Location & Transportation

Prison Zhazi, a historic site near Chongqing’s Shapingba District, sits quietly by Lingyun Road, just a stone’s throw from the Martyrs’ Monument at Gele Mountain. To get here, take the metro to Xiaoxiang Station and hop on Bus 210 or 843—it’ll drop you right at the entrance. If you’re visiting nearby spots like White House (Bai Gongguan) or the Martyrs’ Monument, there’s even a scenic shuttle bus linking all three, making it super convenient for a day trip.

Natural Scenery

Nestled against three hills and facing a deep valley, Prison Zhazi feels tucked away from the world. The terrain, once a hidden coal mine, turned into a secret prison during wartime. Today, the forested hills around the site stay quiet, except for the wind rustling through trees. It’s a stark reminder of how nature’s isolation was used to hide dark chapters of history.

Human History

This place started as a tiny coal cave in 1920 but shifted gears in 1939 when the Kuomintang’s secret police (the Bureau) turned it into a prison. Revolutionaries like “Jiang Jie” (a heroine from the novel Red Crag) were held here, enduring torture. The restored cells, iron chains, and grim exhibits—like old punishment tools—paint a chilling picture of suffering. Walking through the dimly lit tunnels, you can almost feel the weight of their stories.

Cultural Significance

Prison Zhazi isn’t just walls—it’s a time capsule. The government rebuilt it faithfully, keeping the cramped cells, watchtowers, and even the jailers’ offices intact. A visit here is like stepping back to 1940s China, except the air hums with silence instead of screams. Guides often share tales of prisoners’ courage, turning this somber spot into a lesson on resilience.

Practical Tips

Bring comfy shoes—the site is small but hilly. Pair it with a visit to White House (another former prison) and the Martyrs’ Monument for context. All three are connected by that handy shuttle bus, so you can tick them off in a few hours. Entry is cheap (around ¥20), and English signs help non-Chinese speakers navigate. Just be ready for crowds on weekends; mornings are calmer.

Emotional Impact

Touring Prison Zhazi is heavy. The damp air, flickering lights, and rusted tools hit hard. But there’s also something hopeful—flowers planted near the exit symbolize renewal. Visitors often leave silent, thinking about the price of freedom. If you’re into history or just want to understand Chongqing’s past, this place will stay with you. Just remember: it’s not a happy story, but an important one.