Location & How to Get There

Stone City Park sits in the heart of Nanjing’s Gulou District, along Stone City Road. It’s easy to reach by metro—get off at Hanzhongmen Station (Line 2) and walk about 15 minutes. Buses 21, 57, and 307 also drop you nearby. If you’re driving, there’s limited parking near the entrance, but it’s worth the visit. The park stretches from Liangqing Mountain Sports School in the north to Liangqing Gate in the south, with the ancient city wall on one side and Huju Road on the other.

Natural Scenery: A Blend of History and Nature

One of the park’s highlights is the “Ghost Face Mirror”—a rock formation on the old city wall that looks like a spooky face. Below it lies a 1,600-square-meter pond that acts like a mirror, reflecting the “ghost face” when the water’s still. In spring, willows drape over the walls, and in fall, the trees turn golden. The restored Yanwang River winds through the park, flanked by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for a quiet stroll. Whether you’re watching ducks swim across the pond or climbing the wall to see panoramic views, the mix of nature and history feels magical.

Historical Stories: From Warfare to Poetry

Stone City Park isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with history. Over 1,800 years ago, Sun Quan, the ruler of Eastern Wu during the Three Kingdoms era, built this military fortress after moving his capital to Nanjing. The park’s nickname, “Ghost Face City”, comes from its eerie rock formations, which even scared off enemies back in the day. Stand here, and you can almost imagine soldiers guarding the wall or poets like Liu Yuxi and Wang Anshi drawing inspiration. Their poems, which praise Nanjing’s beauty and history, feel alive when you’re surrounded by these ancient stones.

Cultural Spots: Walk Where Poets Walked

The park’s centerpiece is the ancient city wall, which dates back to Sun Quan’s time. As you walk along it, you’ll pass remnants of battlements and lookout towers. Don’t miss the “Ghost Face Rock”—it’s a quirky photo op! For poetry lovers, head to the areas where Liu Yuxi and Wang Anshi found their muses. Though the original buildings are gone, the views (especially at sunset) still inspire awe. The park also has plaques with English explanations, so you won’t miss the stories.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

The park is free and open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Wear comfy shoes—there’s a lot to explore! Bring water, especially in summer, and snacks for a picnic by the river. If you’re into photography, morning light makes the walls and water look stunning. For history buffs, rent an audio guide (available at the entrance) to hear deeper stories. And yes, there are clean restrooms and shaded benches if you need a break.

Why Visit? A Day Well Spent

Stone City Park is perfect for anyone who loves history, nature, or just relaxing in a beautiful spot. Families with kids will enjoy the open spaces and interactive exhibits, while couples might prefer the romantic riverside paths. History lovers can lose themselves in tales of battles and poets, and photographers will find endless shots. Spend a few hours here, and you’ll leave with a better understanding of why Nanjing is called a “city steeped in history”.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, Stone City Park offers a unique mix of the past and present. Come early, stay late, and let the walls of time whisper their stories to you.