Location & Transportation

Sun Yat-Sen Mausoleum, Sacrificial Hall sits in the heart of Nanjing’s Xuanwu District, nestled within the sprawling Zhongshan Mountain Resort. The address is No. 7 Shixiang Road, a scenic route lined with towering stone elephants. To get there, take Nanjing’s Metro Line 2 to Xiaomafu Station, then hop on a short bus or taxi. Driving is also easy, with plenty of parking near the entrance.

Natural Scenery

The mausoleum is surrounded by lush forests and winding paths, perfect for a peaceful stroll. In spring, cherry blossoms and magnolias bloom along the roads, while autumn paints the area in fiery reds and oranges. A highlight is the “Stone Elephant Road”—a mile-long pathway flanked by carved elephant statues, leading up to the mausoleum’s grand steps.

Cultural & Architectural Highlights

Blend of East and West

Sun Yat-Sen Mausoleum, Sacrificial Hall is a stunning mix of Chinese tradition and Western design. The roof is covered in blue glazed tiles, while the structure’s symmetry and columns nod to classic European architecture. Flanking the hall are two “watchtower-like square houses” (reminiscent of ancient fortresses) and 12.6-meter-tall stone pillars (similar to ancient Chinese gates).

Symbolic Details

Above the main door, six characters in seal script—“Minzu, Minsheng, Minquan” (Nation, Livelihood, Citizenship)—shout Sun Yat-Sen’s Three Principles of the People. Right below, his handwritten “Heaven and Earth’s Righteous Energy” adds a powerful vibe. Inside, marble walls bear his full “Program for National Reconstruction” in his own calligraphy, topped with the old Kuomintang emblem.

Central Memorial

The hall’s core is a striking white marble statue of Sun Yat-Sen in traditional robes. Behind it, two bronze doors lead to his simple grave—a reminder of his wish for a modest resting place.

Visitor Facilities

The site is tourist-friendly:

  • Info centers offer maps and guides (though most info is in Chinese, so research beforehand helps).
  • Clean restrooms and shaded rest areas dot the grounds.
  • Souvenir shops sell postcards, books, and replicas of Sun’s works.

Tour Experience Tips

What to Expect

  • Crowds: Prepare for crowds, especially on holidays. Go early or late in the day.
  • Respect: Dress modestly (no shorts or tank tops) and keep noise down—this is a solemn space.
  • Photo Ops: The view from the top of the stairs, the statue, and the stone elephants make great shots.

Time Suggestion

Plan for 2–3 hours to explore the hall, surrounding gardens, and nearby attractions like the Music Tower or Linggu Temple. Pair it with a visit to the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (a short walk away) for a full day of history.

Sun Yat-Sen Mausoleum, Sacrificial Hall isn’t just a monument—it’s a window into China’s struggle for modernity. Whether you’re into architecture, history, or nature, it’s a must-see stop in Nanjing. Just wear comfy shoes; those stairs aren’t easy!