Aviation Martyrs Cemetery

Introducing Aviation Martyrs Cemetery

The Aviation Martyrs' Cemetery is located in Wangjiawan, at the northern foot of Purple Mountain, outside Taiping Gate in Nanjing's Xuanwu District. The cemetery was built with donations from the Aviation Bureau of the Kuomintang government's Ministry of Military Affairs. Among the deceased are four Soviet pilots and one American pilot. The monument is inscribed with the names of 3,305 aviation martyrs from China, the Soviet Union, the United States, and North Korea who fought against the Japanese. The "Anti-Japanese Aviation Memorial" is the largest memorial complex for aviation martyrs in the world.

The Aviation Martyrs' Cemetery initially housed over 30 aviation martyrs, including Huang Yuquan and Wu Minghui, who sacrificed their lives for their country during the Xinhai Revolution, the Northern Expedition, and the Battle of Shanghai. Before the fall of Nanjing in 1937, 24 other air force martyrs, including Liu Cuigang, were buried there. In 1948, the remains of pilots from the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Chinese Civil War, scattered across various regions, were subsequently reburied here.

This cemetery, facing south and nestled against a mountainside, houses 870 martyrs of the Kuomintang army, 2,197 American martyrs, 237 Soviet martyrs, and two South Korean martyrs. Others, however, require verification before their names are engraved on the tombstones. Due to the vicissitudes of life and repeated vandalism, the remains of some martyrs are no longer identifiable, leaving many graves empty. However, the spirits of those who sacrificed their lives for their country will be forever venerated by future generations. Regardless of whether any grave contains remains, people come here to pay their respects and pay their respects, remembering their enduring spirits. It was designated a Nanjing Municipal Cultural Relic Protection Unit in 1992.

Climate and best time to travel

With a subtropical monsoon climate, the heroic names of the flying generals will be passed down through the ages, and the upright spirits will be remembered for thousands of years. The cemetery faces south and will be respected forever by future generations.

All seasons are suitable for travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Aviation Martyrs Cemetery houses the Aviation Martyrs Memorial Hall. The main hall is designed as two transparent triangular pyramids, forcing visitors to pass through two sharp corners, creating a sense of oppression. At the rear, a large area of ​​tall stone tablets awaits. Climbing the stairs, you'll discover each tablet is densely engraved with the names of martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their country.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

9:00-16:30

---

Most Popular FAQs for Aviation Martyrs Cemetery

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Aviation Martyrs Cemetery honors the pilots and soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Chinese War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. It stands as a tribute to the bravery of the aviators and their role in defending the country.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The cemetery is located in the southern part of Nanjing, Jiangsu. It is accessible by taxi, and public buses also pass nearby. You can take Metro Line 1 to the "Yuantong" station and then take a short taxi ride to the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The cemetery is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday crowds and heat.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entry is free of charge, though donations are welcome. There is no online ticketing system for this site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is required as the entrance is free. However, booking might be necessary for large groups or guided tours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the cemetery, including time for reflection at the memorial, walking through the exhibits, and taking photographs.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the central memorial monument, the hall of aviation martyrs, and the beautiful surrounding gardens that provide a peaceful environment for visitors.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours in Mandarin are available, but audio guides in English are not commonly offered. It’s advisable to visit with a Chinese-speaking guide if you want detailed historical context.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the memorial monument, where you can capture the grandeur of the monument set against the peaceful surroundings. The pathways and garden areas also offer scenic views for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, proceed to the memorial monument for reflection, explore the exhibition halls, and then take a walk through the gardens before leaving the site.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available, but the site is beautifully lit in the evening, making it a peaceful place for reflection after sunset.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The cemetery is generally not crowded, but it can become busier on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays in the morning are the best time to visit for a quieter experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The site has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no food stalls or shops inside, but nearby areas offer food and drink options.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The cemetery is wheelchair accessible, and there are paths suitable for elderly visitors and families with children. However, some areas with stairs may require assistance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

No payment is required for entry, but donations may be accepted in cash. Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted for donations and purchases at nearby shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes inside the cemetery, but nearby areas along the Yangtze River offer several options for dining and relaxation.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants, but halal options may be limited in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the Aviation Martyrs Cemetery, including mid-range options like the Nanjing Yangtze River Hilton and budget hotels such as Hanting Express.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Nanjing Museum, and Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. These can be easily combined for a full day of sightseeing in Nanjing.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops at the cemetery itself. However, you can find local crafts and historical memorabilia in nearby areas.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the cemetery, taxis, public buses, or the nearby metro are the best options for continuing your trip. Taxis to other attractions in Nanjing are readily available.