The Work Area covers approximately 152 pings and is situated on the elevated western plateau of the Ankang Reception House. It served as the central hub for interrogations and obtaining confessions, and was the primary processing point for detainees upon arrival for registration and inspection. The building features a "square-ring" (Hui-shaped) layout: the central core houses offices, recording room, and administrative sections for case files, while the surrounding perimeter primarily consists of interrogation rooms, along with break rooms for investigators, conference rooms, central control rooms, and restrooms.
Interrogations at the Ankang Reception House were conducted in isolation. The Work Area contains multiple independent interrogation rooms, each sharing a similar layout and equipped with recording and surveillance devices. These rooms featured specialized functional designs—such as sound-absorbing panels and carpeting—to ensure that interrogation proceedings remained unheard by suspects in the same case. Windows were placed high and fitted with thick curtains to prevent internal activities from being observed and to isolate detainees from the outside world, stripping them of their ability to perceive the passing of day and night.
The main entrance on the north side is the only external access point for this area. Additionally, Room 114 on the southeast side contains a hidden staircase leading to an underground passage that connects to the recuperation area, where detainees were held.
