Shenyu Hui Ethnic Town in Huating City, Pingliang
Overview
Shenyu Township (Shenyu Xiang, 神峪回族乡) is located in Huating City (华亭市), part of Pingliang City (平凉市) in Gansu Province (甘肃省), China. Positioned in the southeastern part of Huating City, it lies at the convergence of Huating, Chongxin, and Long County, near significant regional boundaries. The township covers an area of approximately 101.95 square kilometers. As of the end of 2018, the registered population of Shenyu Township was 11,751 people.
Historical Background
Originally named “Shenyu” due to its location in the deep Black River Valley, the name evolved to “Shenyu.” Historically, it served as an important entry and exit point on the ancient Silk Road’s “Middle Road” and the military route known as “Fanxu Dao.” During the Ming Dynasty under Emperor Wanli, the town of Tang Yongxin was established in Xiaguan. After the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, the area was designated as Xiaguan District. In September 1984, it was officially renamed Shenyu Hui Ethnic Township.
Administrative Divisions
Administrative Structure
As of the end of 2011, Shenyu Township was divided into one community and ten village committees, which include:
- Shenyu Community (神峪社区)
- Ji Jiahe Village (吉家河村)
- Cao Wo Village (草窝村)
- Zhang Jia Mo Village (张家磨村)
- Jiu Yi Gou Village (九一沟村)
- Nan Liang Village (南梁村)
- Xiaguan Village (下关村)
- Xi Gou Men Village (西沟门村)
- Kou Jia He Village (寇家河村)
- Yuan Zhuang Village (袁庄村)
- Xin Zhai Yuan Village (新寨塬村)
By June 2020, Shenyu Township managed ten administrative villages and one community, with the township government located at Shenyu Community.
Geography and Climate
Location and Terrain
Shenyu Township is situated in the southeastern part of Huating City, near the intersection of Huating, Chongxin, and Long County. It borders Xin Yao Town to the east, Wen Shui Town in Long County, Sha Guan Town to the west, and An Kou Town to the north. The township covers a total area of 101.95 square kilometers.
Topography
The terrain of Shenyu Township is characterized by a high west and low east, with the northern part being higher than the southern. It belongs to the Loess Plateau’s hilly landscape, with an average elevation of 1,438 meters. The region features a mix of mountains and valleys.
Climate
Shenyu Township experiences a temperate semi-arid climate. The average annual temperature is 8.5°C, with January averaging -3.7°C and July around 20.9°C. The temperature difference between the seasons can reach up to 24.6°C. The growing season lasts approximately 216 days annually, with an average frost-free period of 185 days, ranging from a maximum of 214 days to a minimum of 163 days. The average annual sunshine duration is 2,122 hours.
Hydrology
The Black River, a tributary of the Jing River, flows through Shenyu Township from north to south. The river’s length within the township is 16.9 kilometers.
Natural Disasters
Shenyu Township is prone to various natural disasters, including droughts, hail, floods, and frost. The most severe drought occurred in 2011, affecting 2,160 acres. The worst flood disaster happened on July 22, 2010, causing damage to 253 houses, collapsing 37 houses, and impacting 1,200 acres of corn.
Natural Resources
The natural resources in Shenyu Township primarily include coal, with a geological reserve of 40 million tons and a recoverable reserve of 10 million cubic meters. The resources are concentrated in Ji Jiahe and Kou Jia He villages. The available groundwater resources amount to 7.856 million cubic meters.
Population
Demographics
By the end of 2011, Shenyu Township had a total population of 11,863 people. This included 1,659 urban residents, making up 14% of the population. The population was predominantly Han Chinese (7,890 people, 66.50%), with Hui people constituting 33.45% (3,969 people) and other minority groups making up the remainder. The gender distribution was 52% male (6,173) and 48% female (5,690). The age distribution was 25.4% under 14 years, 69.9% between 15 and 64 years, and 4.7% over 65 years. The birth rate was 13.1‰, the death rate was 7.1‰, and the natural growth rate was 6‰. The population density was 117.5 people per square kilometer.
By the end of 2017, the resident population was 11,257, and by the end of 2018, the registered population was 11,751.
How to Get There
Transportation
Shenyu Township is accessible from several surrounding areas:
- By bus: Public buses run from Huating City and Pingliang City to Shenyu Township. The bus ride typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
- By car: Renting a car or hiring a taxi is a convenient option for reaching Shenyu Township. The drive from Huating City to Shenyu takes approximately 40 minutes.
- By train: The nearest major railway station is in Pingliang City. From Pingliang, you can continue your journey by bus or car to Shenyu Township.
Travel Tips
- Local Customs: Shenyu Township has a significant Hui Muslim population, so it’s important to respect local customs. Dress modestly, avoid consuming or carrying alcohol in public, and adhere to local dietary restrictions.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit due to pleasant weather conditions.
- Local Cuisine: Hui cuisine is known for its distinctive flavors, especially dishes featuring lamb and beef. Be sure to try local specialties, such as Hui-style noodles and dumplings.
- Essential Services: Basic services are available in the township, including grocery stores and markets. For more specialized needs, it may be necessary to travel to Huating City or Pingliang City.
Shenyu Township offers a unique opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of the Hui people while enjoying the natural beauty of Gansu Province.
