Yan'an, Historical city in northern Shaanxi, China
Yan'an is a city situated on the Loess Plateau in northern Shaanxi province, sitting at an elevation of around 975 meters (3,200 feet). The landscape is marked by deep ravines carved by windblown soil, creating a rugged terrain that shapes how the city is built and organized.
The city became the headquarters of the Chinese Communist Party starting in 1935, when leaders arrived after completing the Long March and chose to establish their base here. From this location, they organized their resistance and campaigns for the next 14 years until they took control of the country.
The city holds deep meaning in Communist revolutionary history, visible through numerous memorials and museums that visitors can explore throughout the streets. These places show how the movement shaped daily life and how leaders and supporters lived during those years.
The city is served by Yan'an Nanniwan Airport, which operates regular flights to major destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an for easy access. The hilly and uneven terrain throughout the area means visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes, as paths and streets can be steep and challenging.
More than 140 revolutionary sites are scattered throughout the city and surrounding areas, including traditional cave dwellings where Communist leaders lived and worked. These preserved cave rooms offer visitors a rare glimpse into everyday conditions during that era.
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