On October 7th, a notable event unfolded in honor of two significant anniversaries: the 75th anniversary of New China’s founding and the 90th anniversary of the Central Red Army’s Long March. Over 1,500 participants, including representatives from universities, military units, cities along the Long March route, and local government officials, came together for a hiking event entitled “Retracing the Long March: Crossing Liupan Mountain.” This gathering aimed to pay tribute to the spirit of the Long March and celebrate the establishment of New China through immersive learning and group reflection.
The Long March is celebrated as one of humanity’s remarkable achievements, representing the enduring spirit crafted by the Chinese Communist Party and the Red Army through immense sacrifices. The hike kicked off at the entrance of Lotus Valley, where historical accounts reveal that on the morning of October 7, 1935, Chairman Mao Zedong led the main force of the Red Army’s Shaanxi-Gansu detachment over Liupan Mountain, eventually arriving at Qing Shizui. This successful crossing was pivotal in the Chinese revolution, earning Liupan Mountain the distinguished title of “Mountain of Victory.”
Participants trekked 14.35 kilometers along the original path taken by Long Marchers, navigating uphill terrain that averages over 2,000 meters in altitude, with the peak soaring to 2,808 meters. The route, primarily composed of narrow dirt and stone paths, presented a strenuous challenge. Along the way, they passed crucial sites such as the Red Army Spring, which symbolizes the deep connection between the army and the people, and the Red Army Cemetery, reflecting the local community’s strong sentiments toward the Communist Party and the Red Army. Through this physical journey, participants aimed to honor the legacies of revolutionary predecessors and embody the spirit of the new Long March.
Yang Can, a student from the School of Economics at Southwest Minzu University, shared his excitement at reaching the mountain’s summit. He stated, “The Long March represents a remarkable accomplishment in Chinese revolutionary history—not just a daunting journey, but also a powerful symbol of national spirit. Liupan Mountain stands tall as a testament to the trials and victories of the Red Army during this time. We must remember this history and promote the spirit of the Long March, aligning our personal aspirations with the broader goals of our nation and striving to be idealistic, responsible, hardworking, and determined young people of this new era.”
Hu Zhimin, the Secretary of the Guyuan Municipal Party Committee, emphasized that this hiking event serves as an heartfelt tribute to the Long March and a means of perpetuating its spirit. He noted that retracing the Long March and crossing Liupan Mountain constitutes not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual rejuvenation and a deep understanding of the importance of “never forgetting our original mission.” This immersive learning experience aims to foster a lasting ambition for progress among participants.
Guyuan County, renowned as a revolutionary historical area rich in red resources, is steeped in a spirit drawn from various historical milestones, including the famous song “Qing Ping Le: Liupan Mountain,” the historic Battle of Jiangtaiba, and many local legends. In recent years, Guyuan has actively capitalized on its rich red resources by organizing events like “Retracing the Long March: Crossing Liupan Mountain” and engaging in practical activities, consistently enhancing the narrative that “real heroes forge their paths by walking the Long March.” The municipality is committed to innovating in red education, training, and cultural products, paving new avenues for development integration and positioning itself as a key destination for red cultural tourism in western China.
