Location & How to Get There

Nanjing Xiuqiu Park sits in the heart of Nanjing’s drum tower district, right next to the lively Hunan Road area. The exact address is No. 406 Zhongshan North Road, Xiaguan Street, just outside the historic Yijiangmen Gate. Getting there is a breeze: take metro Line 1 to “Xiaojiabiyang” station or bus routes 10, 12, or 56 to “Hunan Road” stop. If you’re walking from Nanjing Station, it’s about a 20-minute stroll along Zhongshan North Road.

Natural Highlights: A Slice of Jiangnan Beauty

Nanjing Xiuqiu Park packs big scenery into its 9.53 hectares. The star is Xiuqiu Mountain, a tiny hill shaped like a lion playing with a ball (locals say it looks like a lion holding a embroidered ball, hence the name!). Climb up for a cute photo op and check out the giant footprint carved into a rock—legend says it’s from Emperor Zhu棣’s wife, Lady Ma. Nearby, East Lake sparkles with willow trees drooping over the water. You can rent a paddle boat here for a calm, shaded row.

For a quieter vibe, head to the Fish-Watching Pool, which is exactly what it sounds like—a pond filled with colorful carp. Sit on the stone steps and feed them for a minute of pure relaxation. The Three Islands Garden in the northwest is another gem: three tiny islands connected by a 53-meter-long covered walkway. Walk here for a bird’s-eye view of the landscaped rocks and lily pads.

Cultural & Historical Sites

The park isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with history too. The Cross-Strait Victory Memorial Hall stands proudly by the lake, celebrating the 1949 crossing of the Yangtze River during the Chinese Civil War. Inside, you’ll find old maps, soldier diaries, and a massive statue of a soldier raising a flag. It’s a sobering but important stop for anyone interested in modern Chinese history.

Another cool spot is the statue of Lady Ma, which towers over the mountain at 2.5 meters tall. Legend has it she stood here to watch her husband’s troops cross the river—talk about a power couple moment!

Practical Tips: What to Bring & Where to Rest

Nanjing Xiuqiu Park is super visitor-friendly. There are plenty of benches under the trees if you want to picnic, and a small café near the lake serves bubble tea and snacks. For families, the paddle boat rentals are affordable (around ¥30 per hour), and the paths are flat enough for strollers.

If you’re into photography, bring a zoom lens for close-ups of the carp in the Fish-Watching Pool or wide shots of the Three Islands Garden. The best lighting is early morning or late afternoon, when the sun casts a golden glow over the pavilions.

The Full Experience: How to Spend Your Day

Start at the Cross-Strait Victory Memorial Hall to learn the park’s wartime role. Then climb Xiuqiu Mountain for views of the “lion and ball” formation and Lady Ma’s footprint. Next, unwind by renting a boat on East Lake or feeding fish at the pool. Save the Three Islands Garden for last—the covered walkway offers a shady spot to pause and admire how the park blends hills, water, and city skyline.

Nanjing Xiuqiu Park isn’t huge, but it’s perfectly designed for slowing down. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just people-watching, it’s got something for everyone. Plus, it’s less crowded than Nanjing’s mega-tourist spots, so you can enjoy it at your own pace.