Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall

Introducing Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall

The Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall is located in the southeastern part of Hekou Yao Autonomous County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, over 50 meters from the China-Vietnam Railway Bridge. Officially opened in November 2001, the Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall has been in operation for 10 years. After undergoing renovations by successive governments, the Tongmenghui Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall officially reopened on March 17, 2012, and was designated a "Honghe Prefecture Party History Education Base" by the Honghe Prefecture Party Committee and Government.

The museum, covering approximately 1,200 square meters, was built in 1897, the 23rd year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty, making it over a century old. Formerly the site of the Hekou Customs, the Hekou County Uprising Memorial Hall is a provincial-level cultural relic protection unit. It is a historical artifact of the Sino-French War, evidence of the foreign powers' aggression against China, and a valuable resource for patriotic and national defense education.

The Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall serves not only as a base for promoting patriotism and strengthening education on the history of the Communist Party and the Party, but also as a bridgehead for promoting tourism and further consolidating the patriotic united front. Managing the memorial hall effectively preserves this revolutionary history and promotes the healthy development of cultural relics in the border county of Hekou.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate has a relatively uniform seasonal pattern, with rainy and cool summers and warm winters. All seasons are suitable for travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall is hidden under a green shade. On a cement pillar at the entrance, there is a stone plaque engraved with large characters such as "Hekou Cultural Relics Protection Unit, Former Customs Site, Established by the People's Government of Hekou Yao Autonomous County in April 1985".

Entering the courtyard, you'll find a memorial hall with yellow walls and red doors and windows. A stone inscription on the wall reads: "Hekou Customs was built in 1897 by the French Vice-Consulate in Hekou in accordance with the Sino-French Commercial Treaty. Facing southeast and northwest, it covers an area of ​​approximately 1,200 square meters and is over 50 meters from the Sino-Vietnamese Railway Bridge. Originally, there were three French-style buildings, including offices and conference rooms. Only one office building remains, a brick-walled, steel-framed bungalow with red tiles, three-sided verandas, and circular windows. It stands as a historical witness to the invasion of China by foreign powers."

The Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall houses a total of 15 items including guns, swords, and lighting lamps used in the Tongmenghui Uprising, as well as 56 pictures.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

08:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall

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

The Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall commemorates the Hekou Uprising of 1935, a crucial event in the resistance against the Republic of China’s central government. This uprising was part of the larger anti-imperialist and anti-feudal struggles that contributed to the shaping of modern China.

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

The Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall is located in Hekou County, Yunnan Province, China. It can be accessed by bus or taxi from the Hekou town center. The closest major city is Gejiu, which is about 50 km away and can be reached by bus or car.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The memorial hall is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is more comfortable for outdoor exploration.

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

The entrance fee to the Hekou Uprising Memorial Hall is usually around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter, though it's recommended to check with local tour providers for online booking options.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it is advisable during peak tourist seasons. A day or two in advance is generally sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the memorial hall and surrounding areas typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in reading the exhibits and exploring the nearby historical sites.

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

• The main exhibition hall, which contains displays about the Hekou Uprising and the history of the resistance movements.
• Interactive displays and multimedia presentations that illustrate the uprising’s significance.
• Historical relics and artifacts from the uprising and the revolutionary period.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer tours in English. Audio guides may also be available for self-guided tours in Mandarin and possibly in English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The memorial hall’s courtyard offers a good view of the surrounding historical sites and the town of Hekou.
• There are also several outdoor spaces around the hall that provide excellent opportunities for photography, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main exhibition hall to understand the historical context, then explore the surrounding outdoor areas and monuments dedicated to the uprising. If time permits, walk around the local area to see other historical landmarks.

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

Night visits or light shows are not typically available. However, special tours may be offered during significant anniversaries of the uprising, such as the 85th or 90th anniversaries, and can be arranged in advance.

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

The memorial hall can get crowded during national holidays, weekends, and special commemorative events. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays outside of peak tourist seasons.

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

There are basic facilities available at the site, including public toilets, water stations, and small rest areas. A small gift shop may also be available, selling local souvenirs and history-related items.

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

The main exhibition areas are accessible for elderly and children, though some of the outdoor areas may involve walking on uneven ground. It’s recommended to check with the site for specific accessibility details for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted. Cash may still be required in smaller shops or local restaurants, so it's good to carry some local currency.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local eateries near the memorial hall that serve traditional Yunnan dishes such as rice noodles, hotpot, and grilled meats. More dining options are available in nearby towns like Gejiu.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local restaurants, but halal food may be harder to find in this area. It is advisable to inquire in advance or visit larger towns nearby for more diverse options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodation options in Hekou are limited, but there are a few guesthouses and inns offering budget-friendly stays. For more choices, you can stay in Gejiu, which has a wider selection of hotels.

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

• The Hekou Border Gate, which marks the border between China and Vietnam, is nearby and a popular landmark.
• The Red River Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and ethnic minority culture, can also be explored as part of a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the memorial hall selling items like local handicrafts, ethnic textiles, and historical memorabilia related to the uprising.

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

• Taxis or private vehicles are the most convenient option to continue your journey to nearby cities like Gejiu or to explore the surrounding areas.
• Public buses are also available for longer distances, though they may be less frequent.