Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall
The Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall stands as a solemn reminder of one of the darkest chapters in human history. This memorial commemorates the victims of the Nanjing Massacre, where approximately 300,000 Chinese civilians and unarmed soldiers were killed by Japanese forces in 1937.
Overview
The memorial serves as both a historical museum and a sacred ground for remembrance. Through its exhibits, documents, photographs, and artifacts, it tells the story of the massacre while promoting peace and understanding between nations. The museum's architecture itself is deeply symbolic, with its dark walls and stark design reflecting the gravity of the history it preserves.
Essential Information
Opening Hours
- Tuesday to Sunday: 8:30 - 17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)
- Closed on Mondays (except public holidays)
- Extended hours may apply during summer holidays
Admission
- Free admission
- Advance reservation required
- Reservations can be made 1-7 days in advance through the official WeChat account
- Daily visitor limits:
- Weekdays: 25,000 visitors
- Weekends: 30,000 visitors
- Holidays: 35,000 visitors
How to Get There
By Metro
- Take Line 2 to Yunjiulu Station
- Exit from Gate 2 (regular days) or Gate 3 (peak periods)
- Walk about 200 meters to Entrance 1
By Bus
Several routes stop nearby:
- Routes 166, 170, 186, 37, 61, 63, 7: Get off at Shuiximen-Jiangdongmen Station
- Routes 109, 170, 186: Get off at Yunjiulu-Shuiximen Street Station
Exhibition Areas
Main Exhibition Hall
The main exhibition chronicles the Nanjing Massacre through historical documents, photographs, and artifacts. Exhibits include:
- Personal belongings of victims
- Historical photographs and documents
- Video testimonies from survivors
- Archaeological evidence
"Three Victories" Exhibition
This section focuses on three themes:
- Victory of Justice
- Victory of Peace
- Victory of the People
The exhibition covers:
- War crimes evidence
- International response
- Post-war trials
- Peace initiatives
Mass Grave Site
A particularly moving area of the memorial, the excavated mass grave contains the remains of victims discovered in 1984. This site serves as powerful physical evidence of the massacre.
Visitor Guidelines
Dress Code
- Wear appropriate, respectful attire
- Avoid bright colors and casual wear
- Conservative dress is recommended
Behavior
- Maintain silence in exhibition areas
- Photography allowed without flash
- No touching of exhibits
- Show respect at all times
Items Not Allowed
- Large cameras and tripods
- Selfie sticks
- Dangerous materials
- Pets
Guide Services
Professional Guides
- Free scheduled tours: 9:30, 10:30, 14:30
- Paid private tours available (80 yuan per section)
- Tours available in multiple languages
Audio Guide
- Free via WeChat official account
- Covers 151 points of interest
- Available in multiple languages
Tips for Visitors
- Make reservations early, especially during peak seasons
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds
- Allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit
- Consider visiting in the morning for smaller crowds
- Bring ID for entrance verification
- White chrysanthemums are available for memorial purposes
Nearby Dining
After your visit, you can find solace in some of Nanjing's traditional cuisine:
- Salted Duck (盐水鸭): Try the famous Han Fuxing brand
- Duck Blood Soup (鸭血粉丝汤): A local specialty at Xiao Pan Ji
- Plum Blossom Cake (梅花糕): Available at Lu's traditional shop
- Traditional Nanjing restaurants nearby:
- Xinfangyuan Restaurant: Known for duck specialties
- Zhangmuqin's Kitchen: Offers local home-style dishes
The Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall stands as more than just a museum - it's a place of remembrance, reflection, and education. Through its powerful exhibits and thoughtful presentation, it helps ensure that this crucial chapter of history is never forgotten while promoting the importance of peace and understanding between nations.