The Ming Dynasty Capital
In 1368, Zhu Yuanzhang established Nanjing as the capital of the Ming Dynasty, marking the city’s first time as China’s political, economic, and cultural center. As you stroll through the streets of Nanjing, you’ll easily encounter numerous cultural relics and historic sites dating back to the Ming era.
The Ming City Wall was first built during the Hongwu period in 1366 and surrounds what was then the heart of Nanjing. With a history spanning over 650 years, the construction took 21 years to complete, finishing in 1387. Ingeniously designed to incorporate natural features like hills, rivers, and lakes, the wall’s layout is far from a simple rectangle.
When completed, the city wall stretched approximately 35.3 kilometers in length, with a height ranging between 14 and 21 meters. It includes 13 main gates, while the surrounding defensive structures extend nearly 60 kilometers in total.
Some highly recommended spots to explore along the Ming City Wall include:
●Taicheng (near Liberation Gate)
●Zhonghua Gate
●Yuejiang Tower
●Dongshuikou Gate
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The Ming Tomb Scenic Area
The Ming Tomb Scenic Area is the final resting place of Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and Empress Ma. As the largest imperial tomb in the Nanjing region, it represents the pinnacle of early Ming architecture and stone carving art. The mausoleum area is mainly divided into two parts: the Sacred Way (Shendao) leading to the tomb and the main burial complex. In 2003, Ming Xiaoling was inscribed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
- Address:
- At the foot of Zhuque Peak, South Dulongfu, Purple Mountain, Xuanwu District
- Admission:
- 70 CNY per person
- Opening Hours:
- February 1 – November 30: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
December 1 – January 31: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
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Nanjing City Wall Scenic Area (Zhonghua Gate)
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Zhonghua Gate was known as Jubaomen (“Treasure Gathering Gate”) and is also called the Wengcheng (“Jar City”) because its structure resembles a giant ceramic jar. Serving as the main southern gate of the Ming capital, it features 27 hidden chambers that could shelter up to 3,000 soldiers and store large quantities of grain. Even after more than 600 years, this remarkable example of ancient military architecture continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
- Address:
- Section of the city wall from Dongshuikou to Jiqingmen, Qinhuai District (including Zhonghua Gate Fortress)
- Admission:
- 50 CNY per person during the day, 90 CNY per person at night (including performance)
- Opening Hours:
- Daytime 8:30-17:00, Evening 17:00-22:00
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Yuejiang Tower Scenic Area
Perched near the Yangtze River, Yuejiang Tower is surrounded by the Ming City Wall and the city moat at its base. The tower’s bright and vibrant colors, along with its twin wings, offer stunning views of the Yangtze, making it one of Nanjing’s iconic landmarks.
- Address:
- No. 202 Jianning Road, Gulou District
- Admission:
- 40 CNY per person
- Opening Hours:
- 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
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Ming Palace Ruins Park
Located in the heart of Nanjing, the Ming Palace Ruins Park preserves the remains of the Ming Dynasty imperial palace. Visitors can explore the foundations of ancient palace buildings and precious stone carvings, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the former royal residence. Surrounded by lush trees and peaceful scenery, the park is a perfect spot for both leisurely strolls and cultural discovery.
- Address:
- No. 311 Zhongshan East Road, Xuanwu District
- Admission:
- Free
- Opening Hours:
- 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Chaotian Palace (Nanjing Municipal Museum)
Chaotian Palace was the site of the Ming Dynasty’s imperial ceremonies honoring the emperor. It is the largest and best-preserved complex of Ming and Qing dynasty architecture in southern China. Today, it houses the Nanjing Museum, offering visitors a rich cultural and historical experience.
- Address:
- No. 4 Chaotian Palace, Wangfu Street, Qinhuai District
- Admission:
- 25 CNY per person (Free admission on the 10th of each month)
- Opening Hours:
- 9:00-18:30 (Closed on Mondays, open on free admission days and during July and August)
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Tianfei Palace
Nestled at the foot of Lion Mountain, Tianfei Palace was built by Emperor Ming Chengzu Zhu Di to honor the sea goddess Mazu (Tianfei Niangniang) and other deities for protecting the famous explorer Zheng He during his voyages. The palace is located next to Jinghai Temple and welcomes visitors daily.
- Address:
- No. 284 Jianning Road, Gulou District
- Admission:
- Free
- Opening Hours:
- 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
