Nanjing City Wall
Explore the world's longest brick city wall, a Ming Dynasty marvel offering stunning views and a journey through history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Nanjing City Wall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the world's longest brick city wall, a Ming Dynasty marvel offering stunning views and a journey through history.
"A breathtaking piece of history! The City Wall of Nanjing is one of the best-preserved ancient walls in China."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The wall is extensive; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring its ramparts and enjoying the views.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture Jiming Temple from the wall for iconic shots. Sunset over Xuanwu Lake is also a must-see.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jiming Temple Views
Near Jiming Temple
Capture iconic photos of Jiming Temple's pagoda from the ancient city wall, blending history with stunning architecture.
Xuanwu Lake Panorama
Overlooking Xuanwu Lake
Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over Xuanwu Lake, with the golden light reflecting on the water and the ancient wall.
Brick Maker's Marks
On the wall's bricks
Discover the fascinating detail of each brick stamped with its maker or supervisor, a testament to ancient quality control.
Laomendong Charm
Laomendong area
Explore the vibrant Laomendong district, a scenic spot along the ancient wall filled with art, eateries, and shops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Comfortable Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The wall is extensive; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring its ramparts and enjoying the views.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture Jiming Temple from the wall for iconic shots. Sunset over Xuanwu Lake is also a must-see.
🏛️ Explore the Museum
Don't miss the small museum on the wall showcasing its history and restoration efforts.
🎁 Souvenirs & Stamps
Find unique souvenirs and get a free stamp to mark your visit at the merchant station.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The wall is extensive; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring its ramparts and enjoying the views.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture Jiming Temple from the wall for iconic shots. Sunset over Xuanwu Lake is also a must-see.
🏛️ Explore the Museum
Don't miss the small museum on the wall showcasing its history and restoration efforts.
🎁 Souvenirs & Stamps
Find unique souvenirs and get a free stamp to mark your visit at the merchant station.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Strolls
Enjoy a refreshing breeze and a peaceful walk, soaking in history and scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Nanjing City Wall for its historical significance, breathtaking panoramic views, and peaceful atmosphere, especially during sunset. The well-preserved sections and unique details like stamped bricks add to its charm. While the walk can be long, the experience is widely considered worth it for history buffs and those seeking scenic beauty.
"Strolling along the Nanjing City Wall near Jiming Temple, gorgeous, steeped in history, and full of charm. Built during the Ming Dynasty, the wall stretches more than 35 km, and this section still feels so alive. One detail I loved: every brick is stamped with the name of the maker or supervisor, a fascinating way they tracked quality centuries ago.
The walk is long, but totally worth it, especially if you go at sunset, when you’ll catch stunning views over Xuanwu Lake, which sits right beside the wall. The soft golden light reflecting off the water makes it magical. While it’s not as grand as the Great Wall of China, this one feels personal to Nanjing, with a strong local character and equally breathtaking views.
To my surprise, there’s even a small museum on top of the wall, showcasing the wall’s history, architecture, and restoration efforts. It’s a nice bonus, adding depth to the experience.
There’s also a souvenir merchant up there too, full of cute and unique items to bring home. And don’t miss the free stamp station to mark your visit, perfect for travel journals!"
Che
"This Nanjing City Wall offers breathtaking panoramic views—soaring above the city with a refreshing breeze at the top. Perfect for a peaceful stroll while soaking in history and scenery. A must-visit for anyone craving a blend of culture and natural beauty!"
00Y
"A breathtaking piece of history! The City Wall of Nanjing is one of the best-preserved ancient walls in China, offering stunning views of the city and the Yangtze River. Walking along the wall feels like stepping back in time, with its massive bricks and historical inscriptions. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a scenic stroll, especially at sunrise or sunset. A must-visit for history lovers and anyone looking to experience Nanjing’s rich heritage!"
Neel Niloy (YASIN)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Nanjing City Wall is accessible via several subway lines. For example, Line 2 can take you to Jiming Temple Station, which is a popular entry point. Buses also serve various sections of the wall.
Parking can be challenging, especially near popular sections like Jiming Temple. It's generally recommended to use public transportation like the subway or buses to reach the wall.
The Nanjing City Wall is over 35 km long, and while sections are open for walking, it's not feasible to traverse the entire length in one go. Visitors typically explore specific, well-preserved sections.
For longer distances between sections, the Nanjing Metro is efficient. For shorter distances, taxis or ride-sharing services are available. Walking is best for exploring within a single section.
Popular entry points include the section near Jiming Temple for its scenic views and proximity to the temple, and the Laomendong area for its vibrant atmosphere and shops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ticket price for accessing the walled city is approximately 15 yuan. Some sections might have separate entrance fees or be free to access.
Opening hours can vary by section, but generally, the wall is accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check specific timings for the section you plan to visit.
While some online booking options might exist, tickets are typically available for purchase at the entrance gates of the accessible sections.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or children is not widely publicized. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival.
Yes, the Nanjing City Wall is generally open year-round, though specific hours might be adjusted during public holidays or for maintenance.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is highly recommended for its golden hour light, offering stunning views over Xuanwu Lake and the city. Sunrise can also provide beautiful, less crowded photo opportunities.
The section near Jiming Temple offers iconic views of the temple's pagoda. Overlooking Xuanwu Lake, especially at sunset, is also a popular and picturesque spot.
Drone usage is generally restricted in historical and urban areas in China. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
There are no specific restrictions on general photography for personal use. However, commercial photography might require permits.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the wall and panoramic views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details like Jiming Temple. A tripod is helpful for sunset shots.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Exploring a single, popular section like the one near Jiming Temple can take 1-2 hours, allowing time for photos and enjoying the views. A more extensive walk could take longer.
Restroom facilities are available at some entry points and along certain accessible sections of the wall.
Accessibility can be limited due to the ancient nature of the wall, with many stairs and uneven surfaces. Some sections might be more accessible than others.
You can find a small museum, souvenir shops, and a free stamp station on some sections of the wall.
The wall is generally safe, but caution is advised due to uneven surfaces and heights. Always stay within designated areas and be mindful of your surroundings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Laomendong area, located along the ancient city wall, is known for its numerous eateries and restaurants offering local cuisine.
The Nanjing Impressions food halls, particularly the one near Hunan Road or Fuzi Miao, offer a variety of local dishes and a good atmosphere for photos.
The Laomendong area often has street food vendors, offering a chance to sample local snacks and treats.
While there are souvenir shops and a museum, dedicated dining establishments are not typically found directly on the wall itself. Food options are usually found at the base or nearby areas.
Popular local dishes include salted duck, beef and noodle soup, and various dim sum options. Exploring the food halls is a great way to try them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Ming Dynasty's Grand Defense
The construction utilized millions of specially made bricks, each often stamped with the name of the maker or supervisor. This practice ensured accountability and quality control, providing historians with invaluable insights into the manufacturing and logistics of the era. The wall's design incorporated advanced military engineering for its time, with features like watchtowers, battlements, and strategic gatehouses. While much of the wall has been lost to urban development over the centuries, significant and well-preserved sections remain, offering a tangible connection to Nanjing's imperial past.
Today, the remaining sections of the Nanjing City Wall are not just historical relics but also vibrant public spaces. They offer visitors a unique opportunity to walk through history, enjoy panoramic city views, and appreciate the enduring legacy of the Ming Dynasty. The wall's presence continues to shape Nanjing's identity, blending its ancient heritage with its modern urban landscape.
Experiencing the Wall Today: Views, Culture, and Connection
Beyond the visual appeal, the wall offers cultural insights. A small museum situated on the wall itself details its history, construction, and restoration efforts, adding depth to the visitor's understanding. The unique detail of stamped bricks, each bearing the mark of its maker, serves as a fascinating reminder of the human effort and craftsmanship involved in its creation. Visitors can also find souvenir merchants offering unique items and a free stamp station, perfect for commemorating their visit in a travel journal.
The wall also serves as a gateway to vibrant local life. The Laomendong area, adjacent to a section of the wall, is a lively district filled with art, traditional architecture, eateries, and shops, making it an ideal place to explore before or after a walk on the ramparts. This blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and contemporary culture makes the Nanjing City Wall a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a comprehensive Nanjing experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit