The Former Residence of Dao Anren in Yingjiang County, Dehong

The Former Residence of Dao Anren, also known as Ganya Xuanfu Sishu (干崖宣抚司署), is an important historical site located in Xincheng Street, Xincheng Township, Yingjiang County, Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. It holds great significance in Chinese history, particularly in relation to the Dai ethnic group and Dao Anren, a key figure in the Xinhai Revolution (辛亥革命).

Key Facts

• Name: Ganya Xuanfu Sishu (干崖宣抚司署)

• Location: Xincheng Street, Xincheng Township, Yingjiang County, Dehong Prefecture, Yunnan Province

• Era: Qing Dynasty (Built in 1692)

• Total Area: 22,300 m² (33.5 acres)

• Building Area: Approximately 14,866 m²

• Protection Status: Provincial Cultural Heritage Protection Unit (2019)

Historical Background

Construction and Early History

• The residence was constructed in 1692 during the Qing Dynasty as the administrative seat of the Dai rulers in the region. It was initially a residence and governance center for the local Tusi (土司) rulers, who were responsible for overseeing the ethnic minorities in the region.

The Birthplace of Dao Anren

• Dao Anren (刀安仁), a prominent revolutionary leader and the first Dai ethnic figure to actively participate in China’s democratic revolution, was born here in 1872.

• Dao Anren took charge as the 23rd Tusi of the region at the age of 19 and was instrumental in both the Xinhai Revolution and the Tengchong Uprising (腾越起义).

Later History

• The residence was severely damaged during the Cultural Revolution and earthquakes, but it has been restored to preserve its historical significance.

• 2019: The residence was listed as a provincial cultural heritage protection site.

Architectural Features

Design and Layout

• Architecture Style: The residence is a Han-style government building with wooden and brick structures. It features a traditional Tusi layout, originally comprising four courtyards (四进四堂) and three halls (三班六房).

• The building’s central structure is divided into:

  • Main Hall (正堂): The office and residence of Dao Anren.

  • Second Hall (二堂): Used for political discussions and decision-making.

  • Third Hall (三堂): The office of high-ranking Tusi nobles.

Building Materials and Features

• The structure is built with traditional materials, including hexagonal bricks near the central axis and square bricks in the other areas.

• The main hall is brick-and-wood construction, with the roof covered in copper tiles.

Revolutionary and Historical Significance

Dao Anren’s Role in the Revolution

• Dao Anren was a key leader in the Dianxi Uprising and played a major role in fighting against British colonial powers in the late 19th century.

• He was also one of the primary leaders of the Xinhai Revolution, which eventually led to the fall of the Qing Dynasty.

• After studying in Japan and joining the Tongmenghui (同盟会), Dao Anren helped organize several uprisings, including the Tengchong Uprising in 1911.

Legacy of Dao Anren

• Dao Anren’s revolutionary activities and his role as a leader of ethnic minorities in China’s democratic revolution have cemented his legacy as a founding figure of the modern Chinese republic.

• His sacrifices and contributions have made the residence a symbol of revolutionary history in China.

Cultural Relics and Artifacts

Key Artifacts

• The residence houses 192 pieces of cultural relics and 103 photographs, including:

  • The Tusi imperial seal (干崖土司大印).

  • Personal belongings of Dao Anren, including items from his time as a Tusi.

  • Oil paintings from his time studying in Japan and military theater costumes.

  • Revolutionary documents and military artifacts from his role in the revolution.

Historical Documentation

• These relics help showcase Dao Anren’s dual role as both a Tusi ruler and a revolutionary leader, shedding light on the Dai ethnic group’s participation in the fight for national liberation.

Preservation and Protection

Restoration Efforts

• The building underwent extensive restoration starting in 2008 to preserve its architectural and cultural value.

• It has been maintained as a national and provincial cultural heritage site and continues to serve as an educational resource.

Protection Status

• 2009: The residence was recognized as a state-level cultural heritage site.

• 2019: It was listed as one of the 8th batch of provincial-level protected cultural heritage sites by the Yunnan Provincial Government.

Tourism Information

Location and Accessibility

• Location: The residence is situated about 30 km from Yingjiang County and can be reached within 30 minutes by car.

• By Car: Visitors can easily drive from Yingjiang to the site, which takes around 30 minutes.

• Public Transport: The site is accessible via local Xincheng township buses.

Visiting Hours and Fees

• Information on visiting hours and entrance fees can typically be found at the Yingjiang County Tourist Information Center or the Dao Anren Memorial Hall.

? Visitor Information

? Signature Experiences

Stand in the Assembly Hall and relive the turbulent birth of a republic →
Run your fingers along copper tiles blending Dai and Han craftsmanship →
Stroll the historic rubber grove and reflect on a vision of nation-building through industry