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01-13-2006 17:16

Over the past three episodes we have looked at some of the natural and cultural treasures of the Chishui River area. The region in Southwest China’s Guizhou Province is home to a primeval forest that has survived from the Jurassic Period. The region is also known for its importance to China’s revolutionary history. But it has still one more claim to fame. No state banquet in China is complete without a bottle of Maotai liquor. The drink first became associated with the founders of the People’s Republic of China when the Red Army passed through here on its Long March. In the last episode of our series, we find that the special qualities of the liquor depend on the Chishui River and its special geography.

Maotai is China’s premier liquor. Since its taste depends on the geography and water particular to the Chishui River. Attempts to produce Maotai in other regions failed

. Because of the close ties between Maotai and the local economy, the area is under special protection. But environmental protection is not a new concept to the people living along the river. For hundreds of years, they have looked after the bamboo groves that were established here.

Along the Chishui River, tourism and industry coexist without damaging the precious local environment. It is a region full of natural and historical interest spanning prehistoric to modern times. For generations, the local people have made a living here without harming the environment. They have protected the primeval forest and Danxia topography while adding to its charm. Religious carvings and industrial sites have not interfered with its natural beauty. The area also marks a major turning point in China’s revolutionary history. All this adds to the fascination of this primeval land.

 

Editor:Wang Ping