Yunxiahe Hui Ethnic Township in Qingzhou City, Weifanng
Overview
Yunxiahe Hui Autonomous Township (云峡河回族乡) is located in the southern suburbs of Qingzhou City (青州市), Weifang (潍坊市), Shandong Province. The area is mostly mountainous, bordered by the Yunmen Mountain Scenic Area (云门山风景区) to the west and the urban area to the north. The township government is only 1 kilometer away from the city center, making it easily accessible.
How to Get There
The township’s proximity to Qingzhou City (青州市) allows easy access by public transportation or taxi. You can reach the area by taking a bus or train to Qingzhou, followed by a short taxi ride to the township. If driving, it’s a quick 1-kilometer journey from the city center.
Travel Tips
- Public Transport: Take a local bus or taxi from Qingzhou City to reach Yunxiahe. Qingzhou has well-connected train and bus stations.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the scenic areas and local culture.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the local Hui ethnic food, including specialties made with lamb and traditional bread.
Introduction
Yunxiahe Hui Autonomous Township (云峡河回族乡) covers an area of 12,500 acres of arable land and administers 22 villages. These include Songge Village (宋阁村), Qiansi Village (前寺村), Gengjia Village (耿家庄村), Shijiadian Village (时家店村), and others. Eight of these villages are home to the Hui ethnic minority, with a population of around 2,700 Hui residents. It is one of five ethnic townships in Shandong Province and the only one in Weifang City.
The township is also home to the large state-owned enterprise, Shandong Engineering Machinery Factory (山东工程机械厂), located in the heart of the region.
Economic and Historical Background
Yunxiahe Hui Autonomous Township has a long history and economic development driven by its geographical advantages. With an area of 23.7 square kilometers and 920 hectares of farmland, the township has diversified its agricultural activities. Major industries include grain production, forestry, floriculture, mushrooms, livestock, and tobacco cultivation.
Economic Development
- Agriculture: The township focuses on forestry, fruit orchards (covering 366 hectares), and tobacco (166 hectares), supplying premium tobacco to the Weifang Tobacco Company.
- Livestock and Poultry: Livestock farming is supported by government subsidies, with seven specialized cattle farming villages. The township also has 110 chicken coops and 90 mushroom greenhouses.
- Industrial Output: In 1995, the total agricultural income reached 40 million yuan, while industrial output hit 2.52 billion yuan. Notably, the local carpet factory, in collaboration with South Korean companies, produces high-end wool carpets for export.
Historical Changes
The township has undergone several administrative changes over the centuries. Originally part of the Wu and Chu kingdoms during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, it later became part of Kuaiji County (会稽郡) under the Qin Dynasty. After a series of reorganizations throughout history, the township was established as Yunxiahe Hui Autonomous Township in 2001.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Yunxiahe Hui Autonomous Township boasts rich historical and cultural heritage, though many of its ancient relics were destroyed due to wars and the Cultural Revolution. Nevertheless, some temples and landmarks remain significant.
- Daoist Temples: The area was home to temples like Tianci Temple (添祠堂) and Yuan Tong An (园通庵), which date back to the Song Dynasty. Despite their destruction by fire and war, their remains still reflect the area’s historical significance. For example, Tianci Temple once housed 1,084 rooms and numerous religious figures, including statues of Buddha, the Eighteen Arhats, and the Thousand-armed Guanyin.
- Historical Events: According to legend, during the Song Dynasty, Emperor Gaozong (赵构) sought refuge in one of the temples while fleeing from the Jin army, led by Wanyan Wushu (完颜兀术). Although the temple was burned down during the pursuit, its historical importance remains.
Traditional Shadow Puppetry
The Yunxiahe Hui Autonomous Township is renowned for its traditional shadow puppetry, which has been passed down through generations. The most famous puppetry troupe was led by Li Jiang (李江), a skilled artist who developed his own unique style by incorporating techniques from various forms of Chinese opera.
Cultural Significance
- Shadow Puppetry: Li Jiang’s troupe had over 90 scripts and performed a wide range of plays, including traditional Chinese dramas, historical myths, and stories focused on family and love. Some of their most well-known performances include the mythological drama Jiao Long Ju (蛟龙驹) and the historical play Emperor Tang’s Journey to the Underworld (唐王双游狱).
- Performance Style: Li Jiang was known for his bold and powerful singing voice, as well as his skillful puppet manipulation. His performances were widely appreciated by the local community, especially during the off-season when the troupe would tour nearby villages.
Preservation Efforts
Despite the challenges posed by the Cultural Revolution and modern technology, Li Jiang and his successors have worked tirelessly to preserve the art of shadow puppetry. They hope that this traditional art form will continue to receive support from the community and wider society.
Conclusion
Yunxiahe Hui Autonomous Township offers a unique blend of cultural history, agricultural development, and scenic beauty. From its ancient temples to the traditional shadow puppetry, the township is a hidden gem for travelers interested in both culture and nature. Whether you’re exploring its rural villages or learning about the local Hui ethnic culture, Yunxiahe offers a glimpse into Shandong’s rich history and traditions.
How to Plan Your Trip
- Transportation: Qingzhou City is easily accessible by train or bus from major cities in Shandong Province. Once in Qingzhou, taxis or local buses can take you to Yunxiahe.
- Accommodation: While accommodation options are limited in Yunxiahe, Qingzhou City offers a variety of hotels and guesthouses for visitors.
- Local Experiences: Engage with the Hui community, visit local farms, or watch a shadow puppetry performance for an authentic cultural experience.
