Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum Memorial Hall

Introducing Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum Memorial Hall

The Memorial Hall of the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, also known as the Funeral Hall, is a palace-style structure that blends Chinese and Western architectural styles. Its exterior is constructed of Hong Kong granite, and its roof is a traditional Chinese double-eaved hip roof covered with blue glazed tiles. Three arches inscribe the concepts of "nationality," "civil rights," and "people's livelihood," pioneered by Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of China. Within the hall stands a 4.6-meter-tall, lifelike marble statue of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, a masterpiece by world-renowned sculptor Paul Landowski. Reliefs depicting Dr. Sun's revolutionary deeds are carved around the hall's perimeter. Marble carvings on the east and west walls of the memorial hall feature Dr. Sun's handwritten posthumous work, "Outline of the National Reconstruction," and the "Last Testament of the Premier," written by Hu Hanmin and others.

Behind the hall are two gates to the tomb. The two front doors are made of copper, with black marble frames. Above them is a banner inscribed with the words "The noble spirit lives on" in Dr. Sun Yat-sen's own handwriting. The second gate is a single copper leaf, inscribed with the words "The Tomb of Dr. Sun Yat-sen." Upon entering, one enters a circular chamber, 18 meters in diameter and 11 meters high. In the center is a long vault, above which stands a reclining white marble statue of Dr. Sun Yat-sen. Visitors can circle the marble railings to gaze down upon the statue, which rests on the coffin. This statue, sculpted by Czech sculptor Gao Qi, is remarkably lifelike, based on the remains of the deceased. Below lies Dr. Sun Yat-sen's remains. The vault is 4 meters in diameter and 5 meters deep, sealed with reinforced concrete.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

The park is located within the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. The park is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays). For details on the opening hours, please refer to the on-site notice of the scenic spot.

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Most Popular FAQs for Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum Memorial Hall

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

The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum is a grand monument dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the leader of the 1911 revolution that overthrew China's imperial system and laid the foundation for the Republic of China. The mausoleum is an important cultural and historical site, reflecting his legacy and contributions to Chinese history.

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

The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum is located in the Zhongshan Mountain area in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. You can reach it by taking a bus from Nanjing city center (Bus 2 or 203), by taxi, or by walking from the nearby Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Weekdays and early mornings tend to be less crowded.

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

The entrance fee to the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum is approximately 70 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site, but it's also possible to buy tickets online via official websites or third-party platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak seasons (especially around national holidays). Tickets can be booked 1-2 days in advance through online platforms or the official website.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and the surrounding gardens. If you're interested in hiking up Zhongshan Mountain, consider adding an extra hour or two for the full experience.

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

• The grand entrance, a large stone archway leading up to the mausoleum.
• The 392 steps that lead to the mausoleum, offering scenic views along the way.
• The memorial hall itself, with a bronze statue of Dr. Sun Yat-sen and an exhibition on his life.
• The surrounding gardens and the peaceful Zhongshan Mountain area.

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

Guided tours and audio guides are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides can be rented at the entrance, while guided tours can be booked in advance or at the site.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the steps leading to the mausoleum offers panoramic views of Nanjing city and the surrounding mountains.
• Along the way up the steps, there are several spots with great photo opportunities, especially in the early morning light.
• Inside the memorial hall, you can photograph the statue of Dr. Sun Yat-sen and the intricate details of the building.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering through the main archway, then proceed up the 392 steps to the mausoleum. After visiting the memorial hall, take time to explore the surrounding gardens and the nearby Zhongshan Mountain Scenic Area.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. However, the area is beautifully lit at night, and the exterior of the mausoleum offers a stunning view in the evening.

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

The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum can get crowded on weekends and national holidays. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning on weekdays, especially during the spring or autumn months.

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

Facilities include clean toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. There are also several small restaurants near the entrance where you can find food and water.

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

The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum is accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, but the steep steps leading to the mausoleum might be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, there are other scenic areas that are more accessible for all visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. It's still a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or for use at nearby shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• The nearby Zhongshan Mountain area has several small restaurants offering local Nanjing dishes.
• There are also cafes within walking distance that serve drinks and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at many local restaurants, offering dishes like tofu and vegetable stir-fries. Halal food options may be available in larger restaurants or through specialized eateries in Nanjing.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Nanjing Grand Hotel, located nearby, offers luxury accommodations.
• There are also several mid-range and budget options in the vicinity, such as the Jinling Hotel and Ibis Nanjing Zhongshan.

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

• The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, another iconic historical site.
• The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, located nearby and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge can also be easily visited after the mausoleum.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum selling items such as postcards, mini statues of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, and other cultural souvenirs related to Nanjing's history.

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

You can continue your trip by taking a bus, taxi, or metro to nearby attractions such as the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge or the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. Public transportation is easily accessible from the mausoleum area.