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Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall

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Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall (China)

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The Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders was established in 1985 at Jiangdongmen, one of the sites where thousands of victims were buried in mass graves. The memorial commemorates the estimated 300,000 civilians and disarmed soldiers who were killed by the Imperial Japanese Army following the fall of Nanjing in December 1937. The architectural design is intentionally somber and minimalist, utilizing gray stone, stark concrete, and vast gravel fields to evoke a sense of mourning and reflection. The facility is divided into three functional zones: the historical exhibition area containing over 10,000 documents and artifacts, the outdoor memorial park featuring poignant sculptures, and the 'Pit of Ten Thousand Corpses,' which displays the excavated remains of victims. This site is not only a place of remembrance but also a center for historical research and education on human rights. Every December 13th, a national memorial ceremony is held here, drawing thousands to pay their respects and reflect on the necessity of world peace.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.

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Avg °C251016222628282318114
Rain mm526470958718124315694555942

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The memorial hall is open to visitors. Admission is free, but advance registration may be required.
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Typical hours
Typical opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Mondays the memorial hall is closed.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in exhibition areas without flash. In certain rooms, such as the ossuary, photography is prohibited.
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Time needed
Allow at least two hours for a thorough visit. The many exhibits and outdoor area require time.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the Nanjing Museum or the Zhonghua Gate. Both attractions are in the city center, reachable by metro.
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Getting there
The memorial hall is located in the Jiangdong district of Nanjing. Reach it by metro line 2 (Yunjin Road station) or by bus.
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Insider tip
Visit the memorial hall early in the morning to avoid crowds. The entrance involves security checks - allow extra waiting time.

Geography

Coordinates
32.03600, 118.73000

Facts

  • The memorial hall was officially opened on August 15, 1985.
  • It is built on the site of a mass grave at Jiangdongmen, where excavations began in 1984.
  • The museum's collection includes more than 10,000 historical items and photographs.
  • The 'Pit of Ten Thousand Corpses' allows visitors to see actual skeletal remains in situ.
  • December 13 was officially designated as a National Memorial Day in China in 2014.
  • The documents concerning the Nanjing Massacre were added to the UNESCO Memory of the World Register in 2015.

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Sights in the town Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall (12)

NIU BEER World Craft Beer Museum (Jianye Wuyue Filiale)🏛 museum

This dedicated museum explores the global history and brewing processes of craft beer.

🕒 Mo-Su 16:00-02:00

Nanjing Yunjin Museum🏛 museum

This specialized museum showcases the intricate art and history of traditional cloud-brocade silk weaving.

Great Baoen Temple Tower🌿 nature

This towering viewpoint has sweeping panoramic vistas over the surrounding historical district.

Tomb of King Boni📍 landmark

This monumental tomb marks the resting place of a 15th-century foreign ruler who died while visiting the imperial court.

Nanjing's Eyes📍 landmark

This modern pedestrian bridge features distinctive twin circular arches spanning the river.

Gulin Park🌳 park

This expansive urban park is widely recognized for its bustling plum blossom gardens.

Yuhuatai Scenic Area🌳 park

This notable scenic area and memorial park is situated on a historical hill once known for its colorful pebbles.

🕒 Mo-Sa 08:00-17:00

Nanjing Museum of the City Hall🏛 museum

This local museum exhibits historical artifacts and documents chronicling the civic administration of the region.

Jianchu Temple⛪ religious

Established in 247, this venerable place of worship stands as one of the earliest Buddhist sites in the region.

Zhonghua Gate📍 landmark

This massive defensive structure features a complex, multi-tiered barbican historically used to repel invaders.

Jiangsu Centre for the Performing Arts Opera House🎭 culture

This grand performing arts venue is specifically designed with state-of-the-art acoustics for major operatic productions.

Jiangsu Centre for the Performing Arts Concert Hall🎭 culture

This modern acoustic hall regularly hosts large-scale symphonic concerts and classical music recitals.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How much does entry to the memorial hall cost?
Entry is free, but you usually need to book in advance (ID/passport required).
When is the memorial hall open?
Usually Tuesday to Sunday from 08:30 to 16:30; closed on Mondays.
Are you allowed to take photos inside?
In outdoor areas, yes; in the exhibition halls, it is usually prohibited or inappropriate.
How much time should you plan for the visit?
Plan for at least 2 to 3 hours to see the extensive exhibition.
Are there dress codes?
Out of respect for the victims, appropriate and modest clothing is expected.
Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall: where is it located?
Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall is located in China.
Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall: what is there to see?
Highlights include NIU BEER World Craft Beer Museum (Jianye Wuyue Filiale), Nanjing Yunjin Museum, Great Baoen Temple Tower.
Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Oct.
Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall: why is it worth visiting?
The Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders was established in 1985 at Jiangdongmen, one of the sites where thousands of victims were buried in mass graves.
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