
The Zhou Enlai Library is located on the north side of the Meiyuanxincun Memorial Hall of the Chinese Communist Party Delegation in Nanjing , covering an area of 855 square meters . It is composed of four Western-style small buildings from the Republic of China period , with a construction area of 1,280 square meters.
The library's interior features a cast-in-place frame structure , while the exterior retains the original building's exterior walls , aligning with the architectural style of the former site of the Chinese Communist Party delegation to the north. The museum has two floors: the first floor houses an introduction and exhibition on Zhou Enlai's historical experiences, while the second floor houses the collection of books.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
free
9:00-19:00
The Zhou Enlai Library is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the life, political career, and legacy of Zhou Enlai, one of China’s most revered leaders. The library houses a vast collection of materials about his role in Chinese history and his influence on the modern Chinese state.
The library is located in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. It can be easily accessed by public transportation, including metro and buses. Taxis are also a convenient option for direct access.
The library is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is during weekdays, especially in the morning, when it tends to be less crowded.
Entrance is typically free for general visits. Special exhibits or events may have an entrance fee. Tickets can be bought at the venue or reserved online if available.
For general visits, booking in advance is not required. However, for special events or exhibitions, it's advisable to book tickets a few days before your visit.
It takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the library, depending on the depth of your interest in the exhibits and collections.
The must-see highlights include the exhibits on Zhou Enlai’s early life, his leadership during the revolution, and his role in modernizing China. The library's reading rooms are also fascinating for those interested in studying his legacy.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in both Chinese and English are provided for self-guided tours.
While inside, photography is mostly restricted. However, you can take photos in the surrounding gardens, where there are scenic spots with a nice backdrop of the library’s architecture.
Start by visiting the main exhibits on Zhou Enlai’s life, then explore the special collections in the reading rooms. End your visit by walking through the outdoor gardens to reflect on the experience.
Night visits and light shows are not available. However, special events or temporary exhibitions may be scheduled occasionally.
The library is less crowded during weekdays, especially in the morning. It tends to be busier on weekends and public holidays.
The library has rest areas, clean toilets, and water stations. There are no major food services inside, but there are cafes and restaurants nearby for refreshments.
The library is wheelchair accessible, and there are facilities for elderly visitors. However, there may be some stairs in certain areas, so it is recommended to check in advance for full accessibility details.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash is also accepted, but credit card payments may not be available in all areas.
There are no restaurants inside the library, but you can find a variety of local eateries and cafes within walking distance in the surrounding area.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food is also available in the vicinity, particularly at Muslim-friendly restaurants.
Nearby hotels include the Nanjing Yangtze Hotel and the InterContinental Nanjing, offering convenient access to the library and other attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, the Nanjing Museum, and the Confucius Temple. All are easily reachable and perfect for a full-day trip.
Souvenir shops near the library sell cultural items such as books, posters, and Chinese traditional crafts, which reflect the rich history of Zhou Enlai.
After visiting, taxis and public transport (metro or bus) are ideal options to continue your trip to other attractions in Nanjing.