Zixia Lake

Introducing Zixia Lake

Located northeast of the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Zixia Lake is a reservoir built in the 1930s. Previously closed to the public, it's a relatively unknown area. Even now, only locals and elderly people seeking exercise visit the lakeside. Its clear waters, with verdant mountains and trees reflected in them, make it a truly hidden gem in Nanjing.

If you're a tourist from out of town, a separate visit to Zixia Lake isn't essential. You'll usually want to stop by after visiting Plum Blossom Mountain and the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. A small path leads to Zixia Lake on the east side of the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. At each intersection, there are signposts indicating the various attractions. If you come across a fork in the road and don't know which way to go, ask the locals, especially the elderly, who will be happy to guide you.

There are two scenic spots south of Zixia Lake, visible from the road leading to the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. One is Dinglin Villa, a garden-style building built on the site of the former Dinglin Temple. Wang Anshi studied there after his dismissal from office. Because Liu Xie's "Wenxin Diaolong" was also written here, the villa houses the Liu Xie and Wenxin Diaolong Memorial Hall, which features illustrated articles on the history of Wang Anshi, Liu Xie, and Dinglin Temple, and displays pottery figurines, clay pots, and other artifacts. The villa also houses a stone carving depicting Lu You visiting Dinglin Temple. The other is the Yan Zhenqing Stele Forest, also known as the Three Religions Ancestral Hall, which displays stone inscriptions of calligraphy by Yan Zhenqing and other renowned calligraphers.

Climate and best time to travel

Zixia Lake has a subtropical monsoon climate. The roads here are very clean and it is surrounded by flowers, plants and trees. The lake water is a beautiful green and the water quality is very good. You can see the aquatic plants and fish at the bottom of the lake through the water. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Taohuawu

The peninsula in the western part of the lake was originally called Taohuawu. In 1994, it was rebuilt into Lianxin Island, covering an area of ​​about 3,000 square meters. The island is lush with flowers and trees, covered with green grass, and has an artificial beach that can be used as a bathing beach. Four Miao bamboo houses and waterside pavilions have also been built to welcome tourists for vacation and recuperation.

Zhengqi Pavilion

Zhengqi Pavilion was built in 1947 and is located on the hillside on the north bank of Zixia Lake, south of Zhongshan Mountain. The pavilion is square with a side length of 7.7 meters. It has a reinforced concrete structure, a double-eaved pointed roof, covered with glazed tiles, and a base made of Suzhou granite.

Yan Zhenqing Forest of Steles

The Yan Zhenqing Forest of Steles, constructed jointly by the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the Tokyo Chinese Calligraphy Research Association, and the Yan Zhenqing Painting Academy, was inspected by calligraphers in Japan. Covering approximately 2,500 square meters, the first phase of the project includes a memorial archway, gatehouse, a statue of Yan Zhenqing, and a stele gallery, all in the Tang Dynasty style. The five characters "Sanjiao Zongtang" (Three Religions Hall) on the memorial archway are in Yan Zhenqing's handwriting. The gatehouse is inscribed with "Shu Xing Jicui (Collection of Calligraphy Stars)."

It is recommended to play for 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

7:00 to 18:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Zixia Lake

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

Zixia Lake is a picturesque natural site located in Nanjing, known for its scenic beauty and the Zixia Temple on its shores. The lake has a long history and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s also significant for its role in local culture and tourism.

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

Zixia Lake is located in the southern part of Nanjing. It can be accessed by bus, taxi, or private car. The nearest metro station is the Nanjing South Railway Station, and from there you can take a taxi or local transport to the lake.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The lake is open to visitors year-round, with the best time to visit being during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant. The lake can be enjoyed throughout the day, but mornings and late afternoons offer the most serene atmosphere.

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

There is no entrance fee to access Zixia Lake itself. However, certain attractions or boat rides around the lake may charge a fee. Tickets for these can be purchased at the site or in advance online.

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

Booking in advance is not necessary for visiting the lake. However, for boat rides or special events, it’s advisable to book tickets a few days in advance, especially during the peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes approximately 2 to 3 hours to explore Zixia Lake, including walking around the lake, enjoying the views, visiting Zixia Temple, and possibly taking a boat ride. If you plan to hike the surrounding trails, allocate more time.

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

Key highlights include the serene waters of Zixia Lake, Zixia Temple, and the surrounding lush green hills. The boat ride is a must-do for a different perspective of the area. The walking paths around the lake also offer great views and a peaceful atmosphere.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they offer insightful information about the history and natural beauty of the lake and Zixia Temple. Audio guides are not commonly available in foreign languages, but some tour operators might offer English-speaking guides.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the boat dock with views of the lake, the temple grounds, and the walking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding hills. The lake itself provides beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the temple area, then take a leisurely walk along the lake, stopping at viewpoints. Consider a boat ride to fully appreciate the lake’s natural beauty. If you have time, follow the hiking trails around the lake for panoramic views.

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

Night visits are possible, but there are no light shows or special nighttime tours at Zixia Lake. However, the lake area is peaceful and beautiful in the evening, offering a relaxing end to your day.

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

Zixia Lake can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The best time to visit is during weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon when it is quieter and more serene.

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

Basic facilities like toilets are available around the lake. There are also rest areas where you can relax. Small local shops offer snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. For more substantial meals, you may need to travel to nearby restaurants.

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

While the lake itself is accessible, the terrain around the walking paths can be uneven, making it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children and families can enjoy the area, especially the boat rides and temple visits.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted for most purchases. Credit cards may be accepted at larger facilities but are not widely used in smaller shops or for ticket purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants and cafes near Zixia Lake offering traditional Jiangsu cuisine. For more variety, head towards Nanjing city center, where you can find more dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some of the local restaurants around the lake. However, halal food options are more limited and might require traveling to Nanjing city center for better availability.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses are located near Zixia Lake, offering basic to mid-range accommodations. For a wider range of options, you may want to stay in Nanjing city center and travel to the lake as a day trip.

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

Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Zifeng Tower, and the Nanjing Yangtze River National Park. These can be combined into a day trip with Zixia Lake.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the lake sell traditional Chinese crafts, including silk products, tea sets, and local snacks. You can also find items like postcards and small trinkets related to the area.

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

After visiting Zixia Lake, you can take a taxi or use public transport to visit other nearby attractions in Nanjing. The metro or buses are good options for continuing your journey through the city.