Site of the Former Custom in Hekou County, Honghe
Overview
Chinese Name: 河口县海关旧址 (Hekou Xian Haiguan Jiu Zhi)
Location: No. 5, Renmin Road (人民路5号), Hekou Yao Autonomous County (河口瑶族自治县), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), China
The Site of the Former Customs in Hekou is located in the southeastern part of Hekou County (河口县) and is approximately 50 meters from the China-Vietnam Railway Bridge (中越铁路大桥). This historic site features a French-style building that was established in the 23rd year of the Guangxu era (光绪二十三年, 1897). It is one of the best-preserved examples of French architecture in the Hekou region and serves as a valuable resource for studying modern history and customs history in Hekou.
In 1998, the site was designated as a provincial-level cultural relic protection unit. In 2001, to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Xinhai Revolution (辛亥革命) and the 93rd anniversary of the Hekou Uprising (河口起义), the site underwent renovations and was converted into the Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall (河口起义纪念馆), becoming an important venue for patriotic education in Hekou County.
Architectural Significance
The architectural style of the Former Customs site is unique, showcasing the elegance and solemnity of French architecture. Features include a flat roof, brick-concrete structure, and an “L”-shaped corridor, all contributing to its distinctive aesthetic. Upon entering the site, visitors feel as if they are transported back in time to an era rich in historical significance.
Historical and Cultural Importance
Beyond its architectural value, the Former Customs site holds significant historical and cultural importance. It has witnessed the historical changes in the Hekou area and stands as a testament to the friendly exchanges between the people of China and Vietnam (中国和越南). It is a rare and precious treasure of Hekou.
In the 13th year of the Guangxu era (光绪十三年, 1887), customs were established in Hekou to manage affairs related to Vietnam (越南). The customs office consisted of five brick and wood structures with red tile roofs, covering an area of 1,127 square meters, making it one of the earlier customs buildings in the region. In 1998, it was officially recognized as a cultural relic protection unit in Yunnan Province.
How to Get There
Transportation Options
- By Bus: Public buses run regularly from major cities, including Kunming (昆明), to Hekou. Once in Hekou, local buses or taxis can take you to the Former Customs site.
- By Car: You can drive from Kunming to Hekou via G320 National Highway (G320国道), enjoying the scenic views along the way.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is from October (10月) to April (4月), when the weather is more pleasant for sightseeing.
- Nearby Attractions: Take the opportunity to explore other historical sites in Hekou, including local markets and the China-Vietnam Railway Bridge.
- Respect the Heritage: Be mindful of the site’s historical significance and avoid any actions that could damage the building.
