Discover Pearl Spring Famous Stone Art Museum: A Hidden Gem in Nanjing

Location & How to Get There

Pearl Spring Famous Stone Art Museum sits within the scenic Pearl Spring Resort area in Pukou District, Nanjing. To reach this spot, you can:

  • Drive: It’s about 30 minutes from downtown Nanjing via Jiangbei Avenue, with plenty of parking available.
  • Public transport: Take Metro Line 10 to “Pearl Spring Station,” then transfer to a local bus or taxi for the final 10-minute ride. The museum is located at 157 Zhenzhu Street, Pukou District, nestled between green hills and clear waters.

Natural Beauty Surrounding the Area

Before diving into the museum, don’t miss the Pearl Spring scenic area itself! The spring bubbles up like pearls from the ground, feeding into a crystal-clear lake. Walk along wooden paths, rent a paddleboat, or snap photos of the waterfall. In summer, families love splashing in the cool spring water—it’s a perfect escape from city heat. The surrounding hills, part of Laoshan National Forest Park, offer hiking trails with panoramic views.

What Makes the Stone Art Museum Special?

Opened on January 1, 2010, the Pearl Spring Famous Stone Art Museum covers 8,000 square meters and feels like a treasure trove. Inside, you’ll find:

  • 400+ unique stones from across China, including:
  • Lingbi stones from Anhui (known for their strange, cavernous shapes).
  • Gobi stones from Inner Mongolia (weathered by desert winds).
  • Grape agate (shimmering, colorful rock formations).
  • Yunnan marble (smooth, abstract patterns).
  • Some stones are tiny enough to hold in your palm, while others are massive enough for people to lie on—perfect for fun photos!

The museum highlights two things: natural beauty (the stones’ raw textures) and human creativity (carvings that turn rocks into art). It’s like a mini “stone zoo” with both wild landscapes and intricate sculptures.

Cultural & Artistic Vibes

This isn’t just a rock collection—it’s a window into Chinese stone culture. For centuries, scholars and artists have admired unusual stones as symbols of nature’s power. The museum’s pieces show how different regions’ stones reflect their environments:

  • Desert stones look rugged and wind-worn.
  • Marble from Yunnan has swirls like watercolor paintings.
  • Carved figures range from mythical creatures to modern abstract art.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

  • Hours: The museum is open daily, but check seasonal hours online.
  • Tickets: Adult tickets are affordable (around ¥50), and kids often enter free.
  • Guided tours: Available in English or Chinese if you want deeper insights into the stones’ stories.
  • Dining: Nearby Pearl Spring Resort has restaurants serving local specialties like fish dishes and Jiangsu snacks.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Interactive fun: Touch some stones, pose with giant rock sculptures, or play “spot the animal” in abstract carvings.
  • Photo ops: The mix of indoor galleries and outdoor gardens means stunning backdrops for every shot.
  • Relaxing vibe: Unlike crowded city spots, this museum feels peaceful—ideal for slowing down and appreciating details.

Whether you’re a nature lover, art fan, or just looking for a unique Nanjing day trip, Pearl Spring Famous Stone Art Museum offers a surprising blend of natural wonder and cultural depth. Don’t skip the gift shop either—they sell mini replicas of exhibits!