Taicheng

Introducing Taicheng

Taicheng was the location of the imperial court and palace during the Eastern Jin Dynasty and the Southern Dynasties. It was located in the capital Jiankang City, and its ruins are in Xuanwu District of Nanjing today.

What is now known as "Taicheng" is located north of Beiji Pavilion and south of Xuanwu Lake within Nanjing City. It is a section of the Ming Dynasty city wall extending westward from Jiefang Gate. When Zhu Yuanzhang built Yingtian Prefecture City, he originally planned to extend this section westward to Gulougang and connect it with Shitoucheng. However, in the 19th year of the Hongwu reign, this section was abandoned. Today, this section houses the Nanjing Ming Dynasty City Wall History Museum.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for travel all year round

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

About 1 hour

Tickets

30 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

From Shen Ce Gate to Taiping Gate, 8:30-17:00; from Dongshui Pass to Jiqing Gate, 8:30-20:00; from Fugui Mountain to Lanqi Street, 8:30-17:00; from Qingliang Gate to Central Gate, open all day.

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Most Popular FAQs for Taicheng

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

Taicheng is the historical core of Nanjing, featuring ancient city walls and gates that date back to the Ming Dynasty. It played a strategic role in Chinese history and is significant for its cultural and architectural heritage.

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

Located in central Nanjing. Accessible via metro (nearest stations: Daxinggong or Fuzimiao area), bus, taxi, or on foot from nearby downtown locations.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

City walls and public areas are generally open all day. Best visiting times are spring and autumn for comfortable weather.

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

Entrance to most city wall sections is free; some towers or special exhibits may charge a small fee (5–20 CNY). Tickets are available onsite.

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

Advance booking is not usually required unless visiting special exhibitions or guided tours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours are recommended to walk the main sections and visit key towers or historical sites.

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

• Main city walls and gates (e.g., Zhonghua Gate)
• Watchtowers and towers along the walls
• Historical plaques and inscriptions
• Nearby cultural streets and traditional architecture

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

Guided tours are mainly in Chinese; some tour operators provide English-speaking guides. Audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Top of the city walls and towers
• Ancient gates and watchtower areas
• Surrounding streets with traditional buildings

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at a main gate (e.g., Zhonghua Gate)
• Walk along the adjacent city wall sections and towers
• Visit nearby cultural streets and historic spots
• Finish with photos and exploration of small alleys around Taicheng

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

Night illumination of some city gates is available; regular light shows are limited. Cultural events may occur during festivals.

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

Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded. Holidays and weekends may see higher visitor numbers.

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

Public restrooms, small cafes, food stalls, souvenir shops, and resting benches are available near major gates.

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

Most wall sections have stairs, which may limit accessibility. Some areas are suitable for children and elderly with moderate mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments and cards are widely accepted; carrying some cash is useful for small vendors or donations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Various local restaurants and cafes in the Fuzimiao and Daxinggong areas offering Nanjing cuisine, tea houses, and casual eateries.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; halal options may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels near Fuzimiao and central Nanjing range from mid-range to luxury, convenient for visiting Taicheng.

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

• Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao)
• Xuanwu Lake Scenic Area
• Nanjing City Wall (other sections)
• Nanjing Museum

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, traditional decorations, calligraphy items, and Nanjing specialty snacks.

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

• Metro or bus to nearby attractions
• Taxi or ride-hailing services for flexible travel
• Walking or cycling to explore nearby historic streets