Wenwu Fangmen

Introducing Wenwu Fangmen

Wenwufang Gate is the main gate of the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. Entering the Wenwufang Gate means entering the core area of ​​the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. Wenwufang Gate has five doorways. The three-hole main gate in the middle is the arched roof.

Each side door has a flat roof, highlighting the clear distinction between social classes. The door is vermilion and has 81 door nails in nine rows horizontally and nine rows vertically, symbolizing the exclusive gates of ancient emperors. Because the number nine was a symbol of the emperor in ancient times, the doors of imperial palaces and mausoleums often have door nails in nine rows horizontally and nine rows vertically. These 81 door nails are of course a structural necessity; they have lost their original functional significance and become a purely decorative means.

Door nails, seemingly ordinary things, have a long history of development and evolution. Door nails first appeared on door panels due to functional needs. To secure the wooden planks together, several horizontal wooden strips needed to be added to the back of the door frame. Iron nails were used to fasten the planks and crossbars together from the outside in. For aesthetic reasons, the heads of these nails were made large and smooth, leaving rows of neatly arranged nail heads on the door panels. These nails are called door nails.

The color of door paint was also carefully considered. The ancients had a special affection for red, hence its customary use as decoration on festive occasions. Red has long been considered a color of righteousness and auspiciousness, and as such, it has come to symbolize feudal hierarchy. Together with the door nails and door knockers, it forms an image of feudal etiquette. The gates of all imperial buildings were decorated with red door panels and gold nails. Beyond the number of door nails, the color of the gate and the material of the door knocker also dictated social status.

Climate and best time to travel

With a subtropical monsoon climate, the entire Wenwu Fangmen building is simple, generous, and solemn. It appears even more majestic under the shade of the surrounding ancient trees. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Wenwu Fangmen is simple and elegant. When you are inside it, you can appreciate the historical connotations it contains.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Wenwu Fangmen

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

Wenwu Fangmen is a culturally significant historical area in Nanjing, renowned for its traditional architecture, ancient city gates, and role as a cultural hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It serves as a key point to understand the city’s rich cultural history and serves as a popular tourist attraction.

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

Wenwu Fangmen is located in the center of Nanjing. You can easily reach it by taking a taxi or public transport. The nearest metro station is Line 1’s “Xinjiekou Station.” It's a short walk from there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Wenwu Fangmen is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

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

The entrance is free for most of the public areas, but certain exhibitions and events may require tickets, typically priced around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site or online for special events.

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

For general entry, no advance booking is required. However, it is recommended to book tickets in advance for special exhibitions or events, at least 1-2 days ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the key attractions in Wenwu Fangmen, including the market, cultural exhibits, and nearby attractions.

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

• The traditional architecture and city gates.
• The historical cultural exhibits that showcase Nanjing’s past.
• The bustling local market, offering a variety of goods.
• The surrounding streets filled with local restaurants and street vendors.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides can be rented for a fee. Some tours may also offer English-speaking guides, depending on availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the ancient city gates provides a fantastic panoramic view of the area.
• The picturesque streets lined with traditional architecture make for great photos.
• Key points near the entrance where the market is active.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking through the main gate and exploring the local market. Next, visit the historical exhibits showcasing Nanjing’s cultural heritage, and end by walking through the streets filled with restaurants and shops.

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

Currently, Wenwu Fangmen does not offer night visits or light shows, but special cultural events and performances may be available during certain festivals.

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

The area tends to be crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in the afternoons. Early mornings or weekdays are the best times to avoid crowds.

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

Wenwu Fangmen offers public toilets, rest areas, and several small cafes and restaurants nearby. There are also a few shops selling souvenirs and traditional goods.

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

The area is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, with paved paths and accessible entrances. However, certain older sections might be less suitable for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards are also accepted in most establishments, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small cafes and restaurants serving local cuisine near Wenwu Fangmen, offering both traditional Chinese dishes and lighter snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants, though halal food may be limited. It’s recommended to check specific restaurants for dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near Wenwu Fangmen, including the Nanjing Grand Hotel and Jinling Hotel, offering comfortable accommodations for tourists.

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

• The Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) and surrounding area.
• The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge.
• Xuanwu Lake and its scenic areas.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Chinese crafts, silk items, jade, and local snacks. Popular items include handmade artwork and cultural trinkets.

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

For further travel, taxis, Didi (ride-sharing), or the metro are the most convenient options. The nearby Xinjiekou Station is a central transit hub connecting to several key parts of Nanjing.