The military parade to celebrate Victory Day began with dozens of veterans leading the formations.
Among the observers of the parade, at the scene is a son of a late veteran. Li Haishan's father fought against Japanese invaders in the war more than 70 years ago.
'My father used to be the Chief of Staff for Heavy Artillery Regiment of the No.55 division. He passed away more than 20 years ago. Yet we always remember him because he has many battle scars. I wish that through this parade, people can shore up their confidence in our country with more solidarity and our country can become a more powerful nation'.
A more powerful nation doesn't necessarily mean military expansion. After hearing that China will cut the number of its troops by 300,000, Wu Manli, a Beijing resident says it is a positive sign showing the world that China cherishes peace and stability.
'Although today we have a massive parade, we have demonstrated very positive attitude because we will downsize our troops. So we show the world our good will for peace. As China has suffered great sorrows since the war began and Chinese people have gone through an arduous journey in our development. We must treasure the hard-earned peaceful environment.'
Wang Lei is a Beijing local resident from Daxing district and says watching the parade was inspiring.
'Formations of the army, navy and air force was awe-inspiring. I was amazed by them marching in step and they have received very strict training to achieve this. I felt particularly thrilled when the National Flag Guard walked out of the Monument to the People's Heroes. And when the bell rang, it reminded me of our history. We have to remember it.'
Zekarias Woldemariam, a government official from Ethiopia speaks highly of the parade.
'In my country I've seen a parade, but it's not as big as this one. I think this one is a very unique and an international one. It's a commemoration of a big victory, a victory against the atrocities, against aggressions. So leaders throughout the world should take a lesson from that struggle and the commitment paid by the people and the government of China 70 years ago and they should do whatever they could to prevent any possible problem against civilians in the future.'
Some 40,000 people were present in Tian'anmen Square to view the parade. It could be the largest live audience to watch any parade here in the country.
For CRI, I'm Luo Yu.
