Location & Transportation

Baota Mountain Forest Park sits at the northern gateway of Nanjing, nestled south of Taishan Xincun along North Daqiao Road in Pukou District. Covering 1,100 acres (roughly the size of 900 football fields), this lush park is easy to reach: take Metro Line 3 to Linfuzhao Station, then transfer to Bus 637 or 665. Drivers can access the park directly via North Daqiao Road, with free parking available near the entrance.

Natural Scenery: A Urban Oasis

Baota Mountain Forest Park feels worlds away from downtown Nanjing. Over 80% of the park is covered in trees, with winding trails leading through forests of pine, maple, and bamboo. The air here is sharp with oxygen, especially after rain when mist clings to the leaves. Keep an eye out for wild birds and tiny lizards darting through the underbrush. For panoramic views, climb the Baota Mountain trail—it’s a moderate hike rewarded with sweeping vistas of the Yangtze River and Nanjing’s skyline.

Cultural Highlights: History Meets Art

The park’s name comes from Jinwang Tower, a historic structure dating back to 588 AD when Prince Yang Guang (later Emperor Yang of Sui Dynasty) built it to mark his victory in Nanjing. Though the original tower was destroyed during wars (including the Taiping Rebellion and the 1940s conflicts), a modern replica now stands as Baota Mountain’s centerpiece. Climb the tower for photo-worthy views of the “mountain mural” below.

This mural, carved into 1,600 red sandstone blocks, spans 1,400 square meters on the mountain’s face. Up close, you’ll see scenes of ancient Nanjing’s Beiyinyangying Neolithic culture—think hunters, fishermen, and musicians carved in rough-hewn style. The rust-colored rocks blend with greenery, so patterns emerge like a half-hidden puzzle.

Practical Facilities for Visitors

Baota Mountain is family-friendly, with shaded picnic areas, restrooms, and a visitor center that offers free maps (ask for the English version!). The park is divided into four zones:

  1. Forest Adventure Area: Zip lines and rope courses for adrenaline junkies.
  2. Cultural Exhibition Zone: Outdoor sculptures and info boards about Nanjing’s history.
  3. Urban Culture Section: Modern art installations blending tradition with contemporary themes.
  4. Folk Customs Trail: Displays of local Jiangsu traditions, like silk weaving or tea picking (seasonal).

There’s also a small café near the tower serving bubble tea and snacks, though bringing a picnic is equally enjoyable.

What to Expect on Your Visit

A trip to Baota Mountain Forest Park feels like stepping into a living museum. Start at the mural—bring a guidebook or use the QR codes beside the carvings to hear audio explanations. History buffs will love imagining Prince Yang Guang’s army marching here, while kids might prefer spotting animals in the forest zone.

Time your visit for sunset: the tower glows golden, and the mural’s shadows stretch long. Wear comfy shoes (no high heels!) and bring bug spray in summer. Best for: couples, families with teens, and anyone who wants a break from Nanjing’s busy temples and museums.

Pro tip: On clear days, the Yangtze River shimmers in the distance—perfect for Instagram shots with the tower framed against the water.