Location & How to Get There

South Main Hall, nestled in Xuanwu District of Nanjing, sits quietly at 311-3 Zhongshan East Road, just a stone’s throw from the bustling city center. It’s part of the明代故宫遗址公园 (Ming Dynasty Palace Ruins Park), so you’ll find it near major landmarks like the iconic city wall and the modern-meets-historic Jiangsu Provincial Museum.

To reach South Main Hall, hop on Metro Line 2 and get off at Xianhemen station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk through shady streets. Buses 5, 9, or 51 also drop you nearby. If driving, there’s limited parking, but the park’s entrance is easy to spot.

Natural Vibes & Scenery

Don’t expect lush gardens here—South Main Hall is a ruin, but its beauty lies in simplicity. The site is surrounded by towering trees that change colors with the seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms peek through the old stone walls, while autumn paints the grounds with golden ginkgo leaves. The grassy patches between crumbling pillars feel like nature reclaiming history.

At dawn or sunset, the light filters through the remnants of the hall’s roof, casting long shadows that make for striking photos. It’s peaceful, too—perfect for a quiet stroll away from tourist crowds.

History & Culture

South Main Hall was once the heart of the Ming Dynasty’s palace, built in the 14th century for Emperor Zhu棣 (yes, the same dynasty behind the Forbidden City in Beijing). Though only ruins remain, you can still spot the giant stone foundations, carved dragons, and moat traces. Imagine this place hosting emperors and their courts—now it’s a silent witness to time.

Fun fact: Locals call the area “the first hill of Nanjing” because the palace was built on a deliberately raised platform to symbolize power. Even today, standing there, you’ll feel a subtle elevation underfoot.

Practical Perks

The park around South Main Hall is visitor-friendly. You’ll find clean restrooms, benches to rest, and info boards explaining the history in English. There’s a small café near the entrance serving tea and snacks—try the sesame buns for a quick bite.

For deeper dives, rent an audio guide (they have English options) or join a free tour (check the schedule online). The paths are flat and wide, so it’s easy to explore with kids or strollers.

Immersive Experience

Visiting South Main Hall feels like stepping into a time-lapse. Unlike polished palaces, its raw, weathered stones let your imagination run wild. Squat next to the ancient drainage systems, trace the grooves in dragon carvings, or snap a photo pretending to hold up a fallen pillar.

Weekends bring local dance groups practicing traditional moves here—it’s a cool mix of past and present. For the best vibe, come early morning or late afternoon when the sun softens the shadows.

Nearby Extras

After exploring South Main Hall, walk 15 minutes to the Nanjing City Wall for panoramic views or check out the Palace Museum next door. Combine it with a lunch of duck blood soup (a Nanjing specialty) at a nearby eatery.

This place isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s for travelers who love whispers of history and off-the-beaten-path gems. At South Main Hall, every cracked tile tells a story.