Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Town in Rongjiang County, Qiandongnan
Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township黔东南苗族侗族自治州榕江县三江水族乡, located in the western part of Rongjiang County in Guizhou Province, is part of the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture. The township lies in the upper reaches of the Balu River within the Leigong Mountains. To the east and southeast, it borders Pingjiang Township, while to the south, it is adjacent to Dingwei Shui Ethnic Township. The southwestern boundary connects with Xinghua Shui Ethnic Township, and to the west, it shares borders with Wubu Township in Sandu Shui Autonomous County of the Qiannan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture. To the northwest lies Dadi Shui Ethnic Township in Leishan County, and to the north, it is bordered by Tashi Yao and Shui Ethnic Township. The seat of the township’s government is located 39 kilometers from Rongjiang County.
As of the end of 2019, Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township had a registered population of 14,748 and covers an area of 199.31 square kilometers. The township’s government is situated in Zenleng Village, overseeing 13 administrative villages.
History and Development of Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township
The history of Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township dates back to the Qing Dynasty. In 1730, during the reign of Emperor Yongzheng, the area was integrated into the Xilu Miao village as part of the Guzhou Ting administrative unit. Over the years, the area underwent several administrative changes, including being part of the Fourth District during the Republican era and later, merging into Pingjiang Township in 1943. In 1992, Sanjiang Township and Qiaolai Township were merged to form Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township.
Administrative Divisions
As of June 2020, Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township consists of 13 administrative villages, including:
- Zenleng Village (Township Government Seat)
- Qiaoyou Village
- Lengyi Village
- Guyi Village
- Qiaowu Village
- Qiaolai Village
- Duanjinglong Village
- Fencong Village
- You’ai Village
- Sige Village
- Youlu Village
- Jiaoche Village
- Changling Village
Geography and Environment
Location and Terrain
Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township is located in the upper reaches of the Balu River within the Leigong Mountains. The township is characterized by complex mountainous terrain, with high peaks surrounding small basin areas. The highest point is Xiaobaiyao Mountain, standing at 1,322 meters above sea level, while the lowest point is at the Qiaoyou Creek, with an altitude of 290 meters.
Climate
Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township has a subtropical monsoon climate, known for its mild temperatures, abundant rainfall, and high humidity. The average annual temperature is 18°C, with the hottest month being July, when temperatures average 26.9°C. Winters are relatively mild, with January temperatures averaging around 7°C. The area receives about 1,500 mm of rainfall annually.
Hydrology
There are eight main rivers within the township, all part of the Pearl River system. The total length of these rivers is 63 kilometers.
Natural Resources
Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township is rich in natural resources, including deposits of stibnite (antimony) and kaolin (ceramic clay). The antimony deposits are mainly found in Xiaozhai Village, while the kaolin deposits are concentrated in Sige Village. In terms of agricultural resources, the township has approximately 8,200 mu of arable land and 257,000 mu of forested land.
Local Culture and Traditions
Name Origin
The township is named after the three rivers that converge near the township’s government seat in Zenleng Village—Xinzai River, Wuhong River, and Wuxia River.
Folk Arts
Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township is known for its vibrant ethnic culture, particularly the folk dances and songs of the Shui, Dong, and Miao communities. Traditional performances often feature colorful costumes and are accompanied by unique musical instruments.
Special Local Products
Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township is known for its agricultural specialties, including watermelon, Siligong rice, shiitake mushrooms, and black fungus.
Honors and Awards
In December 2021, Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township was listed as a “Forest Township of Guizhou Province” by the Guizhou Provincial Forestry Bureau.
How to Get to Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township
By Air
The nearest airport to Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township is Kaili Huangping Airport, about 120 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Rongjiang County and then take a local bus or car to the township.
By Train
Kaili South Railway Station is the closest major railway station, located around 100 kilometers from Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township. From Kaili, buses and taxis are available to reach Rongjiang County, followed by a transfer to the township.
By Road
Sanjiang Shui Ethnic Township is accessible via well-connected roads from Rongjiang County. Buses and shared taxis regularly operate between Rongjiang and Sanjiang. It’s recommended to check the local bus schedules for specific times.
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: The township enjoys a mild subtropical climate, making spring and autumn ideal for visiting. The rainy season typically occurs from June to August, so packing rain gear is essential during this period.
- Local Transport: Public transportation within the township is limited. It’s advisable to either rent a car or hire a local guide for easier navigation.
- Language: The local Shui, Dong, and Miao ethnic groups speak their own languages, and Mandarin is not widely spoken in remote areas. Hiring a bilingual guide can enhance your travel experience.
- Respect Local Customs: When visiting traditional villages, respect the local customs and ask for permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites.
