Location & How to Get There

Green Spring might be one of Nanjing’s best-kept secrets, tucked away in Pukou District along the X202 road (also called Gong Di Lu). If you’re coming from downtown Nanjing, it’s about a 40-minute drive northwest—just keep an eye out for signs pointing toward Old Mountain (Lao Shan) or the Changjiang Bridge. Public transport fans can take Metro Line 3 to Lin Fung Station, then hop on a local bus (ask drivers or use translation apps to confirm the stop). Trust me, the journey feels like part of the adventure!

Nature’s Playground

At Green Spring, nature steals the show. The spring itself bubbles up from a rocky crevice, surrounded by moss-covered stones and bamboo groves. What makes it special? You can actually peek into the spring’s source—a rare chance to see where fresh water emerges straight from the earth. On sunny days, the water sparkles like glass, and locals swear the spring stays cool even in summer. Bring a small bottle if you’re curious—people here drink the spring water, and they’ll happily share tips on how to scoop it safely.

A Peek at History

Don’t expect grand temples or ancient walls, but Green Spring has its own story. Legend says a Ming Dynasty hermit discovered the spring while searching for a peaceful retreat. Today, a simple stone pavilion marks the spot, with boards sharing fun facts (translated into English!). It’s not a crowded historic site, but perfect if you want to escape tourist crowds and connect with Nanjing’s quieter past.

Practical Tips for Visiting

  • When to go: Mornings are magic—soft light, fewer people, and mist rising over the spring. Avoid weekends if you prefer solitude.
  • What to bring: Sturdy shoes (the path gets muddy), sunscreen, and a reusable bottle for spring water. No fancy gear needed!
  • Eat & Drink: There’s a tiny teahouse nearby serving green tea and snacks. For meals, head back to Pukou’s main areas—locals recommend trying duck blood soup if you’re brave enough!

Why You’ll Love Green Spring

This isn’t a “tick-off-the-list” attraction—it’s a slow-paced escape. Wander through forest trails, listen to birds, and feel the cool mist from the spring. Families with kids love dipping hands in the water, while photographers geek out over the way sunlight filters through leaves. Pro tip: Visit after rain when the spring flows stronger, and the air smells like wet earth.

Getting Around the Area

After your Green Spring visit, extend your trip! The nearby Old Mountain (Lao Shan) offers hiking, and the Pearl Lake (Xuan Wu Lake) area has bike rentals. If you drove, stop by a local farm stand along X202 for fruits—they often sell Nanjing’s famous cherries in season. Just remember to factor in travel time—this part of Nanjing isn’t as connected as the city center.

Green Spring won’t wow you with flashy views, but its simplicity is exactly why it’s worth a visit. Come for the spring, stay for the tranquility, and leave with a bottle of nature’s own refreshment.