Location & Accessibility

Jinling Qi’Er is nestled in Xuanwu District of Nanjing, right next to the iconic Purple Mountain (Zijin Shan) and Xuanwu Lake. It’s a short walk from the Xiamahefeng Station on Nanjing’s Metro Line 2, or hop on Bus 20⁄315 to Xuanwu Lake Park—the entrance is just a 5-minute stroll away. If you’re cycling, there are plenty of bike lanes along Huandao Road (Huan Lu), and parking spots are available near the main gate.

Natural Scenery: A Blend of Mountains & Water

This place feels like a painting! Imagine rolling hills covered in lush green, with Xuanwu Lake sparkling below. The lotus ponds bloom in summer, and in autumn, maple leaves turn the trails into a fiery red carpet. For panoramic views, climb up to the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall nearby—you’ll see the whole area spread out like a postcard. Early mornings are magical here: mist rises over the lake, and locals practice tai chi by the water.

Cultural Treasures: History at Every Turn

Jinling Qi’Er isn’t just about nature—it’s packed with stories. The site was once part of a royal garden during the Ming Dynasty, and you’ll still find ancient stone bridges and pavilions. Don’t miss the Linggu Temple, a historic Buddhist site hidden in the woods, or the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, where emperors of the Ming era are buried. For music lovers, the Music Terrace (once used for outdoor concerts) has a cool acoustic design—even today, people gather here to sing or play instruments!

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Comfortable shoes: The hills here are gentle, but paths can be uneven.
  • Snacks & water: There are cafes, but bringing your own saves time (and money!).
  • Sunscreen/Hat: Open areas mean lots of sunshine, especially in spring/summer.
  • Camera: Sunrise/sunset over the lake is Instagram gold!

Family-Friendly Fun

Parents: rejoice! Jinling Qi’Er has wide, flat paths for strollers, shaded picnic areas, and a children’s playground near the lake. During holidays, they sometimes host kite-flying events or traditional dance performances. The Xuanwu Lake next door also offers paddleboat rentals—kids go crazy for those!

Hidden Gems: Less-Known Spots

Avoid the crowds by exploring side trails. The Purple Mountain Observatory (a 10-minute hike away) lets you stargaze at night, and the Linggu Tower often has fewer visitors than busy temples. For a peaceful moment, sit by the Jiuhua Spring—locals say the water here is extra clear, and it’s a great spot to refill your bottle!

Dining & Refreshments

After a day of exploring, grab lunch at the Xuanwu Lake Restaurant (try the lotus-root soup!) or snack on Nanjing duck blood noodles at a street stall near the entrance. For coffee lovers, Purple Mountain Café has lake views and decent espresso. Pro tip: The longan tea sold by vendors here is sweet and refreshing—perfect for a hot day!

Why Visit Jinling Qi’Er?

It’s the best of both worlds: nature meets history without feeling touristy. Whether you’re hiking, snapping photos, or just breathing fresh air, this place makes you forget you’re in a big city. Come early, stay late, and bring curiosity—there’s always something new to discover!