Former Site of the Examination Yuan of the National Government

Introducing Former Site of the Nationalist Government Examination Yuan

The former site of the Nationalist Examination Yuan is located at 41-43 Beijing East Road in Nanjing, east of Jiming Temple and on the south bank of Xuanwu Lake. With birds singing and flowers blooming all year round, the area boasts a beautiful environment. The complex boasts meticulously planned and meticulously crafted buildings, featuring carved beams and painted rafters, and ornate eaves and angled corners.

Originally a Martial Temple (during the 27th year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty), it was partially destroyed by fire during the Taiping Rebellion. In 1930, the Nationalist Examination Yuan was established. The following year, Mingzhi Tower, Hengjian Tower, Gongming Hall, Ningyuan Tower, Daixian Hall, and Hualin Hall were successively built on the ruins. The complex, with two central axes, east and west, covers an area of ​​8,277 square meters.

In 1991, it was rated as one of the outstanding modern buildings by the Ministry of Construction and the State Administration of Cultural Heritage. In 1992, it was listed as a Nanjing cultural relic protection site. In 2001, it was listed as a national key cultural relic protection site. It is now the seat of the Nanjing Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China, the Nanjing Municipal People's Government, the Nanjing Municipal Political Consultative Conference, and the Nanjing Municipal People's Congress.

Climate and best time to travel

Boasting a subtropical monsoon climate, the former site of the Nationalist Government Examination Yuan boasts neatly planned buildings and unique, sophisticated architecture. The blend of old and new architecture creates a striking contrast between the buildings and the gardens, making it a pleasant place to visit in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The entire Examination Yuan complex is a garden-style complex, arranged along two parallel east-west axes. The western section features the West Gate, the Confucius Questioning Rites Monument Pavilion, the Mingzhi Tower, and the Gongming Hall. The eastern section comprises the Pan Pond, the East Gate, the Martial Temple Hall, the Ziyuan Tower, the Hualin Hall, the library stacks, and the Baozhang Pavilion.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open by appointment, exteriors open all day.

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Most Popular FAQs for Former Site of the Examination Yuan of the National Government

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

The Former Site of the Examination Yuan was the seat of the National Government’s examination system, which was pivotal in shaping modern education in China. The site symbolizes China’s deep-rooted tradition of meritocracy and its transition to modern governance.

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

Located in Nanjing, Jiangsu, the site can be accessed by taking a taxi or bus from the city center. You can also take the metro and walk for a few minutes from the nearest station.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays to avoid crowds.

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

The entrance fee is around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local platforms.

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

It’s not required to book tickets in advance, but it’s recommended during weekends or holidays. A few days ahead should be sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 1-1.5 hours to explore the site, including the exhibitions and the historical buildings.

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

Key highlights include the main hall of the Examination Yuan, the exhibition on the history of China's imperial examinations, and the preserved artifacts related to the educational system.

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

Guided tours in Chinese are available. Audio guides are provided in both Chinese and English for self-guided visits.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the historical buildings, the exterior of the main hall, and the surrounding gardens that offer a scenic view of the site’s architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main hall, then explore the exhibition halls detailing the history of the Examination Yuan. Finish with a walk through the garden and surrounding areas to appreciate the architecture and historical significance.

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

No night visits or light shows are available at this site. Special tours are not currently offered either.

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

The site can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings.

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

Facilities include clean toilets, a small shop offering educational materials and souvenirs, and rest areas for visitors to relax.

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

The site is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors with ramps and easy access to key areas. However, some areas might have uneven ground.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are accepted. Cash is still usable but not commonly preferred.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few cafes near the site, offering snacks and drinks. For more dining options, head to the nearby restaurants in the city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants, and halal food options can be found in designated eateries around Nanjing.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include the Nanjing Jinling Hotel and the Crowne Plaza Nanjing. These are within a short distance from the site.

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 Nanjing Museum, all of which can easily be combined into a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There is a small souvenir shop at the site selling books, postcards, traditional Chinese crafts, and educational materials related to the history of the Examination Yuan.

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

After visiting, you can use taxis, public buses, or the metro to continue exploring Nanjing or head to the Nanjing Railway Station for further travel.