Embedded within the bustling intersection of Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei province stands the Sanjie Stele, or as it is formally known, the No. 3 boundary marker (三界碑（京津冀三交点界桩Ⅲ号）). This unassuming marker, tucked away in the landscape, tells a compelling story of transformation and cooperation. The Sanjie Stele isn’t just a boundary marker. It’s a silent witness to the evolving relationship between these three regions. It represents a shift from division to unity, a testament to the power of collaboration.
The Sanjie Stele marks the exact point where Beijing’s Tongzhou District, Tianjin’s Wuqing District, and Hebei’s Ji County converge. The Jing-Jin-Ji (Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei) coordinated development strategy, initiated in 2014, has played a pivotal role in transforming this once-isolated area. Before this initiative, the Sanjie Stele was largely unknown. The surrounding areas were marked by disparities in development, hindered by poor transportation and communication.
The story of Xie Yidong, a resident of Wa Village, highlights the dramatic changes brought about by the Jing-Jin-Ji initiative. He recalls the difficulty of traveling between the regions just a decade ago. Roads were rough and unpaved, making even short journeys arduous. Today, paved roads connect the villages, facilitating trade and daily commutes. The improved infrastructure has also spurred economic growth. The Jing-Jin-Ji Industrial Park, located in Wuqing District, has attracted businesses like JD.com and Alibaba, creating over 20,000 jobs.
The Sanjie Stele’s story is also intertwined with the tale of three 10-year-old friends: Liu Yuxin, Kong Dexin, and Zhang Jinping. Each hails from a different village surrounding the stele. Their families’ experiences illustrate the broader impact of the coordinated development. Liu Yuxin’s father is a guardian of the Great Wall, a role that has evolved with the implementation of a tri-regional joint protection app. Kong Dexin, a budding artist, has found inspiration in the changing landscape around her village. The growth of rural tourism, fueled by the Jing-Jin-Ji strategy, has transformed the region into a picturesque destination. Zhang Jinping’s family has benefited from improved road access. They cultivate and sell mountain hawthorn and other fruits, with buyers coming directly to their doorstep.
The Sanjie Stele’s recent renovation symbolizes the renewed vitality of the region. The enlarged stele, with its distinctive triangular shape and square base, represents the growing sense of unity and shared progress. The ‘A’ side of the stele proudly displays “Beijing,” while the ‘B’ side represents “Tianjin and Hebei,” marking a symbolic union. The Sanjie Stele, once a quiet boundary marker, now stands as a vibrant symbol of cooperation and a beacon of hope for a brighter future. It is a testament to the transforming power of shared vision and coordinated action. The children’s pledge to explore the wider world together encapsulates the promise of a more interconnected and prosperous future for the Jing-Jin-Ji region.