Discovering History at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall

Embark on a powerful journey at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, a place where history is etched in every corner. This monument, located in the heart of Jiangsu Province’s capital, has a story that reverberates across time.

An Emotional Journey through Time

The visit begins with a long, dark corridor, a metaphorical time tunnel into the past. The walls whisper tales from the era of the Nanjing Massacre. The dimly lit path sets a somber mood yet fosters a deep sense of connection with history. Hauntingly beautiful, this journey through time stirs emotions, drawing you into the narrative of the past.

The Soul-stirring Sculptures

Emerging from the corridor, you’ll encounter the outdoor sculpture garden. These massive stone figures depict the massacre’s victims’ struggle, despair, and resilience. Their tormented expressions carved in stone reflect the harsh realities of war. Despite their pain, each statue stands tall, embodying human courage and tenacity. A walk through this garden is a walk through raw human emotion, etched forever in stone.

The Eternal Flame: A Beacon of Hope

The Eternal Flame, the next segment of your journey, holds an important place within the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall. This ever-burning light symbolizes the unbroken spirit of those who suffered. With its comforting warmth and persistent glow, the flame stands as a poignant beacon of hope and resilience. It shines against the backdrop of the past, a vivid reminder of the strength inherent in humanity.

Insightful Exhibits: A Glimpse into History

Venture next into the Memorial Hall’s extensive exhibits. These displays offer a tangible connection to history. You’ll find personal belongings left behind, heart-rending diary entries, and official documents from the era. Each artifact, each handwritten word, tells a story, narrating the trials endured during the massacre. These displays serve as windows into the past, offering a personal and immersive understanding of history.

A Monument to Remember

Finally, as you conclude your visit, you’ll carry with you the echoes of the past. The Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall isn’t just a monument – it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of despair. It’s an invitation to remember, reflect, and learn from history.

So, embark on this journey, step back into time, and pay homage to the enduring spirits that continue to inspire at this remarkable monument.

How to get to Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall

Located on Jiangdongmen Street in Jianye District(建邺区), western Nanjing, the memorial is 13 km from Nanjing Railway Station, 14 km from Nanjing South Railway Station, and 45 km from Nanjing Lukou Airport.

• Metro: Take Line 2 to Yunjinglu Station (云锦路站). Easily accessible from main attractions like the Confucius Temple.
• Bus: Buses NO. 7, 61, and 63 stop at the memorial.
• Taxi: Taxis in Nanjing start at CNY 11 for the first 3 km, followed by CNY 2.9 per extra km. Basic Chinese or the exact address is helpful.

Where to Stay in Nanjing

Nanjing is a huge city close to Shanghai. The city offers different kinds of accommodations – hostels, hostels, and boutique hotels. However, it’s a bit expensive for a backpacker or for a solo traveler like me. I stayed in a hostel which I won’t recommend. But here are two websites where you can choose the one that you’d like to stay in the city. You can book a place to stay via Trip.com or Booking.com.