Yan’an - Self-reliance and hard work, forged during the Great Production Movement started in 1939, are defining features of the Chinese character and enduring spirit.

The slogan remains visible today in the Nanniwan Scenic Area, the birthplace of China's military and agricultural reclamation.

Under the blue sky and amidst the white clouds, the sprawling rice fields of the Thousand-Mu Rice Fields define the picturesque landscape of the Nanniwan Scenic Area.

The sprawling rice fields of the Thousand-Mu Rice Fields in the Nanniwan Scenic Area. (Photo/ Vivian Yan)

With over 80 years of history, it is astounding to think that once a barren "mud bay," this area has transformed into a thriving rice production hub and a leading destination for red tourism.

 "Nanniwan rice has a smooth touch, full grains, strong texture, and a natural fragrance," said Cao Jie, a company leader from Nanniwan (Group) Agriculture Co., Ltd. "It has high nutritional value and is a model of leisure and sightseeing agriculture in northern Shaanxi."

Nanniwan has partnered with Beidahuang Group Heilongjiang Suibin Farm Co., Ltd. to enhance the "Nanniwan Rice" brand with new rice varieties and technologies. Since 2019, trial planting of "sea rice" on its saline-alkali land has led to improved soil and increased yields.

In 2024, the rice planting area in Nanniwan will be 1,000 mu. The main varieties planted include Wuyoudao No. 4, Chuxiangjing No. 1, and Longyang 16. Over 10 other varieties, such as Longdao 124, Longdao 27, and Jiyuanxiang No. 1, are being tested. The rice yield per mu reaches more than 500 kilograms, and the output value per mu exceeds 4,000 yuan.

The Thousand-Mu Rice Fields now support agricultural production and vibrant agri-tourism, drawing many visitors each planting and harvest season. The spirit of "Self-reliance and Hard work" also attracts tourists interested in learning about the area. 

“This year, nearly ten primary schools participated in rice planting and harvesting activities, with planting in late May and harvesting in October," said Zhang Meng, a Nanniwan (Group) Agriculture Co., Ltd staff member. 

She added that larger groups typically allocate seven or eight mu of land to help tourists recall red history and experience Mao Zedong's spirit of "self-reliance."

The Great Production Movement aimed to achieve self-sufficiency in the liberated areas, primarily in response to the Guomindang blockade that sought to cut off essential resources. Nanniwan stands as an authentic example of this movement in the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Border Region.

Tools used in planting the Thousand-Mu Rice Fields during the Great Production Movement. (Photo/ Vivian Yan)

Located 45 kilometers southeast of Yan'an City, Shaanxi Province, Nanniwan is a prominent tourist spot. Surrounded by mounds and hills, the river flows north to south, creating a bow-shaped bay with rich alluvium, giving Nanniwan its name.