Xuanwu Lake
Xuanwu Lake is a scenic urban park centered around a picturesque lake with five islands connected by bridges. This peaceful oasis in the heart of Nanjing offers beautiful gardens, historic sites, walking paths, and recreational activities, making it popular among locals and tourists alike for relaxation and enjoying nature.
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1 Xuanwu巷, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Xuanwu Lake: Nanjing's Picturesque Urban Oasis
Xuanwu Lake is a scenic urban park centered around a picturesque lake with five islands connected by bridges. Located in the heart of Nanjing, this peaceful oasis offers beautiful gardens, historic sites, walking paths, and recreational activities, making it popular among locals and tourists alike for relaxation and enjoying nature. It is one of the three famous lakes in Nanjing, alongside Mochou Lake and Qinhuai River.
What to See and Do
Explore the Five Islands: The lake features five islands (Huanzhou, Yingzhou, Lingzhou, Liangzhou, and Cuizhou), each with its own unique character, connected by causeways and bridges. You can walk, jog, or cycle around the lake and across the islands.
Boating: Rent a rowboat, pedal boat, or electric boat to explore the lake's calm waters and enjoy the scenery from a different perspective.
Cherry Blossoms (Spring): In spring, especially around Jiming Temple and along the lake, the cherry blossoms are spectacular, attracting many visitors.
Autumn Foliage: In autumn, the trees around the lake turn vibrant colors, creating a beautiful landscape.
Jiming Temple: Located on a hill overlooking the lake, Jiming Temple is one of Nanjing's oldest Buddhist temples, offering stunning views of the lake and the city wall.
Nanjing City Wall: Sections of the ancient Nanjing City Wall run along the edge of Xuanwu Lake, offering historical significance and opportunities for a walk on the wall.
Recreational Activities: The park offers various recreational activities, including playgrounds for children, fitness areas, and open spaces for picnics.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Spring is particularly beautiful for cherry blossoms. The park is open year-round. Early mornings are ideal for a peaceful experience and observing locals exercising.
How to Get There
Xuanwu Lake is centrally located in Xuanwu District, Nanjing. Take Metro Line 1 to Xuanwumen Station (玄武门站) or Jimingsi Station (鸡鸣寺站). The park is directly accessible from these stations.
Travel Tips
Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking or cycling around the extensive park.
Sun protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for outdoor areas.
Bring water and snacks: Especially if you plan to spend several hours in the park.
Rent a bike: It's a great way to cover more ground and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Related Tour Packages
Nanjing 4-Days Revisiting the Storm of the Republic of China+Reproducing the Charm of the Six Dynasties+The First Temple of the Southern Dynasties
Next stop, Nanjing! This ancient capital, steeped in a thousand years of history, will take you on a journey through time, where the legacy of the Republic of China era intertwines with the elegance of the Six Dynasties. At the Memorial Hall of the Victims of the Nanjing Massacre, honor the martyrs and heroes who shaped history.
Nanjing 4-Days Encountering Jinling
It’s the lingering thought of “The next stop is Nanjing South Station,” the beautiful tale of “A word about the beauty of wutong trees, and they were planted all over Nanjing. ” It’s watching a mesmerizing sunset by Xuanwu Lake with your loved one, or the three sticks of incense and the distant evening bell at the ancient Jiming Temple. It’s the sound of oars and the glow of lanterns along the Qinhuai River, bustling with tourists, the lively atmosphere of Sanqi Lane and Laomendong, the dim lights at Wuyi Alley, and the misty charm of Jiangnan.
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Jiming Temple
Jiming Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Nanjing, dating back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty. Perched on a hillside near Xuanwu Lake, this active temple complex offers not only religious significance but also stunning views of the city, particularly beautiful during spring when cherry blossoms bloom in the surrounding areas.
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