Xiyang Hui Ethnic Town in Kongtong District, Pingliang

Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township (Xiyang Huizu Xiang, 西阳回族乡) is located in the northern arid mountainous region of Kongtong District (崆峒区), Pingliang City (平凉市), Gansu Province (甘肃省). It is bordered to the east by Zhaihe Township (寨河乡), to the southwest by Anguo Township (安国乡) and Daqin Township (大秦乡), and to the north by Pengyang County (彭阳县) in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region (宁夏). Covering a total administrative area of 89 square kilometers, the township is known for its rich Hui Muslim culture and historical background.

The township was officially established as Xiyang Commune (西阳公社) in September 1958 and was renamed Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township in November 1984. As of 2018, the registered population of Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township was 14,827 people, and the administrative division consists of 13 villages, with the township government located in Xiyang Village (西阳村) at Xiyang Street No. 8 (西阳街8号).

Economic Overview

By 2011, the township’s total economic income was 52.71 million RMB, representing a 10% growth compared to the previous year. The area has continued to develop, and by 2018, there were two comprehensive stores or supermarkets with more than 50 square meters of space.

Historical Development

  • 1958: Establishment of Xiyang Commune.
  • 1984: Renaming to Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township.
  • Present: The township governs 13 administrative villages.

Administrative Divisions

As of 2020, Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township governs 13 villages:

  1. Xiyang Village (西阳村)
  2. Zhongying Village (中营村)
  3. Gaoliang Village (高梁村)
  4. Qingming Village (清明村)
  5. Yaowan Village (姚湾村)
  6. Tangwan Village (唐湾村)
  7. Luogou Village (罗沟村)
  8. Yinshan Village (尹山村)
  9. Shangma Village (上马村)
  10. Xiama Village (下马村)
  11. Anhe Village (安河村)
  12. Huolianwan Village (火连湾村)
  13. Douwan Village (陡洼村)

Geographical Environment

Location and Boundaries

Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township is located in the northern part of Kongtong District in the arid mountainous region. The township borders Zhaihe Township to the east, Anguo Township and Daqin Township to the southwest, and Pengyang County in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region to the north.

Topography

The township is part of the hilly and gully region of the Loess Plateau (黄土高原) in eastern Gansu. The terrain is characterized by a slight elevation decrease from west to east and north to south, with altitudes ranging from 1,400 to 1,700 meters, and an average elevation of 1,600 meters.

Climate

Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township experiences a temperate continental climate, with an average annual temperature of 8.79°C. The warmest month is July, with an average temperature of 20.6°C, and the coldest month is January, with an average temperature of -6°C. The area receives about 163 frost-free days annually, 2,510 hours of sunshine, and between 300 to 400 millimeters of annual rainfall. The annual evaporation rate reaches 1,370 millimeters.

Hydrology

Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township lies within the Jing River (泾河) water system. The Xiaolu River (小芦河) flows into the township from the southwest and runs from west to east, exiting near Dalu Village (大路沟村). The township is also crossed by the Dalu River (大芦河), which enters from the west of Shangtan Village (上滩村) and exits through Xiyang Village.

Natural Resources

The township is rich in mineral resources such as clay and kaolin. It has an available surface water volume of 20 million cubic meters and a groundwater storage of 200 million cubic meters. Additionally, the area is home to over 900 species of plants and more than 30 species of animals.

Population

As of 2011, Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township had a total population of 13,003, with males making up 51.6% (6,710 people) and females 48.4% (6,293 people). The population under 14 years old accounted for 15.6%, while 73.1% were between the ages of 15 and 64, and 11.3% were 65 years or older. The population density was approximately 146.1 people per square kilometer. By the end of 2018, the population had increased to 14,827.

Transportation

Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township is accessible by road, with major routes connecting it to neighboring townships and cities. The township lies about 70 kilometers north of Pingliang City. The most common way to reach the area is by car or local bus services that connect to nearby villages and counties.

  • From Pingliang City: Take a bus or drive towards Kongtong District and follow the route north towards Zhaihe Township, from where you can reach Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township.
  • From Ningxia Pengyang County: Head south by car, crossing the county border into Gansu Province, and follow the signs for Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township.

Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Xiyang Hui Ethnic Township is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is more temperate, and the natural beauty of the landscape is most apparent.
  • Local Culture: As a Hui Muslim community, respect for local customs is essential. Visitors should be mindful of religious practices, especially regarding clothing and food.
  • Outdoor Activities: The surrounding hilly terrain makes it ideal for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Loess Plateau. Visitors can also learn about traditional agriculture and enjoy the peaceful rural environment.
  • Road Conditions: While the township is accessible by road, some routes may be less developed, especially in the more remote villages, so be prepared for some rougher conditions if traveling by car.