Xuanwu Lake Park
Xuanwu Lake Park, a jewel of Nanjing’s urban landscape, is one of China’s oldest imperial gardens and the largest royal lake park in Jiangsu Province. Dating back to the Six Dynasties period (3rd–6th century), this 502-hectare oasis blends natural beauty with historical relics, earning its nickname as the "Kidney of Nanjing." Surrounded by ancient city walls and modern skyscrapers, it offers a retreat for boating, strolling, and cultural exploration. Designated a national 4A-level tourist attraction, the park hosts 10 million visitors annually.
Historical Overview
The lake’s origins trace to the Warring States period (475–221 BCE), when it was a marshland known as Sanchi Lake. In the 3rd century, it became part of the Eastern Wu Dynasty’s imperial gardens. The Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) expanded it into a military training ground and pleasure retreat, with Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang building the iconic Xuanwu Gate nearby. Over centuries, it inspired poets like Li Bai and Du Fu. Key milestones include the 1909 opening to the public, the 1954 restoration after floods, and the 2010 UNESCO-backed "Green Heritage" initiative.
Structural Layout
The park is divided into five scenic zones:
Ring Lake Zone: A 10-km path around the lake, linking historic gates and gardens.
Central Island Zone: Five interconnected islands (Liangzhou, Yingzhou, Lingzhou, Cuizhou, Lianzhou) with pavilions, temples, and wildlife habitats.
Northern Forest Zone: A 150-hectare pine forest with trails, birdwatching towers, and the Lotus Garden.
Southeast Cultural Zone: The Ming City Wall Museum, Xuanwu Gate, and Nanjing Planetarium.
Southwest Recreation Zone: A waterfront promenade, amusement park, and Lotus Pavilion for sunset views.
Major Attractions
Liangzhou Island: The largest island, featuring the Miaofeng Temple (a 1,500-year-old Buddhist shrine) and the Iron Crows’ Pagoda (a Song Dynasty relic).
Xuanwu Gate: A Ming-era city gate with a 25-meter-high archway, now housing the City Wall History Exhibition Hall.
Lotus Garden: A 20-hectare wetland with 300+ lotus varieties, blooming June–August.
Nanjing Planetarium: Asia’s largest solar system model, with a 23.5-meter-diameter dome and 4D space theaters.
Niaohua Island (Yingzhou): Home to migratory cranes and a 16th-century Flower God Temple.
Moon Viewing Pavilion (Guanyue Pavilion): A Ming-style octagonal tower offering panoramic lake and city views.
Beiling Pagoda Forest: A cluster of 13 miniature pagodas replicating famous Chinese Buddhist structures.
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Route (2–3 Hours):
Xuanwu Gate → Ring Lake Path → Liangzhou Island (Miaofeng Temple) → Lotus Garden → Moon Viewing Pavilion.
Highlights: Core historical sites and lake views.
Extended Route (4–5 Hours):
Xuanwu Gate → Ming City Wall Museum → Liangzhou →Niaohua Island → Nanjing Planetarium → Beiling Pagoda Forest.
Highlights: Cultural depth and family-friendly attractions.
Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
Xuanwu Gate → Ring Lake Path → All Five Islands → Lotus Garden → Planetarium → Northern Forest Hiking → Sunset at Moon Viewing Pavilion.
Highlights: Full immersion in nature, history, and science.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the official WeChat mini-program or Meituan (up to 1 day in advance).
On-Site: Tickets available at Xuanwu Gate, Lotus Garden, and Planetarium entrances.
Prices:
Park Entry: Free (some islands/museums charge ¥10–30).
Boat Rentals: ¥60–120/hour (electric boats), ¥40/hour (paddleboats).
Planetarium: ¥30 (adults), ¥15 (students).
Ming City Wall Museum: ¥20.
Free: Children under 1.3m, disabled visitors, and seniors over 70.
Transportation
Subway: Line 1 to Xuanwumen Station (Exit 3) or Line 3 to Fujialou Station (Exit 1), 5-minute walk to park entrances.
Bus: Routes 1, 3, 8, 15, 22, 25, 28, or 30 to Xuanwuhu Gongyuan Stop.
Taxi: Direct to Xuanwu Gate (south entrance) or Lotus Garden (west entrance).
Departure: Exit via Xuanwumen to Nanjing City Wall or Gulou District.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–3 PM; visit early (6 AM opening) or late (after 5 PM).
Crowds: Weekends and cherry blossom season (March–April) are busiest; weekdays in winter are quietest.
Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal for boating.
Essentials:
Wear waterproof shoes (paths may be slippery near water).
Bring sunscreen and a hat (limited shade on islands).
Photography allowed (avoid drones near restricted zones).
Prohibited items: Bicycles, barbecues, and loudspeakers.
