation and Travel Tips

Getting There

Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township is well-connected by road, with Provincial Highway S311 running through the township. The nearest major city is Zhongxiang (钟祥市), and visitors can travel by bus or car to the township. From Zhongxiang, Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township is approximately a 30-minute drive. The Zhongxiang Railway Station offers regular train services, and travelers can transfer to local buses or taxis to reach Jiuli.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township is in spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the scenery is lush.
• Cultural Sensitivity: As Jiuli Hui Ethnic Township is home to a significant Muslim population, visitors should be respectful of local customs, especially regarding dietary practices. Avoid bringing pork or pork-related products into the township.
• Local Cuisine: Be sure to try the local beef specialties and traditional Hui dishes such as beef dumplings and beef soup.
• Exploring the Heritage Sites: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the historic Longquan Temple and the Qiangong Dam Bridge.