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Purple Mountain, located in Xuanwu District, Nanjing, is also known as Zhongshan Mountain. It is one of the four famous mountains in the south of the Yangtze River. It has the reputation of " Jinling Yuxiu " and is a gathering place for famous scenic spots and historical sites in Nanjing. It was once known as " Zhongshan Dragon Coiled, Shicheng Tiger Crouched " in ancient times . It was extremely famous as early as the Three Kingdoms and Han Dynasty.
The main peak of Purple Mountain stands at 448.9 meters above sea level, with a circumference of approximately 30 kilometers . Its three connected peaks resemble a giant dragon, seamlessly integrating the mountains, water, and city. Zijin Mountain encompasses the cultures of the Six Dynasties, the Ming Dynasty, the Republic of China, the landscape, the city, the forest, the eco-leisure, and Buddhism, earning it the title of " China's Most Culturally Refined Mountain Within a City . "
There are many scenic spots and historical sites around Purple Mountain. There are Zixia Cave, Yirenquan and other scenic spots in the south of the mountain. There is Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum in the middle of the mountain. There are Meihua Mountain, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, and the tombs of Liao Zhongkai and He Xiangning in the west. There are Linggu Temple and Deng Yanda's tomb in the east. There are historical sites such as Xu Da's tomb, Chang Yuchun's tomb, and Li Wenzhong's tomb in the north of the mountain.
Purple Mountain Observatory is one of the most famous observatories in China and the first modern astronomy research institution established by China. It is known as the " cradle of modern Chinese astronomy " .
Zijin is picturesque in all seasons
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Purple Mountain, also known as Zijin Mountain, is a historic and cultural site in Nanjing, home to several important landmarks, including the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and the Ming Dynasty Tombs. It holds significant historical, cultural, and natural importance in Jiangsu province.
Purple Mountain is located in the eastern part of Nanjing. It can be accessed by taking a bus or taxi from Nanjing city center. The closest metro station is the "Zijin Shan" station, a short walk from the entrance.
The area is open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
Entrance to the mountain area is free, but some specific sites, like the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, have an entrance fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through online platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended for the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, especially during peak seasons. Tickets can be booked a few days in advance.
To fully explore Purple Mountain and its main attractions, including hiking, visiting the mausoleum, and exploring nearby parks, expect to spend at least 4-6 hours.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English and Mandarin can be rented at key attractions like the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum.
The top of Purple Mountain offers the best panoramic views of Nanjing and the Yangtze River. The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum also provides excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
Start your visit at the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, then walk or take a bus to the Ming Tombs. From there, explore Zixia Lake and take a scenic hike to the top of Purple Mountain for the best views.
While the area is not typically open at night, some landmarks like the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum are beautifully lit in the evening, and the night-time view from the mountain is spectacular. Special night tours are occasionally available during holidays.
The mountain can be crowded, especially on weekends and during public holidays. Weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon, are generally quieter.
There are rest areas, public toilets, and small shops along the mountain trails. Food and drink are available near major attractions like the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum.
The area is generally accessible, but some parts of the mountain require hiking or climbing stairs. The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and other major attractions offer accessible routes for visitors with mobility challenges.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted. Cash is also commonly used, but credit cards are less often accepted at smaller shops.
There are a few restaurants and cafés near the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, offering local Nanjing cuisine. For a wider variety of options, Nanjing city center has many dining spots.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants in Nanjing. Halal food options can be found in specific areas catering to the Muslim community.
Several hotels and guesthouses are available near Purple Mountain and the city center, including mid-range hotels and boutique accommodations.
Souvenir shops around Purple Mountain sell local handicrafts, traditional arts, and products related to Sun Yat-sen, such as books and memorabilia.
Taxis, public buses, and metro stations offer convenient transportation options to continue your trip. For those heading to other parts of Nanjing, the subway is an easy option.
