Xingfa Miao, Yi and Hui Ethnic Town in Hezhang County, Bijie
Xingfa Miao, Yi, and Hui Ethnic Township毕节市赫章县兴发苗族彝族回族乡 is located in the southeast of Hezhang County, Bijie City, Guizhou Province. It borders Songlinpo Bai, Yi, and Miao Ethnic Township to the east, Zhijie Yi and Miao Ethnic Township to the south, Zhushi Yi Ethnic Township and Shuitangpu Yi and Miao Ethnic Township to the west, and Baiguo Town, Guda Miao and Yi Ethnic Township, and Weishe Township to the north. Covering a total area of 187.59 square kilometers, Xingfa is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including the Miao, Yi, Hui, and Han .
The township has a long history, tracing back to the Warring States period when it was under the jurisdiction of Yelang. In 1992, Xingfa Miao, Yi, and Hui Ethnic Township was formally established. As of 2020, it has 5 communities and 11 administrative villages, with a population of 32,655 .
In recent years, Xingfa has seen economic development with 12 industrial enterprises and 20 stores larger than 50 square meters .
Historical Background
- Warring States Period: The area was under the jurisdiction of Yelang.
- Qin and Han Dynasties: It was part of Hanyang County.
- Republic of China Period: The township was part of Weining County.
- 1950s: The area became part of Xingfa District in Hezhang County.
- 1984: Xingfa was established as a township.
- 1992: Xingfa Miao, Yi, and Hui Ethnic Township was officially formed .
Administrative Divisions
As of 2020, the township has 5 communities and 11 administrative villages. These include:
- Xingfa Community
- Mogazhai Community
- Yadu Village
- Shiban Village
- Yingpan Community
- Minzu Village
- Zhongying Village
- Changba Village
- Zhongzhai Community
- Xiaohai Village
- Dashan Village
- Eagle Mouth Village
- Yakou Community
- Dajie Village
- Zairen Village .
Geography and Climate
Location and Terrain
Xingfa Township is situated in the southeast of Hezhang County on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. The terrain is higher in the west and lower in the east, with its highest point at Dajiu Mountain (2,777 meters above sea level) and an average elevation of 1,935 meters .
Climate
The township experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, with an average temperature of 12°C. Winters can be chilly, with the lowest recorded temperature at -4.2°C, while summers can reach up to 40.1°C. The area receives an average of 850 mm of rainfall annually, with some years seeing as much as 1,215 mm .
Natural Resources
The region is rich in coal, iron, zinc, lead, copper, and other minerals. It boasts approximately 3.5 billion tons of coal reserves, with over 2.2 billion tons available for extraction .
Population
As of 2018, Xingfa Township had a registered population of 32,655 people. The ethnic composition includes Han (60.1%) and minority groups like the Miao (16.6%) and Yi (12.6%) .
Cultural Heritage
Name Origin
The township’s name “Xingfa” is said to come from a merchant named Li Xingfa, who, during the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty, started a mining operation in the area. Local residents depended on this industry for their livelihood, and after Li’s death, the community named the area after him to honor his contributions .
Tourist Attractions
Xingfa Township is surrounded by natural beauty and ethnic culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the local lifestyle. The following are key attractions:
- Dajiu Mountain: The highest peak in the region, ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
- Local Ethnic Villages: Explore traditional Miao, Yi, and Hui villages and learn about their distinct cultural practices.
- Scenic Drives: The area’s winding roads offer breathtaking views of the mountainous terrain.
How to Get There
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Bijie City, approximately 100 kilometers from Xingfa Township. From there, you can take a bus or hire a taxi.
- By Train: Travelers can take a train to Bijie Railway Station and then continue by bus or car to Xingfa Township.
- By Car: Xingfa is well-connected by road, and visitors can easily reach the township via the county’s road network.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is between May and October when the weather is mild and the region’s natural beauty is in full bloom.
- Local Cuisine: Be sure to try traditional Miao and Yi dishes, which often include spicy stews, grilled meats, and freshly foraged mountain vegetables.
- Cultural Etiquette: When visiting local villages, be respectful of ethnic customs, especially during festivals and ceremonies.
Xingfa Miao, Yi, and Hui Ethnic Township offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity, making it a fascinating destination for those looking to explore the heart of Guizhou Province.
