A City of Mountains, Water, Forests, and Urban Charm
Nanjing is a city embraced by nature — nestled among mountains, lakes, and forests. Scenic landmarks like Purple Mountain (Zijin Shan), the Ming City Wall, Xuanwu Lake, and the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum together paint a stunning landscape.
Wander through the ancient charm of the Old City South, take in the breezy views along the Yangtze River, and stroll beside the lantern-lit Qinhuai River, where the sounds of paddles and the glow of lights create an enchanting riverside atmosphere. Here, you’ll discover Nanjing at its most captivating.
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Qixia Mountain Scenic Area
Also known as She Mountain, Qixia Mountain is celebrated as “the most elegant and graceful mountain in Jinling (Nanjing)” and is one of China's top four destinations for autumn foliage viewing. Nestled within the mountain is the historic Qixia Temple, a grand Buddhist temple dating back to the Southern Dynasties. With its majestic halls and constant flow of incense, the temple draws worshippers and visitors year-round.
The area is rich with relics from the Six Dynasties and is a treasure trove of religious, imperial, and stone-carving cultures. Experts even refer to it as a “natural geological museum.”
- Address:
- No. 88 Qixia Street, Qixia District
- Admission:
- 50 CNY (low season) / 80 CNY (peak season)
- Opening Hours:
- 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Xuanwu Lake Scenic Area
Xuanwu Lake is the largest imperial garden lake in China and is often called “the Pearl of Jinling.” The lake is composed of five interconnected islets — Huan Island, Ying Island, Ling Island, Liang Island, and Cui Island — each offering a different seasonal delight. In spring, stroll along the cherry blossom path; in summer, admire the blooming lotus across the water.
With a gentle breeze and shimmering reflections on the surface, a boat ride here is the perfect way to take in the tranquil beauty of Nanjing.
- Address:
- No. 1 Xuanwumen Road, Xuanwu District
- Admission:
- Free
- Opening Hours:
- Lakeside Road: open all day. Five islands: May-October 6:00-22:00, November-April 6:00-21:00
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Mochou Lake Park
Once known as Hengtang, Mochou Lake was also called Shicheng Lake due to its location near the ancient Stone City. Legend has it that in ancient times, a kind-hearted young woman named Mochou left her hometown of Luoyang to marry far away in Nanjing, settling by the lake. Her helpful nature touched many, and in her honor, the lake was renamed Mochou Lake.
In spring, the park bursts into color with blooming crabapple blossoms—delicate, elegant, and enchanting—making it a top spot for flower viewing. Often hailed as the “No. 1 Lake in Jiangnan,” it’s a must-visit for those seeking natural beauty and local charm.
- Address:
- No. 132 Shuiximen Street, Jianye District
- Admission:
- Free
- Opening Hours:
- 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Meihua Mountain (Plum Blossom Hill)
Recognized as the finest of China’s four major plum blossom gardens, Meihua Mountain in Nanjing comes alive each spring as countless plum trees burst into bloom. The hills are blanketed in waves of pink and white petals, with a sweet fragrance that drifts for miles. It's a beloved seasonal attraction, drawing visitors from all over to admire its stunning beauty.
Dubbed “China’s No. 1 Plum Blossom Mountain,” it offers an unforgettable floral experience set against a scenic landscape.
- Address:
- South of the intersection of Mingling Road and Botanical Garden South Road, 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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Muyan Riverside Scenic Area
Stretching from Yanziji in the east to Shangyuanmen in the west, the Muyan Riverside Scenic Area is flanked by the rolling peaks of Mount Mufu on one side and the majestic Yangtze River on the other. This picturesque corridor is dotted with cultural landmarks and natural beauty, earning it the historic praise: “Jinling’s finest beauty lies in the northern suburbs.”
It's one of the best places in Nanjing’s urban core to enjoy riverside views, get close to the water, or take in panoramic vistas from the hills.
- Address:
- No. 9 Yongji Avenue, Qixia District
- Admission:
- Free (some attractions within the area may charge separate fees)
- Opening Hours:
- 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Laoshan National Forest Park
With over 80% forest coverage, Laoshan National Forest Park is often called “the green lungs of Nanjing” and a “natural oxygen bar.” Centered around pristine woodlands, the park features majestic mountain peaks, lush greenery, and scattered historical relics. As the largest national forest park in Jiangsu Province, it offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and hikers alike.
- Address:
- No. 90 Huangshanling Road, Pukou District
- Admission:
- 30 CNY per person
- Opening Hours:
- 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Zhenzhu Spring Scenic Area
Nestled between mountains and water, Zhenzhu Spring Scenic Area is known for its crystal-clear spring waters and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including dragon boats, the historic Ding Mountain Great Wall, a scenic cable slide, and relaxing bamboo rafts. Don’t miss the dazzling performance of Da Tiehua—a traditional fireworks art form recognized as intangible cultural heritage.
- Address:
- No. 182 Zhenzhu Street, Pukou District
- Admission:
- 40 CNY per person / 60 CNY per person (includes zoo admission)
- Opening Hours:
- weekdays 08:30-17:00; weekends 08:30-17:30
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Jinniu Lake Scenic Area
With a lush vegetation coverage of 96%, Jinniu Lake Scenic Area is often hailed as a “natural oxygen bar.” Its pristine environment is not only refreshing but also steeped in rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore legends surrounding Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, visit Jinguang Temple—originally built during the Wanli period of the Ming era—and learn about traditional iron-smelting techniques that have been passed down for over 2,000 years. The area also boasts stunning natural landscapes shaped by time, and it is the birthplace of the world-famous Chinese folk song Mo Li Hua (Jasmine Flower), often called “China’s second national anthem.”
- Address:
- No. 58, Jinniu Lake Tourism Resort, Babaiqiao Town, Liuhe District
- Admission:
- 40 CNY/person
- Opening Hours:
- Summer 08:30-17:30, Winter 08:30-17:00
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Tianshengqiao Scenic Area
At Tianshengqiao Scenic Area, you can take a scenic boat ride along the Yan Zhi River and admire the picturesque views of the “Mini Three Gorges of Jiangnan.” Adventure seekers can soar over a sea of flowers symbolizing love or zip down a colorful rainbow slide. With breathtaking views and exciting activities, this is a destination full of charm and fun for all ages.
- Address:
- No. 500, Tianshengqiao Road, Honglan Subdistrict, Lishui District
- Admission:
- 20 CNY/person (off-season), 27 CNY/person (peak season)
- Opening Hours:
- 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge
The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge is the first double-deck bridge in China designed and built entirely by Chinese engineers. It carries both rail and road traffic and holds a prominent place in both Chinese and global bridge engineering history. As a symbol of Nanjing and a cultural icon of Jiangsu Province, the bridge has been named one of the “48 Scenic Spots of Jinling.”
- Address:
- No. 5, Baotaqiao East Street, Gulou District (Bridge Park)
- Admission:
- Free
- Opening Hours:
- Open all day
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Yinghong Bridge (Glass Skywalk)
Located near the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Yinghong Bridge is a popular “Instagram-worthy” spot beloved by locals. At night, the bridge comes alive with dazzling lights reflected on the shimmering water below, creating a stunning and romantic scene.
- Address:
- Near No. 5 Baotaqiao East Street, Gulou District (Daqiao Park vicinity)
- Admission:
- Free
- Opening Hours:
- 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Nanjing Eye Pedestrian Bridge
With its sleek, flowing lines and graceful form, the Nanjing Eye is the first sightseeing pedestrian bridge over the Yangtze River. Its twin arches resemble a pair of eyes, giving rise to its poetic nickname. The angled steel cables fan out like wings, and walking across feels like dancing along the strings of a giant harp.
- Address:
- Jiajiang Pedestrian Bridge, Jiangxinzhou, Jianye District
- Admission:
- Free
- Opening Hours:
- Open all day
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Nanjing Olympic Sports Center
As one of only four Class A stadiums in Asia, the Nanjing Olympic Sports Center was the main venue for both the Asian Youth Games and the Youth Olympic Games. It features a stadium, gymnasium, natatorium, and tennis center, with a total capacity of 87,000 spectators.
- Address:
- No. 222, Jiangdong Middle Road, Jianye District
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Yuzui Wetland Park
Yuzui Wetland Park gets its name from its pointed, fish-head-like shape. This nature-rich park is a haven for birds and a great spot for plant enthusiasts. It serves as an open-air classroom for nature lovers. Climb the observation tower for a panoramic view of the Hexi Riverside Scenic Belt, where the Yangtze breeze brings a sense of calm and serenity.
- Address:
- No. 888, Yangtze River Avenue, Jianye District
- Admission:
- Free
- Opening Hours:
- Open all day
