Editor's note: Eighty years ago, the world triumphed over fascism in World War II with a hard-won victory that reshaped history. Now, visitors of all ages pay their respect and reflect on this history at the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, honoring both China's resilience and the world's collective stand against aggression. As we mark the 80th anniversary of Japan's unconditional surrender in WWII today, we remember war's huge costs and reaffirm peace as our most precious inheritance.

Visitors pause at an installation in the museum in Beijing, Aug. 14, 2025. The installation shows China's toll in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression — over 35 million military and civilian casualties, over $100 billion in direct economic losses, and over $500 billion in indirect economic losses. [Photo by Zhang Jiaqi/China.org.cn]