Xuankou Middle School earthquake site

Introducing Xuankou Middle School Earthquake Site

At 2:28 PM on May 12, 2008, a magnitude 8.0 earthquake struck Wenchuan. The powerful tremor caused significant damage to Xuankou Middle School, located at the epicenter. The school had 1,527 students and 133 teachers. The earthquake killed 43 students, 8 teachers, 2 staff members, and 2 family members, and seriously injured 27 students and 2 teachers.

Upon entering Xuankou Middle School, one is greeted by a large, commemorative clock face, placed in front of the ruins of the school building that collapsed in the earthquake. The clock clearly displays the time of the quake: 2:28 PM. It's said that the school building shook violently due to the earthquake, and a clock in a classroom fell to the ground. The broken pieces were then magnified and reassembled to create this commemorative clock. Xuankou Middle School has become a site commemorating the Wenchuan earthquake.

Climate and best time to travel

Warm temperate monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Xuankou Middle School earthquake site

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

The Xuankou Middle School earthquake site is a memorial site dedicated to the victims of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. The school was severely damaged, and many lives were lost here. It has since been preserved as a tribute to those affected by the disaster and to educate visitors about the earthquake’s impact on the region.

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

The site is located in Xuankou Village, Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or private car, as public transportation may be limited. It's about a 2-3 hour drive from Chengdu.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is more pleasant. Avoid visiting during peak summer or national holidays due to crowds.

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

The entrance fee is generally around 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and it's recommended to buy them in person. There may be options for group bookings or tours with additional costs.

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

Booking in advance is not necessary for individual visitors, but it is recommended for group tours, especially during busy seasons or holidays. A few days' notice is usually enough.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically need about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the site, depending on the pace of the tour and the level of engagement in learning about the history of the earthquake.

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

The main area of interest is the ruins of Xuankou Middle School, where the remains of the building serve as a poignant reminder of the earthquake's devastation. Also, visit the nearby memorial and educational exhibits that focus on the aftermath and recovery efforts.

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

Guided tours are available, and English-speaking guides may be limited, so it’s recommended to book a tour in advance if you prefer one in English. Audio guides in Chinese are available at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the ruins of the school, where you can capture the contrast between the devastation and the surrounding natural beauty. The surrounding mountains and countryside offer scenic views for landscape photography as well.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route is to first visit the ruins of the school, followed by a walk around the memorial area. Afterward, take a brief tour through the educational exhibits and learn about the earthquake's impact and recovery efforts.

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

Night visits or light shows are not currently available at the site. The site is open during daylight hours for educational tours and remembrance activities.

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

The site is generally not very crowded, especially during weekdays or non-holiday seasons. Weekends and public holidays can see more visitors, so it's best to visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets are available at the site. There may be small local food vendors around the area, but it’s advisable to bring water and snacks with you if you plan on staying for a longer visit. There are no large shops or restaurants directly on the site.

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

The site is accessible to most visitors, though there are some uneven surfaces and walking may be difficult in certain areas. It is not fully wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the terrain, but assistance can be arranged if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay are commonly used. It's recommended to bring cash just in case, as some areas may not accept cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no large restaurants or cafes on the site. However, nearby towns have local restaurants serving Sichuan cuisine, where you can try spicy hotpot and other regional dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, but vegan or halal food may be limited. It’s a good idea to check the menu or ask the restaurant staff if you have specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are basic guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns like Aba and Maoxian. These accommodations offer simple services, with some mid-range options available for tourists who wish to stay overnight.

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

Nearby attractions include the scenic areas of Aba, such as the Langmusi Monastery and the scenic Sichuan-Tibet Highway. A day trip could include a visit to these areas for a more complete experience of the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the site selling local handicrafts, Tibetan prayer beads, and regional artwork. These make for meaningful and culturally significant gifts or mementos.

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

Private cars, taxis, or local buses are the best options to continue your trip. The site is well-connected by road to nearby towns and cities, making it easy to reach other destinations in Sichuan.