24 Hours Hotline: +86 137-3541-1378
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24 Hours Hotline: +86 137-3541-1378
Email:[email protected]
Purple Mountain, Nanjing Attraction
Brief Introduction
Purple Mountain or Zijin Shan is located on the eastern side of Nanjing in Jiangsu province, China. It is 448.2 m high, with the lowest point 30 m (98 ft). Its peaks are often found enveloped in mysterious purple and golden clouds at dawn and dusk, hence its name. It is known as the lung of Nanjing, and for good reason: The massive, forested park area boasts fresh and cool air.
The well-known Purple Mountain Observatory, also known as Zijinshan Astronomical Observatory, is one of the most well-know institutes. A small mountain with an area about 20 square kilometres (4,900 acres), Purple Mountain is a mountain related to many historical events of both ancient and modern China. It was originally known as Bell Mountain and also became known as Mount Jiang after Sun Quan named Jiang Ziwen, an Eastern Han official whose spirit was said to haunt the site, as the mountain's god during the Three Kingdoms era. The name Zijin means "copper" - when copper is pure, it appears purple in colour, so in Chinese it's also called purple-gold. It is also named Mount Jinling, due to its purple rocks. Jinling means "the mount of purple-gold". It is the origin of the nickname "Jinling" of Nanjing. During the Ming dynasty, it was also called Mount Shenlie.
What to see in Nanjing Purple Mountain
There are more than 200 heritage and scenic tourist sites are now located in or around Nanjing Purple Mountain, including three national historical sites, nine provincial historical sites, and 33 prefectural historical sites. Located in or close to the hillside of the mountain, there are also about a dozen national research institutes and universities.
Purple Mountain Observatory
Located at the top of the western slop of Nanjing Purple Mountain. Purple Mountain Observatory has astronomical instruments dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Purple Mountain Observatory is a cluster of domed telescopes and modern research facilities that also houses a fine collection of ancient astronomical instruments. The mordern observatory began operating in 1934, which marked the beginging of mordern astronomical research in China, and is still involved in scientific research today. For most, a visit to the observatory will complement a hike or ride up pr down Purple Mountain. Once you have arrived, it only takes about 30-45 minutes to observe the instruments and enjoy the view from the observatory.
Botanical Garden
South of the observatory is the Botanical Garden, a beautiful space containing more than three thousand species of medicinal and decorative plants, and a fine statue of Li Shizhen, the father of Chinese botany and traditional medicine. Farther east, on one side of the central ridge is the Xiaoling tomb of the first Ming emperor, with its Sacred Avenue, its pavilions and courtyards, and the immense, as-yet unexcavated burial mound where the emperor's body is believed to lie. Still farther east, at the center of the mountain stands what has become a site of pilgrimage for many local and overseas Chinese: the Sun Yat-Sen Mausoleum. A vast stone stairway leads up to his crypt and his coffin.
As the high ground closest to the city, Purple Mountain has served alternately in the strategic interests of those who wished to defend the city, and of those who wished to attack it. A burial site here has long been the highest honor the city has to offer to those whose personal history has intersected with its own.
Plum Blossom Hill
Walking south from the mausoleum in Purple Mountain, you will find the Plum Blossom Hill. In Nanjing, planting plum trees can date back to the Six Dynasties (222- 589). Because of the long history and abundance of plum blossom trees, the Plum Blossom Hill is famous as the "No. 1 Plum Blossom Hill under Heaven". First built in 1929, the plum blossom garden has more than 13,000 plum blossom trees of more than 400 species, covering a total area of more than 102 hectares (252 acres). The garden is one of the four plum blossom gardens in China, along with the Dianshanhu Plum Blossom Garden in Shanghai, the Plum Blossom Garden in Wuxi of Jiangsu Province, and the Moshan Plum Blossom Garden by the East Lake in Wuhan. The delicate fragrant flowers are usually in full blossom from late February to mid March. Owing to its beautiful scenery and rich cultural content, the Plum Blossom Hill attracts a great number of tourists both home and abroad.
Meiling Palace
Built in 1931, the Meiling Palace or May-ling Villa is located to the west of the Parking Lot of Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum. Seen from above, the Mausoleum Road looks like a necklace, and the villa is just like a delicate emerald on it.
The roof is decorated with green glazed tiles and carved with more than 1,000 phoenixes. The yellow walls, red pillars, and beautiful paintings under the eave look very spectacular. In front of the building is a Buick car which was presented to Soong May-ling by the American government.
Dr. Sun Yat Sen Mausoleum
The mausoleum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen (1866-1925), the father of the Republic of China, is a site of deep historical significance, magnificent architecture and beautiful scenery located at the Zhongshan Scenic Area in Purple Mountain. Covering nearly 20 acres, the lush scenic is a tribute to the noble spirit and heroic efforts of Dr. Sun Yat-sen's devotion to the Chinese people and their fight for independence. Visitors can view the memorial archway, mausoleum gate, tombstone pavilion and memorial hall. The coffin chamber is not accessible to visitors.
Travel Guide
Admission Fee: Free
Recommend Time for Vist: 4-5 hrs
Best season for travel: Spring & Autumn
Openning Hours: 24 Hours
How to get to Nanjing Purple Mountain
Bus route: take bus No.6, 11, 68, 69, 188 and 313 and get off Zhongshanling stop, then you can reach to Purple Mountain
Duration：6-8 hours
Attractions(Cities)：Nanjing Massacre Museum, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, Confucius Temple
Tour Style：This one-day Nanjing private tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Your day begins at Sun Yat-Sen’s Mausoleum, nestled against the stunning backdrop of Purple Mountain, where you’ll learn about the legacy of modern China’s founding father. Next, visit the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the burial site of the first Ming emperor, famous for its grand architecture and tranquil surroundings. In the afternoon, head to the Confucius Temple, a serene cultural site set along the lively Qinhuai River, where you can immerse yourself in both the spiritual significance and local charm of Nanjing’s historic heart. Finally, explore the Nanjing Ming City Wall, a well-preserved fortress offering panoramic views of the city. This thoughtfully crafted itinerary offers a comprehensive look at Nanjing’s iconic landmarks, combining rich history with scenic landscapes for an enriching and memorable experience.
Duration：6-8 hours
Attractions(Cities)：Sun Yet-Sen Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, Lingu Temple, Confucious Temple
Tour Style：Make the most of your time to get a unique travel experience in Nanjing on a full-day Nanjing tour. Served as the capital city of ancient China, Nanjing is endowed with profound history and cultural sites. With your knowledgeable and historical guide, you'll visit the majestic Sun Yat-Sen Mausoleum, marvel at the Presidential Palace, explore the peaceful Lingu Temple, and follow in the paths of emperors on a relaxing Qinhuai River cruise near the Confucius Temple. This tour combines rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings, offering you an immersive experience of Nanjing's culture and heritage. It is a perfect private-designed tour to lead you through Nanjing's timeless landmarks with comfortable city transfer, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable journey.
Duration：6-8 hours
Attractions(Cities)：Niushoushan
Tour Style：Join us for a Niushou Mountain One Day Tour from Nanjing, where you’ll immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural heritage of this renowned Buddhist site. This private tour takes you to the stunning Usnisa Palace, home to the sacred Usnisa Relic, and several ancient temples scattered across the mountain. You’ll also have the chance to hike scenic trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, providing a peaceful and reflective experience. Explore the historical significance of Niu Shou Mountain, known for its deep connections to Buddhist culture and history, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere that has attracted visitors for centuries. Learn about the traditional architecture of the temples and pagodas while discovering the rich cultural background of this sacred place. With a knowledgeable guide and smooth transportation, this stress-free tour allows you to fully appreciate the beauty, significance, and serenity of Niu Shou Mountain in just one day—an ideal experience for those seeking a cultural, spiritual, and scenic journey in a peaceful and awe-inspiring setting.
Duration：2 Days, 1 Nights
Attractions(Cities)：Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum, Linggu Temple, Zijinshan Mountain, Meiling Palace, Presidential Palace, Ming City Wall, Confucius Temple
Tour Style：Embark on the Best Nanjing Tours with our 2-Day Private Nanjing Highlights Tour, an itinerary for travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of one of China’s most historically rich cities. Over two unforgettable days, you'll explore Nanjing’s imperial past, revolutionary legacy, and cultural treasures. Visit the majestic Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum, a symbol of China’s modernization, and experience the serenity of Linggu Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples. Hike through Zijinshan Mountain, known for its historical significance and stunning views. Explore the Meiling Palace, once home to Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mayling, and marvel at the Presidential Palace, a testament to Nanjing’s role in modern Chinese history. Walk along the ancient Ming City Wall, a massive fortress that has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, and immerse yourself in the charm of the Confucius Temple. This private tour blends historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural insight, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with Nanjing’s past and present.
Duration：2 Days, 1 Night
Attractions(Cities)：Lingering Garden, Hanshan Temple, Panmen Gate, Pingjiang Road Historic Street, Suzhou No.1 Silk Mill, Dr.Sun Yat-Sen’s Mausoleum, Linggu temple, President Palace, Confucius Temple
Tour Style：Book a two days private Suzhou and Nanjing tours for a personalized journey through the ancient culture and history of these two iconic cities. In Suzhou, you'll explore the UNESCO-listed Lingering Garden, with its masterful combination of architecture and nature, and visit the historical Panmen Gate, offering views of ancient city defenses. Discover the tranquility of Hanshan Temple, made famous by a Tang Dynasty poem, and stroll down Pingjiang Road Historic Street, where you’ll experience traditional Chinese architecture and local snacks. Learn about Suzhou’s silk heritage at the Suzhou No. 1 Silk Mill, where the city’s long-standing silk production legacy is showcased. On the second day, head to Nanjing to visit the grand Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a tribute to the founding father of modern China, followed by the peaceful Linggu Temple, an ancient Buddhist site surrounded by nature. The tour continues at the Presidential Palace, a key historical landmark in China’s political history, and concludes at the Confucius Temple area, where you’ll explore traditional shops and enjoy local snacks. With your expert guide sharing fascinating insights, this tour offers a deep dive into the history, culture, and charm of Suzhou and Nanjing.
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