Location & Transportation

Lion Mountain Scenic Area sits in the heart of Nanjing’s Gulou District, right next to the Yangtze River. The address is No. 202 Jianning Road, inside the Yuejiang Tower Scenic Area (east side). Getting there is easy: take Metro Line 9 to Dingxiangzhuang Station, then walk 10 minutes. Buses 10, 12, or 54 also drop you nearby. If driving, park at the entrance near Yulan Road—just note that weekends get busy.

Natural Scenery

Lion Mountain isn’t super tall, but the views are huge! From the summit, you’ll see the Yangtze River winding like a silk ribbon, with ships passing by. In spring, cherry blossoms and magnolias bloom everywhere, while autumn turns the leaves golden. There’s a cozy hillside path where you can stroll and snap photos of Nanjing’s skyline. Bring a jacket—it gets windy on the viewing platforms!

Cultural Highlights

This place is a history buff’s paradise! Start with Yuejiang Tower, a six-story gem that lets you gaze over the river (legend has it Emperor Zhengde once partied here). Nearby, Wan Xian Pavilion offers tea with a view, and the Ancient Artillery Fort shows off old cannons. Don’t miss Sun Yat-sen’s Viewing Spot, where the founder of modern China watched naval battles. For mystery vibes, explore the Five Army Tunnels, dug during wartime. Oh, and the Ming Dynasty Wall? It’s 600 years old but still standing strong.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the big names, Lion Mountain hides quirky spots. The Five Colors Soil exhibit shows soil from China’s five elements, while the Jinghai Temple (from the Ming era!) feels peaceful. History fans should visit Tianfei Palace, a temple dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea. Even the Gudi Temple, tucked in a corner, has ancient statues worth a peek.

Practical Tips

The area is family-friendly, with clean restrooms, snack stands selling hot buns, and shaded picnic areas. Wear comfy shoes—there’s a lot of stairs! The visitor center (near Yuejiang Tower) has maps and English guides. If you get tired, bikes are rentable near the entrance. Pro tip: Go on a clear day for the best photos!

Why Visit?

Lion Mountain packs 30+ historic sites into one lush area. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of nature, culture, and epic views—all without crowds (unlike the nearby Citadel). Spend 3-4 hours here, and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. Trust me, this spot is why Nanjing’s called a “city with history”!