Tour guide Yang Zhenyu shares the story of Zuo's sacrifice, emphasizing the importance of passing down this history to younger generations. "There was a group of brave predecessors who bled and sacrificed for our happiness. It's something to be forever proud of," he said.

In recent years, leveraging its rich Red cultural heritage, Zuoquan has developed key attractions like the Matian Eighth Route Army Headquarters zone and the Tongyu 1941 Town project, establishing itself as a key destination for Red tourism in Shanxi.

To further preserve and teach this Red culture, a Red Culture Study Base was inaugurated in the county. The base aims to use the area's rich resources as educational tools, providing immersive experiences that allow young people to understand the depth of the revolutionary spirit and the warmth of history.

As summer unfolds, the historical sites, including the Matian Eighth Route Army Headquarters and Tongyu 1941 Town, bustle with visitors eager to engage in Red-themed activities. Since its premiere on June 1, the interactive Red drama Tongyu Defense Battle has become a hit, allowing visitors to don period costumes and participate in battle reenactments, experiencing firsthand the courage and conviction of the revolutionaries.

Liu Xiaodong, the 27-year-old director of the play, said: "Participants are no longer mere spectators; they are deeply immersed, fighting alongside actors. Through this interaction, they can truly feel the steadfast faith and bravery of the revolutionary forebears."

Ren Yingying, the operations manager at Zuoquan Cultural Tourism Development Company, expressed a commitment to making Red culture more engaging and accessible. "We aim to bring Red culture into everyday life in a vivid and experiential way, enhancing Zuoquan's reputation and influence."

Contact the writers at zhuxingxin@chinadaily.com.cn