On July 7, 1937, shots rang out near the Lugou Bridge, also known as the Marco Polo Bridge, just outside Beijing. This event marked the beginning of Japan’s full-scale invasion of China and ignited China’s nationwide War of Resistance.
Today, the stone lions that guard both sides of the bridge stand as silent sentinels over a land renewed. The Lugou Bridge has not only survived the ravages of war but has become a powerful symbol of China’s enduring spirit.
Embodying the patriotic spirit at the core of Chinese national identity, the bridge represents fearlessness in the face of adversity, unity against foreign invasion, and an unyielding will to defend the homeland. The bridge and its Memorial Hall now welcome visitors daily, serving as poignant reminders to honor the past and cherish peace.
As people cross the bridge and explore its history, they are reminded of the importance of national unity and the strength that comes from cohesion among the Chinese people. The echoes of history resonate with each step, inspiring a new generation to remember the sacrifices of those who came before and to build a future rooted in peace and solidarity.
