Wartime sites in Shanxi province have been transformed into places of learning and remembrance, as China marks the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and in the World Anti-Fascist War.

One such site is in Yangquan City, where deep bullet holes still scar the walls of buildings.

The Liu Family Mansion, once the scene of fierce combat between the Eighth Route Army and Japanese troops, has been restored and converted into an exhibition hall.

The display tells the story of a battle where Chinese troops, though outnumbered, won a significant victory.

These events were part of the Hundred-Regiment Campaign launched in August 1940, when the Eighth Route Army attacked Japanese-controlled railways and mines in northern China.

One of the commanders, Fan Zixia, led sabotage missions along the Zheng-Tai Railway, destroying bridges and capturing train stations to cut off Japanese supply lines.

Fan was later killed in 1942.

His granddaughter, Fan Wei, has spent years retracing his footsteps – visiting old trenches, water towers, and rail stations where he once fought.

“I’m proud of my grandfather,” Fan Wei said. “His bravery still inspires our family and younger generations.”

China is organising a series of commemorative activities to mark the 80th war victory anniversary, including a major military parade on September 3.