Stone City Park

Introducing Stone City Park

In 1990, Nanjing built Stone City Park on the site of the former Stone City. Themed "Reminiscence of the Ancient Stone City," the park organically integrates the city's rich history with its natural landscape, blending ancient battlefields with modern national defense education. With a total area of ​​nearly 16.94 hectares, the park, centered around the ancient city wall, embodies the unique character of this historic and cultural capital. It stretches from Qingliangshan Sports School in the north to Qingliang Gate in the south, bordering the ancient city wall to the west and Huju Road to the east.

Stone City was a military fortress built on the natural stone walls of Qingliang Mountain during the Three Kingdoms period, after Sun Quan of the Eastern Wu relocated his capital from Jingkou (present-day Zhenjiang) to Moling (present-day Nanjing) in 211 AD following the Battle of Chibi. Its strategic location and imposing presence are a living testament to the vicissitudes of history. Standing here, one can best appreciate the artistic conception of Liu Yuxi's "Reminiscence of the Past at Xisai Mountain" and Wang Anshi's "Guizhixiang," a poem about the past at Jinling, considered a masterpiece of the ascent. "Ghost Face Looking in the Mirror" is a historically renowned attraction. It is named "Ghost Face" because of an oval stone protruding from the center of the city wall. From a distance, the ears, eyes, mouth, and nose are faintly visible, resembling a ghost face. The pond beneath it, known as the "Mirror," covers an area of ​​over 1,600 square meters. During the park's renovation, the famous Yanwang River was cleared from the shroud of history and reappeared as a clear stream with lush greenery along its banks. Whether viewed from afar or up close, the weeping willows on the city walls, the clear water and the green trees are all a stunning sight.

Shitoucheng Park is divided into three scenic areas: National Defense Spring Dawn, Stone City Clear Snow, and Mountain Dwelling Autumn Meditation, offering 21 scenic spots. The Stone City Clear Snow area, located on the west side of the park, stretches from Qingliang Mountain in the north to Qingliang Gate in the south, forming a strip along the ancient city wall. It is the heart of Shitoucheng Park and one of the Forty-Eight Scenic Spots of Jinling. The Mountain Dwelling Autumn Meditation area, nestled in the forested area to the east of the park, boasts lush vegetation and vibrant life. Lingering there, one can immerse oneself in the artistic conception of Wang Wei, a renowned Tang Dynasty poet: "After a fresh rain, the empty mountains, the weather turns to autumn. The bright moon shines among the pines, a clear spring flows over the rocks. The bamboos rustle with the sound of returning washerwomen, the lotus leaves stir with the sound of fishing boats. Let the spring flowers rest as they please, the princes may remain." The Qingliang Mountain and Shitoucheng area is known as the "City Forest." Visiting on a crisp autumn day after a rainy day will truly live up to its reputation, free from the melancholy and sorrow of Sadula's poem "Climbing Stone City" from the Yuan Dynasty. Across Huju Road, Qingliangshan Park echoes it in the distance, one majestic and magnificent, the other tranquil and deep, complementing each other.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Spring dawn in Guofang, clear snow in Shicheng, autumn meditation in the mountains, etc.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Stone City Park

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Stone City Park is famous for its unique stone formations and ancient stone carvings, reflecting Nanjing’s rich cultural heritage. It has been a site for historical and geological research for centuries.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The park is located in the northeastern part of Nanjing. You can take a taxi or bus from downtown, or use metro Line 2 to get off at the Daqiao Station, then take a short taxi ride to the park.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Stone City Park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the park’s landscape is at its most beautiful.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is 30 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local online ticket platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It’s not necessary to book tickets in advance unless you’re visiting during a holiday period or peak season. Booking a day or two before the visit is advised during busy times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You’ll need about 2 to 3 hours to explore the park fully, depending on how much time you spend at the stone formations and the scenic spots.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main attractions are the unique stone formations, the ancient carvings, the rock garden, and the tranquil ponds scattered throughout the park. Be sure to visit the high viewpoint for panoramic views of Nanjing.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there are also audio guides in English. It’s recommended to book a guide in advance if you want to learn about the park’s history.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the high viewpoint overlooking the park, especially during sunrise or sunset. The stone carvings and rock formations also make for great photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main entrance and exploring the stone formations. Next, walk towards the scenic areas near the ponds and finish at the higher vantage points for a complete view of the park.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows in Stone City Park. It’s best to visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy the scenery.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The park can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays, especially Tuesday to Thursday.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The park has basic amenities including toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are a few small kiosks selling snacks and drinks, but no major food outlets inside the park.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The park is relatively accessible, with paved paths suitable for elderly visitors and children. However, the rocky terrain in some areas may be challenging for wheelchair users.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are accepted throughout the park, making cash unnecessary.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants inside the park, but nearby areas offer a variety of dining options, including traditional Nanjing food, cafes, and local delicacies.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available in restaurants near the park, particularly in the downtown area of Nanjing.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include Nanjing Grand Metropark Hotel and Jinling Hotel, both offering convenient access to Stone City Park.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, and Purple Mountain. These landmarks can easily be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the park where you can find items like Nanjing-style tea sets, local art, and stone carvings.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, you can take a taxi or use public transport (bus or metro) to explore other parts of Nanjing. The Nanjing Railway Station is also accessible for further travels.