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Zhidan County is located in the northwest of Yan'an City. It is the hometown of General Liu Zhidan, the "mass leader and national hero", and is known as the "Red Capital" of the Chinese revolution.
Zhidan boasts a long history, numerous talented individuals, and a rich and enduring culture. In modern history, thousands of outstanding individuals, exemplified by the mass leader and national hero Liu Zhidan, have accomplished remarkable feats. Zhidan Mountain, divided by the Luo River, is divided into two major mountain ranges: Jinding Mountain, Yongning Mountain, and Santai Mountain. Key attractions include the Liu Zhidan Martyrs Cemetery, the Baoan Revolutionary Site, the Panlong Temple Stone Pagoda, and the site of the Anti-Japanese Military and Political University.
Temperate continental semi-arid climate;
Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and autumn
Recommended one-day tour
Liu Zhidan Martyrs Cemetery
The Liu Zhidan Martyrs Cemetery is located in Baoan Town, the seat of Zhidan County. Facing south from the north, it covers an area of 33,000 square meters. The cemetery's architecture is imbued with ethnic characteristics and a solemn and dignified atmosphere. Within the cemetery, there's a unique globe-shaped monument engraved with a map of the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Border Region and the inscription "The Creator of the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Border Region." Deep within the cemetery lies the Martyrs' Memorial Hall and the tomb of General Liu Zhidan. The cemetery also houses a Martyrs' Memorial Hall, showcasing various artifacts and a brief biography of the martyr. Liu Zhidan was a key founder of the Shaanxi-Gansu Border Revolutionary Base.
Baoan Revolutionary Site
The Baoan Revolutionary Site is located at the foot of Paolou Mountain in the north of Zhidan County. It was the seat of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China from July 3, 1936 to January 13, 1937. After the national hero Liu Zhidan died in the Eastern Expedition in April 1936, Baoan County was renamed Zhidan County.
Yongning Mountain
Yongning Mountain is located in Yongning Town, Zhidan County, east of the Luo River and across from the mouth of Kongzi River. It stands 1,312 meters above sea level, runs east-west, is 2.2 kilometers long, and 1.5 kilometers wide. Clad entirely in red sandstone, the mountain ridge protrudes into the Luo River, with the Luo River surrounding it on the east, west, and south. The mountain ridge stands tall and independent, with sheer cliffs. As early as the Song Dynasty, it was built as an ancient fortress for defense. The fortress consists of three levels: the upper level, majestically perched atop the abrupt summit, the middle level, gently sloping and very steep, and the lower level, connected to the Luo River for drinking water. It could accommodate a thousand people. During the four rebellions of the Tongzhi period of the Qing Dynasty, hundreds of households fled, but the natural fortifications prevented the fortress from being conquered.
Zhidan, in Yan'an, Shaanxi, is historically notable as part of the revolutionary base area during the Chinese Communist movement. The region preserves traditional northern Chinese architecture and rural culture.
Open year-round. Best visited in spring or autumn for mild weather and clearer skies.
Most areas are free to visit. Specific memorial sites or museums may have small entrance fees, usually purchased onsite.
Booking in advance is not required unless attending special exhibitions or guided tours.
Half a day to one day for a thorough visit, including nearby historical sites and rural landscapes.
Guided tours are mainly available in Chinese; English-language tours may require private arrangements.
Night visits and special tours are generally not offered; daytime visits are recommended.
Zhidan is usually quiet. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends or public holidays.
Basic facilities include small local restaurants, shops, and public rest areas. Toilets may be limited.
Main streets are suitable for elderly and children. Some rural paths may be uneven and less accessible for disabled visitors.
Cash is widely used. Mobile payment apps are accepted in shops and restaurants; credit cards may not be universally accepted.
Vegetarian options are available; Halal options may be limited.
Souvenir shops are limited. Typical items include local handicrafts, cultural memorabilia, and regional snacks.
