Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders

Introducing Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders

The Memorial Hall of the Victims of the Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders is located on the site of the Jiangdongmen "mass grave" and the mass burial ground, one of the massacre sites committed by the Japanese army. It is engraved with a line of large black characters "1937.12.13-1938.1", indicating the time of the Nanjing Massacre by the Japanese army.

To commemorate the victims, the Nanjing people built the memorial in 1985, and expanded it in 1995. The museum serves as an important venue for international peace prayer and historical and cultural exchange, and is also a "National Patriotic Education Demonstration Base." Its visitor numbers are second only to the Palace Museum among museums worldwide.

The memorial covers a total area of ​​103,000 square meters, with a construction area of ​​57,000 square meters and an exhibition area of ​​20,000 square meters. It features seven plazas, 23 individual sculptures and one large sculpture group, eight walls of various forms, and 17 steles of various shapes. It integrates architecture, sculpture, exhibitions, ruins, cultural relics, archives, and cultural landscapes.

The memorial hall houses two sites of Nanjing Massacre mass graves, displaying the remains of compatriots discovered in 1998 and 2006, respectively. It also houses over 6,000 cultural relics from various series, including those dedicated to the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, victory in the war, and the "comfort women" system. The camera and footage used by American pastor John Magee to film the Nanjing Massacre have been inscribed on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

8:30-16:30, closed on Mondays (open on statutory holidays)

---

Most Popular FAQs for Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders

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

The Memorial Hall commemorates the victims of the Nanjing Massacre, also known as the Rape of Nanjing, which occurred in 1937 during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Over 300,000 Chinese civilians and soldiers were killed, and many women were raped by Japanese soldiers. The memorial serves to honor the victims and educate future generations about the atrocities.

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

The Memorial Hall is located in the Jiangdong District of Nanjing, near the Yangtze River. It can be reached by taxi or public transportation. The closest metro station is Yunjinlu Station on Line 1. Several bus lines also serve the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Memorial Hall is typically open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with the last entry at 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning on weekdays to avoid large crowds. Public holidays and weekends tend to be busier.

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

The entrance to the Memorial Hall is free, though there may be a charge for special exhibitions or guided tours. Tickets can be obtained at the entrance or online through the official website in advance for special events.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general entry as it is free, but it’s recommended if you want to take a guided tour or visit during a busy time. Tickets for special exhibitions can be booked online a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring the Memorial Hall, including time for the exhibits, reading the historical information, and reflecting at the memorial site.

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

The main exhibits include a gallery of photographs from the massacre, personal artifacts, and testimonies of survivors. The memorial section with names of victims and a large sculpture commemorating the lives lost are also poignant highlights.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are provided in multiple languages, including English. Audio guides are available for rent at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best spots for photography are the large memorial sculpture and the outdoor section with the names of the victims. However, photography inside the exhibits may be restricted, so be mindful of signs regarding photography rules.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance with the historical timeline, followed by exhibits on the personal stories of the victims. Proceed to the memorial hall to pay respects and reflect on the sculptures. End your visit with the special exhibitions (if available) or the outdoor monument area.

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

Night visits are not available, but special events and exhibitions are occasionally held in the evening. It’s advisable to check the official website for details on special tours and events.

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

The Memorial Hall can get crowded, especially during national holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, particularly Monday through Thursday.

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

The Memorial Hall has clean public toilets, a small café for snacks and drinks, and a gift shop selling books and souvenirs related to the Nanjing Massacre. There are rest areas inside the museum for visitors to take a break.

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

The Memorial Hall is wheelchair accessible and provides facilities for elderly and disabled visitors. Elevators are available, and the staff is helpful in guiding visitors who may need assistance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted throughout the Memorial Hall. Credit cards may also be accepted for purchases at the gift shop or café. Cash is rarely required.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the Memorial Hall, there is a small café that offers basic snacks and drinks. Nearby, you can find various restaurants serving local Nanjing cuisine such as duck blood soup, salted duck, and steamed buns.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Some local restaurants nearby offer vegetarian and halal food options, especially in the surrounding districts where there are Muslim and vegetarian-friendly eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include InterContinental Nanjing, Grand Hyatt Nanjing, and budget-friendly hotels like Holiday Inn Express Nanjing. These hotels are within a short taxi ride or walking distance from the Memorial Hall.

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

Other attractions close by include Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, and Xuanwu Lake. These can be easily combined in a day trip, as they are all within a short distance from the Memorial Hall.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, the Memorial Hall has a souvenir shop selling books, postcards, commemorative items, and educational materials related to the Nanjing Massacre. Many visitors purchase these items as mementos of their visit.

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

The best options for continuing your trip are taxis, metro, or buses. The Nanjing Metro Line 2 and Line 1 have stations nearby, offering easy access to other parts of the city.