Xinghua Shui Ethnic Town in Rongjiang County, Qiandongnan
Xinghua Shui Ethnic Township黔东南苗族侗族自治州榕江县兴华水族乡, located in Rongjiang County, Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province, lies in the southwestern part of the county. It borders Dingwei Shui Township to the east and southeast, Shuiwei Shui Township to the south, Yanggong Township and Bajie Township in Sandu Shui Autonomous County to the west and southwest, and Dujiang Town and Wubu Township to the northwest. To the northeast, it is adjacent to Sanjiang Shui Township. The township is situated about 57 kilometers from the county seat and covers a total area of 175.80 square kilometers. By the end of 2019, Xinghua Shui Township had a registered population of 12,226 residents.
History of Xinghua Shui Ethnic Township
- Qing Dynasty (1730): After the establishment of Guzhou Hall, the area became part of the southern route of Miao villages.
- Republic of China (1937): Xinghua became part of the Fifth District with the establishment of the Xinghua Joint Security Office.
- 1958: Xinghua became a commune as part of the large Dujiang Commune in Sandu Shui Autonomous County.
- 1984: The commune system was abolished, and Xinghua was re-established as Xinghua Shui Ethnic Township under Rongjiang County.
Administrative Divisions
As of June 2020, Xinghua Shui Township governs nine administrative villages: Xingguang, Xingyue, Baijiao, Wuxiu, Baibei, Gaojiu, Gaopai, Baiji, and Tiandong.
Geography and Climate
Location
Xinghua Shui Township is located in the Moon Mountain region, characterized by high mountains and deep valleys. The township’s highest peak, Gubangpo, stands at 1,401 meters above sea level, while its lowest point, by the Gaojiu River, is at 308 meters. The area is part of the Pearl River basin, with a dense network of rivers including major tributaries such as the Bameng, Gaojiu, and Gaokai rivers.
Climate
Xinghua enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate. Winters are mild, while summers can get hot, with average annual temperatures of 16.5°C. July temperatures can reach up to 34°C, while the coldest winter months drop to around -20°C. The township receives an average annual rainfall of 1,300 mm, most of which falls between May and August.
Cultural Significance
Folk Arts
Xinghua Shui Township is renowned for its vibrant folk arts, including batik, embroidery, Lusheng dances, and Gupiao dances. In 2008, it was designated as a “Home of Chinese Folk Culture and Arts” by the Ministry of Culture.
How to Get There
Xinghua Shui Township is approximately 57 kilometers from the county seat of Rongjiang. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Rongjiang County to reach the township. The nearest major city with better transport connections is Kaili, which has bus routes and train services connecting to Guiyang, the provincial capital. From Kaili, travelers can hire a private vehicle or take a long-distance bus to Rongjiang, followed by a local bus to Xinghua.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The months from May to October are ideal for visiting due to the pleasant weather and vibrant local festivals. Avoid the winter months if you’re not accustomed to the cold.
- Local Customs: The Shui ethnic group has unique customs and festivals. Respect the local traditions, especially during ceremonies and festivals like the Shui New Year.
- Accommodation: While there are limited accommodation options in Xinghua, nearby Rongjiang County offers guesthouses and local hotels. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance during peak tourist seasons.
