Gulin Park

Introducing Gulin Park

Gulin Park is located north of Qingliang Mountain in Nanjing, west of Huju North Road. Built on the site of Baolin Temple, part of the Gulin Temple, it was named after the ancient Jiangnan temple. The park is characterized by rolling hills and uneven terrain.

Gulin Temple was built during the Liang Dynasty and was called Guanyin Temple. It was renamed Gulin Temple during the Southern Song Dynasty. In the Ming Dynasty, the temple was converted from a nunnery to a temple, becoming a large monastery to the west of the city. The name of the garden is inscribed on the stone wall by Lin Sanzhi.

Climate and best time to travel

During the Plum Blossom Festival, Nanjing Gulin Park holds a " Plum Exhibition " . More than 60 varieties and nearly 3,000 plum trees are on display. A 330- square-meter plum bonsai exhibition is also set up , with more than 100 large and small plum bonsai art pots.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Gulin Park

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

Gulin Park is a historical public park in Nanjing that dates back to the early 20th century. It has been a cultural and recreational center for locals and visitors, offering scenic views, cultural heritage, and a relaxing atmosphere in the city.

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

Gulin Park is located in the heart of Nanjing, easily accessible by metro (Line 1, Gulin Park Station). It can also be reached by taxi, bus, or on foot from the nearby attractions in the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

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

The entrance to Gulin Park is free of charge. Some specific attractions within the park, such as boat rides, may have additional fees. Tickets can be purchased on-site for these activities.

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

Advance booking is not necessary for general park entry, but it is recommended to book boat rides in advance during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore the main areas of the park, including the lake, pavilions, and walking paths. If you plan to enjoy a boat ride or relax for a picnic, you may need more time.

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

The main highlights include the picturesque lake, the beautiful bridges, traditional pavilions, and the lush greenery. The boat ride on the lake is also a popular activity.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. There are no official audio guides, but local tour guides can be hired to enhance the experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best photography spots include the lake with its surrounding greenery, the bridges, and the pavilions. The lake at sunset offers a particularly scenic view.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, walk through the main paths, and make your way towards the lake for boat rides. After enjoying the lake, visit the pavilions and bridges. If you have extra time, explore the smaller walking paths within the park.

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

Night visits are allowed, and the park looks beautiful when illuminated in the evening. However, there are no regular light shows or special night tours.

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

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

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

The park has public toilets, resting areas, and small snack vendors. There are no large restaurants or shops inside the park, but options are available nearby.

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

The park is generally accessible, with paved paths and resting spots for elderly visitors. However, some areas, like the boat ride, may have limited accessibility for those with mobility challenges.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and cards are accepted at most locations within the park. Cash is also accepted, but it's less common in vending areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small cafes and local restaurants near the park entrance. For more dining options, head towards the city center where there are many restaurants offering local and international cuisines.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Nearby restaurants offer vegetarian options, but for vegan or halal food, you may need to explore restaurants further out from the park area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels nearby, including mid-range options like the Nanjing Zhongshan Hotel and budget hotels around the park area.

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 City Wall. These landmarks can easily be combined for a day trip in Nanjing.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no large souvenir shops inside the park, but nearby markets and shops sell local handicrafts and traditional Chinese souvenirs such as postcards, keychains, and tea sets.

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

After visiting the park, taxis, buses, and the metro (Line 1) are the best options for continuing your trip. The metro station is within walking distance from the park.