Torch relay celebrates bond between two cities through red leaves and legacy of mass education

The global relay event "I Send Red Leaves to You," part of the 23rd Sichuan Guangwushan International Red Leaves Festival, took place on Oct 24 in Dingzhou, Hebei. The event highlighted the profound historical connection between Bazhong, Sichuan, and Dingzhou, Hebei—cities over a thousand miles apart—linked by the legacy of Mr Yan Yangchu, revered as the "Father of Mass Education."

A symbolic red-leaf torch, originating from Guangwu Mountain in Bazhong, was relayed through key cultural sites in Dingzhou, including Yan Yangchu’s former residence, the Mass Education Historical and Cultural Block, and Yan Yangchu High School. The torch was passed by representatives including Yan Hongguo, Yan’s grand-nephew and researcher; Miao Yong, acclaimed writer and author of the biography Yan Yangchu; and Yan Shuwen, Deputy Secretary-General of the Sichuan Yan Yangchu Research Association. Together, they presented Bazhong’s dual heritage to the world: Guangwu Mountain as its natural landmark, and Yan Yangchu as its cultural emblem.

During the event, the Bazhong Culture & Tourism Development Group announced the "Red Leaf Invitation" special offer. From now until December 31, 2026, teachers, students, and alumni of Yan Yangchu High School will receive free admission to the Guangwu Mountain and Nuoshui River scenic areas. The initiative aims to deepen cultural and tourism ties between the two cities.

Nestled in Bazhong, Sichuan, Guangwu Mountain Tourism Area is recognized as the world’s most unique and well-preserved center of origin for Fagus trees. Each October, the beech forests transform into a stunning palette of red, creating a spectacular view that has earned the area titles such as “China’s No. 1 Red Leaf Mountain” and “Asia’s Largest Red Leaf Destination.”

The 2025 Sichuan Guangwushan International Red Leaves Festival launched the "I Send Red Leaves to You" global torch relay to share the beauty of its autumn foliage. Designed after the iconic red leaves of Guangwu Mountain, the festival torch has previously traveled through domestic cities including Chengdu, Shanghai, and Beijing, as well as international hubs such as New York, Paris, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Seoul.