In 1949, the Communist Party established the Cangyuan County Provisional People's Government.

On June 15, 1951, the People's Liberation Army and the Republic of China Armed Forces fought in Yanshuai Town.

In August 2005, Tuanjie Township (Chinese: 团结乡) was incorporated into Yanshuai Town.

The highest point in the town is Mount Gonggei, which, at 2,236 metres (7,336 ft) above sea level.

The main cash crops are tea, sugarcane, tobacco, walnuts, macadamia nuts and coffee.