Location & How to Get There

Qinhuai District Children’s Palace is nestled in the heart of Nanjing’s historic Fuzimiao-Qinhuai River of Culture area. This vibrant spot sits at 165 Changle Road (near Baixia Road), just a stone’s throw away from the famous Qinhuai River and the bustling Confucius Temple. To reach here, take Metro Line 3 and hop off at Fuzimiao Station—exit the tunnel, and you’ll already feel the energy of this cultural hub. If you prefer buses, routes 4, 7, or 40 will drop you within walking distance. For a more immersive experience, stroll along the riverside from the temple; the palace’s modern architecture contrasts beautifully with the ancient rooftops nearby.

Natural Scenery: Riverlight Magic

The Qinhuai River transforms after sunset, turning Qinhuai District Children’s Palace into a dazzling backdrop. Lanterns flicker on houseboats, while the river reflects neon lights from restaurants and bridges. Walk along the waterfront, and you’ll spot lotus flowers in summer, willows swaying by the banks, and traditional wooden boats ferrying tourists. Though the palace itself isn’t a nature reserve, its location along the river makes it a perfect spot to enjoy Nanjing’s “city of hills and waters” charm. Daytime visits offer a quieter side: sunlight glints on the water, and families picnic under willow trees near the palace steps.

Cultural Gems: History Meets Creativity

Adjacent to Qinhuai District Children’s Palace lies the iconic Confucius Temple, a 1,500-year-old symbol of Chinese academia. But don’t miss the palace’s own blend of old and new! Once a school for arts, it now hosts workshops where kids (and adults!) paint paper lanterns, learn calligraphy, or try tai chi. The building itself mixes red-walled tradition with colorful murals of cartoon panda bears—a nod to Nanjing’s playful spirit. Down the street, the Qinhuai Scenic Belt buzzes with tea houses, souvenir stalls, and performance stages where locals sing Jiangnan folk songs.

Practical Perks: Eat, Shop, Relax

After exploring Qinhuai District Children’s Palace, refuel at the nearby food stalls. Snack on shao ma tuo (sesame paste buns) or savor soup dumplings at a riverside café. The area’s gift shops sell everything from silk fans to miniature skyscraper models (Nanjing’s nickname is “the Paris of the East,” after all). If you’re traveling with kids, the palace has clean restrooms, a shaded playground, and a small bookshop with children’s books. For parents, there’s even a teahouse across the street to sip jasmine tea while watching your little ones craft kites.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Tips

Most tourists rush through Fuzimiao during the day, but Qinhuai District Children’s Palace shines at night. After dinner, join a river cruise to see the palace lit up like a lantern—it’s especially magical in autumn when osmanthus flowers fill the air. Mornings are peaceful too: Locals practice badminton in the courtyard, and you might catch a free outdoor concert. Avoid weekends if you prefer crowd-free photos; weekdays offer a slower pace to admire the blend of history and hands-on fun that defines this hidden gem.

This area proves that Nanjing isn’t just about ancient temples—it’s also a city where kids (and grown-ups) can dive into culture through art, food, and riverside wonder. Whether you’re visiting Qinhuai District Children’s Palace for its workshops or simply to soak up the lively atmosphere, it’s a must-stop on any Nanjing itinerary.