Renli Shui Ethnic Town in Rongjiang County, Qiandongnan
Renli Shui Ethnic Township黔东南苗族侗族自治州榕江县仁里水族乡, located in the north of Rongjiang County, is part of the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture in Guizhou Province. It borders Chongyi Township to the east, Zhongcheng Town to the southeast, Pingyong Town to the south, southwest, west, and northwest, and Leli Town to the north and northeast. The township government is situated 62 kilometers away from the county government. Covering a total area of 82.18 square kilometers, as of the end of 2019, Renli Shui Ethnic Township had a registered population of 12,703.
In 1730, during the Qing Dynasty’s Yongzheng reign, the area was placed under the administration of Guzhou Hall and later incorporated into the Western Miao Villages. In 1992, Renli Shui Ethnic Township was established. By June 2020, Renli Shui Ethnic Township administered eight administrative villages, with the township government located in the Dawanzhai area of Renli Village.
History
- Qing Dynasty: In 1730, the area was designated as part of Guzhou Hall and later merged into the Western Miao Villages.
- Republic of China Era (1917-1949): Renli went through multiple administrative changes, with the area governed by various counties and districts.
- People’s Republic of China: After 1949, the area experienced additional restructuring, including the establishment of Renli Commune in 1963, which later became Renli Shui Ethnic Township in 1984. In 1992, the current administrative boundaries were set, including the incorporation of villages from the Taiyuan area.
Administrative Divisions
As of 2020, Renli Shui Ethnic Township consists of eight administrative villages:
- Renji Village
- Tongdao Village
- Taiyuan Village
- Gongjie Village
- Dangmin Village
- Shouchang Village
- Bailai Village
- Qiaosai Village
Geography
Location and Terrain
Renli Shui Ethnic Township lies in the transition zone between the Guizhou Plateau and the Guangxi Hills, featuring mountainous terrain. The landscape is mainly dominated by the Leigong Mountain Range, with the highest peak located in Gongjie Village at 1,126 meters above sea level. The lowest point is in Tongdao Village.
Climate
The township experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild and rainy conditions. The average annual temperature is 16.5°C, with July averaging 24.9°C and the coldest months averaging 5.8°C. The frost-free period lasts around 282 days per year, and the area receives an average of 1,211.1 mm of rainfall annually, with most precipitation occurring between May and August.
Hydrology
Renli Shui Ethnic Township is part of the Pearl River water system. The largest river in the area is the Zimei River, which runs 32 kilometers through the township.
Natural Disasters
The area is prone to natural disasters such as droughts, landslides, floods, autumn cold winds, and freezing rain.
Natural Resources
The township has untapped sulfur deposits, and as of 2011, there were 5,690 acres of arable land in the area.
Transportation
Renli Shui Ethnic Township has about 10 kilometers of paved roads. By 2011, every village in the township was connected by road, with a total road network of over 150 kilometers.
Local Culture and Traditions
Name Origin
The name “Renli” is derived from an event during which a county magistrate visited the village and was warmly received by the local Wu family during a funeral. In gratitude, the magistrate asked for the village’s name, which was initially “Leluo,” but it evolved into “Renli” over time.
Folk Arts
Renli Shui Ethnic Township is known for its local folk arts, including bullfighting and the “Gua Festival,” a traditional Shui festival.
How to Get There
By Road
The township is accessible via road from Rongjiang County, located approximately 62 kilometers away. The journey from the county seat typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on road conditions. If you are coming from other nearby towns like Pingyong, it is well-connected with local roads leading into Renli.
By Public Transport
There may be limited public bus services operating between Rongjiang County and Renli Township. It is advisable to check with local bus stations for the most up-to-date schedules. Alternatively, hiring a local driver or arranging private transportation is a convenient option.
Travel Tips
- Road Conditions: While the township has paved roads, some areas, especially in mountainous regions, might be narrow and winding. It’s recommended to travel in a sturdy vehicle, particularly during the rainy season.
- Best Time to Visit: The most pleasant time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (March-May and September-November) when the weather is mild. Summers can be rainy, and winters, though not too cold, might experience foggy and wet conditions.
- Local Culture: When visiting, be mindful of the rich cultural heritage of the Shui and Miao ethnic groups. Visitors are encouraged to participate in local festivals like the “Gua Festival” and explore traditional crafts such as embroidery and batik dyeing.
- Accommodation: Accommodations in the township are basic. For more comfortable lodging options, it’s best to stay in Rongjiang County and plan day trips to Renli.
- Outdoor Activities: With its mountainous terrain, Renli Shui Ethnic Township is perfect for hiking and exploring nature. However, always go prepared with proper gear and check with locals regarding trail conditions.
