Guiyang history

The history of Guiyang is a journey from a remote military post to an important administrative and cultural centre in southwest China. The city, situated in the picturesque mountainous terrain of Guizhou province, was shaped by the influence of changing dynasties, trade routes, and a unique fusion of cultures.

Foundation and First Mentions

Although settlements existed in this area earlier, the city's history in the modern sense begins during the Yuan Dynasty. In 1283, a military garrison named Shunyuan was established here, meaning "obedient to the Yuan dynasty". However, the city acquired its current name and status much later. Even during the Tang and Song empires, administrative structures were created in the region to manage local tribes. The name "Guiyang" became attached to the city during the Ming Dynasty, when Guizhou province was officially established in 1413, and Guiyang eventually became its administrative centre.

Key Factors of Development

The development of Guiyang was determined by several key aspects:

• Strategic Location: Located on the banks of the Nanming River and surrounded by mountains, the city held an important military-strategic position. This allowed control over routes connecting central China with the southwestern regions.
• Administrative Centre: Becoming the capital of Guizhou province under the Ming Dynasty, Guiyang transformed into a political and administrative hub. This promoted an influx of officials and military personnel, as well as infrastructure development.
• Trade and Resources: The city became a centre for trade in local goods. In ancient times, its surroundings were famous for bamboo groves, used to make the musical instrument "zhu," renowned throughout China. The region was also rich in medicinal herbs and mineral resources.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning, Guiyang was a meeting place for different peoples. Here, Han culture blended with the traditions of local ethnic groups, such as the Miao and Bouyei. This was reflected in architecture, crafts, and festivals. The city's economy relied on agriculture, resource extraction, and crafts, among which batik and embroidery stood out. The construction of temples, such as the Wenmiao Temple in the Ming era, and monasteries testifies to the growing cultural and religious significance of the city.

Key Dates in the History of Guiyang

The history of Guiyang spans more than seven centuries, during which it has transformed from a military post into a major modern metropolis and technology hub. Here are the main milestones of its development:

• 1283 — Foundation of the Shunyuan military garrison ("obedient to the Yuan dynasty") during the Mongol Yuan Dynasty, which is considered the city's founding year.
• 1413 — Official establishment of Guizhou province during the Ming Dynasty, after which Guiyang gradually becomes its administrative centre.
• 1569 — The city officially receives the name Guiyang when the administration moves here from Chengfan.
• 1598 — Start of the construction of the Jiaxiu Tower, which subsequently became one of the city's main symbols.
• 1672 — Foundation of the Hongfu Temple on Qianling Mountain, becoming the most important Buddhist centre in the province.
• 1939 — The city was bombed by Japanese aircraft during the Second Sino-Japanese War, leading to significant destruction.
• 1941 — Guiyang officially receives city (municipality) status.
• 1944–1945 — The city temporarily becomes one of the centres of activity for the Nationalist Government of China during the war period.
• 15 November 1949 — Troops of the People's Liberation Army of China enter Guiyang, and on 23 November, the People's Government of the city is established.
• 2013 — The city begins to actively develop the big data industry, laying the foundation for its future technological leadership.
• 2015 — Guiyang hosts the first international Big Data Expo, securing the city's status as "China's Digital Valley".

Key Stages of Guiyang's Development

The history of Guiyang is a journey from a modest military post to a high-tech metropolis known as "China's Big Data Valley". The city has passed through several key stages that have defined its modern appearance.

• Foundation in the 13th Century: The city's history in the modern sense began in 1283, when a military garrison named Shunyuan was founded here during the Yuan Dynasty. This laid the foundation for the future administrative centre.

• Provincial Capital Status (15th Century): In 1413, Guizhou province was formed, and over time Guiyang became its capital. This status turned it into an important political and administrative centre of the region, facilitating population growth and infrastructure development.

• Growth during World War II: During the Anti-Japanese War (1937–1945), many enterprises were evacuated to Guiyang from the central regions of China. This provided a powerful impetus for economic development, road construction, and the city's transformation into an important rear base.

• Post-War Industrialisation: After 1949, the city became a major industrial base. The construction of railways linking Guiyang with other parts of the country was completed, and metallurgy, machine building, and the chemical industry developed actively.

• Start of the "Big Data" Era (2013): A turning point in the city's modern history was 2013, when Guiyang set a course for developing the digital economy. The city began actively attracting investment in the information technology sector, which marked the beginning of its transformation.

• Creation of the First Data Exchange (2015): In April 2015, China's first big data exchange was launched in Guiyang. This event definitively secured the city's status as a pioneer in the country's digital industry.

• National "Silicon Valley" Status: Guiyang received the status of a national cluster for big data industry development, attracting global tech giants such as Apple and Tencent to host their data centres. The city came to be called "China's Big Data Valley".

• Modern Metropolis: Thanks to the rapid growth of the IT sector, Guiyang has transformed into a modern city with futuristic architecture, developed transport infrastructure, including an international airport and high-speed trains, and has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.

The architectural appearance of Guiyang represents a unique combination of traditional Chinese structures, functional 20th-century buildings, and ultra-modern edifices reflecting its new status as China's "digital valley". The city can largely be divided into the old part with its historical centre and new districts demonstrating rapid urban development.

Traditional Architecture (Ming and Qing Eras)

Guiyang's historical core has preserved examples of classical Chinese architecture, characterised by wooden structures, curved tiled roofs, and harmonious integration into the natural landscape. The most iconic monument of this era is the Jiaxiu Tower, built in 1598. This elegant three-tiered pagoda, 20 metres high and erected on a rock in the middle of the Nanming River, has become a true symbol of the city. Other important sites include the Wenmiao Temple (Confucius Temple) of the Ming Dynasty and the Hongfu Monastery on Qianling Mountain, founded in 1672. Not far from the city lies the Qingyan Ancient Town, where one can see well-preserved stone streets and traditional buildings of that era.

Soviet Influence and Industrialisation (Mid-20th Century)

In the mid-20th century, particularly during the "Third Front" programme, Guiyang actively developed as an industrial centre. During this time, many functional buildings in the spirit of Soviet constructivism appeared in the city. The main focus was not on aesthetics but on practicality: factories, industrial complexes, and residential quarters for workers were built. This development, although not a tourist attraction, constitutes an important part of Guiyang's urban planning history, reflecting its industrial past.

Modernity and Postmodernism (21st Century)

Since the early 2000s, and especially with Guiyang's transformation into a big data hub, the city's architectural landscape began to change radically. New districts, such as Guanshanhu, are being built up with glass and concrete skyscrapers, futuristic office centres, and modern residential complexes. The architecture of this period is distinguished by bold shapes, asymmetry, and the use of the latest technologies. Iconic postmodernist objects are appearing in the city, including data centres of global tech giants and exhibition complexes, which form the new, high-tech face of Guiyang, contrasting with its historical centre.

Distinguished Figures Associated with Guiyang

Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou province, has throughout its history been the birthplace and place of activity for many outstanding individuals who have contributed to the politics, culture, science, and art of China. Here are some of them:

• Ding Baozhen (1820–1886)

  Role: Statesman of the Qing Dynasty, governor of Shandong and Sichuan provinces.
  Significance: An outstanding official of the late Qing Empire, known for his fight against corruption and modernisation projects. Worldwide, his name is associated with the famous Sichuan dish — "Kung Pao Chicken" (Gongbao Jiding), which, according to legend, was named after his court title "Gongbao".

• Chen Kuilong (1857–1948)

  Role: Statesman, scholar.
  Significance: Held high posts in the late Qing government, including the position of Viceroy of Zhili (the metropolitan province). He was also a renowned calligrapher and scholar. His career spans the transition period from empire to republic, making his memoirs an important historical source.

• Li Tianchu (1898–1980)

  Role: Educator, public figure.
  Significance: One of the pioneers of modern education in Guizhou province. He made a significant contribution to the development of the region's educational system in the 20th century by founding and reforming several educational institutions. His activities helped improve literacy levels and access to education.

• Jiang Qing (born 1949)

  Role: Philosopher, scholar.
  Significance: One of the most famous contemporary representatives of Confucian thought in China. Founder of the Yangming Confucian Academy in Guiyang. His works are dedicated to the revival and adaptation of Confucianism in the modern world, making him an influential figure in intellectual circles.

• Gong Linna (born 1975)

  Role: Singer.
  Significance: A famous Chinese singer renowned for her unique vocal style, which combines traditional Chinese music with avant-garde techniques. Her viral song "Tante" ("Uneasy") brought her widespread fame both in China and abroad, making her a symbol of musical innovation.

• He Jie (born 1986)

  Role: Singer, actress.
  Significance: One of the bright stars of the modern Chinese pop scene. She gained nationwide fame after participating in the popular music competition "Super Girl" in 2005. Since then, she has released many successful albums and singles, becoming an idol for the youth.