The Grand Baoen Temple Heritage and Scenic Area

A Ming Dynasty royal marvel where ancient glazed pagoda light meets modern tech

08:30-20:00

Last entry: 19:00Open year-round. Hours may be adjusted on public holidays; checking the official website before your visit is recommended.

About This Place

Commissioned by Emperor Yongle to honor his mother, the Grand Baoen Temple was a magnificent imperial complex. Its iconic glazed pagoda was once hailed as one of the 'Seven Wonders of the Medieval World'. Today, the heritage park and museum on the original site use cutting-edge multimedia to vividly recount the temple's glorious history and Buddhist culture. Allow at least 2-3 hours for a fully immersive journey through time.

Highlights

Admire replicas of the Seven-Treasure Gilded Ashoka Pagoda and the Glazed Archway, showcasing exquisite ancient imperial craftsmanship

Experience multimedia installations like 'Millennium Gaze' and 'Buddha's Light from Relics', blending technology with historical narrative

Ascend the modern glass-clad reconstruction of the Grand Baoen Pagoda (via elevator) for panoramic views over Nanjing's old southern district

Witness the spectacular nightly light show on the pagoda, creating a dreamlike 'glazed Buddha's light' effect

Explore the on-site museum to trace the site's evolution from its earliest temple to its contemporary reconstruction

Best Time to Visit

April-May, September-October

Visit in the afternoon to explore the heritage site and museum by day, then stay for the stunning pagoda light show after dark. Weekdays are less crowded, offering a smoother experience for ascending the pagoda.

Avoid Chinese Holidays

Strongly avoid Golden Week (Oct 1-7), Chinese New Year (late Jan/Feb), and Labor Day (May 1-5). Crowds are extreme and tickets often sell out weeks in advance.

Ticket Information

CNY 90per person

Advance Booking Required

Standard adult ticket is 90 CNY. Half-price tickets (45 CNY) are available for minors, students, and seniors aged 60-69. Booking one day in advance via the official WeChat mini-program or major travel platforms is recommended, often with discounts (from around 79 CNY). The ticket includes access to the heritage park, museum, and pagoda ascent. Note: Night tickets may restrict pagoda access, so please verify in advance. Always carry your ID card or valid student ID for discount verification.