Bijie history

The history of the city of Bijie, located in Guizhou Province in southwest China, dates back to ancient times. Archaeological finds in local caves indicate that these lands were inhabited by humans as early as the prehistoric era. However, the formal establishment of the city as an administrative centre occurred much later.

Foundation and First Mentions

For many centuries, the territory of modern Bijie was under the rule of local chieftains and was part of various ethnic minority kingdoms. The first steps to integrate the region into the imperial structure were taken during the Yuan (1271–1368) and Ming (1368–1644) dynasties, when military garrisons began to be stationed here. A key moment in the city's history was 1666, during the Qing Dynasty, when the first administrative offices were established, marking the beginning of the region's systematic integration into the empire.

Key Factors of Formation

The development of Bijie was inextricably linked to several important factors. Firstly, its strategic geographical location at the junction of three provinces — Guizhou, Sichuan, and Yunnan — made it a vital transport and trade crossroads. Secondly, the establishment of centralised political power by the Qing Dynasty contributed to the administrative and economic organisation of life in the region. The mountainous karst landscape, on one hand, made development difficult, but on the other, it shaped the unique appearance and economic structure of these lands.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Initially, the region's economy was built on agriculture and the extraction of mineral resources, particularly coal. The cultural distinctiveness of Bijie was largely determined by its multi-ethnic composition. These lands have historically been home to various ethnic groups, including the Yi, Miao, and Bai, who have preserved their unique traditions, languages, and customs. This cultural diversity remains one of the main distinguishing features of the region today.

The history of the city of Bijie, situated in the northwest of Guizhou Province in China, spans many centuries. These lands, once part of ancient kingdoms and ruled by local chieftains, gradually integrated into the empire while preserving their unique cultural heritage.

• 112,000–178,000 BC — Archaeological findings, including human remains in caves, testify to the settlement of this territory in prehistoric times.
• Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) — During this period, the name "Bijie" first appears to designate a postal station (Bijie Yi), which was the first step towards the administrative consolidation of the region.
• 1384 (Ming Dynasty) — To strengthen control over the territory, the "Bijie Wei" military garrison was established here, reinforcing the presence of central authority.
• 1666 (Qing Dynasty) — A key administrative reform was carried out, during which the first prefectures were created, marking the beginning of the region's systematic integration into the imperial structure.
• 1913 (Republic of China) — Following the Xinhai Revolution, a reform of administrative divisions was implemented, resulting in the abolition of former prefectures and regions and their replacement with counties.
• 1988 — The region received the status of an "Experimental Zone," aimed at economic development and poverty alleviation.
• 2011 — The prefecture-level city of Bijie was officially established, uniting several counties and districts under its administration in their modern form.

Major Stages of Bijie's Development

The development of Bijie is a story of transformation from one of China's less developed regions into a dynamically growing prefecture-level city. Targeted government programmes, infrastructure development, and unique local initiatives played a key role in this process.

• Creation of the Experimental Zone (1988): The establishment of the "Bijie Experimental Zone" by the State Council of the PRC was a turning point. Its main objectives were defined as poverty alleviation, economic development, and ecological construction. This attracted significant investments and resources to the region to solve long-standing issues.
• Large-scale Infrastructure Construction (2000s – Present): Historically isolated by mountainous terrain, Bijie has undergone an infrastructural revolution. Modern expressways, railways, and the Bijie Feixiong Airport, opened in 2013, were constructed. This drastically improved transport accessibility, stimulating trade and tourism.
• Transformation into a Prefecture-level City (2011): The official elevation of status from a prefecture to a prefecture-level city marked a new stage of urbanisation. This allowed for optimised management, the integration of urban and rural planning, and accelerated modernisation of the urban environment.
• Success in the Poverty Alleviation Programme (by 2020): Bijie was one of the key battlegrounds in China's national campaign to eradicate absolute poverty. By 2020, all counties in the district were lifted out of poverty, which became a crucial social achievement and a foundation for further growth.
• Development of Modern Agro-industry: As part of the fight against poverty, new economic models were introduced. An example is Chahe Town, which has become a major centre for greenhouse floriculture. This created jobs and reoriented agriculture towards more profitable sectors.
• Focus on "Green" Economy and Tourism: Unique karst landscapes, previously an obstacle, have today become a major tourism asset. The region is actively developing eco-tourism, creating national parks and tourist routes, which contributes to sustainable economic development and nature conservation.

The architectural appearance of Bijie is a clear reflection of its rapid transformation from a remote region into a modern prefecture-level city. The urban landscape presents a striking contrast between the historical heritage preserved in old quarters and the large-scale projects resulting from the active urban development of recent decades. Unlike the ancient capitals of China, modern structures predominate here rather than imperial palaces.

The historical architecture of the region is closely linked to its role as an important transport and military hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The architecture was influenced by the traditions of local ethnic groups, such as the Yi and Miao, which is evident in the unique wooden structures and the layout of ancient villages. These buildings are distinguished by functionality and harmonious integration into the complex mountainous terrain. Despite modern development, one can still discover ancient houses, small temples, or pagodas in the city and its surroundings.

The modern stage of Bijie's development began in the late 20th century, especially after receiving the status of an "experimental zone" for economic development. This period was marked by a large-scale reconstruction of the city centre. Today's cityscape is largely shaped by modern high-rise residential and office buildings, wide avenues, and new public spaces. Iconic examples of modern architecture include major cultural and educational facilities, such as new university campuses and concert halls, which have become symbols of rapid growth and Bijie's transformation into a major regional centre.

Distinguished Personalities in Bijie's History

The history of the Bijie prefecture-level city is inextricably linked with figures who have made significant contributions to politics, culture, and social development in the region and across China. Natives of these lands have become famous as wise rulers, reformers, scholars, and heroes, leaving a notable mark across different eras.

• Madam She Xiang (奢香夫人) — An outstanding female politician and leader of the Yi people who ruled in the 14th century (Ming Dynasty). She played a key role in stabilising the empire's southwestern borders by establishing communication and trade between Guizhou and the central regions. Madam She Xiang is revered as a wise ruler who promoted peace and prosperity.
• Ding Baozhen (丁宝桢) — An influential official of the late Qing era (19th century). A native of Zhijin County (now part of Bijie), he had a brilliant career, rising to the posts of Governor of Shandong and Viceroy of Sichuan. Ding Baozhen was known as an uncompromising fighter against corruption and a proponent of modernisation. His name is also associated with the creation of the world-famous Sichuan dish — "Kung Pao Chicken".
• Ding Daoheng (丁道衡) — A renowned Chinese geologist and paleontologist of the 20th century. He is the discoverer of the world's largest rare-earth metal deposit, Bayan Obo, in Inner Mongolia. His contribution to geological science in China is of fundamental importance.
• Li Shijie (李世杰) — A Confucian scholar, calligrapher, and official of the 19th century from Qianxi. He was known for his erudition and held various posts in the imperial administration of the Qing Dynasty, contributing to the cultural development of his native region.
• Lu Tao (卢焘) — A military and political figure of the Republic of China period (early 20th century). He served as the governor of Guizhou Province and was an active participant in the complex political processes of that time, striving for the modernisation of the army and state administration.
• Xiong Xianhan (熊先憨) — A revolutionary and participant in the anti-monarchist uprising in Guangzhou in 1911. He died heroically in battle and is revered as one of the 72 martyrs who gave their lives for the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the republic.