Zhonghuamen Castle

Introducing Zhonghuamen Castle

Zhonghua Gate, also known as Jubao Gate in the Ming Dynasty, is the south gate of the Ming Dynasty capital. It is the largest castle-style gate among the 13 gates in the inner city wall of Nanjing during the Ming Dynasty. It is also the best-preserved and most complex ancient urn castle in the world today. Together with the Nanjing Ming Dynasty city wall, it is listed as a national key cultural relic protection unit.

The Zhonghua Gate Wengcheng is a magnificent and complex fortress, with two floors, four gates, and 27 soldier holes, capable of housing 3,000 soldiers. It is the largest Wengcheng in my country and currently houses a Wengcheng History Exhibition Hall.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

50 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

9:00-17:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Zhonghuamen Castle

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

Zhonghuamen Castle, also known as the "Gate of China," was built during the Ming Dynasty and served as one of the southern gates to the city of Nanjing. The castle was designed as a key defensive structure and played a significant role in the defense of the capital during the Ming era. Today, it stands as a symbol of Nanjing's rich historical and cultural heritage.

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

Zhonghuamen Castle is located in the southern part of Nanjing. It can be easily accessed by metro, with the Zhonghuamen Station on Line 1 being the closest. Taxis and buses are also available to take visitors to the site. Walking from the metro station takes around 10 minutes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

It is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant. To avoid crowds, consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays.

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

The entrance fee for Zhonghuamen Castle is around 40 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and some online platforms may offer advance ticket purchases, especially during peak seasons.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons (e.g., national holidays or weekends). Generally, booking 1-2 days in advance should suffice to secure a ticket, but during very busy times, it is advised to book as early as possible.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the Zhonghuamen Castle and its surroundings. If you wish to take your time with photography and visit nearby attractions, you can spend up to 2 hours at the site.

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

The key highlights include the main gate with its defensive features, the watchtower, and the inner and outer walls of the castle. The exhibition halls also display historical artifacts related to the castle and Nanjing's history during the Ming Dynasty.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in Mandarin and English can also be rented at the entrance, providing detailed historical context about the site.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the top of the castle's watchtower, which offers panoramic views of the city. The ancient walls and surrounding scenery are also great for capturing the essence of Nanjing's history and architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by walking through the main gate, then proceed to the watchtower for a panoramic view of the area. Explore the exhibition halls to learn about the history and significance of the castle, and finish by walking along the outer walls to appreciate the defensive features and scenic views.

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

Night visits are not available, but there are special exhibitions or events that may be held during cultural festivals or holidays. Check the schedule for any special tours or programs before your visit.

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

Zhonghuamen Castle can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays during the early morning or late afternoon, particularly outside peak tourist seasons.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available on-site. There are also small shops near the entrance where visitors can purchase snacks and souvenirs.

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

Most of the attraction is accessible, though some parts, like the watchtower, may have steep stairs. For visitors with mobility issues, it’s best to check for any special accommodations or accessibility services in advance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted at Zhonghuamen Castle. Credit cards may also be accepted at some points, but it's recommended to have mobile payment options available for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few restaurants and cafes near the entrance of Zhonghuamen Castle, offering traditional Nanjing cuisine such as salted duck and Nanjing-style noodles. For more options, you can explore the nearby Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at some nearby restaurants. Halal food is less common around Zhonghuamen Castle, but can be found in some parts of Nanjing, especially in the Muslim Quarter.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in the vicinity, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Jinling Hotel and Nanjing Grand Hotel are popular choices, both of which offer comfortable accommodations and are located relatively close to the castle.

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

Other nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Confucius Temple, and Nanjing City Wall. These can all be easily combined for a day trip in Nanjing, as they are all within a short distance from Zhonghuamen Castle.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance where visitors can buy traditional Nanjing handicrafts, silk products, and local tea. Popular items include Nanjing-style painted fans, porcelain, and hand-carved wooden items.

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

After visiting Zhonghuamen Castle, you can easily continue your trip by taxi or public transportation (metro or bus). The Confucius Temple area and Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge are accessible by metro, which is a convenient way to get around the city.