Nanliang Revolutionary Memorial Hall: Huachi Red Tourism Guide

Introduction

The Nanliang Revolutionary Memorial Hall (华池南梁革命纪念馆) stands as a key destination for those interested in the early history of the Chinese Communist Party and the Shanganbian Soviet Government. Located in Liyuanbao, Nanliang Town, Huachi County, Qingyang City, Gansu Province, this memorial honors the revolutionary struggle that took place in the rugged Qiaoshan Mountains. Known as the "Red Cradle" of the Shaanxi-Gansu border region, the site preserves the original administrative compound where leaders like Liu Zhidan, Xie Zichang, and Xi Zhongxun established a Soviet government in 1934.

This guide provides practical information for travelers planning to visit the memorial hall, including what to see, how to get there, and what other historical sites lie nearby. The content is drawn from available source data and general knowledge about Gansu’s red tourism circuit.

Historical Significance of Nanliang

The "Only Surviving" Base Area

During the Second Revolutionary Civil War (1927–1937), many Communist base areas were lost to Nationalist campaigns. The Shanganbian (Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia) base at Nanliang holds the distinction of being the only revolutionary base that remained intact throughout the entire civil war period.

This strategic foothold provided critical support for the Central Red Army after the Long March. Visitors today can walk the grounds where the Shanganbian Soviet Government was formally established on November 7, 1934.

Key Revolutionary Figures

The memorial hall focuses on the contributions of three primary leaders:

• Liu Zhidan – A military commander who helped forge the base area. His personal relics are displayed in the exhibition halls.
• Xie Zichang – A co-founder of the Shaanxi-Gansu revolutionary base.
• Xi Zhongxun – The father of later Chinese president Xi Jinping, who was active in the local government at a young age.

Their former residences can be found at the nearby Zaiziwan site, adding depth to a tour of the area.

What to See at the Memorial Hall

The Main Memorial Area

The complex spans over 33 mu (about 5.4 acres). The entrance features a 10-meter-high antique-style city gate. Inside, the central monument lists the names of 608 martyrs who died in the Nanliang revolutionary struggle. A white sculpture group depicts military and civilian unity during the war.

Exhibition Halls

Three major exhibition rooms contain historical documents, original artifacts, and photographs. Inscriptions by Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, and Zhu De are on display, alongside personal items belonging to Liu Zhidan. The exhibits trace the development of the Shanganbian Soviet from its founding through the later integration into the larger Communist movement.

The Lenin Primary School

One of the most unique features of the Nanliang area is the Lenin Primary School, established in the 1930s to educate children of revolutionary families. It is often called the "cradle of red education." The school building has been preserved and is open to visitors.

Martyrs' Cemetery and Sculptures

A dedicated cemetery and memorial area lie within the complex. White marble sculptures commemorate the heroism of local fighters. The site is solemn and well-maintained, suitable for reflection.

Visitor Information

Altitude and Safety Notes

At 1,350 meters, the site sits on the Loess Plateau but does not qualify as high altitude. Most visitors from sea level will not experience altitude issues. However, the terrain is hilly, and some walking paths involve stairs. Wear comfortable shoes. The area can be windy in spring and cold in winter.

Who Should Visit

• History enthusiasts – The site is rich in original artifacts and historical context.
• Students and educational groups – The National Patriotic Education Base designation means school groups are frequent. Over 5,000 students visit annually for field trips.
• Photographers – The combination of architecture, sculptures, and highland scenery offers good photo opportunities, especially in good light.
• Red Tourism followers – Part of the larger Gansu red tourism circuit that includes Yan’an and other Shaanxi-Gansu base sites.

When to Skip

• Winter (December–February) can be cold and the landscape monochrome. Some facilities may have reduced hours.
• If you dislike historical/political sites – The memorial is entirely focused on revolutionary history; there are no natural attractions within the complex itself.

Nearby Revolutionary Sites

Dafengchuan Military-Civilian Production Base

Located a short drive from the main hall, this base was where soldiers and locals raised crops and manufactured supplies during the war. It offers a look at the practical side of survival in a remote base area.

Zaiziwan Former Residences

The caves and buildings that housed Liu Zhidan and Xi Zhongxun are preserved at Zaiziwan. The simple dwellings illustrate the austere conditions under which the revolutionary leadership operated.

Lenin Primary School

Already mentioned above, this school is a separate site but easily combined with the memorial hall.

Together, these sites form a “red tourism cluster” that can occupy a full day for dedicated visitors.

How to Get There (General Directions)

Nanliang Town is in eastern Gansu, near the border with Shaanxi. The nearest major city is Qingyang (庆阳), about 80 km north. From Qingyang, you can take a bus or hire a private car to Huachi County. The memorial hall is about 30 km from Huachi county seat.

Public transportation options are limited; most visitors come by private vehicle or as part of a tour group. Road conditions are generally good on the main routes, but the final approach may involve winding mountain roads.

Photography Tips

• Best light – Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the white sculptures and the city gate.
• Exhibition halls – Photography is usually allowed, but check for “no flash” signs near artifacts.
• Landscape – The surrounding Qiaoshan Mountains provide a backdrop of rolling hills and terraced fields. A wide-angle lens is useful for the memorial plaza.
• Martyrs’ monument – Shoot from a low angle to emphasize height and solemnity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the Nanliang Revolutionary Memorial Hall located?
It is located in the Liyuanbao area of Nanliang Town, Huachi County, Qingyang City, Gansu Province.

2. Why is Nanliang called a “Red Cradle”?
Because it was the site where the Shanganbian Soviet Government was established and was the only base that remained active throughout the entire civil war period.

3. What can visitors see inside the museum?
Three exhibition rooms with photos, original revolutionary artifacts, and inscriptions from leaders like Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai.

4. Are there other sites to visit nearby?
Yes, the area includes the Lenin Primary School, the Dafengchuan production base, and former residences of revolutionary leaders.

5. Is the site suitable for students?
Absolutely; it is a designated National Patriotic Education Base and receives over 5,000 visitors annually for educational purposes.

6. Is there an admission fee?
No, the memorial hall is free to enter.

7. How long does a typical visit take?
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours at the main hall, but a full day is needed to include all nearby sites.

Final Practical Considerations

• No official website was found in the source data. Check with Huachi County tourism bureau for current hours and any event closures.
• Bring water and snacks. Dining options near the memorial may be limited.
• Combine with Yan’an. Many travelers incorporate Nanliang into a multi-day red tourism itinerary that includes Yan’an (Shaanxi) and other sites in eastern Gansu.
• Respect the site. As a national education base, the atmosphere is solemn. Keep noise low and follow photography rules.

The Nanliang Revolutionary Memorial Hall offers a grounded look at a pivotal piece of China’s revolutionary history. Its preservation of original structures and artifacts makes it a worthwhile stop for anyone tracing the story of the Communist base areas in the northwest.