The Cradle of Reform: Exploring the Rural Roots and Revolutionary Spirit at Deng Xiaoping's Former Residence

The Birthplace of a Visionary

1.Located in Paifang: Village, Xiexing Town, Guang'an District, Guang'an City, Sichuan Province, Deng Xiaoping's Former Residence is a site of profound historical significance. It is here, on August 22, 1904, that Deng Xiaoping, the chief architect of China's reform and opening-up policy, was born and spent his first 15 years. Situated approximately 20 kilometers from the Guang'an city center and about 300 kilometers from Chengdu, this National 5A-level Tourist Scenic Area serves as a spiritual sanctuary for understanding the origins of modern China. The core area covers about 830 mu (approx. 55 hectares) and is designed as a memorial park that blends lush natural scenery with deep cultural heritage. Unlike the grandeur of imperial palaces, this site offers a touching glimpse into the modest, rural beginnings of a leader who changed the destiny of a nation, preserving the authentic flavor of a traditional Eastern Sichuan farmstead,.

A Traditional Eastern Sichuan Farmhouse

The heart of the scenic area is the Former Residence itself, a typical "Sanheyuan" (three-sided courtyard) built in the late Qing Dynasty. The structure features blue tiles, white walls, and a wooden framework, embodying the simple yet elegant architectural style of eastern Sichuan folk dwellings. The house sits facing east, surrounded by verdant bamboo forests and towering ancient trees, creating a serene and secluded atmosphere. Visitors can walk through the central hall, bedrooms, and the kitchen, seeing original furnishings such as the wooden bed, desk, and oil lamps used by Deng during his childhood. These artifacts silently narrate the story of a diligent farming family and the "strict family discipline" that shaped Deng's character. In the courtyard, a century-old ficus tree (Huangjueshu), planted by Deng Xiaoping himself, stands tall and leafy, symbolizing his enduring legacy,,.

Immersive History and Red Culture

Beyond the residence, the park includes the Deng Xiaoping Exhibition Hall and the Deng Xiaoping Bronze Statue Square. The exhibition hall uses a combination of precious cultural relics, photographs, and multimedia displays to comprehensively chronicle Deng's legendary life—from his study abroad in France and his revolutionary military career to his "three ups and three downs" in politics and his pivotal role in leading China's modernization. The theme "I am the son of the Chinese people" resonates throughout the exhibits, offering a deeply moving narrative. The Bronze Statue Square is a solemn space where visitors often present flower baskets to pay their respects. The statue captures Deng in a kindly, contemplative pose, seated in a chair with a calm smile, gazing towards his hometown and the future of the country he loved,,.

A Garden of Reflection

The scenic area is not just a museum; it is a beautifully landscaped park. Known for its high vegetation coverage and fresh air, it is often described as a natural oxygen bar. The grounds are dotted with lotus ponds, reflecting the "clean and honest" spirit associated with the lotus in Chinese culture. Walking along the paths, visitors can see the Silkworm House, the Hanlin Well, and the private school where Deng studied, all preserved to recreate the environment of the early 20th century. Whether you are a history enthusiast keen on understanding the "Spring Story" of China's reform or a traveler seeking a quiet walk through a culturally rich garden, Deng Xiaoping's Former Residence offers an inspiring journey into the heart of recent Chinese history,.