Filial Piety Tripod

Introducing the Book of Filial Piety

The Filial Piety Tripod stands 4.25 meters tall, has a diameter of 1.23 meters, and weighs 10,000 kilograms. Donated in the autumn of 1933 by Dai Jitao and the faculty and students of Sun Yat-sen University, the tripod features the inscriptions "Wisdom, Benevolence, and Courage" on its walls. Inside, a hexagonal bronze plaque inscribed with the full text of the "Book of Filial Piety" in the handwriting of Mrs. Huang, the mother of Dai Jitao, a veteran of the Kuomintang.

The Filial Piety Tripod was manufactured at the Jinling Arsenal in 1932 and donated by Dai Jitao, a Kuomintang veteran and president of Sun Yat-sen University, along with faculty and students from the university. It is currently on display at the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum in Nanjing's Zhongshan Scenic Area.

This is one of the memorial buildings at the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. On May 7, 1933, a solemn foundation-laying ceremony for the bronze tripod was held here. Lin Sen, President of the Nationalist Government, was in attendance, and Dai Jitao delivered a speech.

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

The Filial Piety Tripod is located on the south side of the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum Square, on a three-story octagonal platform. It was donated by Dai Jitao, then president of Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, and all the teachers and students. Reading the Filial Piety Tripod slowly will give you a lot of feelings.

Visit Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and the Book of Filial Piety Tripod.

It is recommended to play for 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Filial Piety Tripod

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

The Filial Piety Tripod is an important historical artifact from the ancient Chinese period, symbolizing filial piety, a core Confucian value. It is associated with honoring and respecting parents and elders, a principle that has deeply influenced Chinese culture.

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

The Filial Piety Tripod is located in Nanjing, Jiangsu. You can reach it by taxi or bus from Nanjing city center. Public transport options are available, and walking is an option if you're in the vicinity.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Filial Piety Tripod is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays to avoid the crowds.

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

The entrance fee is usually around 30 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site or through online platforms for convenience.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. A few days in advance should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the Filial Piety Tripod and its surrounding areas.

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

The Filial Piety Tripod itself is the main highlight, but also explore the nearby park and historical inscriptions related to Confucian teachings.

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

Guided tours and audio guides are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer services in English. It’s advisable to check availability ahead of time.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoint is from a distance, capturing the Tripod with the backdrop of the surrounding park. The tripod itself also provides a great close-up photo opportunity.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the Filial Piety Tripod, then explore the nearby park and walk along the paths with historical inscriptions. Make sure to take your time at the tripod and surrounding monuments.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available, but you can enjoy a peaceful evening walk around the site as it remains a quiet area after dark.

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

It can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially early mornings.

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

Basic facilities like toilets are available, and there are small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. However, food and drink options are limited, so it's better to bring your own if you plan to stay for a while.

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

The site is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, though some areas may have uneven paths. It is suitable for families with children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted. Cards may not be widely accepted, so it's better to use mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no large restaurants within the attraction, but small local cafes and eateries can be found nearby in the city.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available in some of the nearby eateries, though halal food might be more limited. It’s best to check ahead.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are various hotels near the site, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Popular hotels include Nanjing Yangtze River Hotel and Nanjing Grand Hotel.

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

Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Nanjing Museum, and the Presidential Palace. All are within a short drive and can easily be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling items like traditional Chinese arts and crafts, miniature replicas of the tripod, and local snacks.

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

Taxis, buses, and metro services are the most convenient ways to continue your journey. The Nanjing metro is well-connected to the main attractions in the city.