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The ruins of the Japanese Army's Unit 731 are located in Pingfang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang Province, covering an area of 6.1 million square meters.
During World War II, Japanese fascists established the largest biological warfare unit in the history of world war here.
The main entrance of the old headquarters consists of two large doors and two foot doors. In front of the door is a 13-square-meter rain-sheltered platform supported by two brick pillars. Facing the entrance is the staircase leading to the second floor.
The former sites of valve wells are located behind the west side of the headquarters. There are four of them, which are underground concrete buildings.
This place is known as one of the two most brutal killing dens in the world, along with the German Nazi's Auschwitz concentration camp.
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1-2 hours
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9:00-15:30 Closed on Mondays
The Site of the Japanese Army's Unit 731 in Harbin is a historical landmark that commemorates the atrocities committed by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Unit 731 was responsible for conducting inhumane biological warfare experiments on civilians and prisoners of war. The site now serves as a museum and memorial to the victims, providing education about the dark chapter of history.
The Unit 731 Memorial Site is located in the suburbs of Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China. It is accessible by taxi or bus from the city center. The site is about a 30-minute drive from Harbin's downtown area.
The memorial site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The best times to visit are weekdays, especially during the off-peak seasons, as weekends can be crowded with tourists and school groups.
The entrance fee for the Unit 731 Memorial Site is approximately 40 CNY for adults. Tickets can be purchased directly at the site or through online platforms in advance.
While booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (summer or national holidays) to avoid long waiting times. A day or two in advance is usually sufficient.
A visit to the Unit 731 Memorial Site typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing enough time to explore the exhibits, visit the preserved buildings, and read through the historical information.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English may be offered. It is advisable to inquire at the ticket counter about availability.
Start by visiting the exhibition halls to learn about the history, then proceed to the preserved buildings and the memorial area. Finish with the educational displays and the souvenir shop at the exit.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the Unit 731 Memorial Site. However, there are occasionally special events or exhibitions held throughout the year. Check with the site for more information.
The memorial site can be crowded on weekends and during Chinese holidays. For a more peaceful visit, it is best to go during weekdays, especially in the early mornings or later in the afternoon.
The memorial site has basic facilities, including clean toilets and water fountains. A small souvenir shop is available for visitors to purchase educational materials and memorabilia. There are no significant dining facilities inside the site, but food options are available nearby.
The site is accessible for elderly visitors and families with children, although some of the outdoor areas may require walking on uneven paths. Wheelchair access is available for most areas, but it's advisable to contact the site ahead of time for special arrangements.
Cash and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted at the site, so visitors do not need to worry about carrying cash. Cards may be accepted in certain areas.
Inside the memorial site, there is no full-service restaurant. However, nearby Harbin has many restaurants, offering a wide range of cuisines, including Chinese and international options.
While the site does not offer food directly, Harbin’s central area provides numerous vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options for visitors after their tour.
Several hotels are located near the site, including budget options and more upscale hotels in the Harbin city center, which is about a 30-minute drive away. Popular hotels include those near Harbin Railway Station.
Yes, there is a small souvenir shop inside the memorial site selling books, educational materials, and historical artifacts related to Unit 731. Common items include postcards, keychains, and small commemorative items.
After visiting the site, taxis or buses are the best way to continue your journey to other parts of Harbin. Alternatively, you can explore the city's main attractions like Central Street or the Harbin Ice Festival, depending on the season.
