Xinchang Bouyei and Miao Ethinc Town in Xixiu District, Anshun

Xinchang Bouyei and Miao Ethnic Township (新场布依族苗族乡) is located in the southwestern part of Xixiu District (西秀区), Anshun City (安顺市), in Guizhou Province (贵州省). Covering an area of 69.72 square kilometers, it is bordered by Yanla Miao and Bouyei Ethnic Township (岩腊苗族布依族乡) to the east and south, Longgong Town (龙宫镇) to the west, and Longgong Town and Ninggu Town (宁谷镇) to the north.

Historical Background

• During the Spring and Autumn Period, the region belonged to Zangke State (牂牁国).

• In the Warring States Period, it was part of Yelang State (夜郎国).

• During the Han Dynasty, it was governed by Xiang Commandery (象郡).

• In the Three Kingdoms and Jin Dynasties, it was under Zangke Commandery (牂牁郡).

• During the Sui Dynasty, it was initially named Binhua (宾化).

• In 1687, during the Qing Dynasty, the area was under the jurisdiction of the Fifth Branch of Kezhi (第五起“克枝”).

• In 1950, after the division of Anshun County, Xinchang Township (新场乡) was part of Chengguan District (城关区).

• In 1992, Xinchang Bouyei and Miao Ethnic Township was officially established, comprising Xinchang, Guankou, and Yongke Ethnic Townships.

• In 2000, Anshun was upgraded to a city, and Xixiu District (西秀区) was formed.

• In 2011, the township became part of Xixiu District.

Administrative Structure

By 2011, Xinchang Bouyei and Miao Ethnic Township had jurisdiction over 16 administrative villages, with 68 village groups and 53 natural villages. As of 2020, the township governs 1 community and 7 administrative villages.

Geography

Location and Terrain

Xinchang Bouyei and Miao Ethnic Township lies in the southwestern part of Xixiu District. The area features steep hills, with its highest point being at 1,540 meters and the lowest point at 1,160 meters. The township has an average elevation that ranges between these two heights.

Climate

The township has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild temperatures and plentiful rainfall. The annual average temperature is 14.0°C, with extreme highs reaching 35°C and lows dropping to -8°C. There are 281 frost-free days annually, and the area receives an average of 1,333.2 mm of precipitation each year, with rainfall concentrated between May and September.

Water Resources

The township is located within the Pearl River Basin (珠江流域) and the Xijiang River system (西江水系). The Xinchang River (新场河), a tributary of the North Panjiang River, runs through the region. Its total length is 31.4 kilometers, with an average flow of 1.8 cubic meters per second.

Natural Disasters

Xinchang Bouyei and Miao Ethnic Township is vulnerable to natural disasters such as low temperatures, droughts, hailstorms, and heavy rain. Notably, in January 2008, the region experienced severe low temperatures, snow, and frost that resulted in over 12 million RMB in economic losses.

Population

By the end of 2011, the township's total population stood at 16,593 people, with a 3.41% urbanization rate. The majority of the population is Han Chinese (60.27%), followed by various ethnic minorities including Bouyei and Miao. The population density is about 239 people per square kilometer.

As of 2018, the registered population had risen to 17,222 people.

Transportation

By the end of 2011, Xinchang Bouyei and Miao Ethnic Township was connected to Anshun via a county road that spans 25 kilometers. The road network facilitates easy access to the township from the city.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Origin of the Name

The name "Xinchang" comes from the area being under the jurisdiction of Xinchang Village (新场寨) in the Qing Dynasty, specifically from the governance of the Fifth Branch of Kezhi.

Scenic Attractions

• Longgong Cave (龙宫): Located nearby, this natural cave is a well-known tourist destination with remarkable karst formations, underground rivers, and scenic surroundings.

• Shuanghe River (双河江): A picturesque river that winds through the township, offering beautiful views of the mountains and valleys.

• Chishui River (赤水河): A significant river that flows through the area and is known for its lush surroundings and the cultural heritage of the Bouyei and Miao people.

Cultural Heritage

The region is famous for its Bouyei Lusheng music (布依族芦笙) and traditional Miao embroidery (苗族刺绣), both of which are integral parts of the local culture and customs. Visitors can explore these traditions in the various villages throughout the township.

Economy

In 2011, the township's total fiscal revenue amounted to 1.3912 million RMB, marking a 7.25% increase from the previous year. The township is home to 5 industrial enterprises, and there are 12 comprehensive stores and supermarkets with an area of more than 50 square meters.

Natural Resources

The region is rich in construction stones and has 21,700 mu (approximately 14.5 square kilometers) of arable land, which supports the local agricultural economy.