Loushan Pass in Zunyi

Perched at the junction of Huichuan District (Banqiao Town) and Tongzi County in northern Guizhou, Loushan Pass stands as the towering throat of the Dalou Mountains—known historically as the "Gatekeeper of Sichuan and Guizhou", a strategically irreplaceable pass with the reputation of "One man guards the pass; ten thousand cannot force it". Its defining moment came in February 1935, when the Chinese Red Army secured its first major victory after the Zunyi Conference here, following the second crossing of the Chishui River. Inspired by the triumph, Mao Zedong composed the iconic ci-poem Recalling Qin'e · Loushan Pass, immortalizing lines like "The towering pass road is truly like iron; now we stride forward again" and "Green mountains spread like a sea; the setting sun bleeds red". As a national 4A scenic area, key cultural relic protection site, and patriotic education base, it blends breathtaking mountain landscapes with profound revolutionary heritage, about a 1-hour drive from downtown Zunyi and the Zunyi Conference Site.

Key Themed Zones & Must-See Sights

1. Xifeng Platform (1779m, Highest Viewpoint)The crown of Loushan Pass, offering panoramic views of rolling peaks that perfectly embody the poem’s "Green mountains spread like a sea; the setting sun bleeds red". A prime spot for sunrises, sunsets, and sea-of-clouds vistas. Strong winds are common at the summit—bring a light jacket.
2. Mao Zedong’s Ci-Poem Monument & Cliff InscriptionsA grand stone monument inscribed with the full handwritten text of Recalling Qin'e · Loushan Pass. Nearby are the iconic three Chinese characters "Loushan Pass" carved into the cliff face (2.3m in diameter each), a powerful photo op.
3. Changkong Bridge (Sky-Bridge)A 97m-long suspension iron-cable bridge hanging about 60m above the valley floor, connecting Dajianshan and Xiaojianshan peaks. It offers thrilling aerial views of the canyon and former battlefield, with striking silhouettes at golden hour.
4. Red Army Battle Site Exhibition Hall & Memorial MonumentThe exhibition hall houses precious historical relics, photos, and interactive displays detailing the 1935 battle. The memorial monument stands solemnly, honoring the fallen soldiers; nearby are well-preserved original trenches on Xiaojianshan and Dajianshan.
5. Hundred-Battles Staircase (365 Steps)A symbolic staircase lined with relief sculptures recounting key battles throughout Loushan Pass’s history, leading up to the core scenic area.

Highlights & Unforgettable Experiences

• Dual Appeal of History & Nature: Immerse in revolutionary stories at battle sites, while enjoying alpine views, mountain flowers in spring, and red foliage in autumn.
• Poetry-Brought-to-Life Vistas: Xifeng Platform at sunset is the ultimate spot to visualize the vivid imagery in Mao Zedong’s ci-poem.
• Thrilling Sky Bridge Walk: A must for adventure lovers; the swaying iron-cable bridge offers dramatic shots against the mountain backdrop.
• Seasonal Charms: Misty clouds in spring, cool green shade in summer, fiery red leaves in autumn, and rime-covered peaks in winter.
• Live Battle Reenactment Shows (seasonal): Realistic performances recreating the intensity of the 1935 Loushan Pass victory, with period costumes and sound effects.

Practical Visitor Information

• Location: Banqiao Town, Huichuan District, Zunyi City, Guizhou Province, China (Loushan Pass Scenic Area Visitor Center)
• Opening Hours: 09:00–18:00 (entry stops at 17:00; exhibition halls closed on Mondays for maintenance)
• Admission: Free (real-name reservation required via the One-Code-Travel Guizhou WeChat Mini-Program); Scenic Shuttle Bus (mandatory for most visitors) is 50 RMB/person (covers round-trip between the visitor center, Xifeng Platform, Changkong Bridge, and the monument area)
• Recommended Visit Time: 3–4 hours (half-day); 1 full day for hiking and catching the sunset
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May, blooming azaleas), Autumn (October–November, red foliage); Winter for rime landscapes
  1. Self-driving: ~50km/1 hour from downtown Zunyi; ample free parking at the visitor center.
  2. Public Transport: Take a red tourism direct bus from Zunyi Railway Station to Banqiao Town; then take a taxi to the visitor center.
  3. High-speed Rail: Take the bullet train to Loushanguan South Station (~14 mins from Zunyi Station), then a 10-min taxi ride to the entrance.
• Tips: Wear non-slip hiking shoes; stay hydrated; avoid strenuous hikes in extreme heat or cold; respect the solemnity of memorial sites (no loud noise).

Why You Should Add It to Your Itinerary

1. It’s the most iconic red tourism landmark in northern Guizhou, where revolutionary history and majestic natural scenery collide—perfect to pair with a visit to the Zunyi Conference Site.
2. The poem Recalling Qin'e · Loushan Pass is part of China’s modern cultural heritage; standing at Xifeng Platform makes the poetic imagery tangible.
3. Suitable for history buffs, nature lovers, photographers, and family travelers seeking both education and outdoor adventure.
4. Free admission (only shuttle fee) makes it accessible to all travelers.