Muhammad Asif Noor
Located in the mountainous heart of Sichuan Province, Guangyuan is a city steeped in history and cultural significance, a place where the ancient past and vibrant present blend seamlessly.
This city, often overlooked by tourists in favor of more famous Chinese landmarks, is a treasure trove of historical sites, cultural relics, and natural beauty that tell the story of China’s rich and complex history.
Guangyuan’s significance stretches back over 2,000 years, making it a living museum of Chinese history.
The city’s connection to the ancient Shu Path—an essential network of roads that linked Sichuan to the rest of China—is perhaps its most celebrated historical feature.
The Shu Path was more than just a road; it was a lifeline that facilitated trade, communication, and military movements, playing a crucial role in the development of Chinese civilization.
One of the most remarkable sections of this ancient road is the Cuiyun Corridor, located in Jiange County within Guangyuan.
This 151-kilometer stretch of road is flanked by nearly 10,000 ancient cypress trees, some of which are over 2,300 years old.
These trees, planted deliberately along the road to mark its path and provide shade, have grown into towering giants that now stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time.
Walking along this corridor, you can almost hear the echoes of history—the footsteps of travelers, the clatter of horse hooves, and the rustling of the wind through the ancient branches.
The Cuiyun Corridor is not just a natural wonder; it is also a cultural and historical gem. Renowned figures like Zhuge Liang, the brilliant strategist of the Three Kingdoms period, General Zhang Fei, and Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty once traversed this very route.
Their journeys contributed to the rich tapestry of exchanges between Sichuan and the outside world. The corridor has witnessed thousands of years of political, military, cultural, and economic developments, making it a vital artery in the history of Chinese civilization.
The ancient trees along the corridor, known as Jiange Cypress, are unique to this region. Their slow growth—taking 100 years to expand their trunks by just 10 centimeters—adds to their mystique and significance.
The oldest of these trees, the Royal Cypress, stands 27 meters tall, its diameter greater than the height of an average man, symbolizing the corridor’s grandeur and the passage of time.
These trees have seen six documented large-scale planting campaigns, particularly during the Song and Ming Dynasties, which have helped preserve this living monument.
However, Guangyuan’s historical significance does not end with the Shu Path and the Cuiyun Corridor.
The city is also closely associated with the Three Kingdoms period, a time of great turmoil and heroism in Chinese history.
Guangyuan was a major battlefield during this era, particularly in the conflicts between the states of Shu and Wei. The city’s strategic location made it a focal point for military activities, and its rugged terrain provided natural defenses that were crucial in the numerous battles fought here.
Today, over 140 sites dating back to the Three Kingdoms period can still be found in Guangyuan. Among the most famous are the Jianmen Pass, a narrow and treacherous mountain pass that was of immense strategic importance, and Zhaohua Ancient Town, where the spirit of the Three Kingdoms period is still palpable.
These sites offer a glimpse into a time when China was divided into warring states, and each step you take in these places feels like a journey back in time.
Guangyuan is also the birthplace of China’s only female emperor, Wu Zetian, who ruled during the Tang Dynasty.
Born in what was then known as Lizhou, Wu Zetian’s legacy is still celebrated in Guangyuan today. The Huangze Temple, built in her honor, is a stunning example of ancient Chinese architecture and is home to stone carvings that depict the beauty of the Sichuan landscape.
The temple is also famous for its statues of Wu Zetian, which offer a rare glimpse into the life and appearance of this powerful and controversial figure.
In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Guangyuan is also a place of natural beauty.
The city is surrounded by lush mountains and clear waters, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting that is perfect for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.
The Jianmen Pass Scenic Area, in particular, is a must-visit for nature lovers.
The area’s dramatic cliffs, dense forests, and ancient paths make it a paradise for hikers and history enthusiasts alike.
Guangyuan’s cultural heritage is also reflected in its vibrant local traditions and customs. The city is home to a rich variety of folk arts, including the Maliu folk embroidery of Chaotian, the Baihua Stone Carving of Lizhou, and the Rucao Gong and Drum of Qingchuan.
These traditional crafts have been passed down through generations and are a testament to the city’s enduring cultural vitality. Visitors to Guangyuan can witness these art forms firsthand, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural identity.
The city also plays a significant role in China’s Red Culture, as it was a key part of the Sichuan-Shaanxi Revolutionary Base during the Chinese Civil War.
The Fourth Red Army Front fought in Guangyuan for over two years, leaving behind numerous relics and sites that tell the story of this critical period in Chinese history.
The spirit of the Red Army—marked by wisdom, bravery, solidarity, and persistence—still resonates in Guangyuan today.
As you explore Guangyuan, it becomes clear that this city is much more than just a collection of historical sites.
It is a place where the past and present coexist in harmony, where the stories of ancient warriors, emperors, and ordinary people are woven into the fabric of everyday life.
Guangyuan has also recently experienced a vibrant phase of development, reflecting the city’s commitment to sustainable growth and innovation.
Over the past few months, Guangyuan has seen substantial advancements across various sectors, particularly in its industrial and agricultural domains.
The city’s efforts to modernize its infrastructure and foster economic diversity have led to a more dynamic and resilient economy, while also improving the quality of life for its residents.
Guangyuan’s strategic focus on integrating traditional industries with new, high-tech sectors has not only bolstered its economic performance but also positioned it as a key player in the region’s ongoing development.
With a growing emphasis on environmental sustainability and technological innovation, Guangyuan continues to pave the way for a future where progress is in harmony with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to experience a different side of China, Guangyuan has something to offer. It is a place where the echoes of the past are never far away and where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.
*The writer is Editor-In-Chief of The Diplomatic Insight and Director of the Centre for BRI and China Studies at the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies. The writer is currently in China for the 2024 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road, organised by People’s Daily.
