Location & How to Get There

Wu Ma Du Square sits at the northern foot of Mufu Mountain in Nanjing’s Muhan riverside scenic area, right next to the Yangtze River. To reach it, take Metro Line 3 to Yijiangmen Station, then transfer to a taxi or ride-sharing service. Driving? Follow Yongji Avenue in Qixia District—look for the address No. 18-2. Parking is available near the square, but arrive early on weekends!

Natural Scenery: River, Mountains, and Sky

The highlight here is the Yangtze River view. Walk along the waterfront path at Wu Ma Du Square, and you’ll see ships passing by and waves crashing against the shore. Mufu Mountain rises behind the square, covered in green trees—perfect for light hikes or bike rides. At sunset, the sky turns orange, and the river reflects the colors. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom nearby, while autumn brings golden leaves. For a quiet moment, sit on the benches and listen to the river’s sound.

History Tale: The Five Horses and a Legend

This spot gets its name from a 1,700-year-old legend. Five royal princes (the “Five Horses”) fled here during a chaotic period in Chinese history. One of them, Sima Rui, saw his horse suddenly turn into a dragon—a sign of good luck. Later, he became the first emperor of the Eastern Jin Dynasty in 317 AD. Today, a statue at Wu Ma Du Square shows the five horses rearing up, and a plaque shares the story in simple English. Even if you’re not into history, the sculpture makes a cool photo!

Cultural Touches: Art and Memorials

Beyond the legend, Wu Ma Du Square celebrates Nanjing’s past. Look for stone carvings with poems about the river, and a wall showing old maps of the city. There’s also a small exhibit inside a pavilion explaining how Nanjing became a capital for multiple dynasties. For a deeper dive, visit the nearby Muhan Drum Tower (a 10-minute drive) to learn more about Jiangsu’s history.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Wear comfy shoes: The riverside path has uneven stones.
  • Coffee/Tea spots: A few cafes near the square serve bubble tea and snacks.
  • Souvenirs: Buy mini statue replicas or postcards with river views.
  • Toilets: Clean restrooms are available near the parking lot.

Experience: A Relaxing Day Trip

Visit Wu Ma Du Square early morning to avoid crowds. Start with a walk along the river, then climb Mufu Mountain for a panoramic view. After lunch at a nearby restaurant, explore the historical exhibits. End your day here as the sun sets—the orange glow over the river is unforgettable. If you have time, combine this with a visit to Yaziji (Sparrow’s Beak), another riverside rock formation 20 minutes away by car.

Pro tip: Weekdays are less crowded, and the light is softer for photos. Enjoy the mix of nature, history, and quiet moments at Wu Ma Du Square!