Xuanwu Gate City Wall

Introducing Xuanwu Gate Wall

Xuanwu Gate is the rear gate of Nanjing's Ming City Wall. It was opened in 1908 and was originally named Fengrun Gate. It is located between Shen Ce Gate, Jiefang Gate and Taiping Gate. It was named because it is close to Xuanwu Lake and serves as the west gate of Xuanwu Lake Park.

Xuanwu Gate was opened in 1908, the 34th year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty. Duan Fang, then Governor-General of Liangjiang and Minister of Commerce for the Nanyang Economic Exposition, was ordered to host the Nanyang Industrial Exposition. To facilitate the viewing of Xuanwu Lake by Chinese and foreign visitors, he decided to build a gate on this section of the city wall. Duan Fang's departure left the project unfinished, and Zhang Renjun, his successor the following year, took over. Because Zhang Renjun was from Fengrun, Hebei, the gate was named "Fengrun Gate." The opening of Fengrun Gate marked a major turning point for Xuanwu Lake, officially marking its modern status as a park.

In April 1928, the Nationalist government renamed Fengrun Gate Xuanwu Gate. In 1929, Cai Yuanpei, then President of the Academia Sinica, was invited to inscribe the three characters "Xuanwu Gate" on a plaque, a name that remains in use today. In 1931, Xuanwu Gate was renovated from a single-arched gate to a three-arched gate. In January 1988, the entire section of Nanjing's Ming City Wall, including Xuanwu Gate, was designated a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Site. In November 2012, the Ming City Wall (Beijing), as the lead city in the "China's Ming and Qing City Walls" project, was inscribed on the Chinese World Cultural Heritage Tentative List.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; Xuanwumen is an ancient city gate in the ancient city of Nanjing. Now it is the gate to Xuanwumen Park and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

7:00-21:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Xuanwu Gate City Wall

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

Xuanwu Gate is one of the most important historical sites in Nanjing, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. It was a key military and political entry point to the city and is closely associated with the political history of China, including the famous battle of the Xuanwu Gate during the Tang Dynasty.

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

Xuanwu Gate is located in the central area of Nanjing. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or public transport. The nearest metro station is Xuanwu Gate Station on Line 2, and it is a short walk from there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

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

The entrance fee is about 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the official Nanjing tourist website or other third-party ticketing platforms.

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

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance unless you are visiting during peak seasons or holidays. Booking a few days ahead should be sufficient if you want to secure your tickets.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 1 to 2 hours to explore the gate, walk along the city wall, and visit the small museum inside.

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

• The Xuanwu Gate itself, with its historical significance and architectural features.
• The surrounding city wall sections, offering great views of Nanjing.
• The small museum within the gate that provides insight into Nanjing’s military history and the Ming Dynasty.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English are available for an additional fee at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the top of the gate and along the city wall, where you can capture sweeping views of Nanjing and the surrounding area.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the base of Xuanwu Gate and walk up to the top to get an overview of the area.
• Explore the surrounding city wall and visit the small museum to learn more about the history.
• End your visit by walking around the nearby area for a final view of the surroundings.

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

There are no special night visits or light shows available at Xuanwu Gate. However, the gate is beautifully lit at night, making it a great spot for evening photography.

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

The gate can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays to avoid the crowds.

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

The site has basic facilities such as public restrooms, a small café offering snacks and drinks, and rest areas around the perimeter for visitors to relax. There are also souvenir shops nearby selling local crafts.

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

The site is partially accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, but the steep steps leading to the top of the gate may be challenging for some. It’s recommended to check the accessibility conditions in advance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at the entrance and for purchases at the souvenir shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There is a small café near the entrance, but for more dining options, you can head to the nearby Xuanwu Lake area, which has several restaurants offering both local and international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants, and halal food can be found in the central Nanjing area, especially near the mosque.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Nearby hotels include Nanjing Xuanwu Hotel, located just a short walk away from the site.
• For a more luxurious stay, you can opt for the InterContinental Nanjing, which is a short taxi ride away.

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

• Xuanwu Lake, a beautiful park with scenic views and boating opportunities, is located nearby.
• The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, another historical site, is a short distance away.
• The Nanjing Museum is also within easy reach, offering additional historical insights.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance selling items such as local crafts, postcards, and historical replicas like miniature models of the gate and wall.

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

The best options to continue your trip include taking a taxi or using public transportation. The Nanjing Metro system offers easy access to other popular destinations in the city.