Qingliang Gate

Introducing Qingliangmen

Qingliang Gate is one of the thirteen Ming Dynasty city gates of Nanjing's Ming City Wall. It is named after the Qingliang Mountain where it is located. It is now composed of a city gate and a circle of elliptical urns. The main city gate is a single-hole arch structure. The tower on the gate tower no longer exists. There is a keystone on the top of the city with two keyholes carved on it. The urn city is semicircular, facing the city gate, sitting east and facing west.

The city gate originally consisted of a barbican and two gates. In June of the sixth year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty (1373), the gate was guarded by the Bingmasi (military commander). In March of the twelfth year of the Hongwu reign, it was renamed Qingjiang Gate. According to historical records, the gate was blocked shortly after its completion and remained unused for over 600 years. It was designated a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Site in 1988.

Qingliangmen is located in the west of Nanjing's Gulou District, facing east and west. To the south lies the Shichengmen Gate, and to the north lies the Dinghuaimen Gate. Qingliangmen consisted of a gate and an elliptical urn. The Dilou Tower no longer exists, but the rest of the city remains largely intact. Because this section of the city wall was built on the undulating cliffs of southwest Qingliang Mountain, its remote location meant that pedestrians were sparsely populated from the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty. After the construction of Qingliangmen in the Ming Dynasty, a bridge was built to the west bank of the Outer Qinhuai River; the Qingliangmen Bridge over the Outer Qinhuai River, renovated in 2006, continues to bear the name of Qingliangmen.

Climate and best time to travel

With a subtropical monsoon climate, Qingliangmen, located beside the Qinhuai River, is a great place to cool off and enjoy a relaxing trip in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Qingliangmen ancient city wall.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Qingliang Gate

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

Qingliang Gate is one of the original gates of the Nanjing City Wall, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty. It holds historical significance as part of the city's defense system, offering a glimpse into ancient Chinese military architecture.

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

Qingliang Gate is located in the northern part of Nanjing, close to the city's historic district. It can be reached by taxi or public bus from the city center. The nearest metro station is relatively far, so walking from nearby attractions is an option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The gate is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and crowds are thinner.

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

There is a small entrance fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and it's advisable to check online for any special events or promotions.

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

Booking in advance is typically not required unless visiting during a peak tourist season. However, it's always a good idea to check online for any special booking requirements.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes to explore Qingliang Gate and the surrounding area, depending on your pace and interest in photography.

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

The main highlight is the gate itself, with its ancient architecture and stunning city views. The surrounding walls and the historical exhibition are also worth exploring.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English. Audio guides may also be available in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the top of the gate, where you can capture expansive views of the city and the surrounding landscape, especially during sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering the gate and explore the architecture. Then, walk along the top of the city wall for panoramic views. Finally, take time to visit the nearby exhibits to learn more about the gate’s history.

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

There are no special night visits or light shows at Qingliang Gate. However, the area around the gate is peaceful and can be enjoyed during evening walks.

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

Qingliang Gate can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, try visiting early in the morning or on weekdays.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are no food stalls or shops inside the gate, but you can find local restaurants nearby.

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

The site is accessible for children and elderly visitors, though some areas might require a bit of walking or climbing. However, it may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility impairments due to the ancient structure.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is not strictly necessary, as mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Credit cards may not always be accepted, so mobile payment options are recommended.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes inside the Qingliang Gate area, but several local dining options can be found within walking distance, offering traditional Chinese food.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, and some may also provide halal food, especially in the more diverse parts of the city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include Nanjing Yangtze River Hotel and the Jinling Hotel, both offering good accommodations within a short distance from the gate.

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

Nearby attractions include Zhonghua Gate, the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, and Nanjing's famous Confucius Temple. All can be easily combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the gate where you can find postcards, small statues, and traditional Chinese arts and crafts related to Nanjing's history.

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

After visiting Qingliang Gate, the best transportation options are taxis or public transport (bus or metro) to explore other nearby attractions in Nanjing.