1 hour away from Hukou, explore the secret military site in southern Shanxi - Kenanpo

Kenanpo is located northwest of Ji County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province, about 30 kilometers from the county seat. It is located in the ravine area of the Loess Plateau on the east bank of the Yellow River. It is surrounded by ravines on three sides and is backed by mountains on one side.
What is the history❓️
1️⃣ Name change story: This place was originally called "Nancun Slope", which was considered unlucky because of the rhyme of "difficult to survive". In 1940, it was renamed "Kenan Slope" by Yan Xishan, commander of the Nationalist Party's Second Combat Zone and chairman of the Shanxi Provincial Government.
2️⃣ Period of Resistance: From 1940 to 1945, Yan Xishan moved the Second Combat Zone Command and the Shanxi Provincial Government here, built kiln caves and fortifications, and became a temporary military and political command center in Shanxi.
What to see❓️
1️⃣ Yan Xishan's former residence
It consists of more than ten holes of kiln caves, including residential areas and office areas, displaying old tables and chairs, kerosene lamps and other daily necessities, which can intuitively feel the living environment of military and political officials at that time.
2️⃣Wanghe Pavilion
The commanding heights of the scenic spot, where Yan Xishan once observed the enemy situation on the other side of the Yellow River. The pavilion retains its own stone tablet titled "Looking at the River Pavilion". Climbing the pavilion can overlook the magnificent landscape of the Yellow River.
3️⃣ Hong Futai site
The open-air earth platform was the place where Yan Xishan held military and political meetings and lectures. The stone tablet in front of the platform was inscribed with his proposed "Hong Fu Spirit" (meaning to exercise his will), which was a window to understand his philosophy of running the army.
4️⃣ Defense fortifications
There are existing tunnels, fortresses, trenches and other military ruins. Some of the tunnels can be entered to experience and feel the defense strategy of "building defenses against the mountains and hiding soldiers in kilns".
5️⃣ Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall
Through historical photos, literature, weapons and other physical objects, the role of Kenanpo in the war of resistance is demonstrated.
What are the characteristics of the architecture❓️
1️⃣ Kiln cave cluster: more than 200 holes kiln cave excavated and built according to the mountain, divided into office area, residential area, warehouse area, some kiln caves are up to 100 meters deep, with both concealment and practicality.
2️⃣ Military design: authentically connected to the main buildings, the fortress has a shooting hole, embodying the defense needs of the "wartime command post".
Practical strategy
✅ Opening Hours: 8:30-17:30 (Open all year round)
✅ Tickets: online 35 yuan / person
✅ Transportation:
🚘Driving: Navigate the "Kenanpo Scenic Area", about 1 hour drive from Ji County, some mountain roads need to drive cautiously.
✅ Surrounding tours:
Hukou Waterfall (1 hour drive): The water volume is amazing during the flood season, and the icy river bed can be seen during the dry season.
Renzu Mountain (40 minutes by car): Legend has it that Fuxi Nuwa created the world here.
💡Pit avoidance reminder
⚠️ Some tunnels are narrow and humid, hypertension, claustrophobia patients beware.
⚠️ Historical interpretation needs to be cautious: it is recommended to visit rationally combined with authoritative historical materials (such as "History of the Shanxi War of Resistance").
Is it worth going❓️
✅ Recommended for: Military history fans, anti-war research team.
❌ Careful selection of people: pure photography tourists (scenic spots are mainly ruins, few entertainment facilities).