Location & Transportation

Wanping County Government Office Former Site sits inside the ancient walls of Wanping City, a historic spot in Beijing’s Fengtai District. The exact address is No. 10 Lugouqiao South Li, Wanping City—a place easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. To get there, take Beijing’s subway Line 10 to Lizou Station, then transfer to bus 301 or 309. Alternatively, drive along Lugou Bridge and look for the stone gates of Wanping City. Parking is available near the entrance, but spaces fill up fast on weekends.

Natural Scenery

Don’t expect mountains or rivers here—this spot is all about history. The city walls, built in the Ming Dynasty, still stand tall, covered in moss and whispers of the past. Inside, narrow lanes and gray-tiled roofs create a timeless vibe. If you visit in spring, cherry blossoms bloom near the city’s south gate, adding a splash of pink to the ancient bricks.

Cultural & Historical Highlights

The Wanping County Government Office Former Site dates back to 1928, when the county moved into this defensive fortress near Lugou Bridge. But its real fame comes from July 7, 1937—the day Japan attacked Lugou Bridge, sparking China’s wartime resistance. Here, the county magistrate Wang Lengzhai negotiated with Japanese officers, standing firm against invasion. Tragically, most of the government buildings were bombed during the war, leaving only three main rooms. Today, those ruins form part of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Memorial Hall (built in 1986), which honors heroes and showcases artifacts from that era.

What to See Inside

The memorial hall is split into two parts: the remaining government offices and the exhibition halls. The old offices are stark—charred wood, cracked walls—a silent witness to war. The exhibitions, however, are vivid. You’ll see photos of the July 7th Incident, letters from soldiers, and even a reconstructed negotiation room where Wang Lengzhai stood his ground. A giant mural maps out key battles, while videos play survivor testimonies. It’s heavy, but deeply moving.

Facilities for Visitors

The site is visitor-friendly. Free entry (just show ID) gets you into the memorial hall. Inside, there’s a small café with tea and snacks, plus gift shops selling books and replicas of historical items. Wheelchair access is available, and English-language guides can be hired for deeper insights. Beware: no photos allowed in the exhibition halls, and some areas feel cramped due to preserved structures.

Experience Tips

Visit early! The site opens at 9 AM, and tour groups arrive by 10. Spend at least two hours to explore both the ruins and exhibits. Start at the remaining government office—three small rooms with info plaques—then move to the modern museum. Don’t miss the Victory Wall outside, engraved with names of fallen soldiers. For context, combine this with a walk across Lugou Bridge (just 1 km away) to imagine the battle’s start.

This place isn’t about pretty views—it’s about stepping into China’s fight for freedom. Come ready to learn, reflect, and pay respects. And remember: the name “Wanping County Government Office Former Site” might be long, but every brick here tells a story worth hearing.