Location & Accessibility

Laoshan Dayizi Mountain Observation Deck sits in Pukou District, Nanjing, just north of the Yangtze River. It’s part of the Laoshan National Forest Park, which feels like a green escape from the city. To get here, take Metro Line 10 to Longhua Road Station, then transfer to Bus 608 or 610. The bus drops you near the park’s entrance—just follow the signs for “Dayizi Mountain” (大椅子山). If you drive, punch “Laoshan Forest Park” into your GPS; there’s a parking lot at the base.

Natural Scenery: A Sky-High View

The real star here is the panoramic view from the observation deck. At 350 meters above sea level, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world. On clear days, you can see the Yangtze River winding through the countryside and the skyline of Nanjing in the distance. Early morning or late afternoon is magic—the sun paints the river and hills in golden light. In fall, the forest turns fiery red and orange, making the hike up totally worth it. Even on misty days, the fog-covered peaks look like a Chinese watercolor painting!

Cultural Touches: More Than Just Nature

While Laoshan Dayizi Mountain isn’t packed with historic sites, its name has a fun story. “Dayizi” means “giant chair” in Chinese, named after two rocky outcrops that look like a massive chair carved by nature. Some say locals believed this was where gods sat to watch over the land. Near the deck, you’ll find simple stone benches and a small pavilion—perfect for resting while pretending you’re a poet inspired by the view.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

The trail to the observation deck is easy but steep in parts. Wear comfy shoes! The path is mostly shaded, so it’s cool even in summer. Once you reach the top, there’s a wooden platform with telescopes (coin-operated) and info boards about the landmarks you’re seeing. Bring water, snacks, and bug spray—mosquitoes can be active in summer. If you visit on a weekend, arrive early to avoid crowds.

Facilities: Simple but Sweet

At the base of Laoshan, you’ll find basic amenities: restrooms, a small shop selling drinks and snacks, and rental bikes if you want to explore further. The observation deck itself is free, though you might need to pay a small fee (around 10 RMB) to enter Laoshan Forest Park. There’s also a picnic area nearby with tables and trash bins—ideal for a lunch with a view.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Unlike crowded spots like the Citadel, Laoshan Dayizi Mountain feels peaceful. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to escape the city without hiking all day. Families with kids will love the short trek and photo ops, while photographers can snap endless shots of the river and sunset. Pro tip: Stay until dusk. As the lights come on in Nanjing and along the river, the scene gets even more surreal.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture curious traveler, or just someone who craves fresh air, Laoshan Dayizi Mountain Observation Deck delivers. Trust me—you’ll leave with your phone full of photos and your mind refreshed!