Location & How to Get There
Terrace Of Obtaining The Moon sits in the heart of Nanjing’s Qinhuai District, nestled along Zhanyuan Road, just a stone’s throw from the famous Confucius Temple and the bustling Qinhuai River. The address is straightforward: No.1 Zhanyuan Road, Qinhuai District, Jiangsu Province. To reach it, take Nanjing’s Metro Line 3 and hop off at Confucius Temple Station—it’s a 5-minute walk from there. If you’re driving, parking is available near the entrance, though the narrow streets can get crowded during peak hours. For a more immersive experience, consider taking a bike ride along the river; the path is flat and lined with lanterns that glow after sunset.
Natural Scenery: A Riverside Gem
Perched on the banks of the Qinhuai River, Terrace Of Obtaining The Moon offers postcard-worthy views year-round. By day, the water shimmers under the sun, reflecting traditional Chinese pavilions and willow trees. But the real magic happens at night. As lanterns light up along the river, the terrace becomes a prime spot to gaze at the moon rising over the water—a scene straight out of a classical Chinese painting. The air here feels cooler than the city’s hustle, thanks to the river breeze and lush greenery that frames the area. Even on busy nights, there’s a quiet corner to escape to, where you can hear the gentle lap of water against the shore.
Cultural Charm: History Meets Modernity
This spot isn’t just about nature—it’s steeped in culture. Centuries ago, scholars and poets gathered here to admire the moon, inspired by its serene beauty. The name “Terrace Of Obtaining The Moon” hints at their quest to capture both the literal moonlight and its symbolic meaning: finding calmness and inspiration in nature. Today, you’ll see modern artists sketching the same views, while street performers add a lively twist to the historic vibe. Nearby, the Confucius Temple complex buzzes with markets selling handcrafted goods, but the terrace itself remains a peaceful retreat. Don’t miss the stone railings carved with poems—they’re a nod to the literati who once walked here.
Practical Perks: Food, Rest, and More
Visiting Terrace Of Obtaining The Moon comes with extra bonuses. Start your evening with dinner at the riverside stalls, where vendors serve dumplings, sticky rice cakes, and sugar-coated hawthorns on sticks. For something fancier, head to the nearby restaurants offering hotpot or Jiangsu’s famous sweet-and-savory dishes. Clean restrooms and benches are scattered along the promenade, so you can relax without rushing. If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a small playground nearby, though the real entertainment is watching the illuminated boats drift downstream.
The Ultimate Night Out
For the best experience, visit Terrace Of Obtaining The Moon after dark. The contrast between the golden lantern lights and the dark river creates a dreamy backdrop for photos. Rent a paddle boat (or join a larger cruise) to see the terrace from the water—it’s a different perspective altogether. On weekends, live music often floats from nearby bars, adding a modern rhythm to the ancient setting. End your night with a walk to the nearby Pingjiang Estate, where restored mansions glow warmly under the moon. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a casual wanderer, this spot has layers to surprise you.
Tip: Weekdays are less crowded, but weekends bring vibrant energy. Wear comfy shoes—those stone steps can get slippery!
