Historical and Cultural City of China: Shigatse

Author: Xu Ping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-09-01
Features: In 2004, it marked the 100th anniversary of the Tibetan people's anti-British struggle. The bloody turmoil of a century ago has faded, and the Chinese people have long moved beyond profound national hardships. Yet history is etched in the valleys and mountains of Tibet. The Tibet People's Publishing House has launched this series of books, bringing the of a century of turmoil back to life. Shigatse is a heroic city. A hundred years ago, facing the powerful British imperialist invaders, the people of Shigatse fought with primitive weapons and brave courage, writing a tragic story called the "Red Valley" in the history of China's patriotic struggles. Shigatse is an ancient city. During the Tubo Dynasty, it was already densely populated and prosperous. In the Yuan Dynasty, the White Dagoba Temple was built, attracting followers from all over the world. Strategically located at the hub connecting South Asia, Shigatse's carpets became famous worldwide, and its thriving commerce and industry made it the third-largest city in Tibetan history. Shigatse is a city rich in cultural landmarks. Before the democratic reform, Shigatse was a microcosm of Tibet's feudal serfdom, with the government, monasteries, and aristocratic lords—completing the ruling foundation of old Tibet—all present. To this day, the ruins of the Shigatse Dzong, the White Dagoba Temple, and the Palha Manor are still well-preserved, forming famous tourist attractions in Tibet. In January 1994, it was named by the State Council as the third batch of national historical and cultural cities. Shigatse is a thriving city. After the democratic reform, Shigatse underwent earth-shaking changes. In the hometown of the Langsa girls, the kind, brave, and hardworking people of Shigatse created the renowned "Shigatse Spirit," ranking first in grain and oil production in the Tibet Autonomous Region. Since the reform and opening-up, with the support of Shanghai's counterpart assistance, the people of Shigatse have seen vigorous development in all fields, creating new miracles in Shigatse. The title of the book "Shigatse: A Historical and Cultural City of China" was inscribed by the famous sociologist Fei Xiaotong. This book is the result of the author's four in-depth field investigations since 1995, presented in simple and warm language with over 200 pictures, providing a comprehensive introduction to Shigatse's past and present. To understand Tibet, first understand Shigatse. This book will bring you closer to Tibet's culture and people.