Zhazidong Prison (渣滓洞监狱) and Bai Mansion (白公馆), two of Chongqing’s most significant Revolutionary landmarks, are deeply tied to the city’s wartime resistance and revolutionary history. For many, these sites are a must-see when visiting Chongqing, particularly because they were once the prisons where prominent revolutionaries like Jiang Jie (江姐) and Xiao Luobotou (小萝卜头) were held. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a traveler looking to explore China’s profound cultural heritage, these destinations offer a glimpse into the struggles and sacrifices of the past.
Bai Mansion – A Symbol of Revolutionary Struggle
Bai Mansion, originally a suburban villa of Sichuan warlord Bai Ju (白驹), became a notorious secret prison in 1939. The Nationalist government’s Military Intelligence Bureau forcibly purchased the property for 30 liang (taels) of gold, converting it into a detention center for revolutionary figures. Among the most well-known individuals incarcerated here were Luo Shiwen (罗世文), Xiao Luobotou (小萝卜头), and Huang Xiansheng (黄显声). Bai Mansion is not only a place of historical significance but also a symbol of the intense resistance against the occupying forces during the War of Resistance.
Zhazidong Prison – From Coal Mine to Prison
Zhazidong Prison, located in the outskirts of Chongqing, was originally a small coal mine named after the excess slag (“zha”) and the scarcity of coal. In 1939, after the death of the mine’s owner under suspicious circumstances, the Nationalist government took control and converted the site into a prison. Revolutionaries such as Jiang Jie (江姐) and Hua Ziliang (华子良) were imprisoned here. The site also became famous as the filming location for the movie In the Flames of Life (在烈火中永生), which depicted the harsh conditions of the prison and the courageous figures held within.
Visiting Bai Mansion and Zhazidong Prison
Ticketing Information and Reservation
Both Bai Mansion and Zhazidong Prison offer free admission, though visitors must make reservations in advance or scan the QR code at the site for immediate booking. Reservations can be made through the official WeChat account “Hongyan Museum” (红岩博物馆). Simply input your name and ID number to secure your spot, with the option to book up to five people per reservation. This system also allows you to reserve tickets for all major Hongyan attractions, including Bai Mansion, Zhazidong, Hongyan Village, Zhou Mansion, and Guiyuan. Reservations are valid for 48 hours, and you can enter directly with your ID card, saving time at the gate.
Transportation Options
For public transport, take Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station (磁器口站). From there, transfer to Bus 210 or the T198 sightseeing bus, which conveniently connects the key attractions, including Ciqikou Ancient Town, Zhazidong, Meiyuan, Bai Mansion, Hongyan Soul Square (红岩魂广场), and the Martyrs’ Tomb (烈士墓). The sightseeing bus operates from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, so you can visit both Bai Mansion and Zhazidong Prison before heading to Ciqikou Ancient Town for more exploration.
If you’re driving, it’s easier to navigate directly to Bai Mansion first, then head to Zhazidong Prison. Both sites have parking lots, and Bai Mansion is more accessible with direct routes. For a smoother experience, it’s better to park at the Bai Mansion lot and then drive to Zhazidong Prison. Parking fees are affordable, with a flat rate of 6 yuan, offering unlimited time.
For those who arrive first at Zhazidong, the parking lot is located downhill, requiring a walk uphill to the site. This can be difficult for elderly visitors, and after visiting Zhazidong, you would need to backtrack to reach Bai Mansion, which is a bit cumbersome.
The Terrain and Visiting Tips
Both Bai Mansion and Zhazidong Prison are located on mountain slopes, requiring some physical effort to navigate. Bai Mansion is situated on a steeper incline, making it more physically demanding. In contrast, Zhazidong Prison’s path is relatively flat, offering a slightly easier walk. The two sites are about a 10-minute walk from one another, though it’s often more convenient to take public transportation or drive between them.
It typically takes 2 to 3 hours to explore both Bai Mansion and Zhazidong Prison, depending on your pace. After your visit, you can easily head to Ciqikou Ancient Town to immerse yourself in more local history and culture.