Hongjunfen in Zunyi

Tucked within the serene grounds of Zunyi Red Army Martyrs Cemetery (also known as Red Army Mountain) on the southern foot of Fenghuang Mountain, Hongjunfen is far more than a tomb—it is a powerful symbol of the deep bond between the Chinese Red Army and local people during the historic Long March (1935). Set against the meandering Xiangjiang River and lush pine forests, this hallowed site is a short 15-minute walk from the Zunyi Conference Site, making it an essential stop for anyone seeking to understand the human story behind China’s revolutionary history.

History of a Heroic Healer

At the heart of Hongjunfen lies the resting place of an anonymous young Red Army medic who dedicated his/her final days to treating sick and injured villagers in Zunyi, even as the Red Army prepared for urgent maneuvers. Betrayed and killed by local reactionaries, the medic was buried by grief-stricken villagers. For decades, locals risked persecution to protect the grave; it was moved to its current, honored location in the martyrs cemetery in 1954. The simple blue-stone tomb with the bold red characters “Hongjunfen” stands as a testament to selfless service, not just military glory. A poignant bronze statue nearby depicts the medic gently giving medicine to a child—an iconic image that captures the compassion at the core of this story.

A Serene & Sacred Setting

The cemetery grounds are a peaceful retreat from the city buzz. Climb the 316 stone steps leading up the hillside, flanked by towering pines and quiet memorial gardens. Along the way, you’ll pass the imposing Red Army Martyrs Monument (inscribed with “Eternal Glory to Red Army Martyrs”), the tomb of Deng Ping (Chief of Staff of the 3rd Red Army Corps), and moving reliefs that depict key moments of the Long March. From the upper terraces, you can enjoy panoramic views over Zunyi’s skyline, the Xiangjiang River, and the distant mountains where the Red Army once fought.

Meaningful Experiences & Practical Tips

• Reflect & Pay Respects: Visit the tomb with a moment of quiet contemplation; many visitors leave flowers as a sign of gratitude.
• Guided Tours: English-language audio guides and tours are available at the cemetery entrance, offering deeper context on the medic’s story and the Long March’s impact on Zunyi.
• Combine with Key Sites: Pair your visit with the nearby Zunyi Conference Site and Fenghuangshan Cultural Square for a full day of history and culture.
• Etiquette: Dress modestly, keep voices low, and avoid loud photography near the tomb areas.
• Access & Hours: Free entry, open daily; easily reachable by local bus, taxi, or a pleasant walk from downtown Zunyi.

Why Hongjunfen Should Be On Your Itinerary

Hongjunfen offers a uniquely human perspective on the Long March—one of kindness, sacrifice, and the unbreakable connection between soldiers and the people they swore to protect. It’s not just a historical landmark; it’s a place to reflect on universal values of empathy and courage, set within the beautiful natural landscape of Zunyi’s Red Army Mountain.

Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural traveler, or simply someone who appreciates stories of selflessness, Hongjunfen will leave a lasting impression—a quiet reminder of the individuals whose actions shaped a nation’s destiny.