Nanjing Taicheng

Introducing Nanjing Taicheng

Taicheng, the site of the imperial court and palace during the Eastern Jin and Southern Dynasties, was located within the capital, Jiankang City. Its ruins are now in Xuanwu District, Nanjing. "Tai" refers to the central government, centered around the Secretariat, and because the Secretariat was located within the palace city, it was also known as "Taicheng." Taicheng was built during the reign of Emperor Cheng of Jin on the foundations of the Sun Wu Garden City, and was completed in November of the sixth year of the Xianhe reign (331). In the ninth year of the Kaihuang reign (589), the Sui army invaded Taicheng and destroyed the Chen Dynasty, razing the Jiankang Palace Garden to farmland. During the Five Dynasties, the Yang Wu regime built Jinling City on the site of Jiankang City, and the remains of Taicheng were lost.

What is now known as "Taicheng" is located north of Beiji Pavilion in Nanjing City and south of Xuanwu Lake. It is a section of the Ming Dynasty city wall extending westward from Jiefangmen. When Zhu Yuanzhang built Yingtian Prefecture City, he originally planned to extend this section westward to Gulougang and connect it with Shitoucheng. However, this section was abandoned when the "New Houhucheng" was built in the 19th year of the Hongwu reign (1386). This section of the city wall has a stone foundation, topped by bricks fired in the early Ming Dynasty. It is 253.15 meters long and 20.16 meters high (the stone foundation is 7.36 meters high and the brick section is 18 meters high). It is 9.8 meters wide at the west end and 10.3 meters wide at the east end. Later generations often attributed this section of the city wall to the Taicheng of the Six Dynasties, a misconception that persists to this day. The Nanjing Ming Dynasty City Wall History Museum now stands on this section of the city wall.

Climate and best time to travel

Nanjing Taicheng has a subtropical monsoon climate. It is located on the south bank of Xuanwu Lake in Nanjing and north of Jiming Temple. It is part of the ancient city wall of Nanjing. Its eastern end is connected to the Ming capital, and its western end is the end of the city wall and no longer extends westward. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

In Taicheng, there's the Ming Dynasty City Wall Museum. Climbing the city walls, one can gaze eastward at the lush greenery of Zhongshan Mountain, a mountain of clear skies; northward, admire the misty willows of Xuanwu, a vast expanse of misty waters; southward, the swaying shadows of Jiuhua Pagoda and its towering pagoda; westward, gaze upon the rooster-crowned yellow walls and green tiles, and the resonant sound of the ancient temple bells. Furthermore, beneath Taicheng, weeping willows sway, and buildings like the Beiji Pavilion, the former site of the Academia Sinica, and T.V. Soong's residence are nestled among the greenery, creating a picturesque scene, truly a scene of "the ten-mile embankment still shrouded in mist."

It is recommended to play for 2 hours

Tickets

30 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

From Shen Ce Gate to Tai Ping Gate: 8:30-17:00;

Dongshuiguan to Jiqingmen: 8:30-20:00;

Fuguishan to Lanqi Street 8:30-17:00;

Qingliang Gate to Central Gate are open all day.

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Most Popular FAQs for Nanjing Taicheng

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

Nanjing Taicheng is known for its role in Chinese history as part of the ancient city of Nanjing, one of the country's most historically significant cities. The area is home to many important landmarks, including remnants of city walls, historical buildings, and cultural sites that reflect Nanjing's legacy as a former capital.

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

Nanjing Taicheng is located in the heart of Nanjing. It is easily accessible via public transportation, including metro lines (Line 1, Line 2), buses, and taxis. It's also within walking distance of several major attractions in the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The area is open throughout the day, with the best time to visit being during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant. Weekdays, especially mornings and afternoons, are less crowded compared to weekends and holidays.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting Nanjing Taicheng itself. However, some of the nearby attractions may charge a small fee. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site or online for specific attractions within the area.

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

Advance booking is not necessary for general visits, but it is recommended for special exhibitions or events, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Booking a few days in advance is advised for these special occasions.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore the key historical and cultural sites in Nanjing Taicheng, plan for 2-3 hours. This allows enough time to visit the city walls, parks, and landmarks, as well as to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

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

The must-see highlights include the ancient city walls, the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, the Zhonghua Gate, and the surrounding historical parks. These areas are iconic symbols of Nanjing's historical and cultural significance.

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

Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. Some tours may offer audio guides in other languages, including English, depending on availability. It's best to inquire about this at the entrance or during ticket purchase.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the ancient city walls, the Zhonghua Gate, and the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge. The elevated areas offer panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape, providing excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the Zhonghua Gate, then head towards the city walls and surrounding parks. Visit the historical landmarks such as the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge and explore the nearby museums or cultural sites to understand the rich history of the area.

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

While the area is primarily visited during the day, some landmarks, such as the city walls and the Yangtze River Bridge, are beautifully lit up at night. Light shows or special evening tours may be available during festivals or special events.

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

The area can get crowded on weekends and holidays. For a more peaceful visit, plan to visit during weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon when the crowd is thinner.

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

The area has public toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and drinks. For more dining options, there are several restaurants and cafes nearby. Water fountains are also available along the walkways.

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

The main pathways and parks are accessible for elderly visitors, children, and disabled visitors. However, some of the historical sites, like the ancient city walls, may require more effort to navigate, particularly for those with mobility challenges.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted in the area, and credit cards are also commonly used. It's a good idea to carry cash for small purchases, as some local vendors may not accept digital payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafes around the area offering traditional Chinese cuisine, including local Nanjing dishes like salted duck. For a wider selection, head towards the city center for international dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local restaurants. Halal food options are limited, but a few restaurants catering to Muslim visitors can be found in the city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels within walking distance of Nanjing Taicheng, ranging from budget to mid-range. For luxury accommodations, you can find high-end hotels in the Nanjing city center.

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

Nearby attractions include the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, and the Confucius Temple Area. These can easily be visited in a day trip from Nanjing Taicheng.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available near the attraction, offering traditional crafts, Nanjing-style artwork, and small trinkets like postcards, keychains, and silk products.

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

After visiting Nanjing Taicheng, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi, metro, or bus. The metro and bus stations are well-connected to other parts of Nanjing, making it easy to explore more of the city.