Longzhou

The city of Longzhou, located in the south of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, has a rich and centuries-old history closely linked to its strategic position on the border with Vietnam. Its formation and development were defined by both military and trade factors, making it an important center on China's southern frontiers.

Longzhou's history can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty. In 713 AD, Longzhou Prefecture (龙州) was officially established in this territory, indicating the existence of a significant administrative and military settlement as early as the early Middle Ages. For centuries, Longzhou served as a vital outpost for controlling the southern borders and managing frontier territories. Following the Xinhai Revolution, during the administrative reform of 1912, the prefecture was reorganized into Longzhou County.

Trade played an especially crucial role in the city's development. Thanks to its strategic location at the "gateway" to Southeast Asia, Longzhou evolved into a bustling commercial hub. In the late 19th century, after the signing of trade agreements with France, it became one of the first trading ports opened in China's inland regions. This status attracted merchants, facilitating the exchange of goods and technology. The proximity to Vietnam and the historical presence of the Zhuang population shaped a distinctive culture, while the opening to foreign trade brought elements of European style to the city's architecture and lifestyle, remnants of which can still be observed today.

The history of Longzhou, situated on the southern border of China, spans over a thousand years. The city has witnessed the changing of dynasties, played a pivotal role in international trade, and served as a stage for significant historical events.

Key Milestones in Longzhou's History

• 713 AD — During the Tang Dynasty, Longzhou Prefecture was officially established in this territory, marking the first mention of it as an important administrative center.
• Late 19th Century — Following the signing of trade agreements with France, Longzhou becomes one of the first inland ports in China opened to international trade.
• 1884–1885 — The city is situated near the events of the Sino-French War, fought for control over neighboring Vietnam, which concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Tientsin.
• 1912 — As a result of administrative reform after the Xinhai Revolution, the prefecture was reorganized into Longzhou County.
• 1928 — Shangjin County is separated from Longzhou County as a distinct entity.
• 1930 — A major uprising led by the Communist Party takes place in Longzhou, resulting in the brief establishment of the Zuo River Soviet Republic.
• 1937 — Longzhou County is temporarily renamed Longjin.
• 1945 — During World War II, the city becomes a point of retreat for forces during the Second Guangxi Campaign.
• Late 1949 — Following the founding of the PRC, the Longzhou Special District was established, confirming its administrative status.
• 1951 — The Longzhou Special District was renamed Chongzuo, and the previously separated Shangjin County was reintegrated into its territory.

Milestones in Longzhou's Development

The development of Longzhou as a major regional center was shaped by its strategic border position and active participation in international trade. The city has evolved from a military outpost into a modern tourism and economic hub.

• Trade Gateway to Southeast Asia. In the late 19th century, following the signing of agreements with France, Longzhou became one of the first inland ports in China opened to international trade. This transformed the city into a key center for commercial ties with Vietnam and other countries, fostering economic growth and an influx of foreign capital.
• Formation of a Unique Architectural Identity. Opening up to foreign influence led to the emergence of European-style buildings. A prime example is the former French Consulate, which remains a major landmark today, reflecting Longzhou's cosmopolitan past.
• Center of Political Movements. In 1930, the city became the center of an uprising led by Deng Xiaoping, resulting in the establishment of the Soviet Republic on the Zuo River. This event secured Longzhou's place in history and underscored its strategic importance.
• Regional Administrative Center. Throughout the 20th century, the city's status changed several times, but it consistently maintained its role as an important administrative center. After the founding of the PRC, the creation of the Longzhou Special District in 1949 and subsequent reforms strengthened its administrative functions in the region.
• Development of Cross-Border Trade. In the modern era, Longzhou actively utilizes its border position to develop trade relations with Vietnam. The city serves as an important logistics hub for the export and import of goods, stimulating the local economy.
• Focus on Cultural Tourism. Longzhou attracts tourists not only with its history but also with unique cultural sites. The most prominent is the Huashan Rock Art Cultural Landscape along the Zuo River. In 2016, these ancient images were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, significantly boosting the tourism appeal of the entire region.
• Agricultural Sector. As part of the fertile Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Longzhou also develops its agriculture. The cultivation of sugarcane, fruits, and other crops forms a vital part of the county's economy, meeting both domestic needs and export demands.

The architecture of Longzhou is a vivid chronicle of the city, captured in stone and wood. Here, traditional motifs of southern China harmoniously intertwine with elegant features of European colonial style. This unique fusion resulted from the city's opening to international trade in the late 19th century, which transformed it into a true melting pot of cultures and architectural ideas.

Strolling through the historic quarters, one can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Lingnan architectural style dominates here, characteristic of the country's southern regions and perfectly adapted to the hot and humid climate. Typical features of these buildings include wide sloping roofs, shaded arcade galleries known as qilou, cozy inner courtyards for natural ventilation, and the use of gray brick to help maintain coolness.

The most striking reminder of the city's cosmopolitan past is the building complex of the former French Consulate. Built in 1896, it serves as a textbook example of European architecture from that period. High ceilings, spacious verandas with graceful arches, and large windows with wooden shutters were designed for comfort in the subtropics, creating a stark contrast to traditional Chinese buildings. Today, this beautifully preserved ensemble is one of the city's main attractions.

Modern Longzhou does not stand still, and new features are added to its appearance in the form of contemporary residential complexes and public spaces. However, a distinctive feature of the city's development is its careful attitude toward its heritage. Instead of displacing history, new projects strive for harmonious integration, creating a unique urban environment where the past and present do not clash but engage in a meaningful dialogue.

Notable Figures Associated with Longzhou

The history of Longzhou and the entire Guangxi region is rich with events in which prominent military, political, and cultural figures played key roles. Below are some individuals whose lives and activities left a significant mark on the city's history.

• Nong Zhigao — An 11th-century leader of the Zhuang people. Nong Zhigao was an ambitious chieftain who led several uprisings against the Song Dynasty and the Vietnamese state of Đại Cồ Việt, seeking to establish an independent kingdom in the southern lands. His legacy is an important part of the history of the Zhuang people and the region surrounding Longzhou.
• Cen Chunxuan — A prominent political and military figure of the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China. Born in Guangxi, he served as the Viceroy of Liangguang (Guangdong and Guangxi provinces), exerting significant influence on the political and economic life of the region during a turning point for the country.
• Deng Xiaoping — One of the key figures in the history of the Communist Party of China and a future leader of the nation. In 1930, he was one of the primary leaders of the Longzhou Uprising, serving as a political commissar. This event led to the creation of the 8th Red Army and the establishment of a revolutionary government in the Zuo River basin.
• Li Mingrui — A military commander who played a central role in the revolutionary movement in Guangxi. He was appointed commander-in-chief of the 7th and 8th Red Armies, which were formed following the uprisings in Baise and Longzhou, becoming a key military figure in the early stages of the regional conflict.
• Yu Zuoyu — A military figure and participant in the Longzhou Uprising. He was appointed commander of the 8th Red Army, which was established directly in Longzhou in February 1930. His name is inextricably linked to this important episode in the city's revolutionary history.