Jiumen Hui Ethnic Town of Gaocheng District, Shijiazhuang
Overview
Jiumen Hui Ethnic Township (Jiumen Huizu Xiang, 九门回族乡) is located in the northern part of Gaocheng District (藁城区), Shijiazhuang (石家庄), Hebei Province. It borders Nandong Town (南董镇) to the east, faces Gangshang Town (岗上镇) across the Hongtuo River (滹沱河) to the south, adjoins Zhengding County (正定县) to the west, connects with Zhangjiazhuang Town (张家庄镇) to the north, and shares a border with Nanmeng Town (南孟镇) to the northeast. The township covers an area of 46.6 square kilometers.
As of the end of 2018, the township had a registered population of 47,338. By June 2020, Jiumen Hui Ethnic Township governed 13 administrative villages. In 2011, the township’s total agricultural and industrial output value reached 5.83 billion yuan, a 17.4% increase from the previous year, while fixed asset investment reached 680 million yuan, a 23.4% increase.
Historical Development
- 202 BCE: Established as Jiumen County, serving as the county seat.
- Sui, Tang, Song Dynasties: Served as a county seat.
- 973: Integrated into Gaocheng, downgraded to a village.
- Ming Dynasty: Part of the Dili Society.
- Qing Dynasty: Belonged to Nandongying.
- Republic of China: Part of Gaocheng County, District Three.
- 1938: During the Anti-Japanese War, it was part of District Six of the Gaocheng County Democratic Government.
- 1947: Gaocheng restored its original administrative structure, subsequently belonging to Districts Six and Eight.
- Post-1949: Transitioned through Districts Six and Five.
- 1953: Established Jiumen Hui Autonomous Township.
- 1958: Became part of Guangming Commune; later that year, it joined Nandong Commune.
- 1961: Established Jiumen Commune.
- 1984: Renamed Jiumen Hui Ethnic Township.
- 1996: Merged with Zhidu Township.
Administrative Division
As of the end of 2011, Jiumen Hui Ethnic Township governed 13 administrative villages:
- Jiumen Village (九门回族村)
- Zhizhao Village (只照村)
- Qiantili Village (前堤里)
- Houti Village (后堤里)
- Zhuanghuotou Village (庄货头)
- Chanfang Village (禅房)
- Nantun Village (南屯)
- Zhidu Village (只都)
- Zaoluo Village (早落)
- Nanbaipi Village (南白皮)
- Beibaipi Village (北白皮)
- Huangzhuang Village (黄庄)
- Zhouxinzhuang Village (周辛庄)
By June 2020, the township continued to oversee the same 13 administrative villages, with the township government located in Jiumen Village.
Geographic Environment
Location
Jiumen Hui Ethnic Township is located in the northern region of Gaocheng District. It shares borders with:
- East: Nandong Town (南董镇)
- South: Gangshang Town (岗上镇) across the Hongtuo River (滹沱河)
- West: Zhengding County (正定县)
- North: Zhangjiazhuang Town (张家庄镇)
- Northeast: Nanmeng Town (南孟镇)
Natural Resources
The township has a total of 43,000 acres of arable land, which averages about 1 acre per person.
Population
By the end of 2011, Jiumen Hui Ethnic Township had a total population of 43,321, predominantly Han Chinese, with 5,680 Hui individuals. In 2011, the birth rate was 18‰, the death rate was 6‰, and the natural population growth rate was 12‰. The population density was 930 people per square kilometer. By the end of 2018, the registered population had increased to 47,338.
How to Get There
By Public Transportation
- Bus: Jiumen Hui Ethnic Township is accessible via local bus services from Shijiazhuang and surrounding areas. Look for routes that travel to Gaocheng District.
- Train: The nearest major train station is in Shijiazhuang. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the township.
By Taxi or Ride-hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Didi Chuxing operate in Shijiazhuang. Simply enter “Jiumen Huizu Xiang” (九门回族乡) as your destination.
Driving
For those driving, Jiumen Hui Ethnic Township can be reached via the main roads leading from Shijiazhuang. Follow local signage directing you to Gaocheng District, and then look for signs to Jiumen Township.
Travel Tips
- Cultural Respect: As a Hui Muslim community, it’s essential to respect local customs, particularly regarding food. Pork is generally avoided in public settings.
- Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit are spring and autumn, as the weather is mild. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters may be cold.
- Local Cuisine: Sample traditional Hui dishes, which often feature lamb and beef. Look for halal restaurants for authentic experiences.
- Engagement with Community: Participating in local festivals or events is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and connect with the community. Engaging with locals will enhance your understanding of their traditions and way of life.