As we reflect on 90 years of history, a significant online thematic promotion event titled “Shining on the Long March Road, Advancing on a New Journey – The Red Ribbon on Earth” was launched on October 17. A group of journalists from various media outlets and influential online figures made their way to the Li Ping Conference site located in the Li Ping County of the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture in Guizhou Province.

Referred to as the “City of Dawn,” Li Ping holds the distinction of being the first city in Guizhou to welcome the Central Red Army. With a history spanning over 1,300 years, it lies at the intersection of Hunan, Guizhou, and Guangxi provinces. After a troop transfer in December 1934, the Central Red Army embarked on their journey to Guizhou via two routes, entering Li Ping on December 15. At that time, debates about whether to head north or west were still ongoing, with leaders like Bo Gu and Li De advocating for a march toward western Hunan.

To address concerns regarding route, ideology, and troop morale, the Central Red Army convened the first Politburo meeting during the Long March on December 18, 1934 – known as the “Li Ping Conference.” The conference reaffirmed the leadership of the Communist Party of China and independently resolved the military route issues of the Long March, turning the troop transfer proposal from the Tongdao Conference into reality, marking the first strategic shift for the Central Red Army during this journey.

“The Zunyi Conference is recognized as a great turning point in history, while the Li Ping Conference is considered the starting point of that significant transformation…” journalists followed the guide as they explored the historically rich Li Ping Conference site. The profound red culture and historical significance of this location have earned it a prominent reputation. Today, it serves as a national patriotic education base for youth, a demonstration base for patriotic education, and a key cultural heritage site in Guizhou Province.

Originally known as the “Hu Rongshun Commercial House,” the conference site is a traditional courtyard building from the Ming and Qing dynasties, featuring fire walls and distinctive wooden structures. In 2009, the Central Office approved the establishment of the Li Ping Conference Memorial Hall. The original conference site is preserved as-is, while the commemorative hall includes an exhibition area designed in the Huizhou architectural style. The exhibition is divided into five sections: “Strategic Transfer and the Fight Against Japan,” “The Starting Point of the Great Turning Point – The Li Ping Conference,” “Towards Victory,” “Red Memories,” and “Today’s Li Ping.” These exhibits vividly illustrate the conference’s role and significance in the history of the Chinese revolution.

The revolutionary artifacts displayed within the memorial are not merely remnants of the past; they stand as powerful testimonies to the bravery and unwavering spirit of those who fought for national liberation and prosperity.

“Witnessing the significant sacrifices made by many before us allows us to truly appreciate the era we live in today. The deep bond between the Red Army and the local people in Li Ping is incredibly moving,” said Wang Yiqing, an editor with CCTV. She added that further reports on the Li Ping Conference would be forthcoming.

Li Yongpeng, a reporter for China Youth Online, shared his thoughts: “Visiting Li Ping County and exploring the various footprints and artifacts left by the Long March, I can truly feel the hardships endured by the Red Army back then. It motivates us as future generations to cherish the revolutionary achievements won through great effort. As media professionals, we must share these red stories with the public; this event is incredibly meaningful.”

Reporters: Li Fajing, Liu Pengcheng, Shao Xiaorui 【Editor: Li Yan】