Location & Transportation

Zhongshan Scenic Area - Purple Mountain is nestled in Xuanwu District, Nanjing, just a 10-minute drive from the city center. The area is easily reachable by metro (Line 2, Xiaoweixiang Station) or buses 201⁄202. If you’re staying downtown, a taxi or bike ride through the scenic roads leading to the mountain adds to the adventure.

Natural Beauty: A Dragon’s Backdrop

Towering at 448.9 meters, Purple Mountain’s main peak offers panoramic views of Nanjing’s skyline and the Yangtze River. Its three connected peaks resemble a resting dragon, earning it the historic nickname “Dragon-Coiled Purple Mountain.” Forests, streams, and rocky outcrops create a dramatic landscape, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. The mountain’s name, “Purple,” comes from the vibrant hues of dawn and dusk reflecting off its slopes.

Cultural Layers: History in Every Step

This mountain is a living timeline of Chinese civilization. Explore Six Dynasties-era temples, Ming Dynasty landmarks like the iconic Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (Emperor Zhubiao’s tomb), and Republic of China-era sites such as Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum. For spiritual travelers, Linggu Temple offers serene gardens and ancient Buddhist relics. Each corner blends nature with stories—truly a “humanities-first mountain” that connects China’s past to its present.

Practical Tips for Visitors

The area is well-equipped with visitor centers, clean restrooms, and clear signage in English. Wear comfortable shoes: trails range from easy walks to steep hikes. Bring water and snacks, though cafes and food stalls offer local treats like duck blood soup or steamed buns. For photography fans, the Observatory Deck provides postcard-perfect shots of the city.

Year-Round Experiences

Spring brings cherry blossoms at Xuyuan Garden, while autumn paints the mountain in fiery reds and golds. Summer evenings cool down with breezes perfect for strolling, and winter reveals mist-covered peaks. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially at weekends.

A Day to Remember

Start at Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum for historical context, then hike to Linggu Temple for lunch. Afternoon: wander through Ming Xiaoling’s sacred paths, and finish with sunset views from the summit. Families love the cable car, history buffs dive into museums, and nature lovers hike the Jiuhua Scenic Trail.

Zhongshan Scenic Area - Purple Mountain isn’t just a park—it’s a journey through China’s soul, where every step merges legend, nature, and culture into one unforgettable day.