Yuanmenkou Square: The Historic and Cultural Heart of Zhaotong
During the Yongzheng reign of the Qing Dynasty (1723–1735), following the completion of the Gaitu Guiliu (replacing hereditary tribal chieftains with centrally appointed officials), the newly constructed city of Zhaotong was laid out in the shape of a turtle—a design symbolizing longevity and stability in traditional Chinese geomancy. At the city’s highest elevation stood the Zhenshu (Town Office), also known as the Zongbingshu (Commander’s Office), the seat of military and administrative power. This complex faced west and consisted of two courtyards. The front courtyard was enclosed by a zhaobi (spirit wall), left and right yuanmen (ceremonial gates), and the main gate.
This site marked the geographic and symbolic center of the city. Both inside and outside the yuanmen, bustling markets thrived, making it the city’s primary public space. From the Qing Dynasty to the present day, this plaza has remained the central square of Zhaotong Ancient Town. Locals have long referred to it as "Yuanmenkou"—literally, "the gate of the official residence"—a name that continues to resonate with historical and cultural significance.
A Site of National Resistance: Yuanmenkou in the War of Resistance
With the outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937, people from all ethnic groups and walks of life in Zhaotong actively supported the national resistance effort. Young men from various communities eagerly enlisted in the military and departed for the front lines.
On September 9, 1937, the 182nd Division of the 60th Army of the Yunnan Expeditionary Force, composed of brave soldiers from Zhaotong and led by Division Commander An Enpu, set off from Yuanmenkou Square. They marched thousands of miles on foot to join the war effort. Tens of thousands of Zhaotong citizens lined the streets to see them off, cheering and offering blessings to the departing troops in a powerful display of unity and patriotism.
In April 1938, the 182nd Division fought valiantly in the second phase of the Battle of Taierzhuang, inflicting heavy casualties on the Japanese forces. Tragically, 3,431 officers and soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation.
Beneath the "Together Facing National Crisis" (Gong Fu Guo Nan) sculpture at Yuanmenkou Square, a granite memorial wall is inscribed with the names of these fallen heroes. Among them are the deeply moving stories of soldiers like Zhao Ke and his elder brother Zhao Jichang, known as the "Brother Captains", whose courage and devotion exemplify the spirit of resistance. Their legacy stands as a testament to the unyielding patriotism of the people of Zhaotong and deserves to be remembered for generations.
Preserving Memory: A Living Monument to History
To further highlight the historical and cultural lineage of Zhaotong Ancient Town, in 2024, a large bronze inlaid ground relief titled "Map of Qing Dynasty Zhaotong: City, Streets, and Government Offices" was installed south of the "Together Facing National Crisis" sculpture. This detailed artistic map allows visitors and residents alike to trace the layout of the old city, rediscover lost landmarks, and reconnect with the rich urban memory of Zhaotong.
Today, Yuanmenkou Square is more than just a historic site—it is a living space where imperial governance, urban life, and national sacrifice converge. It stands as a powerful symbol of Zhaotong’s enduring spirit, where the past is not forgotten but honored in the heart of the city.
