Longwantun

What’s in a name? Longwantun. Dragon Bay Village. The name itself hints at a story. As we stand here in Longwantun Town, a sense of history washes over us. It’s a town nestled in the northeastern part of Shunyi District, Beijing. The 2020 census recorded a population of 14,212 people living here. Longwantun is bordered by several other towns. Dongbuqu Town lies to the northeast. Yukou Town sits to the southeast. Zhang and Yang Towns are to the south. Mulin Town lies to the west. Longwantun occupies a relatively flat area southwest of the Zhigen and Zhongluo Mountains. The town encompasses 57.2 square kilometers. This isn’t just a collection of buildings. It’s a place where the echoes of emperors and armies still linger. The name Longwantun, meaning “Dragon Bay Village,” dates back to the Tang dynasty. Emperor Taizong, on an expedition against Goguryeo, stopped here with his troops for a night. This brief respite cemented the area’s name in history. Longwantun wasn’t always a town. It evolved through various administrative designations over the years. It was part of Sanhe, Huairou, and Miyun Counties from 1912 to 1949. It became part of Shunyi County’s 1st District after 1949. Then it transitioned into a commune system, first as part of Mulin People’s Commune, then as its own Longwantun People’s Commune. In 1983, it became Longwantun Township. Finally, in 1994, it achieved town status. Today, Longwantun Town comprises thirteen villages, each contributing to the rich tapestry of this historical place. So, as you explore Longwantun, remember the emperor’s overnight stay. Imagine the soldiers setting up camp. Let the name, Dragon Bay Village, transport you back to the Tang dynasty.