Xuanwu Gate
Xuanwu Gate: A historic portal to the ancient Nanjing City Wall, offering breathtaking skyline views and a glimpse into China's imperial past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Xuanwu Gate
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Xuanwu Gate: A historic portal to the ancient Nanjing City Wall, offering breathtaking skyline views and a glimpse into China's imperial past.
"Hike the ancient wall for sensational views of modern Nanjing and its skyline."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing on the ancient city walls. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Hike South for Views
Climbing the wall and hiking south offers sensational views of modern Nanjing. :cityscape:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nanjing City Wall Views
Along the wall sections accessible from Xuanwu Gate
Hike along the ancient wall for sensational views of modern Nanjing and its skyline.
Historical Significance
Xuanwu Gate itself
Explore the gate, a site of historical events like the Xuanwu Gate Incident, a pivotal moment in Tang Dynasty history.
Festive Decorations
Xuanwu Gate entrance
Witness giant Spring Festival couplets and festive decorations, especially around Lunar New Year.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Xuanwu Gate
Navigating the Nanjing City Wall
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing on the ancient city walls. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Hike South for Views
Climbing the wall and hiking south offers sensational views of modern Nanjing. :cityscape:
📸 Capture the Skyline
The wall provides a unique vantage point for capturing panoramic city skyline shots. :camerawithflash:
🏮 Check for Festive Events
Look out for special decorations like giant Spring Festival couplets during holiday seasons. :tada:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing on the ancient city walls. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Hike South for Views
Climbing the wall and hiking south offers sensational views of modern Nanjing. :cityscape:
📸 Capture the Skyline
The wall provides a unique vantage point for capturing panoramic city skyline shots. :camerawithflash:
🏮 Check for Festive Events
Look out for special decorations like giant Spring Festival couplets during holiday seasons. :tada:
🏞️ Combine with Xuanwu Lake
Many visitors pair their Xuanwu Gate visit with a stroll through the adjacent Xuanwu Lake Park. :park:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Xuanwu Gate for its historical significance and the stunning panoramic views of Nanjing from the city wall. It's seen as a great spot for photography and a key access point to explore the ancient fortifications. Some find the climb and walking extensive, recommending comfortable shoes.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Xuanwu Gate is easily accessible by public transport in Nanjing. You can take the metro to Xuanwumen Station (Line 2) which is very close to the gate. Buses also frequently stop nearby, making it a convenient destination for exploring the Nanjing City Wall.
Yes, Xuanwu Gate is conveniently located near Xuanwu Lake Park, a popular spot for relaxation and recreation. It's also a good starting point for exploring other sections of the historic Nanjing City Wall.
Once you're on the wall from Xuanwu Gate, walking is the primary way to explore. Some sections are quite long, so comfortable footwear is essential. You can hike south for impressive city views.
While specific parking details can vary, it's generally recommended to use public transportation to reach Xuanwu Gate due to its central location and potential parking limitations.
Cycling is generally not permitted on most sections of the Nanjing City Wall, including those accessible from Xuanwu Gate, to preserve the historical structure and ensure visitor safety. Walking is the encouraged mode of exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Xuanwu Gate itself is an access point to the Nanjing City Wall. While entry to the gate area is often free, there might be an admission fee to access and walk on the city wall sections. It's advisable to check current ticketing policies before your visit.
The opening hours for Xuanwu Gate and the accessible sections of the Nanjing City Wall can vary. Generally, they are open during daylight hours, but it's best to confirm the specific times closer to your travel date, especially for any special events.
Information on discounts for the Nanjing City Wall is not widely publicized. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket office or check official Nanjing tourism websites for any available concessions for students, seniors, or group bookings.
Online ticket purchasing options for the Nanjing City Wall may be available through official tourism platforms or third-party booking sites. This can often save time compared to buying tickets on-site.
To avoid queues, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended. If buying on-site, arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon on weekdays can help minimize wait times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Xuanwu Gate is a historical gateway to the Nanjing City Wall. Visitors can climb the wall for panoramic city views, learn about its historical significance, and enjoy the surrounding architecture. It's also a great spot for photography.
A visit to Xuanwu Gate and a moderate walk along the adjacent city wall can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how far you choose to explore.
While official guided tours specifically for Xuanwu Gate might be limited, you can often find local guides or join general Nanjing City Wall tours that include this access point. Informational plaques are usually available.
The top of the city wall offers excellent vantage points for capturing the Nanjing skyline. The gate itself, with its historical architecture, also makes for a great photo subject. Look for the festive couplets during holidays.
Xuanwu Gate and the city wall can be explored with children, but caution is advised due to the heights and uneven surfaces. Ensure children are supervised at all times. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon. The soft light enhances the historical architecture and the city skyline views. Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is useful for capturing both the grand scale of the wall and details of the gate. A wide-angle lens can be great for the skyline, and a tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical sites and urban areas in China. It's highly unlikely that drones are permitted for photography at Xuanwu Gate or on the Nanjing City Wall. Always check local regulations.
The imposing historical architecture of the gate itself, the expansive views of the Nanjing skyline from the wall, and any seasonal decorations like Spring Festival couplets are highly photogenic.
Yes, there are often historical inscriptions and architectural details on and around Xuanwu Gate and the city wall that make for interesting close-up photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing the visit with the nearby Xuanwu Lake Park offers a great way to balance historical exploration with more relaxed activities like boating or playing in open spaces. Pack snacks and water, as amenities directly on the wall can be limited.
🚶 Solo Travelers
It's a safe and well-trodden path, making it easy to navigate. Consider downloading offline maps or using a translation app. Engaging with the historical context of the gate and the wall can be a deeply rewarding solo experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the intricate details of the ancient architecture, the textures of the brickwork, and the juxtaposition of old and new. During festive seasons, the decorative couplets provide unique subjects. Remember to bring a versatile lens and perhaps a tripod for low-light conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Xuanwu Gate Incident: A Tang Dynasty Turning Point
While the historical incident occurred in Chang'an, the name 'Xuanwu Gate' resonates with historical significance across China. In Nanjing, the gate serves as a reminder of this tumultuous period and the power struggles that shaped imperial China. Visiting Xuanwu Gate offers a tangible connection to this rich and often dramatic past, allowing visitors to reflect on the events that unfolded centuries ago.
Exploring the Nanjing City Wall from Xuanwu Gate
The wall itself is a marvel of ancient engineering, constructed primarily from bricks and stone. Walking along its ramparts provides a unique perspective on the city, blending the old with the new. Wear comfortable shoes, as sections can be extensive, and take your time to appreciate the scale and historical weight of this impressive structure.
Many visitors combine their exploration of Xuanwu Gate and the city wall with a visit to the adjacent Xuanwu Lake Park. This offers a perfect balance of historical exploration and natural beauty, making for a fulfilling day trip in Nanjing.
Festive Vibrancy at Xuanwu Gate
These decorations are not just for show; they carry cultural significance, symbolizing good fortune and blessings for the year ahead. Visitors during this period can experience a unique blend of historical grandeur and contemporary festive traditions. It's a fantastic opportunity for photography and to immerse yourself in local celebrations.
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