Pengjiazhuang Hui Ethnic Town of Xinle City, Shijiazhuang
Overview
Pengjiazhuang Hui Ethnic Township (Pengjiazhuang Huizu Xiang, 彭家庄回族乡) is located in the central part of Xinhua City (新乐市), Shijiazhuang (石家庄), Hebei Province. It shares river boundaries to the east, north, and northeast with Cheng’an Town (承安镇), borders Handai Town (邯太镇) to the southeast, connects with Matuopu Town (马头铺镇) to the south, and is adjacent to Changshou Street (长寿街道) to the west and southwest, while also bordering Mu Village (木村乡) to the northwest. The administrative area spans 29.69 square kilometers.
As of the end of 2018, the township had a registered population of 22,661. By June 2020, Pengjiazhuang Hui Ethnic Township governed 8 administrative villages, with the township government located in Pengjiazhuang Village (彭家庄村). In 2011, the township’s total financial revenue was 8.65 million yuan, a 27% increase from the previous year. In 2018, there were 94 industrial enterprises in the township, with 11 above a certain scale, and 3 supermarkets or comprehensive stores exceeding 50 square meters.
Historical Development
- 1949: The area was part of the Second District of Xinhua County.
- 1956: The district was abolished, and Pengjiazhuang Township was established.
- 1961: The Pengjiazhuang Commune was formed.
- 1984: It reverted to Pengjiazhuang Township in January, and in June, it was renamed Pengjiazhuang Hui Ethnic Township.
Administrative Division
As of the end of 2011, Pengjiazhuang Hui Ethnic Township governed 8 administrative villages:
- Pengjiazhuang Village (彭家庄村)
- Dazhao Village (大赵村)
- Tongyizhuang Village (同义庄村)
- Xiaozhaipu Village (小宅铺村)
- Xiaozhai Village (小宅村)
- Guo Village (郭村)
- Zhongxin Zhuang Village (中心庄村)
- Dadao Wulipu Village (大道五里铺村)
As of June 2020, the township continued to administer the same 8 villages, with the government based in Pengjiazhuang Village.
Geographic Environment
Location
Pengjiazhuang Hui Ethnic Township is centrally located in Xinhua City, bordered by:
- East, North, Northeast: Cheng’an Town (承安镇)
- Southeast: Handai Town (邯太镇)
- South: Matuopu Town (马头铺镇)
- West, Southwest: Changshou Street (长寿街道)
- Northwest: Mu Village (木村乡)
Hydrology
The largest river in the township is the Dasha River (大沙河), which flows through from Tongyizhuang to Zhongxin Zhuang.
Natural Disasters
Common natural disasters in the township include hail and drought. These disasters typically occur once a year, primarily between July and August. The most severe incident occurred in July 2012, affecting 10,000 acres in Dazhao Village, Pengjiazhuang Village, and Wulipu Village.
Natural Resources
The township has a total of 22,210 acres of arable land, all of which is irrigated.
Population
As of the end of 2011, Pengjiazhuang Hui Ethnic Township had a total population of 21,589, with 560 urban residents, resulting in an urbanization rate of 2.6%. There were also 2,034 temporary residents. The population included:
- Males: 10,913 (50.5%)
- Females: 10,676 (49.5%)
- Under 18: 5,142 (23.8%)
- Ages 19–35: 6,826 (31.6%)
- Ages 36–60: 7,171 (33.2%)
- Over 61: 2,450 (11.4%)
The majority of the population is Han Chinese, numbering 15,470 (71.66%), while Hui, Mongolian, Manchu, and other ethnic minorities total 6,119 (28.34%). The Hui ethnic group alone accounts for 6,066, making up 99.1% of the minority population. The natural population growth rate in 2011 was 18.71‰, with a population density of 724 people per square kilometer.
By the end of 2017, the resident population was recorded at 20,693, and by the end of 2018, the registered population had risen to 22,661.
Etymology
The name “Pengjiazhuang” derives from three brothers with the surname Peng who settled in the area during the Tang Dynasty. The township is commonly referred to as “Yingli” (营里) due to the township government being located in Pengjiazhuang Village.
Honors
On September 27, 2019, Pengjiazhuang Hui Ethnic Township was recognized as a national model collective for ethnic unity and progress.
How to Get There
By Public Transportation
- Bus: Several bus lines connect Pengjiazhuang Township with Shijiazhuang and surrounding areas. Check local schedules for routes that go to Xinhua City.
- Train: The nearest train stations can be found in Shijiazhuang, from where you can take a bus or taxi to reach the township.
By Taxi or Ride-hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Didi Chuxing are available in Shijiazhuang. Simply input “Pengjiazhuang Huizu Xiang” (彭家庄回族乡) as your destination.
Driving
If you choose to drive, Pengjiazhuang Hui Ethnic Township can be accessed via the main roads leading from Shijiazhuang. Look for signs directing to Xinhua City, and follow the local signage once you’re close to the township.
Travel Tips
- Cultural Respect: As Pengjiazhuang is home to a Hui Muslim community, it’s important to respect local customs, especially regarding food. Be aware that pork is typically avoided in public spaces.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting due to mild weather. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be quite cold.
- Local Cuisine: Try the traditional Hui dishes that feature lamb, beef, and various types of noodles. Look for local halal restaurants for authentic experiences.
- Community Events: Engage with local festivals or events to immerse yourself in the culture and strengthen community ties. It can also be a great way to interact with local residents and learn more about their customs.
