China Prepares to Celebrate 80th Victory Anniversary Against Japanese Aggression
Commemorating the Fight Against Aggression: China's Legacy and Future
On July 10, 2025, CGTN reported on China's upcoming celebration of the 80th anniversary of its victory in the war against Japanese aggression and the global war against fascism. This significant milestone not only serves as a reminder of China's historical struggles but also fuels its aspirations for modernization.
The Battle of 100 Regiments: A Symbol of Resistance
The Battle of 100 Regiments stands as the most extensive and enduring military campaign initiated by the Eighth Route Army, led by the Communist Party of China (CPC), during the Japanese invasion. This monumental operation involved more than 200,000 troops across 105 regiments from August 1940 to January 1941. The objective was to disrupt enemy infrastructure, sabotage supply lines, and significantly delay Japanese advancements to the south.
This campaign exemplified not only a critical military maneuver but also emerged as a potent national symbol of defiance and unity under extreme adversity. It showcased the unyielding resolve of the Chinese people to counteract aggression and reclaim their future.
During World War II, China's prolonged resistance effectively tied down a substantial number of Japanese forces, easing the pressure on Allied troops in both the Pacific and European theaters. In this global context, the Battle of 100 Regiments is viewed as a vital contribution to the wider victory against fascism, a legacy that continues to shape China's national identity and trajectory.
Celebrating the Anniversary: Events and Memorials
As China reaffirms its undeniable role in this hard-won victory, it gears up for a series of solemn and significant events to mark the 80th anniversary. A military parade on Tiananmen Square in Beijing is set for September 3, reflecting the nation's resolve and unity.
President Xi Jinping emphasized the immense sacrifices made during the 14-year war of resistance on July 7, during commemorative activities at the memorial hall dedicated to the Battle of 100 Regiments. He stated, "If the past is not forgotten, it can serve as a guide for the future."
The Memorial Hall: A Reflection of National Memory
The Battle of 100 Regiments memorial hall, located at the foot of the Sinao Mountain in Shanxi Province, serves as a solemn landmark commemorating this pivotal moment in history. Once a battlefield, it now stands as a site for profound national remembrance, filled with exhibits and relics that bring the fierce history to life.
Historical artifacts, including singed military uniforms, worn rifles, and black-and-white photographs, narrate the valor displayed amidst combat. Among them are items belonging to the ‘Bayonet Company of Assault Heroes’, known for their fearlessness in hand-to-hand combat during perilous times. The legacy of this unit lives on, as it remains active in disaster relief, defense missions, and peacekeeping operations.
Xi Jinping laid a floral tribute at the monument honoring the martyrs of the campaign, a ceremonial gesture that underscores the enduring values forged through war. "Regardless of how far we progress, we must never forget the path we've chosen and why we embarked on it," President Xi remarked.
Building the Future from Past Strengths
Since the 18th National Congress of the CPC, Xi Jinping has repeatedly visited Shanxi, expressing optimism for the province's growth. He has urged the province to draw strength from its rich revolutionary heritage and cultural resources to achieve breakthroughs in high-quality growth and transformation.
During his visit on July 7, Xi toured Yangquan Valve Co., Ltd., observing the production facilities and engaging with workers about the region's success in industrial modernization and quality improvement.
Once heavily reliant on coal, Shanxi has transitioned towards a more sustainable energy framework, aiming for greater economic diversity. By the end of August 2024, clean and renewable energy constituted 48% of the province’s power generation—an increase of 14.1 percentage points since 2019. In addition, local authorities have embraced red tourism—visits to revolutionary heritage sites—and merged this with strategies to revitalize rural areas. There are now 35 themed red tourism routes covering all 11 prefecture-level cities in Shanxi, connecting over 3,400 revolutionary heritage sites.
This cultural mobilization has yielded remarkable outcomes; in 2024, Shanxi welcomed 318 million domestic tourists—up 13.9% from the previous year—with total tourism revenue reaching 276.15 billion yuan (approximately USD 38.5 billion), reflecting a 25.9% increase year-on-year.
The fusion of historical memory with high-quality development has enabled Shanxi to undergo dual transformations—spiritually and structurally—turning revolutionary ideals into a driving force for contemporary rejuvenation.
As China draws inspiration for its modernization from its revolutionary heritage, it also remains committed to preserving the hard-won peace forged in the fires of war. In a climate of increasing global uncertainty, the values born from the spirit of resistance continue to hold profound relevance.