Nanjing Niu Shou Mountain Cultural District

Introducing Nanjing Niu Shou Mountain Cultural District

The Niu Shou Mountain Cultural Tourism Area is located in Jiangning District, a scenic area in the southern suburbs of Nanjing, 22 miles from the city center. Standing 248 meters tall, Niu Shou Mountain is named for its prominent twin peaks, which resemble a pair of horns on an ox's head. The scenic area comprises several hills, including Niu Shou Mountain, Zutang Mountain, East and West Tianmu Ridge, and Yinlong Mountain.

Niu Shou Mountain has beautiful natural scenery and is known as the "Spring Niu Shou"; it has a profound cultural heritage and is the place where Yue Fei fought against the Jin Dynasty and where Zheng He was buried; it has a long history of Buddhist culture and is the place where the Niu Shou Zen sect of the Chinese Zen Buddhism was founded and originated.

Climate and best time to travel

Niu Shou Mountain is a hilly area composed of Mesozoic igneous rocks. It has rich landforms and diverse vegetation types. It is located in the northern subtropical monsoon humid climate zone and often takes tourists into the rainy season of the south of the Yangtze River.

From April to May, the spring rain is as soft as butter and the water is hazy, allowing you to appreciate the dreamlike atmosphere of Niu Shou mist; from June to July, the plum rain stops and the summer wind is gentle, allowing you to feel the poetic and picturesque scenery of Niu Shou with lush trees; from September to October, the golden wind blows and the autumn rain continues, allowing you to fully enjoy the rich Buddhist and Zen charm of Niu Shou.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Shiao Paradise

The overall construction style is based on the Hui style of architecture, highlighting the proximity to mountains and water, integrating the pastoral scenery with the natural mountains, water, forests and residences; in terms of functional expansion, it is based on the local characteristics of "vegetarian culture", "tea culture", and the living and leisure environment of "natural oxygen bar".

Zheng He Cultural Park

It is the tomb of Zheng He, a renowned Ming Dynasty navigator. From the third year of the Yongle reign to the eighth year of the Xuande reign, Zheng He made seven voyages to the Western Ocean, enduring numerous hardships and dangers. He engaged in cultural exchanges with coastal countries, established diplomatic relations, fostered friendship, and opened up the Maritime Silk Road, completing one of the greatest feats in human history and becoming the world's first intercontinental navigator.

Two Tombs of the Southern Tang Dynasty

Located on the southern foot of Niu Shou Mountain, it is the "Qinling" of Li Bian, the first emperor of Southern Tang Dynasty, and his wife Song, and the "Shunling" of Li Jing, the second emperor, and his wife Zhong. It is the largest imperial tomb during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period.

Recommended play time: 3-5 hours

Tickets

100 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Spring and Summer : March 1st - October 31st, 9:00-17:30

Autumn and winter : November 1st to February 28th of the following year, 9:00-17:00.

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Most Popular FAQs for Nanjing Niu Shou Mountain Cultural District

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

The Niu Shou Mountain Cultural District is an important historical site, home to significant Buddhist temples and cultural relics dating back over 1,500 years. The area is regarded as one of the birthplaces of Buddhism in China, playing a pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism in the region.

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

The Niu Shou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone is located in the southern part of Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. It is accessible by public transport, including metro (Line 2, Nanjing South Railway Station), buses, and taxis. You can also walk from nearby attractions or Nanjing South Railway Station.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The district is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months for pleasant weather, with fewer crowds in the early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays.

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

Entrance fees vary depending on the specific attractions within the cultural district. The general entrance fee is around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site or via popular ticketing apps.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons, such as national holidays or weekends, to avoid long queues. A few days' advance booking is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the Niu Shou Mountain Cultural District, including temples, gardens, and museums, plan for about 2-3 hours.

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

The must-see highlights include the Niu Shou Mountain Buddhist Temple, the beautiful mountain gardens, and the cultural exhibitions that feature ancient Chinese artifacts. The panoramic views from the temple are also a highlight.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and you can request an English-speaking guide in advance. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are available for rent.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Top photography spots include the temple's high platforms offering panoramic views of Nanjing, the serene gardens, and the historic architecture of the temples themselves.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the main temple area, then walk through the nearby gardens. Afterward, visit the cultural museum and finish with a stroll to the mountain's highest points for breathtaking views of the city.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Niu Shou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone, but the tranquil atmosphere makes it a pleasant place to visit during the day.

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

The area can become crowded on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, are the best times to visit to avoid crowds.

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

Facilities include clean public toilets, rest areas, and a café serving light snacks and beverages. Small shops selling cultural souvenirs are available near the entrance.

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

The area is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with paved pathways and ramps leading to most attractions. However, some areas of the mountain may involve steps or uneven paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted at the attraction. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the area, there is a small café offering drinks and snacks. Nearby, there are several local restaurants serving Jiangsu cuisine, such as Nanjing salted duck and dumplings.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available in nearby restaurants, and some places also offer halal food, especially in the Muslim quarters of Nanjing.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels close to the Niu Shou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone, including the Nanjing Jinling Hotel and Nanjing South Railway Station area accommodations.

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 Nanjing's city center with museums and historic sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the entrance selling traditional Chinese crafts, such as jade carvings, tea sets, silk, and Nanjing-specific handicrafts like calligraphy scrolls.

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

After visiting the cultural district, you can take a taxi or public transport (bus or metro) to explore other parts of Nanjing, including the city center and nearby historical sites.