Mazhuang Hui Ethnic Township in Yexian County, Pingdingshan

Location and Administrative Division

Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township (艾庄回族乡, Aizhuang Huizu Minzu Xiang) is located in the northwestern part of Jian’an District (建安区), Xuchang City (许昌市), Henan Province (河南省), China. It is bordered by Guicun Township (桂村乡) to the east and south, Yuzhou City’s Guolian Township (禹州市郭连乡) to the west, and Shigu Town (石固镇) of Changge City (长葛市) to the north. The area covers 13.55 square kilometers. As of the end of 2018, the registered population was 14,686.

Historical Background

  • 1948 (Republic of China): Part of Lingjing District (灵井区), Xuchang County (许昌县).
  • November 1956: Established as Aizhuang Township (艾庄乡).
  • April 1958: Aizhuang Township was renamed Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township (艾庄回族乡).
  • July 1, 1960: Merged into Guicun Commune (桂村公社).
  • May 1965: Aizhuang Commune was dissolved and merged into Guicun Commune.
  • December 5, 1986: Restored as Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township.

Administrative Divisions

As of the end of 2011, Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township was divided into the following administrative units:

  • Aizhuang Village (艾庄村)
  • Matouwei Village (码头魏村)
  • Yuan Village (袁庄村)
  • Dusong Village (杜宋村)
  • Niezhuang Village (聂庄村)
  • Daniu Village (大牛庄村)
  • Guyang Village (谷杨村)
  • Lubay Village (鲁湾村)
  • Xiwang Village (西王村)

By June 2020, the township comprised 3 communities and 6 administrative villages. The township government is located at No. 1, Tianbao Road, Aizhuang Village (艾庄村天宝路1号).

Geography and Climate

Location and Terrain

Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township is situated in the northwestern part of Jian’an District. The area transitions from the foothills of the Funiu Mountains (伏牛山) to the eastern plain of Henan. The terrain is higher in the southwest and lower in the northeast. The highest point is in Xiaoniu Village (小牛村) at 175 meters above sea level, and the lowest point is in Xiwang Village (西王村) at 57 meters above sea level.

Hydrology

The township falls within the Sha Ying River (沙颍河) system of the Huai River Basin (淮河流域). The primary river is the Shiliang River (石梁河), which flows from the northwest of Xiwang Village to the northeast of the same village, covering 0.5 kilometers within the township.

Natural Resources

Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township has abundant coal resources, particularly from Matouwei Village (码头魏村) to the Yuzhou area. These resources are rich but remain undeveloped.

Population

As of the end of 2011, the total population of Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township was 14,811, with:

  • Urban Permanent Residents: 427 (2.8% urbanization rate)
  • Floating Population: 1,100

Demographic Distribution:

  • Male: 7,716 (52.1%)
  • Female: 7,095 (47.9%)
  • Under 14 years old: 2,516 (17%)
  • Aged 15–64: 10,140 (68.5%)
  • Over 65 years old: 2,155 (15.6%)

Ethnic Composition:

  • Han Chinese: 12,942 (87.38%)
  • Hui: 1,867 (12.61%)

In 2017, the resident population was 10,283. By the end of 2018, the registered population was 14,686.

Economy

Industrial and Retail

In 2018, Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township had 23 industrial enterprises, including 6 large-scale enterprises. There were 13 comprehensive stores or supermarkets with an area of over 50 square meters.

Transportation

How to Get There

  • By Car: Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township is accessible by local roads connecting to nearby towns and cities. The drive from Xuchang City takes approximately 30 minutes.
  • By Bus: Regular bus services run between Xuchang and Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township. The travel time is around 45 minutes.
  • By Train: The nearest major railway stations are in Xuchang. From these stations, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the township.
  • By High-Speed Rail: The township is connected by the Xuchang-Luoyang High-Speed Railway, which provides a quick and convenient option for travelers coming from major cities.

Travel Tips

  1. Local Customs: Respect local Hui ethnic customs and traditions. Hui cuisine, including lamb dishes and hand-pulled noodles, is popular in the area.
  2. Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) for pleasant weather.
  3. Local Cuisine: Sample local Hui specialties such as lamb kebabs and traditional noodles. The local food is known for its rich flavors and unique spices.
  4. Essential Services: Basic amenities such as markets and small shops are available within the township. For more specialized services, larger cities like Xuchang may be required.

Attractions

  • Shiliang River (石梁河): Provides scenic views and is a key geographical feature of the township.
  • Local Villages: Visit traditional Hui villages to experience the local culture and lifestyle.

Be sure to check transportation options and weather conditions before traveling to make the most of your visit to Aizhuang Hui Ethnic Township.