
Located northwest of the Nanjing University Library, the He Yingqin Mansion was the private residence of He Yingqin, a prominent Kuomintang politician. It was once the historically renowned Doujizha No. 4 , a site where dignitaries of the Southern Dynasties engaged in cockfighting for pleasure. He Yingqin immediately fell in love with it and purchased it from the original owner at a high price.
The entire building is surrounded by verdant pines and cypresses, and is low-key and elegant. The roof is covered with traditional Chinese blue glazed tiles, and the walls are simple and elegant yellow. The atrium is covered with green grass and lush flowers and trees. One can't help but sigh that He Jingzhi really knows how to choose a place.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than half an hour
free
Today, the He Mansion is privately owned by Nanjing University and is used exclusively for foreign affairs offices and to receive distinguished guests. Outsiders are not allowed to enter.
The He Yingqin Mansion was the residence of He Yingqin, a prominent Chinese military leader and politician. The mansion is not only a significant historical site but also an architectural gem. It showcases the lifestyle and cultural heritage of its time, offering insight into the political and military history of early 20th century China.
The mansion is located in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. It is accessible by taxi, and public buses also serve the area. The nearest metro station is within walking distance, making it easy to reach by public transportation.
The mansion is open from 9 AM to 6 PM daily. For a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is recommended.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and for convenience, they may also be available on local ticketing websites.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required, except during peak tourist seasons or for special events. If needed, booking a few days in advance is recommended.
It will take about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the mansion, including time to enjoy the exhibits, the garden, and the surrounding grounds.
The must-see highlights include the historical exhibits of He Yingqin’s life, the mansion's grand architecture, and the beautifully landscaped gardens outside the mansion.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English and Chinese are typically offered for self-guided exploration.
The best photography spots are outside in the garden, with the mansion’s traditional architecture as a backdrop. The front courtyard also offers a picturesque view of the mansion's facade.
Start your visit by exploring the mansion’s main halls and exhibits, followed by a leisurely walk through the garden and surrounding areas for a full experience of the property.
Night visits or light shows are not available. However, special events or tours may be organized from time to time, so checking the schedule in advance is a good idea.
The mansion is generally less crowded on weekdays, especially in the early morning. Weekends and public holidays tend to attract more visitors.
The mansion has clean restrooms, and a small gift shop offering souvenirs. There are no major food services inside, but cafes and restaurants are located nearby for a break.
The mansion is accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, though some areas may involve stairs. The garden area is generally easy to navigate for families with children and elderly visitors.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash is also accepted, but cards may not be accepted everywhere on the property.
While there are no cafes inside the mansion, there are several local restaurants and cafes nearby offering traditional Chinese cuisine and light snacks.
There are a few vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants near the mansion, and halal food options can also be found in the vicinity.
Nearby hotels include the Nanjing Yangtze Hotel, and there are several budget accommodations in the area suitable for visitors looking for a convenient place to stay.
Other nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Nanjing Museum, and the Confucius Temple. These landmarks are easily combined in a day trip around Nanjing.
Souvenir shops near the mansion sell local handicrafts, traditional Chinese tea sets, and calligraphy-related items.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or use public transport such as the metro to continue your trip to nearby attractions. Walking is also a good option if you plan to visit other nearby sites.