Yihe Road Gongguan District

Introducing Yihe Road Gongguan District

The Yihe Road Residence District is located in Nanjing's Gulou District. With the Ninghai Road roundabout as its center, it radiates along Ninghai Road, Yihe Road, Guling Road, Mogan Road, Jiangsu Road, and Beijing West Road. It has more than 200 residences of important officials of the Republic of China government. It is the area in China with the largest number of residences from the Republic of China period. It is also one of Nanjing's characteristic Republican-era architectural attractions and an important modern architectural complex in Nanjing, earning it the reputation of the "Republic of China Architecture Museum."

The Yihe Road Mansion District was a high-end residential area provided by the Republic of China government for government officials in the 1930s. It was also the largest residential demonstration area implemented in the Republic of China according to the "Capital Plan". Since 1933, 287 independent garden houses have been built. There are still 225 relatively well-preserved mansions from the Republic of China, distributed in 12 areas of varying sizes with Yihe Road as the central axis.

The 12th block of the Yihe Road Residence District (also known as the Yihe Mansions), serving as a model for the renovation of the Yihe Road Residence District, comprises 26 villas from the Republican era, each with its own unique style. In 2014, it was awarded the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Honorary Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation. In April 2015, Nanjing's Yihe Road Residence District became one of the first designated historical and cultural blocks in China.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Soviet Embassy, ​​Philippine Embassy, ​​former site of Wang Jingwei's Residence, Australian Embassy, ​​and former site of Marshall's Residence.

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Yihe Road Gongguan District

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yihe Road Gongguan District has great historical significance in Nanjing. The area is home to many preserved buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, showcasing the architectural heritage of Nanjing. It also holds cultural importance as a center of governance and commerce during different periods of Chinese history.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Yihe Road Gongguan District is centrally located in Nanjing. It is easily accessible by public transportation, including the Nanjing Metro (Line 1) with a nearby station. Taxis are also a convenient option, and walking from the city center takes around 15-20 minutes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The area is open all day, as it is a public street. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is pleasant and the area is less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to explore Yihe Road Gongguan District as it is a public area. However, some attractions such as museums or temples may have an entrance fee. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site at these attractions.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general visits to the district. However, for specific attractions or special events, it is advisable to book tickets at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 2-3 hours to fully explore Yihe Road Gongguan District, including time for walking around the streets, visiting local attractions, and stopping at cafes or shops. If you plan to visit museums or temples, allow additional time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the ancient buildings, local temples, and museums along the road. The Gongguan District’s traditional architecture is one of the main draws, alongside local markets and food vendors offering authentic Nanjing snacks.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for visitors interested in learning about the history and architecture of the area. Most guides speak Mandarin, but some may offer tours in English. Audio guides are not commonly available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best photography spots include the traditional buildings along Yihe Road, particularly the ornate details on the rooftops. The temples and the surrounding landscapes also offer picturesque views. For the best photos, visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is soft.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the southern part of Yihe Road, then walk towards the central area where the majority of the historical buildings are located. Be sure to stop at the temples and museums along the way. End your visit by enjoying some local food in the area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits to Yihe Road Gongguan District are possible, but there are no specific light shows or special tours in the evening. The area is quiet at night and offers a peaceful atmosphere for evening walks.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The area can be crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, preferably early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are public toilets along Yihe Road, as well as small food stalls and cafes offering snacks and drinks. Rest areas and benches are available for visitors to relax. Small shops along the road sell souvenirs and local crafts.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yihe Road is accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors, although some areas may have uneven surfaces. The main attractions are easily reachable by foot, but assistance may be needed in some parts of the district with stairs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are commonly accepted along Yihe Road. It’s advisable to carry cash for small purchases, but mobile payments are widely used in the area.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local eateries and cafes nearby serving traditional Nanjing cuisine, including duck blood soup and salted duck. International dining options are also available in the area for those seeking more variety.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at many of the local eateries, particularly in Buddhist temples. Halal food is available at a few restaurants in the area, catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near Yihe Road Gongguan District, ranging from budget to luxury options. Popular choices include local boutique hotels and larger hotel chains in Nanjing city center, offering convenient access to the district.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, and the Nanjing Museum. All of these sites are within a short taxi ride or walking distance and can easily be combined for a full day of sightseeing.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops along Yihe Road selling items such as traditional Chinese crafts, local snacks, and handmade products. Typical souvenirs include silk products, tea sets, and locally made jewelry.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Yihe Road Gongguan District, visitors can take a taxi or use public transportation (Nanjing Metro or buses) to continue their trip to other landmarks in the city. The nearby metro station provides easy access to other parts of Nanjing.