Location & How to Get There
The Mass Grave Site Of Ten Thousand People is located inside the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall at 418 Shuiximen Street, Jianye District, Nanjing. It’s easy to reach by public transport: take Metro Line 2 to Yunjin Road Station, then walk for about 10 minutes. Buses like 7, 19, or 37 also drop you nearby. If you’re driving, there’s a parking lot at the memorial hall, but expect crowds on weekends.
Natural Surroundings
The site isn’t surrounded by flashy scenery, but the area feels somber and quiet. The memorial hall itself is set in a park with tall pines and neatly trimmed bushes. You’ll see a long, gray wall outside the hall, carved with names of victims—it’s a stark reminder of the tragedy. The air here feels heavy, almost like time stands still.
Historical & Cultural Significance
The Mass Grave Site Of Ten Thousand People is part of the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, which honors those killed during the 1937 Japanese invasion. This specific site displays mass graves holding the remains of thousands. Walking through, you’ll see old photos, clothes, and personal items left behind by victims. A glass floor lets you peer down into parts of the graves, which is both haunting and powerful. The exhibits focus on telling stories of ordinary people—students, workers, families—to make history feel real.
What to See & Do
Inside the memorial hall, the Mass Grave Site is a central exhibit. You’ll walk through rooms filled with artifacts, like a child’s shoe or a broken watch. One hall lists the names of victims, and another shows film footage of the era. The gravesite itself is a silent space with stone markers. Some visitors light candles or leave flowers as tributes. Be prepared for a deeply emotional experience—it’s not a lighthearted tourist spot.
Practical Tips
- Opening hours: The memorial hall (and the grave site) is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.
- Guided tours: English-speaking guides are available for free with reservations. They’ll explain the history in simple terms.
- Dress code: Dress modestly—no shorts or tank tops, as a sign of respect.
- Photo rules: You can take photos outside, but many areas inside require silence and prohibit flash photography.
Nearby Attractions
If you’re already here