Location & How to Get There

Victory Chess Pavilion sits by the shores of Mochou Lake in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. The exact address is 132 Shuiximen Street, Jianye District—easy to find if you’re already exploring Mochou Lake Park. To reach here, take Nanjing’s Metro Line 2 to Hanzhongmen Station, then walk or grab a bike. Buses 4, 48, or 13 routes also drop you nearby. If you’re staying downtown, it’s a quick taxi ride away.

Natural Scenery: A Lakeside Retreat

Mochou Lake itself is a gem. The pavilion overlooks calm waters surrounded by willow trees and lotus blooms in summer. Early mornings are magical—misty lakes, chirping birds, and few crowds. Rent a paddle boat to see the pavilion from the water; it’s especially pretty at sunset when the lake glows orange. Even in winter, the bare trees and quiet paths offer a peaceful escape.

Cultural Stories: Emperors, Generals, and a Legendary Game

Victory Chess Pavilion isn’t just about scenery—it’s packed with history. Built in the early 1300s during the Ming Dynasty, it was rebuilt in 1871. Legend says Emperor Zhu Yunwen (Nanjing’s founder) once played chess here with his general Xu Da. Xu Da, worried he’d lose to the emperor, deliberately lost… but Zhu spotted the act! As punishment, Xu had to build this pavilion. Today, inside you’ll find an old chess table and a portrait of Xu Da, reminding visitors of this quirky tale. The wooden carvings on the pavilion’s walls are intricate too—check out the dragons and phoenixes!

What to See & Do

The pavilion has two floors. Climb up for lake views, but the real charm’s downstairs: the chess table, Xu Da’s portrait, and carved beams. Nearby, Mochou Lake’s walking paths loop around the water. Stop by the Huabue Ge Pavilion (a nearby tower) for more photo ops. In spring, cherry blossoms line the lakeshore. For kids, there’s a small playground and a petting zoo with goats and ducks.

Practical Tips

  • Opening hours: Mochou Lake Park is open daily until late (check current times online).
  • Entrance fee: Free! Just pay for boat rentals or snacks.
  • Food: Snack stands sell noodles, tea, and buns. Try liangpi (cold rice cakes) near the lake.
  • Best time to visit: Weekdays avoid crowds. Mornings are tranquil, evenings have light shows on weekends.

Why You’ll Love It

Victory Chess Pavilion blends nature and legend effortlessly. Whether you’re into photography, history, or just relaxing by the water, it’s worth a stop. Bring a book, pack a picnic, or join locals practicing tai chi by the lake. It’s a slice of old Nanjing that feels alive with stories—and zero tourist traps.

(Pro tip: Ask a guide about the pavilion’s hidden room where Xu Da reportedly hideout after his “loss”—they’ll love sharing the drama!)