Meiling Palace

Introducing Meiling Palace

The Meiling Palace is located on Xiaohong Mountain, east of Sifang City in the Zhongshan Scenic Area, Xuanwu District, Nanjing. Its official name is "The Official Residence of the Chairman of the National Government" and it has the reputation of "the first villa in the Far East".

Built in 1931, it was originally intended as the residence of the Chairman of the Nationalist Government. Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling often stayed there, hence the name Mei-ling Palace. The main building is a three-story, double-eaved, mountain-style palace with a green glazed tile roof. Its exterior is magnificent, its interior luxurious, and it is surrounded by lush trees and fragrant flowers year-round.

The interior furnishings are now preserved as they were originally. The ground floor houses the reception room and secretary's office, while the second floor houses the parlor and living room to the west, and the bedrooms of Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling to the east. There's an exhibition of Soong Mei-ling's paintings on the ground floor, and the "First Lady Café" on the second floor. After learning about history, you can sit here and immerse yourself in the past, a truly nostalgic experience.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for travel all year round

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

2-3 hours

Tickets

Regular ticket: 30 RMB (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)

Attraction opening hours

Summer 7:30-18:00, Winter 8:30-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Meiling Palace

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

Meiling Palace, also known as the Palace of the Generalissimo, was built in the 1930s as the official residence of Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling in Nanjing. It holds historical significance as a site of political and cultural activity during the Republic of China era.

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

Located in the southern suburbs of Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. Visitors can reach Meiling Palace by taxi or bus from downtown Nanjing. Parking is available for private vehicles, and walking from nearby bus stops is required.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily, typically from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for visiting due to pleasant weather and beautiful gardens.

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

The entrance fee is around CNY 40–60 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through official tourism websites.

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

Booking in advance is recommended on weekends and public holidays. 1–3 days ahead is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours are recommended to explore the palace, gardens, and surrounding trails.

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

• The main palace halls
• Formal gardens and ponds
• Exhibition rooms displaying historical artifacts
• Scenic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding hills

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides may be available in Chinese and English at the entrance or through mobile apps.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Main palace courtyard for architectural shots
• Garden areas with ponds and flowers
• Elevated viewpoints on the palace grounds overlooking Nanjing
• Sunset spots along surrounding trails

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Enter through the main gate and explore the central halls
• Walk through the gardens and side courtyards
• Visit exhibition rooms inside the palace
• Hike to nearby scenic viewpoints for panoramic shots
• Return to the main entrance to conclude the visit

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

Night visits are generally not allowed. No light shows or special tours are currently offered.

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

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Early morning visits avoid peak tourist hours.

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

Facilities include restrooms, benches, a small cafeteria, and souvenir shops near the entrance.

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

Some areas may have stairs, making full accessibility limited. Elderly visitors and children can explore gardens, but mobility-impaired visitors may need assistance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments are accepted for tickets and purchases at the palace.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small cafes and restaurants offering local Jiangsu cuisine are available near the palace entrance and along nearby roads.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; halal options are limited. Visitors may need to plan ahead.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses in southern Nanjing are within a 15–30 minute drive, ranging from mid-range to luxury.

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

• Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum
• Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
• Purple Mountain Scenic Area

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops sell postcards, traditional crafts, local tea, and small decorative items.

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

Taxi, ride-hailing apps, or private car are the easiest ways to reach other nearby attractions or return to central Nanjing. Some local buses are also available.