Location & Access

Xiangtang Taoyuan Valley, nestled at the southern foothills of Laoshan Mountain in Pukou District, Nanjing, offers a peaceful escape just 30 minutes’ drive from downtown. The entrance sits 100 meters east of Guangming Road, making it easy to reach by taxi or ride-sharing apps. If you’re up for a short hike, you can also combine your visit with Laoshan National Forest Park, which shares the same mountain range.

Natural Scenery: A Pink Wonderland

What truly makes Xiangtang Taoyuan Valley special is its 10-mile peach blossom corridor. Every spring (March to April), thousands of peach trees burst into pink blooms, framing the reservoir below like a painting. The valley is surrounded by three sides of green hills and one side of water—a perfect blend of mountains, lakes, and flowers. Besides peaches, you’ll spot pomegranate trees, gardenias, and fragrant mugwort adding pops of color and scent to the landscape. The reservoir itself is calm and clear, reflecting the sky and hills on sunny days, while a gentle breeze stirs ripples in the water.

Cultural Touches: Farmlife & Festivals

While Xiangtang Taoyuan Valley isn’t packed with historic sites, its charm lies in rural simplicity. Local farmers grow fruits and herbs here, and you might see them tending to fields or drying herbs like mugwort (used in traditional Chinese medicine). During the summer harvest season, visitors can sometimes pick peaches or pomegranates straight from the trees. The area also hosts occasional spring festivals with folk dances, food stalls, and handmade crafts, giving you a taste of Jiangsu’s countryside culture.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

The valley is designed for relaxed exploration. Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths meander through grassy hills and stone steps. There are shaded picnic areas near the reservoir, but bring your own snacks—while some local vendors sell fruit or tea, options are limited. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for sunny days, and an umbrella for sudden spring showers. Photographers will love the morning light, which bathes the peach blossoms in a soft glow.

Year-Round Appeal

Though spring is peak season, Xiangtang Taoyuan Valley stays beautiful year-round. In summer, the greenery turns lush, and you can rent a paddleboat on the reservoir. Autumn brings ripe fruits and golden leaves, while winter cloaks the valley in quiet snow. For families, there’s a small children’s play area with swings and a sandpit, plus easy trails for strollers.

Avoiding Crowds

Weekends can get busy, especially during the cherry blossom and peach bloom seasons. For a quieter experience, visit on a weekday morning. The valley opens around 8 AM, and arriving early lets you snap photos without crowds. If you drive, note that parking is free but limited—arrive early to secure a spot.

Whether you’re seeking a Instagram-worthy spring backdrop, a peaceful hike, or a glimpse of rural life, Xiangtang Taoyuan Valley delivers. It’s the kind of place where you’ll forget you’re just outside Nanjing—and feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.