Location & Accessibility

Taoye Ferry (Peach Leaf Ferry) sits at the confluence of two waterways in Qinhuai District, Nanjing. It’s just a stone’s throw from the famous Confucius Temple, making it easy to combine both sights in one visit. To get there, take Metro Line 3 to Fuzimiao Station (Confucius Temple Station) and walk north along the bustling Qinhuai Riverbank. Alternatively, buses 4, 40, or 202 drop you near the entrance. For a more immersive experience, stroll along the river from the Confucius Temple—the cobblestone paths and lanterns will lead you straight to Taoye Ferry.

Natural Scenery: Where Rivers Meet

The ferry’s charm lies where two rivers merge: the winding Qinhuai River and the quieter Qingxi Canal. By day, the water shimmers with reflections of hummingbird-shaped bridges and willow trees. At night, lanterns strung across boats paint the river in warm, golden hues. A small Taoye Ferry Pavilion stands nearby, offering shaded seats where you can watch dragon boats glide past. The best view? Cross the Lishe Bridge (a 400-year-old stone bridge) to see the ferry’s wooden signpost framed by lotus flowers in summer.

History & Culture: Love Stories & Ancient Bridges

This spot isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with stories. Back in the 4th century, a famous calligrapher named Wang Xianzhi (son of Wang Xizhi, the “Sage of Calligraphy”) often waited here for his beloved concubine Tao Ye. She was scared of the river’s currents, so he wrote her a poem promising, “I’ll always meet you on the shore.” Their love story gave the ferry its name. Later, in the 1600s, a local merchant built Lishe Bridge (“Bridge of Safe Crossing”) to stop people from drowning. Today, you can still see the Taoye Ferry Stele near the water, erected in 1984 to honor the legend.

Things to Do: Boats, Food, & Photo Ops

• River Cruises: Hop on a wooden paddle boat (or a fancier carved-wood ship) to see the area from the water. Daytime cruises show temples and gardens, while night trips reveal light shows and singing gondoliers.
• Food & Shops: The streets around Taoye Ferry buzz with snacks like yudaokuai (oil-fried dough twists) and sugar-coated hawthorns. Nearby stalls sell silk fans and jade carvings—perfect for souvenirs.
• Photography Spots: The red-arched Zhonghua Gate looms behind the ferry, creating striking contrasts with the blue river. For a classic shot, stand under the Taoye Ferry Pavilion with the stele in the background.

Tips for Visiting

• Best Time: Evenings are magical, but arrive early to avoid crowds. Weekdays are calmer than weekends.
• Hidden Gem: Walk east along the canal to find Wujiadong (Plum Blossom Mound), a quiet garden with Ming-era walls.
• Avoid Scams: Be firm if boat vendors pressure you into expensive “VIP” cruises. Stick to official ticket booths.

Wandering around Taoye Ferry feels like stepping into an old painting. Whether you’re here for history, romance, or just a pretty sunset, this corner of Nanjing blends nature, culture, and snacks into one unforgettable experience. Just remember—like Wang Xianzhi waiting for Tao Ye—take your time to savor the view!