
The Memorial Archway for the Fallen Soldiers of the National Revolutionary Army is located in the Linggu Temple Scenic Area in Xuanwu District, Nanjing . This was originally the site of the Heavenly King Hall of Linggu Temple in the Ming Dynasty. The Heavenly King Hall was burned down twice in wars during the Qing Dynasty. It was rebuilt with funds raised by the abbot of Linggu Temple, Guanglian, in the late Qing Dynasty. The memorial archway was also rebuilt here when the cemetery for the fallen soldiers was planned.
The archway, built atop 42 stone steps, stands 10 meters tall and comprises five bays. Constructed of steel, concrete, and topped with green glazed tiles, it is a truly magnificent sight. The front and rear door lintels are inscribed with the characters " Great Benevolence and Righteousness " and " Save the Country and the People ," written by Kuomintang veteran Zhang Jingjiang. A pair of stone tigers flank the archway, donated by the 17th Army during its construction.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than half an hour
Tickets are included in the Linggu Temple scenic area
6:30-18:00
The Memorial Archway for the Fallen Soldiers of the National Revolutionary Army is a symbol of respect and remembrance for the soldiers who died during the Chinese National Revolutionary struggle. The archway serves as a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s independence and sovereignty.
The memorial is located in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. It can be accessed by taxi, bus, or metro. The nearest metro station is a short walk away. If traveling by bus, several routes pass by the site.
The Memorial Archway is open year-round, generally from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays or early mornings when the area is less crowded.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the Memorial Archway. It is open to the public for free. Tickets are not required, but donations are welcome.
Booking in advance is not required, as the site is free and open to the public without any need for tickets.
Visiting the Memorial Archway typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend reflecting or exploring the surrounding area.
The main highlight is the Memorial Archway itself, which stands as a tribute to the soldiers. The surrounding park area also offers tranquil spots for reflection and historical context on the National Revolutionary Army.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and an audio guide may be available for those interested in learning more about the history of the site. English-speaking guides might be arranged in advance.
The Memorial Archway itself offers the best photography opportunities, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the light adds drama to the structure. The surrounding park also offers a serene setting for photos.
Night visits are not typically offered, and there are no light shows at the memorial. It is best visited during the day for full appreciation of the memorial and its surroundings.
The site can get crowded during weekends and national holidays. Weekdays, especially in the morning, are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available on-site. There are no food or drink vendors within the memorial area, so it’s advisable to bring your own refreshments. Rest areas are provided for visitors to relax and reflect.
The memorial site is accessible to elderly and children, with paved paths leading to the archway. However, those with mobility issues might find it challenging to explore the surrounding park fully, as some areas are not wheelchair accessible.
No entrance fee is required, and cash is not necessary. Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at the site for any optional donations or purchases.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the memorial area. However, there are plenty of dining options in the nearby Nanjing city center, including traditional Chinese eateries and cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants in Nanjing, especially in the city center. Halal options can be found in designated areas catering to Muslim communities.
There are no souvenir shops directly at the memorial site. However, nearby Nanjing offers a variety of shops selling traditional Chinese crafts, such as silk, jade, and souvenirs related to the city’s history.
Taxis and public buses are the best options for continuing your trip. Alternatively, visitors can take the metro to other attractions in Nanjing. If you're heading to the airport, taxis or the airport shuttle are convenient choices.