? Historical Background
In April 1936, during the Long March, the Red Second and Sixth Army Corps entered Yunnan, aiming to cross the Pudu River north of Kunming and eventually the Jinsha River in Yuanmou. However, enemy forces blocked their crossing, forcing the Red Army into a narrow area between Kedu and Kelang, at risk of encirclement by the Dian (Yunnan) Army.
To protect the main force’s westward advance, General Guo Peng, commander of the Red Sixth Division, led troops back to Liujia to block the enemy’s 7th Brigade. In fierce fighting, the Red Army, at the cost of heavy casualties, defeated a much larger force, breaking the enemy’s plan to annihilate them south of Gongshan and east of the Pudu River. This victory bought precious time for the army to cross the Jinsha River and march north to fight against Japanese forces.
? Memorial Tower
Standing proudly at Shimenkan, the tower is crowned with a shining red star ✨. The inscription “Liujia Battle Memorial Tower” is carved in bold, powerful strokes, alongside the words “Long Live the Heroic Red Army.”
The base bears Chairman Mao Zedong’s Long March poem and a list of fallen soldiers who gave their lives in this battle.
? Surrounding Facilities
After relocation and expansion in 2022, the memorial site now covers a spacious area with convenient access. A dedicated exhibition hall offers visitors a deeper understanding of the battle, the Red Army’s strategy, and the broader significance of the Long March. Together, they form a complete red tourism experience.
? Visitor Guide
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Opening Hours: 8:00 – 17:00
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Entry Fee: Likely free, as it serves as a patriotic education site
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By Car: From Kunming, take the Hangrui and Yinkun expressways to Xundian County, then follow navigation to the Liujia Battle Memorial Park in Pioneer Town.
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By Public Transport: Take a long-distance bus from Kunming to Xundian County, then transfer to a local bus or taxi.
? Significance & Value
The Liujia Battle Memorial Tower stands as a living record of the Red Army’s bravery during the Long March. It is a vital venue for patriotic and historical education, recognized as a county-level protected cultural site and integrated into Kunming’s red tourism routes.
Visitors can also join immersive activities such as wearing Red Army uniforms and retracing the Long March route, making history come alive while honoring the spirit of perseverance.
