Former Site of the Officer Training Corps

What are the most recommended things to do in Former Site of the Officer Training Corps?

  • Explore the historical buildings and learn about the Officer Training Corps' history.
  • Visit the on-site exhibitions and memorial halls to see artifacts and documents.
  • Take a guided tour to understand the site's role in modern Chinese military history.
  • Photography of historical architecture and scenic courtyards.
  • Walk through surrounding gardens and outdoor areas for a relaxing experience.

Introducing Former Site of the Officer Training Corps

The former site of the Nanchang Officers' Education Corps is located at No. 58, Bayi Avenue, Nanchang City. In the late Qing Dynasty, it was a training ground for Qing soldiers and was later changed to the Jiangxi Army "Military Academy". In the spring of 1927, the Officers' Education Corps founded by Zhu De was located here. The Officers' Education Corps was nominally affiliated with the 3rd Army of the National Revolutionary Army, but was actually controlled by the Communist Party of China. Zhu De implemented revolutionary military and political education here, developed party organizations, and supported and guided the workers' and peasants' movements in Nanchang and several surrounding counties. Among the 1,500 trainees trained here, some participated in the Nanchang Uprising and were organized as part of the 9th Army. Zhu De served as the deputy commander of the 9th Army. The former site of the education corps was mostly destroyed during the Anti-Japanese War. After the founding of the People's Republic of China, it was renovated several times and basically maintained its original appearance.

The former site of the Zhu De Officers' Training Corps, located at 376 Bayi Avenue in Nanchang, is well-preserved and covers an area of ​​2,674.24 square meters. It was the site of the former Army Primary School during the late Qing Dynasty. The site now consists of only a corner of the former school, situated in a north-facing courtyard filled with one-story brick-and-wood structures, arranged in a roughly "Kuang" (Chinese character) layout. Each row and column of houses has a connecting rain corridor, and each house also has front and back corridors.

Climate and best time to travel

With a subtropical monsoon climate, the former site of Zhu De's Officers' Training Corps was formerly the Jiangxi Army "Military Academy", which was founded in the late Qing Dynasty and was once an institution for the Qing government to train new troops. It is suitable for travel here in all seasons to learn about culture and history.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Under the personal supervision of Comrade Zhu De, the school was quickly established and named the Officer Training Corps of the Third Army of the National Revolutionary Army. While nominally affiliated with the Third Army, it was actually under the leadership of the Communist Party's Central Military Commission. The school was located within the Military Academy at the corner of Wanghuayuan, Jinxianmen, in Nanchang. Comrade Zhu De served as the Corps' Commander, Wei Jinjun as the Party Representative, and Liu Jiemei as Deputy Corps' Commander and Chief of Staff (later replaced by Comrade Chen Qihan). The Corps also established various organs, making it a perfect place for a historical tour.

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day


Most Popular FAQs for Former Site of the Officer Training Corps

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

The Former Site of the Officer Training Corps in Nanchang is a historical site commemorating military training in early 20th-century China. It played a role in training officers and shaping modern Chinese military forces, making it a site of historical and educational significance.

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

Located in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, the site can be reached by taxi, ride-hailing services, or local buses. Walking routes connect nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable weather and sightseeing.

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

Entrance is free for most visitors. Special exhibitions or guided tours may require tickets purchased onsite.

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

Booking is generally not required. For guided tours or group visits, it is recommended to reserve 1–2 days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Approximately 1–2 hours for a thorough visit of buildings, exhibitions, and outdoor areas.

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

  • Main historical buildings of the Officer Training Corps.
  • Exhibition halls displaying artifacts and documents.
  • Memorial plaques and monuments.
  • Scenic courtyards and gardens around the site.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides may be limited; English explanations are not guaranteed.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Front facade of the main historical building.
  • Interior courtyards and garden areas.
  • Exhibition rooms with historical displays.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, visit the exhibition halls, walk through the courtyards, and end at memorial areas for photos and reflection.

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

Night visits are generally not allowed. Special tours or commemorative events may be scheduled occasionally.

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

Usually less crowded on weekdays and early mornings. Weekends and public holidays attract more visitors.

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

  • Public toilets near the entrance.
  • Benches and rest areas in courtyards.
  • Small snack vendors or vending machines nearby.

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

Mostly accessible for elderly and children. Some areas may have stairs or uneven terrain, limiting wheelchair access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted for small purchases. Mobile payments may be available at nearby vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants and cafes nearby serve Jiangxi cuisine and light refreshments.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; vegan and halal options may be limited in the immediate area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses are within 10–15 minutes by taxi from the site.

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

  • Bayi Square
  • Nanchang Star Park
  • Medicine Washing Lake

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell postcards, historical memorabilia, and local handicrafts.

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

Taxi, ride-hailing services, and local buses provide convenient access to other attractions in Nanchang.