Echoes of the Long March: The Red Army Trench and Banma’s Primeval Forests

A Sanctuary of History and Nature

1.Located in the southern part of Banma: County within the Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, the Red Army Trench (Hongjungou) is a unique destination where revolutionary history meets a pristine highland ecosystem,. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,500 meters, this site is found within the Mar River (Mari He) forest area, which boasts one of the best-preserved primeval forest regions in Qinghai,. The area is celebrated as a "Red Tourism" landmark and a base for patriotic education, commemorating the journey of the Chinese Red Army through the plateau,.

The Long March in Qinghai

2.The historical significance of the Red Army: Trench dates back to July 1936, during the world-renowned Long March. The 2nd and 4th Front Armies of the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army entered the Banma region, staying for more than 20 days. This period marks the only time the Red Army systematically entered, rested, and established a presence within Qinghai Province. The "trench" itself is not merely a military fortification but a corridor of memory, where soldiers navigated the treacherous terrain of the Zizida Valley and the surrounding canyons.

Revolutionary Inscriptions

3.One of the most compelling features of the: Red Army Trench is the collection of historical slogans etched into the stone cliffs of the Zizida Valley. Despite decades of exposure to the elements, inscriptions such as "National Salvation and Resistance Against Japan" remain clearly visible. These carvings serve as a "dialogue" across time, representing the determination and ideals of the soldiers who passed through this remote highland. Visitors can explore preserved sites including temporary headquarters, the Red Army Bridge, and various dwellings used by the troops during their stay.

Cultural Harmony on the Plateau

Beyond its military history, the Red Army Trench is a site of significant cultural exchange. The interaction between the Red Army and the local Tibetan population left a lasting legacy of solidarity. The soldiers' adherence to strict discipline and respect for local religious beliefs—such as protecting Mani stones and monasteries—forged a deep bond with the Tibetan herdsmen,. This fusion of "Red Culture" and traditional Tibetan heritage is evident in local folklore and the continued preservation of the site by the community,.

Pristine Highland Wilderness

4.The natural backdrop of the Red Army: Trench is as breathtaking as its history is profound. The Mar River Canyon features lush coniferous forests of spruce and juniper, which turn into a vibrant palette of gold and crimson during the autumn months. The air is exceptionally pure, and the valley is filled with the sounds of rushing water and birdsong. Whether viewing the majestic snow-capped mountains in the distance or trekking through the dense forest trails, the site offers a serene environment for reflection and connection with the raw power of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau,.