Yongning

Yongning, a name meaning "Eternal Peace," is not one city, but several distinct historical towns across China, each with its own compelling narrative. From a vital Ming Dynasty military stronghold on the Fujian coast to a former Mosuo autonomous chiefdom at the convergence of Yunnan, Sichuan, and Tibet, and an ancient city in Beijing's Yanqing District, the name echoes through centuries of diverse Chinese history. While some Yongnings offer glimpses into ancient defense strategies and traditional architecture, others reveal unique cultural practices and striking natural landscapes. This guide focuses on two prominent Yongning towns: the coastal defense city in Fujian and the historic town in Beijing's Yanqing District.

Whether you seek the strategic remnants of a coastal fortress or the restored grandeur of a Ming Dynasty trading hub, the various Yongnings offer a journey through time. These towns provide a peaceful retreat from major tourist centers, allowing visitors to experience authentic local lifestyles and appreciate the enduring legacy of China's past. From intricate carvings to labyrinthine streets, each Yongning presents a unique facet of Chinese heritage.

## Yongning, Fujian: A Coastal Bastion Yongning in Fujian, situated on the coast of Shishi City, Quanzhou, carries a history spanning over 600 years. Its strategic location made it an essential port and coastal defense hub in southeastern Fujian. During the Ming Dynasty, the imperial court established a city here, which, in its prime, was considered one of China's three major garrison cities, alongside Tianjin Wei and Weihai Wei. This fortress played a crucial role in defending against pirates and foreign invasions, as well as facilitating maritime trade.

The town is characterized by traditional Minnan-style red brick architecture, featuring intricate carvings. Significant historical sites include the Sister-in-law Tower (also known as Wanshou Tower or Guansuo Tower) and the City God Temple, both provincial-level cultural relics. Other municipal-level protected sites include Huxiu Temple Cliff Carvings and the Zhenhai Stone. The City God Temple is also associated with a local story about the Japanese army attempting to burn it three times during the Anti-Japanese War, but failing.

## Yongning, Beijing: A Ming Dynasty Revival Yongning Town in Beijing's Yanqing District also carries a profound history, first established as a county in 1414 during the Ming Dynasty, with the surrounding area mentioned in records as early as 1380. It became an important military post by 1469, commanding over 8,000 officers and troops. Beyond its military significance, Yongning was a well-known trading hub, particularly for its surrounding farmland. The town's historical importance declined by the late 1800s and its cultural relics suffered during the Cultural Revolution.

However, a government initiative in the 2000s began restoring parts of Yongning to its Ming Dynasty appearance, focusing on Gongchen Street, the old market precinct, and the Sipai Tower in the town center. The ancient city, which was first built in the Tang Dynasty, was restored to its original appearance in 2002. Today, visitors can explore the newly built east, west, north, and south city walls, alongside remnants of ancient city walls. The central Jade Emperor Pavilion, radiating four streets, is a prominent landmark.

In Yongning, Fujian, explore the ancient Yongning Fortress, a testament to its past as a vital coastal defense. Wander through the labyrinthine narrow streets to admire the distinctive Minnan-style red brick architecture, adorned with intricate carvings. Visit the provincial-level cultural relics like the Sister-in-law Tower (Wanshou Tower or Guansuo Tower) and the City God Temple. The town also offers scenic coastal views along the East China Sea shoreline, providing a peaceful glimpse into traditional coastal life.

In Yongning, Beijing, begin at the central Jade Emperor Pavilion, a three-layered structure over 30 meters high, offering a commanding view of the town. Explore Gongchen Street, the old market precinct, which has been restored to its Ming Dynasty appearance. The town is also known for its local tofu, with merchants selling fresh blocks at the weekend market. A notable architectural contrast is the Yongning Catholic Church, a Gothic Revival structure dating back to the Qing Dynasty, rebuilt in 1903 after being destroyed by the Boxers.

The best times to visit Yongning, whether in Fujian or Beijing, generally align with China's spring and autumn seasons. For Yongning, Fujian, warm-weather activities are best enjoyed from late May to early June and from early September to mid-October. For Yongning, Beijing, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) offer mild temperatures and comfortable conditions for exploring. These periods avoid the bitterly cold winters and hot, humid summers.

Yongning, Fujian, is located in Shishi City, Quanzhou, and is accessible by taxi or Didi, with public buses also serving popular spots. The ancient town is open year-round, 24/7, with a recommended sightseeing time of 2-3 hours. Admission is free. When visiting, consider enjoying the local seafood and the cafes around the ancient town. For Yongning, Beijing, located in Yanqing District, a taxi from the county costs around 15 RMB to the China Hui Ethnic Culture Park. For two-day tours, car rental is recommended (150 RMB/day) for convenience, especially for families. The ancient city is open year-round, 24/7, with a recommended sightseeing time of 3-4 hours, and free admission. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if planning to pick fruits or vegetables, and consider a light jacket in spring and autumn due to temperature differences.