Guilin Stone House

Introducing Guilin Stone House

Deep in the foothills of Nanjing's Purple Mountain, east of Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum and west of Linggu Temple, lies a unique architectural relic. The walls and foundations of this building are constructed entirely of bluestone. Osmanthus trees are planted all around the building, and when the flowers are in full bloom, the fragrance fills an area over a kilometer in radius.

For this reason, the building is known as the "Guilin Stone House." Originally the villa of Lin Sen, then President of the Nationalist Government, it was donated by the Guangzhou Municipal Government in 1931. Four years after its completion, the Stone House was destroyed by the indiscriminate bombing of the invading Japanese army.

By 1945, Japan had surrendered, and Lin Sen was buried in Chongqing. He had no children, and the Guilin Stone House, nestled within Purple Mountain, fell into obscurity, gradually disappearing under the shade of weeds and trees. Its remote location and inaccessible roads meant it had long attracted few visitors. In recent years, the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum Administration Bureau renovated the road from Linggu Temple to the Guilin Stone House, significantly improving accessibility. In 2012, the ruins of the Guilin Stone House were designated as a fourth batch of cultural relics under Nanjing's protection.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate is characterized by the entire house being built with bluestone and purple gold slate, and surrounded by osmanthus trees. It is a good place to travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Visiting the Guilin Stone House offers a profound insight into its history. Surrounding the stone house are lush greenery and bluestone gravel. From its collapsed outline, one can vaguely see that the upper floor housed the living room, dining room, bedroom, bathroom, and guest quarters. The lower floor, a semi-basement, housed the kitchen and servants' quarters. The exterior of the foundation and the balustrades are exquisitely carved with dragons and turtles.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

6:30-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Guilin Stone House

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

The Guilin Stone House is a remarkable piece of architecture that reflects the traditional stone building techniques in Jiangsu. It was built with a unique method, using locally sourced stone to create an intricate structure. The house is not only an architectural marvel but also a historical representation of ancient craftsmanship in the region.

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

Guilin Stone House is located in the outskirts of Nanjing, Jiangsu. It can be reached via taxi or local buses. The closest metro station is a few kilometers away, so taking a taxi is the most convenient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The house is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy the cooler weather.

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

The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the house. There is no online booking system available for this attraction.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary as the site usually doesn't experience overwhelming crowds. Tickets can be bought on-site.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the house and surrounding grounds.

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

• The main stone house itself, with its intricate carvings and unique structure.
• The museum section that explains the history of the building.
• The surrounding gardens, offering a peaceful environment to relax and enjoy nature.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English. The tours provide a detailed explanation of the architecture and history of the house.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are in front of the house itself, capturing its grand stone façade. The surrounding garden and nearby hills also offer excellent views of the area.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the exterior of the stone house to appreciate its architecture.
• Next, visit the interior museum to learn more about the building's history.
• Finish with a relaxing walk around the gardens and take in the scenic surroundings.

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

Night visits are not typically offered, as the attraction closes by sunset. There are no light shows or special evening events at this time.

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

The attraction is generally not very crowded, but weekends and holidays may see higher visitor numbers. Weekdays, especially in the morning, are the least crowded times to visit.

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

The site has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. However, there are no large shops or food courts on the premises. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks.

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

The attraction is relatively accessible, with paved paths for easier walking. However, due to the nature of the site, certain areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted at the entrance for tickets and small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are no major restaurants within the stone house itself, but several local eateries can be found within a short drive.
• Traditional Chinese restaurants offering local cuisine are available in the nearby area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants, but halal food is not commonly found in the immediate vicinity.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are various hotels in Nanjing's city center, which is about a 20-30 minute drive away. Options range from budget to luxury accommodations.
• For a more scenic stay, you can find resorts or guesthouses closer to the outskirts of the city.

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

• The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge is a popular nearby attraction.
• The Confucius Temple and Nanjing Museum are also worth visiting, both located within the city.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no dedicated souvenir shops within the Guilin Stone House, but local shops in Nanjing offer traditional crafts such as silk products, tea, and art pieces.

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

The best transportation options to continue your trip are either by taxi or bus to other parts of Nanjing. If traveling to nearby attractions, local buses or metro stations can be used.