Yeshan National Mining Park

Introducing Yeshan National Mining Park

Nanjing Yeshan National Mining Park is located in Liuhe District, Nanjing City, close to Jinniu Lake Scenic Area and Guizi Mountain Stone Pillar Forest Scenic Area. It is one of the 48 scenic spots of New Jinling (metallurgy and mining exploration) and is known as "the first mountain of metallurgy in China".

Nanjing Yeshan Iron Mine has a long history of development. As early as the Western Zhou Dynasty, it was used for copper mining and iron smelting, which is more than 3,000 years ago and more than 1,800 years earlier than Europe. It is praised by geologists as "a milestone in the history of Chinese smelting". It is the birthplace of Chinese smelting and a microcosm of China's mining history. Its underground mining directly and vividly shows the development history of my country's mining technology from the Western Zhou Dynasty to the modern era, and it opened the first page of China's iron smelting history.

The mining park is a highly harmonious mining park with "mining and smelting culture, mining relics, iron ore mining and dressing" as its main body, integrating scientific investigation, leisure and entertainment, and popular science education. It will be the only industrial tourism base in East China with the theme of displaying the ancient relics of iron ore mining and dressing.

Climate and best time to travel

With a subtropical monsoon climate, Yeshan National Mining Park aims to protect and sustainably utilize the non-renewable important mining relic resources, fully display the objective trajectory and splendid culture of my country's social civilization history, and provide people with browsing and viewing landscapes, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Nanjing Yeshan National Mining Park is dominated by mining relics, including Wuwang Valley, Tangkou, Grand Canyon, Xianren Cave, F8 Fault, narrow-gauge railway, steam train, underground tunnels, underground mining levels, mineral processing relics, etc., which are rare, unique, diverse and typical. It is not only a good classroom for popularizing geological knowledge, but also a historical material that reproduces mining.

The artificial scenic spots such as Yezhu Pavilion, Bailongtan, Dieshuiyuan, Shengui Stone, Pinghu Pavilion and viewing platform condense the history and legend of Yeshan as a place where mulberry fields were once abundant, King Liu Bi of Wu mined copper to cast coins and smelted iron to make weapons, the hometown of the little white dragon and the Dragon Raising its Head on February 2nd.

It is recommended to play for 5 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Yeshan National Mining Park

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

Yeshan National Mining Park is an important site for understanding the mining history of Jiangsu. It was once a thriving mining area, and the park now showcases the evolution of mining technologies and techniques used in the region over the centuries. The park also promotes environmental education related to mining practices.

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

The park is located in Yeshan, Jiangsu, near Nanjing. You can reach the park by taking a taxi or driving from Nanjing, which takes about an hour. Public transport options, including buses, are also available from Nanjing’s city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays when the park is less crowded. Visiting in the spring or autumn offers pleasant weather for outdoor exploration.

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

The entrance fee is around 50-80 CNY, depending on the season or events. Tickets can be purchased on-site or via online platforms that offer ticket sales for local attractions.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it’s advisable, especially during peak seasons or holidays. You can book tickets a few days in advance to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the park, including the mining exhibits, natural trails, and educational demonstrations.

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

The key highlights include the historical mining exhibits, the machinery displays, and the geology-focused areas. The outdoor scenic trails offer a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer basic information in English. Audio guides can also be rented, typically in Mandarin, for self-guided exploration.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the park's scenic trails and around the historical mining equipment displays. The combination of natural scenery and industrial heritage offers unique photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the mining history exhibits and then proceed to the outdoor trails. Finish with a visit to the machinery display and any special exhibitions happening at the time. The route is fairly straightforward, and staff can provide guidance.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at the park. However, there may be special events or nighttime educational programs during certain seasons or festivals, so it’s best to check in advance.

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

The park can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the morning or later in the afternoon.

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

Facilities include public toilets, a small café, and rest areas along the walking paths. There may be a gift shop selling souvenirs related to the park's mining theme.

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

The park is accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors. It has paved paths and ramps for easy navigation, although some of the outdoor trails may be more challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (such as Alipay or WeChat Pay) are widely accepted at the park, including for entry tickets and purchases in the gift shop. Cash may still be accepted, but digital payments are more convenient.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants near the park serving traditional Chinese cuisine. For a wider range of dining options, you can head back to Nanjing where international and local restaurants are abundant.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants nearby, though halal food options may be more limited in this area. You can find more diverse food options in Nanjing’s city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few budget hotels and guesthouses near the park. For more upscale accommodations, Nanjing city center offers several hotels, including international chains like InterContinental and Novotel.

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

Other nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge and Nanjing Museum. Both are located in Nanjing and can easily be combined into a day trip with a short drive or public transport.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there is a small souvenir shop at the park where visitors can purchase mining-themed gifts, local crafts, and small mementos like postcards and keychains.

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

After visiting, taxis are the most convenient way to continue your journey. Alternatively, you can take a bus or head back to Nanjing for more transportation options such as the metro or intercity buses.