The Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (中山纪念堂) in Guangzhou is an octagonal building designed by renowned Chinese architect Lü Yanzhi. It was built with funds raised by the people of Guangzhou and overseas Chinese. Construction began on March 22, 1928, and was completed in November 1931. In 1956, a 5-meter-high bronze statue of Sun Yat-sen was placed in front of the hall. A major renovation took place in 1963, during which the roof was covered with blue glazed tiles, and an iron fence was added around the 60,000-square-meter park. Many trees and flowers were planted within the park.
The memorial hall is a grand, majestic octagonal palace-style structure. It covers an area of about 3,700 square meters and stands 49 meters tall. The building consists of four palace-style sections surrounding the main structure, resembling dragon-like ridges that support the enormous central octagonal roof. In the center of the double-eaved roof hangs a blue and red lacquered plaque with the inscription “天下为公” (“The world is for all”), written in Sun Yat-sen’s own calligraphy. Eight massive red stone pillars line the front, supporting intricately painted wooden beams and ceilings adorned with decorative patterns. Five large bronze chandeliers hang in the corridors, casting a luxurious and antique atmosphere throughout the hall.
The interior of the memorial hall is exceptionally sturdy, constructed entirely of steel and reinforced concrete. The auditorium, which contains 4,729 seats, has no pillars obstructing the view, as it is supported by eight concealed columns within the walls. The hall is well-lit, beautifully decorated, and features 11 entrances for easy access. The stage is spacious enough to host large meetings and artistic performances. Behind the main hall, there is a small exhibition room dedicated to the life and legacy of Sun Yat-sen.
As one of the most iconic landmarks in Guangzhou, the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall has witnessed numerous historic events. In 1936, a large anti-opium march took place here, and in September 1945, Japanese forces stationed in Guangzhou signed their surrender documents in this hall. Since the city’s liberation, the venue has hosted various memorials for Sun Yat-sen, important provincial and municipal gatherings, and cultural performances. Notable events include the Million Steps for Education, the Guangzhou International Mass Wedding, and commemorations of Mao Zedong’s 100th birthday, the Long March’s 60th anniversary, and the 50th anniversary of victory in World War II.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 10 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 17.30; Last admission: 16.45 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-020-83567966 |
Location and Transportation
The Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall is located at 299 Dongfeng Middle Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 2, 133, 229, 297, or B3 and get off at Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall stop (中山纪念堂站).
Metro: The closest metro station to the attraction is Memorial Hall (纪念堂) on line 2. After getting out of the station from Exit A, you will see the entrance right in front of you.
