Meizhou history

Meizhou, known as the "Hakka Capital," boasts a rich and multi-layered history closely intertwined with the culture of this unique ethnic group. The city has come a long way from ancient settlements to becoming a significant cultural and economic centre in the northeast of Guangdong Province.

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of an administrative centre in this territory can be traced back to the Southern Han Dynasty (917–971 AD), when Jing Prefecture was established. However, the city received its modern name, associated with the "Meihua" (plum blossom) and the Mei River, much later. Over the centuries, the status and name of the region changed repeatedly:

• Song Dynasty (960–1279): The prefecture was renamed Meizhou, but was later abolished.
• Qing Dynasty (1644–1912): In 1733, the Jiaying Prefecture was created, which was subsequently raised to the status of a commandery and then downgraded again. These changes reflected the growing strategic importance of the region.

Key Development Factors

The development of Meizhou was defined by several key aspects. Its geographical location in the mountainous terrain at the junction of Guangdong, Fujian, and Jiangxi provinces made it a natural fortress and a hub for migration flows, particularly for the Hakka people who moved here en masse from northern China. This shaped a unique cultural landscape and defensive architecture, such as the famous "Tulou" fortress houses. Trade routes passing through the region fostered economic growth, while fertile lands in the river valleys allowed for the development of agriculture.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning, Meizhou was a centre of Hakka culture. This was evident in everything from the distinct dialect and cuisine to music and traditions. The region's economy historically relied on agriculture, particularly rice and tea cultivation. Later, the region became known for its extensive pomelo plantations. From the 19th century onwards, mass emigration of Meizhou residents to Southeast Asia and other parts of the world began. Many returning Huaqiao (Overseas Chinese) invested in their hometown, building residences and contributing to its further development.

Key Milestones in the History of Meizhou

The history of Meizhou is a chronicle of the development of Hakka culture, administrative transformations, and its evolution into an important regional hub. Below are the main events that shaped the face of the modern city.

• 917–971 (Southern Han Dynasty): Jing Prefecture was established on these lands, marking the first step towards forming an administrative centre in the region.
• 960–1279 (Song Dynasty): The prefecture first received the name Meizhou, derived from the name of the Mei River and the "Meihua" plum blossom.
• 1733 (Qing Dynasty): The Jiaying Commandery was created, reflecting the territory's growing strategic and administrative importance.
• 19th Century: A period of mass emigration of the Hakka people from Meizhou to Southeast Asian countries and other corners of the world began, making the city a "homeland" for many Huaqiao (Overseas Chinese).
• 1913: A women's normal school was founded, which eventually grew into the modern Jiaying University — the city's main higher education institution.
• 1988: The prefecture-level city of Meizhou was officially established in its modern form, uniting several counties and districts under its administration.
• 1995: A railway line connecting Meizhou with Longchuan was put into operation, significantly improving transport accessibility.
• 2019: Traffic opened on the Meizhou–Chaoshan high-speed railway line, integrating the city into the national high-speed network.
• 2024: The new Longyan–Longchuan high-speed railway was launched, passing through Meizhou and strengthening its status as a vital transport hub.

Major Milestones in Meizhou's Development

The history of Meizhou is not just a change of dynasties and names, but a continuous process of cultural and economic formation. The city has traveled a unique path, transforming from a mountain settlement into a recognised centre of Hakka culture and an important transport hub. Here are several key stages that defined its modern appearance.

• Emergence as the "Hakka Capital"

  The mass migration of the Hakka people from northern China to the mountainous areas of Meizhou became a foundational factor in the city's history. This not only formed its unique cultural code — a distinct dialect, cuisine, and traditions — but also defined its architectural appearance, including the famous fortified dwellings. Today, Meizhou is the primary centre for the study and preservation of Hakka heritage.

• Wave of Emigration and Overseas Chinese Investment (19th–20th Centuries)

  From the 19th century, mass emigration of Meizhou residents to Southeast Asia and other parts of the world began. This led to the formation of an influential diaspora. Many emigrants, having achieved success abroad, began to invest in their hometown, building schools, roads, and public buildings. This influx of capital played a huge role in the modernisation and development of the region.

• Development of Education and Science

  The founding of a women's normal school in 1913, which eventually grew into Jiaying University, was a turning point in the city's cultural life. Today, this university is a leading academic centre for Hakka studies, strengthening Meizhou's status as an intellectual hub and attracting researchers from around the world.

• Economic Diversification

  Historically, Meizhou's economy relied on agriculture. However, in recent decades, significant diversification has occurred. The city has become an important centre for pomelo and tea cultivation, and has also begun to develop industry. The opening of new production facilities and the attraction of investments have contributed to economic growth and the creation of new jobs.

• Transport Revolution (Late 20th – Early 21st Centuries)

  Being located in a mountainous area, Meizhou remained relatively isolated for a long time. The construction of railway lines, and especially the launch of the high-speed main line in 2019, radically changed the situation. The city was integrated into the national transport network, giving a powerful boost to the development of tourism, logistics, and business.

• Transformation into a Tourism Centre

  Realising the value of its heritage, Meizhou is actively developing tourism. Sites such as the China Hakka Museum, the ancient town of Songkou, and picturesque tea terraces attract many travellers. The development of tourism infrastructure has become one of the key directions of the city's modern economy, allowing it to share its unique culture with the world.

The architectural appearance of the city of Meizhou, located in Guangdong Province in China, is inextricably linked with the culture of the Hakka people, for whom this city is a historical homeland. It was the traditions and way of life of the Hakka that defined the unique features of local architecture, distinguishing it from other regions of the country.

The key and most recognisable form of architecture in Meizhou is the Weilongwu (Chinese: 围龙屋) — giant fortified residential complexes. Unlike the more famous circular "Tulou" in the neighbouring Fujian Province, Weilongwu most often have a semicircular or U-shaped form. These fortress houses were built from rammed earth, stone, and wood. They were intended to house an entire clan, numbering hundreds of people, and combined residential, defensive, economic, and ritual functions. A clan temple was traditionally located in the centre of the complex, emphasising the importance of respect for ancestors.

In addition to the monumental Weilongwu, the architectural landscape of the region is complemented by elegant ancestral halls and ancient temples. These structures are often decorated with intricate wood, stone, and brick carving, as well as bright frescoes depicting mythological subjects and scenes from daily life. Examples include the Confucian Temple in Meizhou and the Shilin Buddhist Temple. These structures serve as vivid examples of Southern Chinese temple architecture.

In modern Meizhou, traditional buildings coexist with new structures. The growing districts of the city are being built up with modern residential complexes, shopping centres, and office buildings, creating a contrast between the centuries-old Hakka heritage and the dynamic development of the present day. This symbiosis of the old and the new gives the city a special charm and attracts travellers wishing to explore the unique Hakka culture.

Notable People of Meizhou

Meizhou, being the "Hakka Capital," has given China and the world many talented and influential people in various fields — from politics and military affairs to art and sports. Below are some of the most famous natives and figures associated with this city.

• Ye Jianying (1897–1986)

  Role: Political and military leader, Marshal of the PRC.
  Significance: One of the most influential Chinese leaders of the 20th century. Ye Jianying was born in Meixian County (now part of Meizhou) and played a key role in many events, including the Long March, the war against Japan, and political processes after the death of Mao Zedong. From 1978 to 1983, he served as the formal head of state — Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress.

• Huang Zunxian (1848–1905)

  Role: Poet, diplomat, reformer.
  Significance: A prominent intellectual of the late Qing Dynasty. Originally from Meizhou, he served as the Consul General of China in San Francisco and Singapore. Huang Zunxian advocated for the modernisation of China and is considered one of the pioneers of the "Poetic Revolution," seeking to update classical poetry. His work "Treatise on Japan" had a major influence on the reform movement in the country.

• Lin Fengmian (1900–1991)

  Role: Artist, educator.
  Significance: One of the founding fathers of modern Chinese painting. Born in Meizhou, Lin Fengmian was educated in France and became a pioneer in synthesising Western modernism and traditional Chinese ink painting. He was the first director of the National Academy of Art (now the China Academy of Art) and trained several generations of artists, despite persecution during the Cultural Revolution.

• Li Huitang (1905–1979)

  Role: Footballer, coach.
  Significance: Considered the greatest footballer in Chinese history, often called the "King of Football." Although born in Hong Kong, his ancestors hailed from Wuhua County (part of Meizhou), where he was sent as a child for education. He captained the Chinese national team at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin and, according to some records, scored over 1,200 goals during his career.

• Xie Jinyuan (1905–1941)

  Role: Military figure, Colonel.
  Significance: A national hero of China, famous during the Second Sino-Japanese War. A native of Jiaoling County (part of Meizhou), he led the heroic defense of Sihang Warehouse in Shanghai in 1937. His courageous resistance significantly boosted the morale of Chinese troops and civilians. He was assassinated in 1941 and posthumously promoted to Major General.

• Liao Zhongkai (1877–1925)

  Role: Revolutionary, politician.
  Significance: A close associate of Sun Yat-sen and a key figure in the Kuomintang party during its early stages. As a representative of the Hakka people, he is closely linked to the cultural history of Meizhou. Liao Zhongkai actively promoted the creation of a united front between the Kuomintang and the Communist Party, serving as Minister of Finance and Governor of Guangdong Province. His assassination in 1925 was a severe blow to the left wing of the Kuomintang.