Xuanwu Lake

Xuanwu Lake, Nanjing

Situated at the foot of Purple Mountain in Nanjing, Xuanwu Lake is a beautiful scenic spot protected by China. It is also one of the three most famous lakes in Nanjing. Surrounding it are Circumvallation, Jiuhuashan Park and Jiming Temple.

The history of Xuanwu Lake can be traced back to the Pre-Qin period (21century BC-221 BC). The name of the lake has changed several times during the long history. The lake gained the name Xuanwu because a black dragon was said to be in the lake.

The Xuanwu Lake Park mainly comprises a road around the lake and here five isles: Huan Isle, Ying Isle, Liang Isle, Cui Isle and Ling Isle. To fully enjoy the scenery, visitors can take a boat on the lake.
 When you are on the Huan Isle, you can see that the leaves of willows wave gently with the wind and feel the mild wind from Xuanwu Lake that blows tenderly on your face. Besides, the Nuona Tower on Huan Isle is full of special serene ambience.
 The Ying Isle is famous for its cherry blossoms. When the cherry blossoms bloom in the early spring, the isle seems to be an ocean of flowers. The Lotus Garden on Ying Isle is also worth a visit.
 Liang Isle is the one that was developed earlier than the other four. Annually, the grand traditional exhibition of chrysanthemums is held there. A Hushen Temple (Temple of Lake God) was built on this isle.
 On the Cui Isle, there are dark green pines, emerald green cypresses, tender willows, and light green bamboos.
 To the east of Ling Isle, you can see the beautiful clouds drifting across Zhong Mountain. Wumiao Zha on Ling Isle has long history and of a reasonable design.
  Metro:
1. Take Metro Line 3 to Nanjing Forestry University/Xinzhuang and leave from Exit 1, you will see it.
2. Take Metro Line 1 to Xuanwumen and leave from Exit 3/4, you will see the lake.

 Bus
Take bus 1, 25, 28, 30, 33, 35, 47, or 56 to Xuanwuhu Gongyuan (Xuanwu Lake Park).
Nanjing Bus / Metro Search
 

Entrance Fee	Free
Opening Hours	Mar. - Nov.: 5:00 - 22:00 Dec. - Feb. next year: 6:00 - 21:00