Porcelain Tower of Nanjing Bao'ensi
A dazzling modern reconstruction of a legendary Ming Dynasty pagoda, famed for its intricate porcelain and breathtaking night illuminations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical illuminations
Porcelain Tower of Nanjing Bao'ensi
Best Time
Magical illuminations
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dazzling modern reconstruction of a legendary Ming Dynasty pagoda, famed for its intricate porcelain and breathtaking night illuminations.
"It feels like those illusion museums in Europe but taken to the next level and mixed with religion and history."
✨ Evening Light Show
Don't miss the spectacular evening light show; it's a highlight that truly makes the tower shine!
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Rent the audio guide for an immersive experience with RFID tags that trigger stories at different spots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Illuminated Porcelain Tower
Main Pagoda
Witness the pagoda come alive at night with dazzling, colorful illuminations that transform it into a breathtaking spectacle.
Recreated Buddhist Pathways
Grounds
Experience serene pathways replicating Buddhist birth stories, perfect for quiet contemplation and stunning photography.
Artifacts and Exhibitions
Museum Sections
Explore displays of the original pagoda's remnants and various Buddhist art, offering deep historical and cultural insights.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Understanding the Tower's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Evening Light Show
Don't miss the spectacular evening light show; it's a highlight that truly makes the tower shine!
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Rent the audio guide for an immersive experience with RFID tags that trigger stories at different spots.
📸 Photography Paradise
Bring your camera! The tower and its grounds offer countless opportunities for stunning photos, especially at night.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Take time to wander through the recreated Buddhist pathways; they are peaceful and visually captivating.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Evening Light Show
Don't miss the spectacular evening light show; it's a highlight that truly makes the tower shine!
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Rent the audio guide for an immersive experience with RFID tags that trigger stories at different spots.
📸 Photography Paradise
Bring your camera! The tower and its grounds offer countless opportunities for stunning photos, especially at night.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Take time to wander through the recreated Buddhist pathways; they are peaceful and visually captivating.
⬆️ Elevator Access
An elevator is available to take you to the 8th level for panoramic city views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently amazed by the Porcelain Tower, often calling it a highlight of their travels. The modern reconstruction, especially its spectacular nighttime illuminations, is frequently praised for its beauty and innovative approach to preserving history. While the entrance fee is noted, many feel the unique experience and photographic opportunities justify the cost.
"Absolutely amazing! I've visited 55 countries, and the porcelain tower has to be one of my favorite experiences. It feels like those illusion museums in Europe but taken to the next level and mixed with religion and history. The original porcelain tower was burned down, but it is a nice tribute to the original and to Buddhism."
galo
"Grand Baoen Temple 大报恩寺. RMB90 entrance fee and RMB30 for their audio guide device which plays back thru RFID tagging at the location, I like this kind.
Another museum built upon the original site, incorporating modern technologies alongside ancient structures. Here is where one can find the 琉璃拱门 (we saw a replica of this in the Nanjing National Museum on the first day) and 七宝阿育王塔. The original glazed Pagoda was an architecture symbol at that time, but unfortunately destroyed during the Taiping Rebellion. This modern one rebuilt in 2007 now includes a lift (yay) that brings one to Level 8 where you get an all-round (but not very clean/clear) view of the city.
In the first section, they recreated a pathway, replicating 释迦牟尼佛诞生,一步一莲花,七步生莲的意境. This place will be great for people with an interest in Buddhism or photography, with many spots for the trigger-happy."
Daphne Yeo
"One has to visit the Porcelain Tower to truly understand its charm."
Zahir Akhtar Ahmed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Porcelain Tower is conveniently accessible by metro. Take Line 3 to the Daxinggong Station and then transfer to Bus 1 or 3 to reach the tower. Many visitors also find it a pleasant part of a 'city walk' in Nanjing.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark. Public transport options like buses and metro lines make it straightforward to reach from various parts of Nanjing.
Taxis are readily available in Nanjing and can take you directly to the Porcelain Tower. It's a good option if you prefer direct transport.
Nanjing has an efficient metro system and extensive bus routes. For attractions like the Porcelain Tower, metro access is usually the most convenient.
The Porcelain Tower is part of Nanjing's rich historical landscape. Nearby, you can explore other historical sites and museums that contribute to the city's deep history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around RMB 90. There's an additional charge of RMB 30 for the audio guide device.
While not always strictly necessary, booking tickets in advance online can save you time, especially during peak seasons. Check official ticketing platforms for availability.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours and into the evening to showcase the light displays. It's best to check the most current hours before your visit.
Yes, the audio guide is an optional rental for an additional RMB 30, and it enhances the experience by providing context through RFID tagging.
Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The tower is stunning during the day, but the evening illuminations are truly magical for photography. Late afternoon allows you to capture both daylight and the start of the light show.
Tripod policies can change, but generally, they are allowed in most outdoor areas. It's advisable to check with on-site staff if you plan to use one, especially during busy periods.
You can capture the intricate details of the pagoda, the surrounding gardens, Buddhist art, and the breathtaking night illuminations. The recreated pathways also offer unique photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around major tourist attractions in China, including the Porcelain Tower, for safety and privacy reasons.
The base of the tower offers great perspectives, and the elevated platforms provide wider city views. The recreated Buddhist pathways also have many picturesque corners.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
The current tower is a modern reconstruction of the 15th-century Great Bao'en Temple's pagoda, a significant architectural marvel of the Ming Dynasty. The original was largely destroyed during the Taiping Rebellion.
The tower is a tribute to Buddhism and honors religious figures. The grounds feature recreated Buddhist narratives, such as the 'one step, one lotus flower' concept.
While it's a modern reconstruction of a historical temple, it functions more as a cultural and historical attraction with strong Buddhist elements, rather than an active place of worship for the general public.
The Porcelain Tower itself is not directly related to the Nanjing Massacre. However, Nanjing is home to the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, which is a separate, somber site dedicated to remembering that tragic event.
The site displays artifacts related to the original pagoda, Buddhist exhibitions, and replicas of significant items like the 'Porcelain Gate' and the 'Seven Treasures Pagoda'.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a vegetarian restaurant located within the complex, offering a dining experience amidst the cultural surroundings.
The restaurant typically serves vegetarian cuisine, aligning with the Buddhist theme of the site.
Like many tourist attractions in China, there are souvenir shops where you can purchase mementos of your visit.
While the immediate vicinity might have standard tourist fare, exploring slightly further out or asking locals can lead you to authentic Nanjing snack vendors.
It's a convenient option if you're already at the site, offering a unique ambiance. For a wider variety of local flavors, consider dining in other parts of Nanjing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical and religious aspects might require some explanation, the visual spectacle is universally appealing. The presence of an elevator to the upper levels provides an easy way to get a bird's-eye view of the city, which can be exciting for younger visitors. Consider renting the audio guide to make the historical context more accessible and engaging for older children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for late afternoon visits to capture both daylight and the transition to the evening light show. Don't forget your tripod for low-light shots of the illuminated pagoda. The site's blend of ancient design and modern light art ensures a rich portfolio of images.
🏛️ History Buffs
Explore the museum sections to see remnants of the original pagoda and learn about its construction and destruction. The recreated Buddhist narratives on the grounds provide insights into the spiritual context of the original temple. The audio guide is highly recommended for a comprehensive historical understanding.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Reconstructed Marvel: History and Modernity
Visitors often remark on the striking contrast between the ancient architectural style and the vibrant, dynamic light displays that illuminate the tower at night. This modern interpretation allows the tower to be appreciated in a new light, quite literally. The site also functions as a cultural center, housing exhibitions that delve into the history of the pagoda, Buddhist art, and the cultural significance of the region. It's a place where history is not just preserved but actively brought to life for contemporary audiences.
Beyond the main pagoda, the park features recreated Buddhist pathways that symbolize key moments in the life of Buddha, such as the 'one step, one lotus flower' concept. These serene areas are designed for reflection and offer excellent photographic opportunities, allowing visitors to connect with the spiritual and artistic heritage of the site. The inclusion of an elevator to the eighth level provides accessible panoramic views of Nanjing, further enhancing the visitor experience.
Experiencing the Porcelain Tower: A Photographer's Dream
Travelers often recommend visiting in the late afternoon to capture the transition from daylight to the evening illuminations. This allows for a comprehensive photographic narrative of the site. The recreated Buddhist pathways also provide unique framing and atmospheric shots, especially when lit subtly in the evening. The combination of historical architecture, religious symbolism, and modern light art creates a visually rich environment that appeals to both casual smartphone users and professional photographers.
When planning your photography session, consider bringing a tripod to capture the best of the low-light conditions during the evening show. While official policies can vary, tripods are generally permitted in outdoor areas. The various exhibition halls also offer opportunities for capturing artifacts and artistic displays, though flash photography might be restricted in certain areas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit