Zhangye, Gansu Province

A Bridge of International Friendship: Exploring the Rewi Alley Memorial Hall in Shandan

Altitude:1,550m

Best Time:☀️ 🍂

Ticket:Free

About This Attraction

A Monument to Internationalism and Education

1.Located on Cultural Street in Shandan: County, Gansu Province, the Rewi Alley Memorial Hall is a profound cultural site dedicated to the life and legacy of Rewi Alley, the renowned New Zealand writer, social reformer, and educator. Spanning an area of approximately 6,800 square meters, the hall serves as a center for internationalist education and a testament to the deep bond between Alley and the people of Northwest China.

The Legacy of the Bailie School

2.Rewi Alley arrived in: Shandan in 1944 during the turbulent years of World War II, seeking a safe haven for his school and its students. He founded the Shandan Bailie School, introducing the "Gung Ho" (Gong He) cooperative movement, which focused on "working together" and vocational training. For ten years, Alley lived and worked in Shandan, establishing over 20 production cooperatives that fostered self-sufficiency and provided education to local youth in the rugged environment of the Hexi Corridor.

The "Stone Library" and Cultural Treasures

One of the most remarkable features of the memorial hall is the extensive collection of artifacts curated by Alley himself. He was a passionate collector of Chinese culture, and the hall houses over 4,000 cultural relics, ranging from Neolithic pottery and ancient bronze wares to delicate scrolls and sculptures. These items reflect his deep appreciation for the history of the Silk Road and the artistic achievements of the Chinese people.

A Sacred Ground of Remembrance

The memorial site includes the restored former residence of Rewi Alley, where visitors can see the modest environment in which he lived and worked. Adjacent to the hall is the Grave Park, the final resting place of both Rewi Alley and his close friend and fellow educator, George Hogg. For travelers traversing the Silk Road, the memorial hall offers an inspiring journey into the life of a man who dedicated his life to the betterment of others and the promotion of global peace and cooperation.

Location & Nearby Attractions

📍 Showing 2 nearby attractions within 50km

📍 Zhangye, Gansu Province • 🏔️ 1550m elevation

Frequently Asked Questions - Rewi Alley Memorial, Shandan Travel Guide

Who was Rewi Alley?

Rewi Alley was a New Zealand-born educator and social reformer who moved to China in 1927 and spent much of his life building cooperatives and schools, particularly in Shandan.

Where is the memorial hall located?

It is located on Cultural Street in the center of Shandan County, Zhangye City, Gansu Province.

What can I see in the exhibition halls?

You can see historical documents, photographs of the Bailie School, Alley's personal belongings, and a vast collection of thousands of ancient Chinese relics.

Who is George Hogg?

George Hogg was an English adventurer and educator who served as the headmaster of the Shandan Bailie School and is buried alongside Alley in Shandan.

Is there an entrance fee?

As a major cultural and patriotic education site, the hall typically offers free admission, though visitors should check for any specific local regulations.

✨ Why Visit Rewi Alley Memorial, Shandan

✦The Spirit of Gung Ho: Learn about the history of the industrial cooperative movement and the revolutionary "working while learning" educational model.

✦Vast Relic Collection: View a diverse collection of over 4,000 historical artifacts, including prehistoric pottery and ancient art collected by Alley.

✦Former Residence: Step into the preserved living quarters where Rewi Alley developed his humanitarian and educational programs.

✦Grave Park of Heroes: Pay respects at the memorial park dedicated to the lives of Rewi Alley and George Hogg.

✦Sino-Kiwi Connection: Explore a unique site that highlights the historical and cultural ties between New Zealand and China.