Geography & How to Get There

Shence Gate Park sits in a prime spot in Xuanwu District, Nanjing. It’s tucked between Central Gate (a bustling urban area) and Nanjing Train Station, making it super easy to reach. The exact address is Longpan Road, Xuanwu District, Jiangsu Province. If you’re coming from the train station, just walk west for about 15 minutes—you’ll spot the ancient gate towering above the modern streets.

For public transport, take Metro Line 1 or 3 to Nanjing Station, then finish the short walk. Buses like Y11 also stop nearby at Longpan Road/Gangzi Village. If you’re cycling, there are rental spots near the station, and the park has dedicated bike lanes.

Natural Scenery

Though Shence Gate is all about history, the surroundings aren’t bad either. The park wraps around the old gate, with tall trees shading parts of the walkway. A small moat lines the outer wall, where ducks sometimes swim—perfect for a quiet moment. The contrast between the weathered stone walls and skyscrapers behind them makes for some cool photo ops, especially at sunset.

Historical & Cultural Highlights

This place is a hidden gem for history lovers! Shence Gate (also called Peace Gate) is one of the original 13 inner gates of Nanjing’s Ming Dynasty Wall. What makes it special? It’s the only gate left with a pre-Republic era watchtower (called a “Di Tower”) and the only outer-moat gate in the entire city.

The gate itself is a masterpiece. Walk through the thick walls into the small outer moat, then pass under the towering Di Tower. Locals say it’s like stepping back to ancient China, with soldiers’ slots still intact for shooting arrows. Even the wooden beams inside the tower are original—imagine how many centuries they’ve stood!

Fun fact: The name “Peace Gate” comes from the Republic era, when people hoped it would shield the city from war. Today, it’s a symbol of Nanjing’s layered history.

Visitor Facilities

The park is free to enter, but if you want to climb the Di Tower, there’s a small fee. Look for signs in English near the entrance. Clean restrooms and drinking fountains are available, and there are shaded benches for resting. Nearby, small cafes sell snacks and tea—try the local green tea for a refreshing break.

For photos, head to the corner of Longpan Road and the outer wall. The gate’s red pillars pop against the blue sky, and you can snap shots with trains passing in the background (a mix of old and new!).

Exploration Tips

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. On weekends, families with kids enjoy picnicking by the walls, and students often sketch here. If you’re into photography, bring a wide-angle lens—the gate’s arches and towers create dramatic angles.

At night, the gate lights up softly, casting a warm glow over the stones. It’s less crowded then, perfect for a quiet walk. Just note that the park closes at 9 PM, so plan accordingly.

Why You Should Check It Out

Shence Gate Park isn’t as famous as the City Wall’s main sections, but that’s what makes it special. It’s peaceful, packed with history, and gives a real feel for Nanjing’s layers of time. Whether you’re a history buff, a casual visitor, or a photography fan, it’s a unique spot to add to your Nanjing itinerary.

Pro tip: Pair it with a visit to nearby Xuanwu Lake or the Jiangsu Provincial Museum—all within a 30-minute walk!