Da Baoen Temple Ruins Park

Introducing Da Baoen Temple Ruins Park

The Da Bao'en Temple Ruins Park is located outside Zhonghuamen in Nanjing, bordered by the Outer Qinhuai River to the north, Yuhuatai to the south, the 1865 Park to the east, and Yuhua Road to the west. The entire park covers approximately 200 mu (approximately 1,000 acres). The Da Bao'en Temple Ruins have been hailed by experts from the State Administration of Cultural Heritage as "the highest-standard, largest, and best-preserved ancient Chinese temple site."

The Da Baoen Temple Ruins Park is mainly divided into four sub-projects: Da Baoen Temple, Glazed Pagoda, Ruins Park and Ming and Qing Blocks. The Glazed Pagoda is the landmark building of the entire park.

The ruins park protects and displays the thousand-year-old underground palace and precious art gallery in the ruins of the Great Baoen Temple, as well as world-class national treasures such as the stone casket, iron casket, seven-treasure Ashoka pagoda, gold coffin and silver coffin unearthed from the underground palace.

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

Adult ticket: 80 yuan/person

Students and senior citizens: 40 yuan per person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Da Baoen Temple Ruins Park

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

Da Baoen Temple was originally constructed during the Tang dynasty and holds significant historical value as one of the ancient Buddhist temples in Nanjing. The ruins provide insights into the architecture and religious practices of the time. It is also famous for its association with Nanjing's cultural heritage.

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

The temple ruins are located in the heart of Nanjing, Jiangsu province. You can reach the site by metro (Line 1, Xinjiekou Station), taxi, or walking from nearby attractions like Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Da Baoen Temple Ruins Park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

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

The entrance fee to Da Baoen Temple Ruins Park is approximately 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance or through local ticketing apps.

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

Advance booking is not necessary, but it is recommended to book tickets online if you are visiting during peak seasons or holidays to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 1-2 hours to fully explore the park and ruins, depending on your pace and interest in the historical exhibits.

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

Must-see highlights include the ancient temple ruins, the reconstructed pagoda, the archaeological museum, and the peaceful gardens surrounding the site. The ruins provide an insight into ancient Buddhist architecture and religious practices.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, but English-speaking guides may be arranged in advance. Audio guides in English are also available for rent at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the temple ruins, especially at the reconstructed pagoda and the surrounding gardens, where you can capture both the historical ruins and the natural beauty of the area.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main temple ruins, then move on to the reconstructed pagoda. Afterward, stroll through the surrounding gardens and visit the museum for further insights into the temple's history and cultural significance.

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

Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Da Baoen Temple Ruins Park. It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the historical site and surroundings.

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

The park can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early mornings on weekdays.

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

The park has basic facilities, including clean toilets, rest areas, and a small café for snacks and drinks. There are no large shops inside the park, but small souvenir stands may be available near the entrance.

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

The park is accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths for walking. However, some parts of the ruins may involve steps or uneven ground, so it is advisable to take care in those areas. The museum and some other areas are wheelchair accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted at the park, as well as credit cards at the ticket counters. It is advisable to carry some cash as a backup, especially for small vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the park, there is a small café offering snacks and beverages. Nearby, there are local restaurants serving traditional Jiangsu cuisine, including Nanjing-style salted duck and dumplings.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants nearby. Halal food options may be available in specific areas of Nanjing, especially near the Muslim community.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near Da Baoen Temple Ruins Park, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. Notable options include the Nanjing Hotel and the Jinling Hotel.

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

Other nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, and the Nanjing Museum. These can all be easily combined in a day trip with the Da Baoen Temple Ruins Park.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops nearby selling traditional Nanjing handicrafts, such as jade jewelry, Chinese calligraphy scrolls, and silk products. The typical souvenirs are related to Chinese culture and history.

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

After visiting the park, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi, metro, or bus to other parts of Nanjing. The nearby Yangtze River Bridge and historical sites are easily accessible by public transport.