Complete Tourist Guide to the Memorial Park in Yuancheng, the Starting Point of the Long March of the Central Red Army: I. Basic Admission Ticket Details
Tracing the Origins of the Long March 🇨🇳 Yudu Central Red Army Long March Departure Site Memorial Park Complete Travel Guide
I. Basic Admission and Ticketing Details 📜
Located at No. 690, Dujiang Avenue, Yudu County, Ganzhou City, the scenic area is a national 4A-level red tourism site, a national patriotic education demonstration base, and the core section of the Long March National Cultural Park. In 1934, 100,000 Red Army soldiers gathered on the banks of the Yudu River to cross, embarking on their 25,000-li (12,500 km) Long March. The entire park carries the profound red memories of the unity between the army and the people.
The memorial park's outdoor plaza and riverside ferry crossing are open to the public free of charge all day, with no time restrictions. The core Central Red Army Long March Departure Memorial Hall operates on a real-name, free reservation system. Reservations must be made in advance through the official WeChat account, and visitors must bring their ID card for verification upon entry.
The exhibition hall's fixed opening hours are: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). It is closed for maintenance every Monday, and opening hours are extended for statutory holidays. On Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 PM, a red-themed water screen light and shadow movie is shown on the riverside, creating a rich nighttime atmosphere.
Preferential policies are fully implemented: minors, seniors over 65 years old, active military personnel, veterans, and people with disabilities can enter the park without reservation with valid identification. Group study tours can call the scenic area in advance to arrange group guided tours; a professional guide can be hired for an additional fee. There are no mandatory charges; do not trust touts offering reservation services on the street.
The only official entrance is the main visitor center gate. The riverside path is for pedestrians only; do not use navigation to take detours or detours that could delay your trip.
II. Comprehensive Travel Guide🚗
Driving is the most convenient option. From Ganzhou city, take the Xiarong Expressway and then the Ningding Expressway. Exit at the Yudu exit, and it's a ten-minute drive to the scenic area's parking lot. Parking is free for the first half hour, and after that, it's a five-yuan daily cap. Parking spaces are plentiful, but on holidays, spaces become scarce after 9:00 AM, so it's recommended to arrive early. Ruijin, Chongyi, and other surrounding counties are within a one-hour drive, and Meizhou and Heyuan in Guangdong province are within a three-hour drive, making it suitable for short-distance red tourism study tours.
Public transportation is also available. From Yudu county, take bus route 5 directly to the memorial park stop, then walk about 100 meters to the gate. The fare is two yuan. Buses depart at 7:00 AM and stop running at 4:50 PM. Yudu High-Speed Railway Station is four kilometers from the scenic area, a ten-minute taxi ride costing around fifteen yuan. Buses depart regularly from Ganzhou Bus Station to Yudu Bus Terminal, a one-and-a-half-hour journey, from where you can take a ten-minute taxi ride directly to the park.
Shared electric bikes offer flexible access within the county town, making short trips to and from Red Army Street and the Hewu Historical Site very convenient. The park's terrain is flat and open, allowing for full walking tours without the need for vehicles; travel light is perfectly feasible.
III. Detailed Planning of Three Exclusive Tour Routes🗺️
Classic Half-Day Study Tour Route (First-time visitor's first choice, 3-hour itinerary)
Upon verification at the visitor center, proceed directly to the New Long March Square to admire the Long March Departure Monument shaped like two sailboats. The monument's height of 19.34 meters corresponds to the year of departure, 1934. Examine the three historical scenes depicted in the reliefs on the base: the farewell of soldiers and civilians, the construction of the pontoon bridge, and the assembly for departure. Visit the park's giant themed sculpture, a relief replicating the moving scene of people donating door panels and bed boards to build a pontoon bridge overnight; enter the Memorial Hall of the Central Red Army's Long March Departure, and visit the cultural relics exhibition area, historical videos, and an AR immersive night crossing experience on the Yudu River, examining precious artifacts such as pontoon bridge door panels, Red Army straw sandals, and soldier rosters; walk five minutes to the East Gate, the first crossing point of the Long March, to see the stone inscription of the crossing point by General Yang Chengwu, and stand on the Gongjiang River to gaze at the waters where the pontoon bridge was built; stroll back to the square along the riverside path, and visit the 1934 Red Cultural and Creative Street along the way, completing a full visit to all the core red landmarks in a compact itinerary without backtracking.
Full-Day Immersive Study Tour Itinerary (For History Enthusiasts)
In the morning, complete the core tour of the memorial park, carefully listen to the exhibition hall explanations, and study historical materials on the rear supply and conscription support of the Soviet area. Enjoy a Hakka-style lunch in the county town. In the afternoon, continue your study tour at the former residence of Mao Zedong in Hewu and the former site of the Gannan Provincial Soviet Government, exploring the remaining Red Army alleyways nearby. In the evening, return to the Long March ferry crossing to await the sunset, where the setting sun bathes the river and the monument in a solemn atmosphere. At night, watch the water screen movie by the river or purchase tickets for the "First Crossing of the Long March" live performance, immersing yourself in the epic red stage performance and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the historical context of the Long March origins in Yudu.
Relaxing Itinerary for Families and Seniors (Two-Hour Effortless Version)
This itinerary forgoes lengthy in-depth exploration of the exhibition halls, prioritizing a visit to the Monument Square and the open area of the riverside ferry crossing. Enjoy simple photo opportunities with the outdoor sculptures. Visit the main exhibition hall on the first floor, a gentle slope, to see basic text and images, avoiding crowds. Take a stroll along the riverside lawn, enjoying the gentle flow of the Gongjiang River. The entire route features few steps and flat surfaces, offering a relaxed and comfortable pace, ideal for seniors and children to easily experience the revolutionary atmosphere without feeling physically tired.
IV. Key Landmark Highlights ✨
The Central Red Army Long March Departure Memorial Hall is a national first-class thematic museum, the only one in the country to completely showcase the entire process of the Long March's assembly and departure. It houses over two thousand revolutionary relics, including many first-class national treasures. The straw sandal wall, the river-crossing door, and marching supplies are among the museum's most prized exhibits. Modern lighting technology recreates the historical scene of thousands of Red Army soldiers silently crossing the river at night, creating a highly immersive experience.
The Long March Departure Monument, designed in the shape of a sailboat, symbolizes the Red Army setting sail on their journey. The monument is inscribed with poems about the Long March, and the plaza is engraved with a complete map of the Long March route, making it a landmark and popular photo spot in the memorial park.
At the East Gate, the First Crossing of the Long March, is the most representative site among the eight major crossing points. The river flows quietly, and the reconstructed pontoon bridge remains are marked. Standing on the bank, one can vividly imagine the moving scene of soldiers and civilians parting ways under the lamplight of yesteryear.
The giant farewell-themed sculpture group, built to the scale of the more than 86,000 Red Army soldiers who set off, vividly depicts the various expressions of villagers seeing each other off with reluctance. It is visually striking and is also the most popular photo spot in the memorial park.
The 1934 Cultural and Creative Leisure Street is located next to the park exit. It features retro Republican-era street architecture, along with a red-themed bookstore, cultural and creative handicrafts, and casual tea shops. After visiting the park, visitors can take a short break here and choose Long March-themed souvenirs.
V. Travel Supplies and Convenience Amenities Guide🎒
The park mainly features smooth stone-paved paths and riverside walkways. The riverside is slightly damp in the mornings and evenings, so comfortable flat sneakers are sufficient; no special hiking boots are needed. The memorial hall is kept cool and temperature-controlled indoors, so bring a light jacket for protection against the cold, regardless of the season.
In spring and summer, the riverside is lush with vegetation and has many mosquitoes, so bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Convenience stores are scattered throughout the park, so bring your own drinking water. The visitor center has self-service luggage lockers and 24-hour public restrooms. There are ample benches in the plaza for rest stops.
Scan the QR code on the memorial hall's official WeChat account to receive a free online audio guide, understanding the stories behind each artifact; no additional audio guide rental is needed. Dress simply and modestly, avoiding overly flashy clothing to match the atmosphere of this historical site.
VI. Appreciation of the Atmosphere in Each Season 🍃
Spring (March to May): Gentle spring rains blanket the Gongjiang River, a light mist lingers around the monument, and the newly sprouted grass and trees are lush and verdant. The temperature is comfortable and mild, creating a tranquil and gentle atmosphere for outings and educational activities.
Summer (June to August): The daytime sun is intense. It's best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the cool river breeze dispels the heat. The nighttime light and water show is lively and spectacular. Avoid afternoon thunderstorms for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and the setting sun paint the river and sculptures in vibrant colors, creating rich and layered light and shadow effects. This makes it an ideal time of year for taking commemorative photos, offering a perfect atmosphere for capturing the moment.
Winter (December to February): With fewer tourists, the area is peaceful and serene. The warm sun shines on the square and stone monument, perfect for leisurely strolls, reading historical materials, and reflecting on the spirit of the Long March. The atmosphere is solemn and serene.
VII. Park Visiting Guidelines and Precautions ⚠️
All cultural relics and exhibits in the memorial hall are nationally protected relics. Touching exhibits, scratching walls, and knocking on display panels are prohibited. Flash photography is strictly prohibited indoors to avoid damaging old historical artifacts with strong light. Climbing or stepping on sculptures and steles in the plaza is prohibited. Please maintain the cleanliness and solemnity of this red-themed area.
The memorial park is a patriotic education base. Loud laughter, running, and shouting are prohibited throughout the visit. Maintain quiet and solemnity in the areas commemorating martyrs. The Gongjiang River is deep; please supervise accompanying children away from the riverbank railings and prohibit swimming.
The exhibition hall is closed on Mondays. Please check your travel dates in advance to avoid a wasted trip. Drones are prohibited from flying over the entire scenic area. Unauthorized aerial photography is forbidden. Weekdays have fewer visitors, providing a better immersive experience. On holidays, try to enter early in the morning to avoid the afternoon peak season for study tours.
Yudu Memorial Park avoids excessive commercialization and noise, using the Gong River to commemorate a glorious era. Whether it's a short day trip to experience the revolutionary history or a longer study tour connecting red sites in Ganzhou, Ruijin, Ningdu, and other places, visitors can feel the spirit of the Long March and draw strength from their initial aspirations to forge ahead.
Tracing the Origins of the Long March 🇨🇳 Yudu Central Red Army Long March Departure Site Memorial Park Complete Travel Guide
I. Basic Admission Ticket Details 📜
Located at No. 690, Dujiang Avenue, Yudu County, Ganzhou City, the scenic area is a national 4A-level red scenic spot, a national patriotic education demonstration base, and the core section of the Long March National Cultural Park. In 1934, 100,000 Red Army soldiers gathered on the banks of the Yudu River to cross the river, embarking on their 25,000-li Long March. The entire park carries the profound red memories of the unity between the army and the people.
The memorial park's outdoor plaza and riverside ferry crossing are open to the public free of charge all day, with no time restrictions. The core Central Red Army Long March Departure Memorial Hall operates on a real-name, free reservation system; reservations must be made in advance through the official WeChat account, and visitors must present their ID card for verification upon entry.
The exhibition hall's fixed opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). It is closed for maintenance on Mondays, and opening hours are extended for statutory holidays. On Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 PM, a red-themed water screen light and shadow film is shown on the riverside, creating a rich nighttime atmosphere.
Preferential policies are fully implemented. Minors, seniors over 65 years old, active-duty military personnel, veterans, and people with disabilities can enter the museum without reservation with valid identification. Group study tours can call the scenic area in advance to arrange group guided tours; a professional guide can be hired for an additional fee. There are no mandatory charges; do not trust scalpers offering reservation services on the street.
The only official entrance is the main visitor center gate. The riverside path is for pedestrians only; please do not navigate to off-the-beaten-path routes that may delay your trip.
II. Comprehensive Travel Guide🚗
Driving is the most convenient option. From Ganzhou city, take the Xiamen-Rongcheng Expressway and then the Ningding Expressway. Exit at Yudu Expressway exit; the scenic area parking lot is a ten-minute drive away. Parking is free for the first half hour, and a five-yuan fee is charged for the entire day thereafter. Parking spaces are plentiful, but on holidays, spaces may be scarce after 9:00 AM, so it is recommended to arrive early. Ruijin, Chongyi, and other surrounding counties are within a one-hour drive, and Meizhou and Heyuan in Guangdong province are within a three-hour drive, making it suitable for short-distance red tourism study tours.
Public transportation is readily available. From Yudu County town, take bus route 5 directly to the memorial park stop, then walk about 100 meters to the gate. The fare is two yuan. Buses depart at 7:00 AM and stop running at 4:50 PM. Yudu High-Speed Railway Station is four kilometers from the scenic area; a ten-minute taxi ride costs approximately fifteen yuan. Buses depart regularly from Ganzhou Bus Station to Yudu Passenger Transport Terminal, a journey of one and a half hours; from there, a ten-minute taxi ride takes you directly to the park.
Shared electric bikes are readily available within the county town, providing convenient short-distance travel to and from Red Army Street and the Hewu Site. The park's terrain is flat and open, allowing for full walking tours without the need for special vehicles; travel light.
III. Detailed Planning of Three Exclusive Tour Routes🗺️
Classic Half-Day Study Tour (First-time visitor's first choice, 3-hour itinerary)
After verifying your identity at the visitor center, proceed directly to the New Long March Square to admire the Long March Departure Monument shaped like two sailboats. The monument's height of 19.34 meters corresponds to the year of departure, 1934. Read the three historical scenes depicted in the reliefs on the base: soldiers and civilians bidding farewell, building the pontoon bridge, and assembling for departure. Visit the park's giant themed sculpture, a relief replicating the moving scene of people donating door panels and bed boards to build a pontoon bridge overnight; enter the Memorial Hall of the Central Red Army's Long March Departure, and visit the cultural relics exhibition area, historical videos, and an AR immersive night crossing experience on the Yudu River, examining precious artifacts such as pontoon bridge door panels, Red Army straw sandals, and soldier rosters; walk five minutes to the East Gate, the first crossing point of the Long March, to see the stone inscription of the crossing point by General Yang Chengwu, and stand on the Gongjiang River to gaze at the waters where the pontoon bridge was built; stroll back to the square along the riverside path, and visit the 1934 Red Cultural and Creative Street along the way, completing a full visit to all the core red landmarks in a compact itinerary without backtracking.
Full-Day Immersive Study Tour Itinerary (For History Enthusiasts)
In the morning, complete the core tour of the memorial park, carefully listen to the exhibition hall explanations, and study historical materials on the rear supply and conscription support of the Soviet area. Enjoy a Hakka-style lunch in the county town. In the afternoon, continue your study tour at the former residence of Mao Zedong in Hewu and the former site of the Gannan Provincial Soviet Government, exploring the remaining Red Army alleyways nearby. In the evening, return to the Long March ferry crossing to await the sunset, where the setting sun bathes the river and the monument in a solemn atmosphere. At night, watch the water screen movie by the river or purchase tickets for the "First Crossing of the Long March" live performance, immersing yourself in the epic red stage performance and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the historical context of the Long March origins in Yudu.
Relaxing Itinerary for Families and Seniors (Two-Hour Effortless Version)
This itinerary forgoes lengthy in-depth exploration of the exhibition halls, prioritizing a visit to the Monument Square and the open area of the riverside ferry crossing. Enjoy simple photo opportunities with the outdoor sculptures. Visit the main exhibition hall on the first floor, a gentle slope, to see basic text and images, avoiding crowds. Take a stroll along the riverside lawn, enjoying the gentle flow of the Gongjiang River. The entire route features few steps and flat surfaces, offering a relaxed and comfortable pace, ideal for seniors and children to easily experience the revolutionary atmosphere without feeling physically tired.
IV. Key Landmark Highlights ✨
The Central Red Army Long March Departure Memorial Hall is a national first-class thematic museum, the only one in the country to completely showcase the entire process of the Long March's assembly and departure. It houses over two thousand revolutionary relics, including many first-class national treasures. The straw sandal wall, the river-crossing door, and marching supplies are among the museum's most prized exhibits. Modern lighting technology recreates the historical scene of thousands of Red Army soldiers silently crossing the river at night, creating a highly immersive experience.
The Long March Departure Monument, designed in the shape of a sailboat, symbolizes the Red Army setting sail on their journey. The monument is inscribed with poems about the Long March, and the plaza is engraved with a complete map of the Long March route, making it a landmark and popular photo spot in the memorial park.
At the East Gate, the First Crossing of the Long March, is the most representative site among the eight major crossing points. The river flows quietly, and the reconstructed pontoon bridge remains are marked. Standing on the bank, one can vividly imagine the moving scene of soldiers and civilians parting ways under the lamplight of yesteryear.
The giant farewell-themed sculpture group, built to the scale of the more than 86,000 Red Army soldiers who set off, vividly depicts the various expressions of villagers seeing each other off with reluctance. It is visually striking and is also the most popular photo spot in the memorial park.
The 1934 Cultural and Creative Leisure Street is located next to the park exit. It features retro Republican-era street architecture, along with a red-themed bookstore, cultural and creative handicrafts, and casual tea shops. After visiting the park, visitors can take a short break here and choose Long March-themed souvenirs.
V. Travel Supplies and Convenience Amenities Guide🎒
The park mainly features smooth stone-paved paths and riverside walkways. The riverside is slightly damp in the mornings and evenings, so comfortable flat sneakers are sufficient; no special hiking boots are needed. The memorial hall is kept cool and temperature-controlled indoors, so bring a light jacket for protection against the cold, regardless of the season.
In spring and summer, the riverside is lush with vegetation and has many mosquitoes, so bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Convenience stores are scattered throughout the park, so bring your own drinking water. The visitor center has self-service luggage lockers and 24-hour public restrooms. There are ample benches in the plaza for rest stops.
Scan the QR code on the memorial hall's official WeChat account to receive a free online audio guide, understanding the stories behind each artifact; no additional audio guide rental is needed. Dress simply and modestly, avoiding overly flashy clothing to match the atmosphere of this historical site.
VI. Appreciation of the Atmosphere in Each Season 🍃
Spring (March to May): Gentle spring rains blanket the Gongjiang River, a light mist lingers around the monument, and the newly sprouted grass and trees are lush and verdant. The temperature is comfortable and mild, creating a tranquil and gentle atmosphere for outings and educational activities.
Summer (June to August): The daytime sun is intense. It's best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the cool river breeze dispels the heat. The nighttime light and water show is lively and spectacular. Avoid afternoon thunderstorms for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and the setting sun paint the river and sculptures in vibrant colors, creating rich and layered light and shadow effects. This makes it an ideal time of year for taking commemorative photos, offering a perfect atmosphere for capturing the moment.
Winter (December to February): With fewer tourists, the area is peaceful and serene. The warm sun shines on the square and stone monument, perfect for leisurely strolls, reading historical materials, and reflecting on the spirit of the Long March. The atmosphere is solemn and serene.
VII. Park Visiting Guidelines and Precautions ⚠️
All cultural relics and exhibits in the memorial hall are nationally protected relics. Touching exhibits, scratching walls, and knocking on display panels are prohibited. Flash photography is strictly prohibited indoors to avoid damaging old historical artifacts with strong light. Climbing or stepping on sculptures and steles in the plaza is prohibited. Please maintain the cleanliness and solemnity of this red-themed area.
The memorial park is a patriotic education base. Loud laughter, running, and shouting are prohibited throughout the visit. Maintain quiet and solemnity in the areas commemorating martyrs. The Gongjiang River is deep; please supervise accompanying children away from the riverbank railings and prohibit swimming.
The exhibition hall is closed on Mondays. Please check your travel dates in advance to avoid a wasted trip. Drones are prohibited from flying over the entire scenic area. Unauthorized aerial photography is forbidden. Weekdays have fewer visitors, providing a better immersive experience. On holidays, try to enter early in the morning to avoid the afternoon peak season for study tours.
Yudu Memorial Park is free from excessive commercialization and noise. With the Gong River as its backdrop, it carries a glorious chapter of history. Whether it's a short day trip to visit revolutionary sites or a long study tour connecting revolutionary sites in Ganzhou, Ruijin, Ningdu, and other places, visitors can experience the spirit of the Long March and draw strength from their original aspirations to forge ahead.