Former Site of GeBi LinPing Railway Company in Gejiu City, Honghe

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The Yunnan-Vietnam Railway, built by the French in the early 20th century, connects Kunming (昆明) in China to Haiphong (海防港) in Vietnam through Hekou (河口). This historic narrow-gauge railway was Southwest China’s first and is known for its scenic route and rich history. The western branch includes the old railway site of Ge Bi LinPing (个碧临屏), a must-visit for railway enthusiasts and history lovers.

Bi Se Zhai Station

Bi Se Zhai Station (碧色寨站) is a historic village and train station at the foot of a mountain, overlooking Changqiao Sea (长桥海). Opened in 1909, it became a bustling hub for trade and culture, earning nicknames like “Little Paris” for its cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Yunnan-Vietnam Railway Historical Culture Park (滇越铁路历史文化公园): See the Tropic of Cancer marker and explore the site’s role in Chinese history, including the National Protection Movement.
• Cun Gui Railway Theme Park (寸轨铁路主题公园): Explore the narrow-gauge Ge Bi Shi Railway (个碧石铁路), built for tin transport from Gejiu (个旧) mines.

French Garden

Located by South Lake in Mengzi (蒙自), the French Garden once housed the French Railway Administration and the Italian Consulate. Today, it’s a charming historical site ideal for strolling and photography.

Former Site of Southwest Associated University in Mengzi

This museum commemorates students and professors who traveled through Bi Se Zhai Station during the Anti-Japanese War. Learn about cultural figures like Wen Yiduo (闻一多) and Zhu Ziqing (朱自清), and their contributions to Kunming’s vibrant cultural scene.

Gejiu Station & Ge Bi Lin Shi Railway Exhibition Hall

Gejiu Station (个旧站), operational from 1921 to 2005, preserves the story of the private Ge Bi Shi Railway Company (个碧临屏铁路公司), a narrow-gauge railway built by local investors. The adjacent exhibition hall displays historical artifacts like antique gas lamps, railway equipment, and documents, making it a must-visit for railway enthusiasts.

Tips: The old station and railway park are free to visit. Reachable by bus or minibus from Gejiu Passenger Transport Station (个旧客运中心).

Ji Street Station

Ji Street Station preserves both narrow and standard gauge tracks and served as a central hub connecting Mengzi (蒙自), Gejiu (个旧), Jianshui (建水), Shiping (石屏), Kaiyuan (开远), and Kunming (昆明). Its blend of Western and Chinese architecture makes it a visually striking site for history and railway fans.

Nearby: Shadian Grand Mosque (沙甸大清真寺), the largest mosque in Southwest China.

LinAn Station & Meter Gauge Tourist Train

Ride the little train from LinAn Station (临安站) to explore the ancient city of Jianshui (建水), following the historic Ge Bi LinPing Railway (个碧临屏铁路). Highlights include:

• Tuanshan Village (团山村): Traditional architecture and rich local history.
• Double Dragon Bridge (双龙桥) & Xianghuai Bridge (乡会桥站): Historic bridges along the route.
• Scenic countryside with rivers, villages, and century-old stations.

Tips: The tourist train runs twice daily. Check schedules in advance.

Jianshui Ancient City

Jianshui, formerly LinAn (临安), is a 1,200-year-old county in Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州). Explore:

• Jianshui Purple Pottery (建水紫陶): Over 900 years of tradition.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss roasted tofu, featured in “A Bite of China.”
• Historic Streets: Blend of French and Chinese architecture, lively markets, and scenic photography spots.