The Memorial Hall of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China (中共一大会址纪念馆), often referred to as the “CPC First Congress Memorial Hall,” is located in Huangpu District, Shanghai. This historical site includes the original venue of the First National Congress, the Oath Hall, and a newly constructed exhibition hall. The building, exemplifying the typical Shanghai Shikumen architectural style, was constructed in the autumn of 1920 and hosted the founding meeting of the Communist Party on July 23, 1921. In March 1961, the State Council designated this site as a national key cultural relic. The memorial hall was officially opened to the public in June 2021, featuring a permanent exhibition titled “The Great Beginning: A Display of the History of the Founding of the Communist Party of China,” which comprehensively illustrates the party’s origins.
Location and Accessibility
Address: 374 Huangpi South Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
Transportation:
- Metro Line 14 or Line 1: Exit at “Yidahuizhi·Huangpi South Road” Station, then walk approximately 540 meters.
- Metro Line 10 or 13: Exit at “Yidahuizhi·Xintiandi” Station, then walk about 580 meters.
Opening Hours
The memorial hall is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). It is closed on Mondays and during public holidays.
Admission and Reservations
Entrance to the memorial hall is free, but visitors are encouraged to reserve their tickets in advance.
Visitor Tips
No Drinks Allowed: Be mindful that you cannot bring beverages into the exhibition hall.
Commemorative Tickets: Upon entering, you can scan a QR code to receive a commemorative ticket for the month.
Guided Tours:
- Free guided tours are available at scheduled times: 9:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM, and 4:00 PM.
- Some exhibits offer QR code explanations; bring your own headphones for audio.
- A paid audio guide can also be rented on-site.
Exhibition Layout: The main exhibition, “The Great Beginning,” is located in the basement level of the venue.
Highlights of the Exhibition
Cultural Treasures: The memorial hall features various editions of the “Communist Manifesto,” showcasing its significance in the party’s history.
Biographies of Delegates: Discover the life stories of the representatives who attended the First National Congress.
Interactive Models: A detailed model of “Glorious City” presents the development of the party in Shanghai during its early years.
Multimedia Displays: The exhibition vividly recreates the scenes of the congress through live-action displays and eye-catching 3D multimedia presentations.
Message Wall: At the end of the exhibition, visitors can write messages and hang them on a designated wall, contributing to the memorial’s interactive experience.