Greater Kinmen

Introducing Greater Kinmen

The Great Golden Gate is located within the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum in the Zhongshan Scenic Area of ​​Xuanwu District, Nanjing. Located over 750 meters northwest of the Xiamafang (Dismount Archway), it serves as the mausoleum's main south gate. Despite over 600 years of vicissitudes, many of the wooden structures have disappeared, but the mausoleum's layout retains its original grandeur, and the underground burial chamber remains intact. The main structures and stone carvings within the mausoleum area include the Square City, Ming Tower, Treasure City, and Treasure Summit, as well as the Xiamafang (Dismount Archway), the Great Golden Gate, the Stele of Divine Merit and Sacred Virtue, the Sacred Way, and the Stone Statue Road. These are all Ming Dynasty architectural remains, preserving the authenticity of the mausoleum's original architecture and the integrity of its spatial layout.

The Great Golden Gate was originally a double-eaved building with yellow glazed tiles. The existing walls are made of brick and stone, with a stone pedestal at the bottom. It is 26.66 meters wide and 8.09 meters deep. There are three arched doorways in the wall. The middle door is 5.05 meters higher, and the left and right doors are 4.25 meters high.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Dismounting Archway, Prohibition Monument, Great Golden Gate, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum Divine Merit and Sacred Virtue Monument Pavilion, Imperial Bridge, Stone Statue Road, Stone Watchtower, Military Generals, Civil Officials, Lingxing Gate, 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 Greater Kinmen

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

Greater Kinmen is a group of islands with significant historical importance, especially during the Taiwan Strait Crisis. These islands were heavily fortified and served as a strategic military location during the Cold War. Today, they are an important cultural and tourist destination, with preserved military structures and historic sites.

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

Greater Kinmen is located off the southeastern coast of mainland China, near Xiamen. It can be accessed by ferry from Xiamen or by plane from Taiwan, landing at Kinmen Airport. Once on the island, taxis, buses, and rental bikes are available for local transportation.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The islands are open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the weather is mild. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter is quieter and cooler.

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

Most attractions in Greater Kinmen are free or have a small entrance fee. Tickets for specific museums and historic sites can be purchased on-site or online through local tour operators.

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

Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary for most attractions. However, for special events or peak seasons, it is recommended to book at least a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Greater Kinmen can take 1-3 days depending on your interest in military history, nature, and local culture.

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

Must-see highlights include the Kinmen National Park, the Guningtou Battle Museum, the Old Jinsha District, and the numerous bunkers and military structures scattered across the island.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English, providing historical context and insights into the military history and local culture. Audio guides are available at most major attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

For stunning views, head to the top of the Guningtou Battle Museum or the beaches along the coast. The old military bunkers and the Kinmen National Park also provide excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary includes visiting the Guningtou Battle Museum first, followed by a stroll through the Jinsha Old District, and finishing with a visit to the Kinmen National Park for a scenic nature walk.

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

There are no night visits or light shows. However, special evening tours may be available for group bookings during certain times of the year.

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

Weekdays, especially in the off-season, are the least crowded times to visit. Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier, especially during the summer months.

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

There are plenty of rest areas, toilets, and small shops in popular tourist locations. Local eateries offer traditional Kinmen dishes, and there are also souvenir shops selling local products.

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

Greater Kinmen is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, although some of the more remote military sites may require a bit of walking or uphill climbing. Many attractions have ramps and accessible facilities.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted in most tourist spots, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small shops and rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Kinmen is home to local restaurants that serve traditional dishes like Kinmen noodles, peanut candy, and fried rice. Cafes are available around popular areas such as Jincheng Old Town.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants, though vegan and halal options may be limited depending on the area. It’s advisable to check in advance at specific eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Popular accommodations include the Kinmen Golden Lake Hotel and the Kinmen Hotel, both offering easy access to the main tourist attractions.

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

Nearby attractions include the Kinmen National Park, the Zhaishan Tunnel, and the Shuitou Village. These can be easily combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops on Kinmen offer local specialties such as Kinmen Kaoliang liquor, traditional crafts, and peanut candy. You can also find military-themed souvenirs due to the area's history.

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

After visiting Greater Kinmen, taxis, buses, and ferries are available to travel to nearby islands or back to the mainland (Xiamen). For further travel, flights are available from Kinmen Airport.