Reflections on the Long March: A Journey Through China's History and Resilience

In September 2026, I found myself reflecting deeply on my journey along the Long March, a route retraced not just once, but twice over a span of ten years. The first time I embarked on this journey was during the 80th anniversary of the Long March, back in 2016. At that point, I was just a young journalist, eager to absorb the historical significance and rich narratives that surrounded me. Fast forward to ten years later and I returned to commemorate the 90th anniversary, but this time enriched with personal and professional growth.

The Long March and Its Symbolism

The Long March, a military maneuver executed by the Red Army of the Communist Party of China between 1934 and 1936, is an iconic journey illustrating human endurance. This campaign witnessed soldiers traversing rivers, mountains, and diverse landscapes to break the siege imposed by the Kuomintang and continue their fight against Japanese invaders. Their trek covered an astounding 12,500 kilometers, embodying sheer determination amid immense adversities.

The significance of the Long March has matured with my understanding over the years. What resonated with me during my 2016 trip has deepened considerably, as I now comprehend the larger narrative behind every memorial and exhibit—they represent real individuals who sacrificed infinitely for a cause greater than themselves. Retracing this route again allowed me to appreciate these sacrifices and cultivate a profound respect for the unity that helped persevere through tremendous hardships. More importantly, the essence of the Long March speaks not only to China but holds a universal resonance that transcends borders.

Discovering Sichuan: Where History Meets Culture

My journey took me to Sichuan Province, striking a personal chord like no other location along the Long March. This time, I sought to deepen my understanding of the province's historical significance intertwined with its cultural and ecological riches. Witnessing the legacy of the Red Army was only a fragment of my experience in Sichuan; I found a vibrant connection between its people, agriculture, and values of preserving natural beauty—what I refer to as