The Heroic Peak on the Border: A Journey to the Sea of Clouds and History at Malipo Laoshan

A Monument of Spirit and History

1.Located in Tianbao: Town, Malipo County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, the Malipo Laoshan Scenic Area stands as a solemn sentinel on the border between China and Vietnam. The main peak rises to an altitude of 1,422.2 meters. For many Chinese people, "Laoshan" is not just a geographical name but a spiritual symbol deeply etched into the collective memory of a generation. In the late 1970s and 1980s, this was a major battlefield of the self-defense counterattack against Vietnam. Today, the smoke of gunpowder has dissipated, leaving behind the enduring "Laoshan Spirit" of patriotism and dedication. It has transformed from a restricted military zone into a renowned Red Tourism destination and a National Patriotism Education Base, attracting veterans, history enthusiasts, and travelers seeking to pay tribute to the heroes of the past.

Traces of the Battlefield

Exploring Laoshan is a journey through modern history. The mountain still retains significant vestiges of the war, offering a visceral glimpse into the harsh conditions faced by soldiers. Visitors can explore the famous "Cat's Ear Caves" (Maoer Dong), narrow and damp natural limestone caves or dugouts where soldiers lived and fought for months or even years. Walking through the preserved trenches and viewing the positions on the main peak allows for a profound connection with history. At the summit, the Laoshan Main Peak Monument stands tall, inscribed with the words "Long Live the Laoshan Spirit," surrounded by clouds and mist, creating a solemn and majestic atmosphere. Down in the county seat, the Malipo Martyrs Cemetery rests among green pines and cypresses, a quiet place where thousands of soldiers are buried, offering a space for reflection and remembrance.

A Sea of Clouds and Green Peaks

Beyond its heavy historical significance, Laoshan is a place of breathtaking natural beauty. The landscape is characterized by steep, green peaks, strange rocks, and ancient forests. The area is famous for its spectacular Sea of Clouds. Especially in the mornings or after rain, thick clouds surge through the valleys, shrouding the peaks and revealing them intermittently like islands in a white ocean. The scenery changes with the seasons; spring brings blooming flowers like the fiery kapok, while the lush primitive forests provide fresh air and a serene environment that contrasts sharply with the fierce history of the site.

The Gateway to Vietnam: Tianbao Port

2.At the foot of Laoshan lies Tianbao: Port, a national-level port and a vital land passage connecting China and Vietnam. Known as the "Landmark of the South," it sits at a low altitude and offers a distinct tropical border atmosphere. Standing in front of the majestic National Gate, visitors can look across to the Vietnamese port and see the bustle of border trade. The fusion of cultures is palpable here, with local Yao, Miao, and Zhuang ethnic customs blending with Vietnamese influences. During festivals like the "San Yue San" or the "Flower Mountain Festival," the region comes alive with colorful ethnic costumes and folk activities, adding a vibrant cultural layer to the solemnity of the mountain.