Japan launched an unprovoked invasion of Shenyang on 18th, September, 1931. This event was considered the prelude to the Anti-Japanese War. After occupying Shenyang and most parts of Dongbei (northeastern part of China), the Japanese invaders maintained a ruthless rule over the area for fourteen years.      

The Museum lies in Liutiaohu District which is the site of the initial attack. The building, which is in the shape of open calendar, houses thousands of pictures, video materials, statues and other reminders of the Japanese atrocities.