Ancient Yongjinmen

Introducing Guyong Kinmen

The ancient Yongjin Gate is located on Nanshan Road in Hangzhou. It was one of the west gates of ancient Hangzhou. It was first built in the Wuyue Kingdom during the Five Dynasties. In the third year of Qingtai ( 936 ), King Wenmu Qian Yuanguan dug the Yongjin Pool to divert water from the West Lake into the city, so the Yongjin Gate was built.

The pond is located within the city. The Song Dynasty book "Yunlu Manchao" records that a golden bull once gushed out from this location, hence its name. Yongjin Gate, also known as Xiaojin Gate, is mentioned in the poem " I haven't yet told you where the beauty of the lake and mountains lies, but in the early morning, the water gushes out of Xiaojin Gate " by the Song Dynasty poet Yang Wanli. In the 1950s , Yongjin Park was established here, connecting with Liulangwenying Park and becoming one of the main attractions along the lake on the west side of Nanshan Road.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Suggested playing time: about half an hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Ancient Yongjinmen

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

The Ancient Yongjinmen is one of the historical city gates of Hangzhou, dating back to the Ming dynasty. It holds cultural and historical significance as a symbol of the city's fortifications and urban development during ancient times.

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

The Ancient Yongjinmen is located in the city center of Hangzhou, Zhejiang. You can easily reach it by taxi, bus, or walking from nearby attractions. The closest metro station is “Hangzhou East Railway Station,” which is about 10-15 minutes away by taxi.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The gates are open for visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays or early morning to avoid large crowds, especially on weekends and public holidays.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting the Ancient Yongjinmen gates. It is open to the public as a historical site, and no prior ticket purchase is needed.

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

No booking is required for the Ancient Yongjinmen as it is a public historical landmark. However, for guided tours or specific events, booking may be necessary in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore the Ancient Yongjinmen gates and the surrounding area in about 1 to 2 hours, including time for photography and leisurely walking around the site.

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

The main highlight is the ancient gate itself, which is a great example of traditional Chinese architecture. Surrounding the gate are small parks and walkways that offer peaceful views of the city.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there may be audio guides in English, especially for international tourists. It's advisable to check in advance for availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the gate itself, as well as the surrounding traditional park area, which offers scenic views of the gate and the city skyline. The early morning light provides an excellent opportunity for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance of the gate, explore the architectural features, then stroll through the nearby gardens and surrounding areas. Spend some time appreciating the historical context and views around the gate.

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

The site is not open for night visits, and there are no light shows. However, it is beautifully lit in the evening, making for a pleasant walk after dark, though the gates themselves are not accessible after hours.

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

It can get crowded on weekends and holidays, especially in the afternoon. The least crowded times are early mornings during weekdays, making it an ideal time for visitors seeking a quieter experience.

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

The site offers basic amenities such as restrooms and benches for resting. There are no major shops or food vendors at the site itself, but nearby areas offer plenty of options.

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

The Ancient Yongjinmen is located in an outdoor area with easy access for elderly visitors and children. However, the site’s path may not be fully accessible for people with severe mobility impairments.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

No cash is required for the visit, and mobile payments (like Alipay or WeChat Pay) are accepted at nearby food and souvenir shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are numerous local restaurants and cafes near the site, serving traditional Hangzhou cuisine like Longjing tea, dumplings, and other regional snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most local restaurants near the site. Halal food options can be found in the city center, though they may not be as common in the immediate vicinity of the gate.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels nearby, ranging from budget to luxury. Popular options include hotels around West Lake and in Hangzhou city center, which are about a 10-15 minute drive from the gate.

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

Nearby attractions include West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and the National Tea Museum, all of which can be easily combined into a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available nearby, offering traditional items such as tea, tea sets, silk products, and local handicrafts related to Hangzhou’s cultural heritage.

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

Taxis, buses, and metro services are easily available from the Ancient Yongjinmen. Alternatively, you can use ride-sharing apps such as Didi to continue your journey to other attractions.