Mochou Lake Park

Introducing Mochou Lake Park

Mochou Lake, located west of the Qinhuai River in Nanjing, is a famous classical garden in the south of the Yangtze River with a long history of 1,500 years and rich cultural resources. It is a scenic spot from the Six Dynasties and has the reputation of "the first famous lake in the south of the Yangtze River", "the first scenic spot in Jinling", and "the first of the 48 scenic spots in Jinling".

The garden is filled with buildings, pavilions, terraces and terraces arranged in an orderly manner, with willows on the banks and crabapples in the water. Shengqi Tower, Yujin Hall, Waterside Pavilion, Baoyue Tower and winding corridors are nestled among the greenery of rocks, pines, bamboos, flowers and trees.

Zheng Banqiao praised the scenery and said: "The willows on the lake are like smoke, the clouds on the lake are like dreams, and the waves on the lake are thicker than wine." Yuan Mei praised it in a poem: "If I want to compare her with Xishi Mochou, it is difficult to judge right from wrong by the smoke and waves; I just feel that West Lake loses one step, as the river sails fly into the sky beyond the clouds." During the Republic of China, Mochou Lake was listed as the first of the "Forty-eight Scenic Spots of Jinling" with "Mochou Misty Rain".

Climate and best time to travel

There are a large number of crabapple trees in Mochou Lake Park. Every spring, the crabapple flowers will bloom, some red, some white, some pink... Therefore, Mochou Lake Park also holds an annual crabapple flower show every year.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

35 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

(Monday to Sunday, March 1st - September 1st): 6:00-22:00

(Monday to Sunday, September 2nd - February 28th of the following year): 6:00-23:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Mochou Lake Park

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

Mochou Lake Park is a historical site with deep cultural significance in Nanjing. The park is named after a famous poetess, Mochou, and it has been a place of relaxation and reflection for locals and visitors alike for centuries. The park features beautiful landscapes and historic structures.

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

Mochou Lake Park is located in the heart of Nanjing, Jiangsu province. It can be easily accessed by metro (Line 2, Mochou Lake Station), taxi, or by walking from nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

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

Entrance to Mochou Lake Park is free of charge. However, some special events or boat rides within the park may require tickets, which can be purchased on-site.

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

Advance booking is generally not required, except for special events or tours. For boat rides, it is advisable to buy tickets on the day of your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 1-2 hours to explore the park, depending on your pace and how long you wish to enjoy the lake, gardens, and surrounding areas.

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

Must-see areas include the serene lake, the historic temples, and the beautiful garden areas. The boat rides on the lake and the cultural performances held in the park are also highlights.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides may be available for rent in English at the entrance, providing an informative experience about the park's history and culture.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the lake's shoreline, where you can capture reflections of the surrounding trees and temples. The boat rides also provide excellent views of the park’s scenic landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking along the lake, visit the gardens, and then explore the temples. Take a boat ride around the lake for a unique view of the park, and finish with a visit to the cultural performance area, if available.

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

Night visits are possible as the park is open until 9:00 PM. However, light shows or special tours are not regularly available. It’s best to visit during daylight for full exploration.

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

The park can be crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays.

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

There are clean toilets, rest areas, and small food vendors within the park. Water and snacks are available for purchase, but it’s advisable to bring your own food and drinks if you plan to stay for a longer visit.

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

The park is mostly accessible to elderly and children, with smooth walking paths around the lake and in the gardens. However, certain areas, especially near the temples, may have stairs or uneven paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted at the park. Some smaller vendors may accept cash, but it is recommended to carry a mobile payment option for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small cafés and food stalls inside the park. Nearby, you can find local restaurants offering traditional Jiangsu cuisine, including dishes like Nanjing salted duck and dumplings.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants around the park. Halal food options may be limited but can be found in nearby areas with a Muslim community.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the park, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range accommodations. Some well-known options include the Nanjing Intercontinental and Jinling Hotel.

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

Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, and the Nanjing Museum. These can all be visited in a day trip combined with Mochou Lake Park.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops selling items like traditional Chinese fans, postcards, and local handicrafts. The typical souvenirs from Nanjing include jade jewelry and silk products.

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

After visiting Mochou Lake Park, taxis, buses, and the metro are available to take you to other parts of Nanjing. The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge and other historical landmarks are easily accessible by public transport.