Location & How to Get There

The Porcelain Tower Of Great Benefit Temple sits in the heart of Nanjing’s Qixia District, right next to the famous Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) and along the Qinhuai River. It’s easy to reach by metro—take Line 3 to Kaizuan Road Station, then walk 10 minutes. Buses like 202 or 208 also drop you nearby. If you’re driving, there’s a parking lot at Yuhua Road 1 (the temple’s address), but weekdays are less crowded.

Natural Scenery: Riverlight Magic

The Qinhuai River lights up at night, and the Porcelain Tower glows against it, creating a postcard-worthy view. During spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the river, while autumn brings golden ginkgo trees. For a calm day, rent a paddle boat on the river and see the tower’s colorful tiles reflecting in the water—it’s pure “Nanjing vibes” without the crowds.

Cultural Treasures: A Tower with a Story

Built in the Ming Dynasty, the Porcelain Tower was once part of the Great Benefit Temple, a gift from Emperor Yongle to his tutor. What makes it special? The tower is covered in vivid blue-and-white porcelain plates—no paint, just handmade art. At night, it becomes a giant lantern during light shows, mixing old-school craftsmanship with modern tech. Nearby, Confucius Temple adds history with its ancient exam halls and calligraphy shops.

Practical Tips: Food, Tickets, and More

  • Tickets: Adults pay ¥40 ($5) to enter the temple grounds; the tower costs extra.
  • Hours: Open daily from 8:30 AM–9:30 PM (later in summer).
  • Eat Like a Local: Try steamed buns or sweet soy jelly at the Qinhuai Snack Street. For a sit-down meal, head to Zhujie Xiang for Nanjing duck dishes.
  • Rest Stops: Clean restrooms and cafes are inside the temple complex. Bring cash for food stalls—some vendors don’t take cards.

The Ultimate Day Trip

Start early at Porcelain Tower to avoid tour groups. Snap photos of the tower’s intricate patterns, then walk to Qinhuai River for a boat ride. By afternoon, explore Confucius Temple’s markets and try your hand at calligraphy. At sunset, grab a riverside table at a rooftop restaurant to watch the tower light up. Pro tip: Weekdays are quieter, and rain transforms the river into a misty canvas.

Whether you’re into history, photography, or just soaking up atmosphere, the Porcelain Tower Of Great Benefit Temple packs Nanjing’s past and present into one dazzling spot. Don’t forget your camera—and an empty stomach for those street foods!