Avenue Of Stone Elephants sits within the Zhongshan Mausoleum Scenic Area in Xuanwu District, Nanjing. It’s part of the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To get there, take Nanjing’s Metro Line 2 to Xiaomafu station, then transfer to a tourist shuttle bus (Line 2) that drops you near the entrance. If driving, use the GPS address: No. 7 Stone Elephant Road, Zhongshan Mausoleum Scenic Area. Parking is available, but arrive early as it gets crowded.

Natural Scenery: A Living Gallery

This 800-meter-long path isn’t just about statues—it’s a seasonal wonder. In spring, pink cherry blossoms frame the stone animals, while autumn paints the maple trees red. Giant gingko trees line the path, their golden leaves creating a carpet in November. The statues themselves blend into this backdrop, making each visit feel like stepping into a historic painting. At dawn or sunset, the light casts long shadows, adding drama to the already grand scene.

Cultural Treasures: Guardians of History

Avenue Of Stone Elephants is famous for its 12 pairs of stone beasts carved in the Ming Dynasty. Each pair represents a mythical creature: lions (power), cixi (justice), camels (endurance), elephants (wisdom), qilins (good omens), and horses (loyalty). What’s unique? Each species has 4 standing and 4 recumbent statues, showcasing different poses. After the beasts, two towering stone pillars mark the transition to 8 human statues—four scholars and four warriors—symbolizing officials who once served the emperor. All sculptures are carved from single blocks of stone, standing tall even after 600 years.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

  • Tickets: Included in the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum ticket (¥70 during off-season, ¥90 in peak seasons).
  • Best Time: Visit early morning (before 8 AM) or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch softer sunlight.
  • Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes—the path is mostly flat but lengthy.
  • Photo Spots: The stone elephants near the start, the autumn-colored maple section, and the human statues at the end are top spots.

Facilities for Travelers

The area has clean restrooms, souvenir shops selling Ming-themed trinkets, and snack stands with local treats like yuebing (gluten cakes). Nearby, the Ming Xiaoling Museum offers AC and historical context. Renting an audio guide (¥30) is worth it—it explains each statue’s symbolism in detail. For kids, there’s a scavenger hunt game available at the visitor center, turning history into a playful adventure.

The Experience: More Than a Walk

Walking down Avenue Of Stone Elephants feels like traveling back in time. The silence is only broken by birdsong and rustling leaves. Families picnic under the trees, photographers wait for golden hour, and history buffs geek out over carving details. It’s peaceful yet grand, with a mix of nature and artistry. Bring a journal—you’ll want to note down the stories behind each statue. Locals say the path looks magical on a foggy morning, when the statues seem to emerge from mist like ancient guardians.

Whether you’re into photography, history, or simply soaking up atmosphere, Avenue Of Stone Elephants offers a slice of China’s imperial past wrapped in natural beauty. Just remember: the real magic happens when you slow down and let the statues’ silent stories sink in.