Yue Fei's Fortress Against the Jin Dynasty

Introducing Yue Fei's Fortress Against the Jin Dynasty

Yue Fei's Fortress, located at the ridgeline of Niu Shou Mountain and Hanfu Mountain in Nanjing's Jiangning District, is a wall built of reddish-brown stones during Yue Fei's battle on Niu Shou Mountain. The wall is 0.5 meters wide at its base and approximately 1.5 meters high, winding and undulating with varying heights. Nearly 900 years have passed since Yue Fei's battle at Niu Shou Mountain, and the remains of the fortress still exist, including a 200-meter-long section.

In April of the fourth year of the Jianyan reign of the Southern Song Dynasty (1130), "Wuzhu was marching towards Jiankang. Yue Fei set up an ambush on Niu Shou Mountain. At night, he ordered a hundred men in black to infiltrate the Jin camp to resist him. The Jin soldiers were startled and turned on each other." This description refers to the famous Battle of Niu Shou Mountain—the Great Victory of Niutou Mountain. The so-called "old fort" refers to the remains left behind by Yue Fei during the great battle at Niu Shou Mountain. Later, the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom also used it in its battles against the Qing army.

Yue Fei was extremely proud of the recovery of Jiankang (now Nanjing). On the fifteenth day of the sixth lunar month in the fourth year of Jianyan in the Southern Song Dynasty (1130), he wrote in "Inscriptions on the Wall of the Taoxi Garden Hall of the Zhang Family in Yixing": "I have mobilized the army and fought in over 200 battles, large and small. Although not as far-reaching as those in remote areas, it is enough to benefit the country in one-tenth of its magnitude. Now I have led another isolated army to revitalize Yixing and recapture the cities of Jiankang in one fell swoop... I will soon advance deep into the border areas to welcome the two emperors back to the capital and reclaim the old territory. When I return to this place someday, my diligent achievements will be truly remarkable!"

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate is perfect for exploring in all seasons, as the stones of Yue Fei's fortress where he fought against the Jin army hold many touching historical stories.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Visit Yue Fei's old fortress where he fought against the Jin army and admire his heroic spirit. In the fourth year of Jianyan in the Southern Song Dynasty, Jin Wushu led the Jin army to approach Jiankang. Yue Fei set up an ambush at Niu Shou Mountain and built a stone fortress, defeating Jin Wushu's army.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

9:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Yue Fei's Fortress Against the Jin Dynasty

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

Yue Fei's Fortress was built to commemorate Yue Fei, a renowned general during the Song Dynasty who fought against the Jin Dynasty. The fortress is historically significant as it symbolizes loyalty and patriotism, honoring the legacy of Yue Fei's unwavering commitment to his country.

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

The fortress is located in Nanjing, Jiangsu. You can reach it via a taxi or bus from the city center, or by walking from nearby historical landmarks. Public transportation is the most convenient way to access the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The fortress is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons when the weather is cooler, and the site is less crowded.

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

The entrance fee is typically around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local ticketing websites for advanced bookings.

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

Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Booking at least a week in advance is a good idea to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the fortress typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. This includes time to explore the main areas, enjoy the views, and learn about the history of Yue Fei's military campaigns.

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

Key highlights include the main fortress structure, the statues of Yue Fei and his soldiers, and the historical exhibits detailing the general's life and military strategies. The panoramic views from the fortress are also a must-see.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English and Chinese are offered for an additional fee. It's a good idea to take a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the site.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the fortress walls, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscapes and Nanjing city. The main courtyard with the statue of Yue Fei also offers great photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the entrance and courtyard, then proceed to the fortress walls to enjoy the views. Visit the exhibit halls to learn about Yue Fei's life and military campaigns, and end your visit by viewing the main statue.

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

Night visits are available, but there are no light shows or special tours at night. The fortress remains open for evening strolls, offering a peaceful atmosphere after sunset.

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

The fortress can be crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially during the off-season.

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

Facilities include public toilets, a few water stations, and rest areas. There are small shops selling souvenirs, but food options are limited inside the fortress.

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

The fortress has some accessibility features, such as ramps and wide paths. However, the terrain can be uneven, and some areas may be challenging for visitors with limited mobility. It's advisable to check with the staff for specific accessibility details.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Cash is also accepted, though cards may not be as commonly used.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants inside the fortress, but there are several local eateries and cafes nearby serving traditional Chinese dishes, snacks, and beverages.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food may be harder to find in the immediate area, but there are a few restaurants in Nanjing that offer halal cuisine.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include the Nanjing Jinling Hotel, The Westin Nanjing, and other mid-range accommodations that offer comfortable stays within a short drive from the fortress.

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

Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Nanjing City Wall, and Xuanwu Lake. These can easily be combined in a day trip along with a visit to Yue Fei's Fortress.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the fortress entrance selling traditional Chinese crafts, Yue Fei-themed memorabilia, and local Nanjing goods like tea and silk products.

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

Taxi, buses, or ride-hailing services like Didi are recommended for continuing your trip. The Nanjing metro is also a convenient way to explore the city further.