Location & Transportation

Xuanwu Lake Park sits at No.1 Xuanwumen Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, right next to the iconic Ming City Wall and Jiming Temple. It’s super easy to reach: take Nanjing Metro Line 1 and hop off at Xuanwumen Station—the park’s main entrance is just a short walk away. Buses like 304 or 550 also drop you nearby. If you’re up for a bike ride, there are rental spots around the lake, perfect for exploring at your own pace.

Natural Highlights

As China’s largest royal garden lake, Xuanwu Lake Park is a gem. It’s even called one of “Jiangnan’s Three Famous Lakes” alongside South Lake in Jiaxing and West Lake in Hangzhou. The park spans five lush islands—Cherry Blossom Island, Liangzhou, Cuizhou, and more—each with its own vibe. For killer views, head to Lingzhou’s Pavilion to gaze at the purple-gold sunset over Purple Mountain (Zhongshan). In spring, Cherry Blossom Island bursts with pink blooms, while summer brings a lotus flower paradise by the shores. Don’t miss the osmanthus-scented trails in autumn or snowy winter scenes that feel straight out of a painting.

Cultural Treasures

This place isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with history. Back in the Ming Dynasty, it was a royal grove for emperors. Today, Liangzhou steals the show with its Bonsai Garden, Azalea Courtyard, and a chrysanthemum exhibition every October-November. Locals love posing under the giant floral clock here! For romance, Couples Island (a secluded spot with tulips and peach blossoms) is a hit with newlyweds snapping wedding photos.

Practical Perks

Famished? The park has casual eateries serving Nanjing specialties like duck blood soup. Want to relax? Rent a paddleboat to glide across the glassy lake. Families will love the playgrounds, while fitness buffs can jog along the 5km loop trail. Trivia: The park’s free, but some attractions (like the Plum Blossom Exhibition Pavilion) might charge a small fee.

Seasonal Magic

  • Spring: Cherry blossoms reign on Cherry Blossom Island. Bring your camera!
  • Summer: Lotus flowers and osmanthus scents make evening strolls magical.
  • Autumn: Chrysanthemum seas and vibrant fall foliage.
  • Winter: Snow dusts the pavilions, turning the park into a quiet wonderland.

Trust me—Xuanwu Lake Park isn’t just a pitstop. Spend a full day, bring snacks, and wear comfy shoes. Whether you’re into history, nature, or Instagram-worthy views, this spot has something for everyone. Pro tip: Visit on weekdays to dodge crowds!