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Visit the Urumqi Eighth Route Army Xinjiang Office Memorial Hall to learn about the historical significance of the Eighth Route Army during the Chinese Civil War. The memorial hall offers insight into the army's role in Xinjiang's military and political history, with exhibitions of artifacts, photos, and documents. A must-do is exploring the historical exhibits and reflecting on the impact of the army’s activities in the region.
The Urumqi Eighth Route Army Xinjiang Office Memorial Hall, located in Tianshan District of Urumqi, Xinjiang, covers a total area of 503.6 square meters. It served as the headquarters for the Chinese Communist Party's leadership of the Xinjiang people in their fight against Japanese aggression and national salvation during the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. The two-story building, a Sino-Russian hybrid, is accessed through the ground-floor entrance hall and into the smaller building, where you'll find the Memorial Hall, one of the Eighth Route Army's offices. It recreates the historical context of the Chinese Communists' anti-Japanese and national salvation movement in Xinjiang from 1937 to 1942, including their unyielding struggle in prison.
Temperate continental climate, summer
People's Park, Hongshan Park, 1 hour
free
Tuesday-Sunday 10:30-14:00, 15:30-18:30
Closed on Mondays, Lunar New Year's Eve, and the first and second days of the Lunar New Year
The Urumqi Eighth Route Army Xinjiang Office Memorial Hall commemorates the presence and activities of the Eighth Route Army in Xinjiang during the Chinese Civil War. The hall honors the soldiers' contributions to the region’s political landscape and their role in strengthening the Chinese Communist Party's influence in Xinjiang.
The memorial hall is located in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. It is accessible by taxi, and public buses also stop nearby. Walking may be an option depending on where you are staying in the city, though public transport is recommended for ease of access.
The Urumqi Eighth Route Army Xinjiang Office Memorial Hall is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a lunch break around noon. Weekdays are less crowded, making them the best time to visit. Weekends and public holidays may see more visitors, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The entrance fee is typically free, but donations are welcome. Tickets, if required, can be obtained on-site. It's recommended to check in advance for special exhibitions or events that may charge an entry fee.
Advance booking is usually not required for regular visits, but it’s recommended for special events or exhibitions. You can book tickets a few days in advance if needed.
You should allow about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the memorial hall, especially if you're interested in reading the exhibits and understanding the historical context.
The main highlights include the exhibits featuring historical photographs, documents, and artifacts from the Eighth Route Army’s activities in Xinjiang. Pay special attention to the displays about the army's influence in the region and the role of local Xinjiang communities during this period.
Guided tours are available, and staff typically offer explanations in Chinese. Audio guides in English may also be available for some exhibitions, though availability can vary.
The best photography spots are around the main exhibition hall and outdoor areas featuring statues or historical displays. Photography is allowed in most areas, but it’s best to ask staff about any restrictions in specific sections.
Start by visiting the first floor to explore the introductory exhibits about the Eighth Route Army’s role in Xinjiang. Then, move to the second floor for more detailed sections covering specific events and figures. Finish with a visit to the outdoor statues or historical monuments.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available. Special tours or events may take place from time to time, so it’s worth checking the memorial hall's schedule for any announcements.
The memorial hall is generally not crowded, except during national holidays or special events. Weekdays, especially in the morning, are the least crowded times to visit.
The memorial hall has basic facilities such as toilets and water fountains. There are no large restaurants or food stalls, but nearby areas offer various dining options. A small souvenir shop may be available with local crafts and memorabilia.
The memorial hall is wheelchair accessible and suitable for elderly visitors and children. The main exhibits are easy to navigate, but assistance may be needed for visitors with severe mobility restrictions.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at the memorial hall, and cash is also an option. Cards are accepted for souvenir purchases or donations.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the memorial hall, but nearby you will find local restaurants offering Xinjiang cuisine, including lamb skewers, pilaf, and noodles.
Halal food options are widely available nearby, as Xinjiang’s cuisine caters primarily to Muslim dietary preferences. Vegetarian and vegan options can also be found at local restaurants around the area.
Hotels near the memorial hall include the Urumqi International Hotel and the Hoi Tak Hotel, both offering comfortable accommodations for visitors to the city.
Nearby attractions include the Xinjiang Regional Museum, Erdaoqiao Grand Bazaar, and Tianshan Tianchi Lake. These sites can be easily combined in a day trip for a rich experience of Urumqi’s history and culture.
There is a small souvenir shop at the memorial hall offering historical books, local handicrafts, and memorabilia. The typical souvenirs include Uyghur textiles, traditional jewelry, and small replicas of the memorial hall’s monuments.
After visiting, taxis and public buses are the best transportation options to continue your trip. If you are visiting other nearby attractions, taxis are more convenient, while public buses provide an affordable option.
