Zhongshan Mountain National Park

Nanjing's green heart, a condensed scroll of millennia of history

5A National Scenic Area

Open 24 hours

Individual attractions within the park have varying hours, typically 08:00-18:00. Check specific sites before your visit.

About This Place

Zhongshan Mountain National Park, also known as Purple Mountain, is Nanjing's green lung and a treasure trove of history. It seamlessly blends mountains, water, the city, and forests, housing rich cultural heritage from the Six Dynasties to the Republic of China era, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. The park is vast, so taking the sightseeing shuttle is highly recommended to save energy.

Highlights

Visit Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum: Pay respects to the founding father and experience its unique stairway design (only steps visible when ascending, only platforms when descending)

Explore the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum: Walk the Sacred Way of this World Heritage Site, spectacular when the plum blossoms bloom in spring

Tour the Meiling Palace: Learn about Soong May-ling's life and admire the aerial 'necklace' view formed by surrounding plane trees

Discover the Linggu Temple: See the Beamless Hall from the Ming Dynasty and climb the Linggu Pagoda for panoramic mountain views

Relax at the Music Terrace: Feed the flocks of pigeons and soak in the serene historical atmosphere

Best Time to Visit

March-May, September-November

Spring (March-May) offers stunning plum blossoms and pleasant weather. Autumn (September-November) features golden ginkgo trees and red maple leaves, making it the most picturesque season. Allocate a full day for a thorough exploration.

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 0per person

Advance Booking Required

Entry to the main park area is free, but key internal attractions (e.g., Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Linggu Temple) charge separate fees. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum is free but requires advance real-name reservation via the official WeChat account "钟山风景区". Consider purchasing a sightseeing shuttle pass (approx. 50 RMB) or a combo ticket covering multiple sites (e.g., a four-attraction pass from approx. 96 RMB). Tickets are available on platforms like Mafengwo and Ctrip or through official park channels.