
The former site of Jinling Women's University, located at 122 Ninghai Road, Gulou District, Nanjing , was China's first women's university. It was founded in 1915 by seven churches, including the American Christian Church, the Presbyterian Church, and the London Missionary Society.
The campus is symmetrically arranged along an east-west axis. The entrance is decorated with a tree-lined avenue to enhance the sense of depth. The main buildings are symmetrically arranged with a large lawn as the center. Behind Building 100 is a garden centered on an artificial lake. The west end of the central axis ends at a Chinese-style pavilion on the commanding heights of the hill (West Hill).
The buildings are designed in the traditional Chinese palatial style, using Western reinforced concrete as the building materials and structure. The buildings are connected by classical Chinese verandas, creating an oriental architectural complex that blends Chinese and Western influences. It is known as " the most beautiful campus in the East . "
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The Former Site of Jinling Women's University in Nanjing is a historically significant landmark as the first university in China dedicated to women's higher education. It played a pivotal role in advancing women's rights and education during the early 20th century. The site now stands as a tribute to the pioneering spirit of women's education in China.
The Former Site of Jinling Women's University is located in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. It can be accessed by taxi or public transportation. The Nanjing Metro is the most convenient option, with a nearby metro station that connects to other parts of the city.
The site is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM. It is best to visit during weekdays, especially in the mornings when the site is less crowded.
The entrance fee is modest, and tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It's also possible to buy tickets through local tour operators or online, depending on the services available at the time.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary, but during peak tourist seasons or weekends, it may be advisable to book a few days in advance to secure entry.
It typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the site, including time to learn about its history and appreciate its architecture and exhibitions.
Highlights include the preserved campus buildings that reflect the architectural style of the early 20th century, as well as exhibitions about the history of Jinling Women's University and its impact on women's education in China.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English and other languages may be available depending on the season, so it's advisable to inquire upon arrival.
The best spots for photography are the historical buildings themselves and the peaceful campus grounds. The main entrance and the university's courtyard also offer great views.
Start by exploring the main historical buildings and reading about the university’s history. Then, take a stroll through the campus grounds and enjoy the surrounding atmosphere of the place. Finally, visit any exhibits or temporary exhibitions about women's education history.
Night visits and light shows are not available. However, special cultural events or talks may occasionally be hosted, so it's worth checking for any upcoming programs.
The site tends to be less crowded during weekdays, particularly in the morning hours. It gets busier on weekends and public holidays.
The site has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no significant food or water vendors on-site, but nearby cafes and shops provide refreshments.
The site is accessible to elderly visitors and those with limited mobility. The paths are well-maintained, though some parts of the historical buildings may have stairs. Assistance may be needed in some areas.
Both cash and mobile payment methods such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted. Credit cards are typically accepted for ticket purchases.
While there are no restaurants or cafes within the site, nearby areas offer a variety of dining options ranging from casual cafes to local Chinese restaurants.
There are various dining options nearby, with vegetarian, vegan, and halal food available at local restaurants in the area surrounding the site.
There are several hotels and accommodations near the site, including mid-range options such as the Nanjing Grand Trustel and budget-friendly hostels. More luxurious options are available in the downtown area.
Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, the Nanjing Museum, and the Confucius Temple. These sites can easily be included in a day trip from the Jinling Women's University site.
The site offers small souvenir shops selling books, educational materials, and traditional Chinese crafts. Local handmade goods and items related to the university’s history are popular souvenirs.
After visiting, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi or public transportation. The Nanjing Metro is a convenient option to explore other areas of the city.