On July 7, 1937, shots fired at the Lugou Bridge (likewise called Marco Polo Bridge) outside Beijing marked the start of Japans full-blown invasion of China and triggered Chinas across the country War of Resistance.
Today, the stone lions on both sides of the Bridge remain, however the land has been renewed.As a historical symbol of the War of Resistance, the Bridge embodies the patriotic sprit at the core of the Chinese nationwide identity, identified by valiancy in the face of violence, unity versus foreign invasion, and an unyielding will to eliminate to the death.Today, the Lugou Bridge and its Memorial Hall stand there silently, seeing the comings and goings of visitors every day, advising people to honor the past, cherish peace, reinforce the nationwide unity, and boost the cohesion of the Chinese people.(First 3 photos: The bridge in wartime, 1937|Last 3 photos: The bridge today)