Shangyang Hui Ethnic Town in Kongtong District, Pingliang
Shangyang Hui Ethnic Township (Shangyang Huizu Xiang, 上杨回族乡) is located in Kongtong District (崆峒区), Pingliang City (平凉市), Gansu Province (甘肃省). The township is situated in the southern mountainous region of the district, bordered by Dazhai Township (Dazhai Xiang, 大寨乡) to the east, Xiakou Village (Shankou Cun, 山口村) of Xiamen Township (Xiamen Xiang, 峡门乡) to the south, Xiantai Village (Xiantai Cun, 贤太村) to the west, and Xiajia Village (Xiajia Cun, 下甲村) of Shisilipuo Town (四十里铺镇) to the north. The total area of the township is approximately 45.93 square kilometers.
Many Hui people with the surname Yang migrated to this area after the failure of the Shaanxi Hui people’s uprising during the Tongzhi era of the Qing Dynasty. The village was named Shangyang (上杨), with those living on the slopes of the hills called Shangyang. The township was officially established as Shangyang Hui Ethnic Township in 1984.
As of the end of 2018, the registered population was 8,057, and the township comprises seven administrative villages. The township government is located at No. 18 Xiayang Village (Xiayang Cun, 下杨村).
How to Get There (Transportation)
Shangyang Hui Ethnic Township is accessible via several road connections. There are seven main village roads that stretch across 100.7 kilometers, linking the villages to the larger district of Kongtong and nearby areas. While public transport options may be limited, local buses and taxis can be used to reach the area from major towns. It’s advisable to travel by car or hire local transportation services to explore the surrounding villages conveniently.
Travel Tip: If you are traveling from Pingliang City, it’s best to use private transportation or arrange a taxi for convenience, as the rural roads can be challenging to navigate for those unfamiliar with the area. Make sure to carry snacks and water as services along the route can be sparse.
Historical Development
- 1949: After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Shangyang belonged to the Wuan District, alongside Xiamen, Machuan, and Mawu.
- 1958: Shangyang was incorporated into the Xiamen Commune.
- 1961: Shangyang was separated from Xiamen and became its own commune.
- 1965: The area was again merged into Xiamen Commune.
- 1980: Shangyang was once again split from Xiamen and became Shangyang Commune.
- 1984: Shangyang Hui Ethnic Township was officially established.
Administrative Divisions
As of 2011, Shangyang Hui Ethnic Township consisted of the following seven administrative villages:
- Xiayang Village (下杨村)
- Shangyang Village (上杨村)
- Zaozhuang Village (早庄村)
- Shihuigou Village (石灰沟村)
- Wangge Village (王阁村)
- Xinzhuangwan Village (新庄湾村)
- Xiacha Village (小岔村)
In 2020, these administrative divisions remained the same, and the township government is located in Xiayang Village at No. 18.
Travel Tip:
When exploring these villages, it’s best to visit with a local guide or someone familiar with the area, as some of the smaller villages may not be well marked. The landscape is scenic, featuring traditional Hui-style houses, and offers a glimpse into rural life in Gansu.
Geography and Climate
Shangyang Hui Ethnic Township is situated on the Loess Plateau of eastern Gansu, featuring a terrain dominated by ridges and valleys. The elevation ranges from 1,382 to 1,785 meters, with the southwest being higher than the northeast. The landscape is primarily mountainous, with 98% of the area covered in hills and 2% being river terraces.
The climate is classified as a temperate semi-arid and semi-humid zone, with an average annual temperature of 9.4°C. The township enjoys 2,288.4 hours of sunshine annually and has a frost-free period of 178 days. The average annual rainfall is 456 millimeters.
Travel Tip:
The best time to visit is during the late spring and early autumn months when the weather is mild. The summer can be dry, but the evenings are cool due to the higher altitude. Pack layers of clothing to prepare for sudden temperature changes.
Water Systems
Two main rivers, Shangyang River (Shangyang He, 上杨河) and Xiacha River (Xiacha He, 小岔河), flow through the township, both of which flow from north to south and eventually merge into the Jing River (泾河).
Travel Tip:
The rivers provide scenic spots along their banks, and while they are not large, they contribute to the rural charm of the area. Travelers may enjoy picnicking by the riverbanks or engaging in light hikes along these rivers.
Natural Resources
Shangyang Hui Ethnic Township is rich in limestone and clay resources, which are vital to local industries. These materials support the local construction and manufacturing sectors.
Travel Tip:
If you are interested in local industries, some areas might offer opportunities to see how these natural resources are extracted and processed. Contact the township office in advance for possible tours of local facilities.
Population
As of 2011, the population of Shangyang Hui Ethnic Township was 7,357, with an additional 1,697 registered as part of the floating population. The majority (92.5%) of the population are Hui people, with 6,807 individuals identifying as Hui and 550 as Han Chinese. The population growth rate in 2011 was relatively stable at 0.6‰.
In 2018, the registered population increased to 8,057.
Travel Tip:
The Hui ethnic culture is prominent in Shangyang, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Hui customs and cuisine. When visiting, be mindful of local customs, especially dietary restrictions (avoid bringing non-halal food into the area).
Economy
At the end of 2011, Shangyang Hui Ethnic Township produced 3,264.26 tons of grain and earned 4.2 million yuan from oil production. The livestock industry generated an income of 2.26 million yuan, and transportation services contributed 6 million yuan to the economy. In 2018, there were four industrial enterprises operating in the township.
Travel Tip:
Local products such as grains, oils, and livestock are often available for purchase in local markets. Support the local economy by buying from small, family-owned businesses during your visit.
