Xuanwu Lake Park Nanjing
Nanjing's expansive urban oasis, featuring a vast lake, lush gardens, and iconic skyline views. A must-visit for nature and city lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms in full bloom
Xuanwu Lake Park Nanjing
Best Time
Blossoms in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nanjing's expansive urban oasis, featuring a vast lake, lush gardens, and iconic skyline views. A must-visit for nature and city lovers.
"Witness the magic of spring blossoms, summer lotuses, and breathtaking sunsets at this sprawling urban park."
🚲 Rent a Bike to Explore
The park is vast! Renting a bike makes it easy to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.
🌸 Spring Blossom Magic
Visit in spring for the stunning 'Blossom Tunnel' – a must-see for flower lovers!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Blossom Tunnel
Northern part of the park
A breathtaking spring spectacle of cherry blossoms creating a floral canopy. Absolutely magical!
Lotus Viewing Path
Southern part of the park
Wander along a winding deck through a sea of vibrant lotus flowers. A serene summer experience.
Sunset Over the Lake
Western shores
Witness the sky ablaze with color, reflecting on the water with the Zifeng Tower in the distance.
Mandarin Ducks
Throughout the lake
Spot these charming, colorful ducks adding a touch of whimsy to the park's serene waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Embrace the Vastness of Xuanwu Lake
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Rent a Bike to Explore
The park is vast! Renting a bike makes it easy to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.
🌸 Spring Blossom Magic
Visit in spring for the stunning 'Blossom Tunnel' – a must-see for flower lovers!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The western shores offer incredible sunset views, with the Zifeng Tower as a backdrop.
🦆 Watch the Ducks
Keep an eye out for the charming mandarin ducks that call Xuanwu Lake home.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bike to Explore
The park is vast! Renting a bike makes it easy to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.
🌸 Spring Blossom Magic
Visit in spring for the stunning 'Blossom Tunnel' – a must-see for flower lovers!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The western shores offer incredible sunset views, with the Zifeng Tower as a backdrop.
🦆 Watch the Ducks
Keep an eye out for the charming mandarin ducks that call Xuanwu Lake home.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Lotus Path
In summer, walk the unique deck through the lotus fields for a serene experience.
🕊️ Pigeons Galore
Public squares and parks, including Xuanwu Lake, are known for their abundant pigeon populations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Xuanwu Lake Park's expansive beauty and diverse seasonal attractions, from spring blossoms to summer lotuses. The stunning sunset views with the Zifeng Tower are a major highlight. While generally free and accessible, some find the park can get crowded during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Xuanwu Lake Park is conveniently located near Nanjing Railway Station and the city center. You can easily reach it by metro, with several stations nearby, including Xuanwumen Station (Line 1). Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, Xuanwu Lake Park is very accessible by public transport. Metro Line 1 stops at Xuanwumen Station, which is a short walk from the park entrance. Buses also serve the area frequently.
Given its size, renting a bicycle is highly recommended for exploring Xuanwu Lake Park. You can also find electric scooters or enjoy a leisurely walk. Boat rentals are available on the lake itself.
Parking is available, but it can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. It's often easier and more convenient to use public transportation or a taxi to reach the park.
Yes, Xuanwu Lake Park is very close to Nanjing Railway Station. You can take a short taxi ride or a bus, or even walk if you enjoy a longer stroll.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Xuanwu Lake Park is generally free to enter, making it a popular and accessible attraction for all visitors. Some specific attractions within the park might have separate fees.
The park is typically open year-round, with extended hours during peak seasons. It's best to check for any specific seasonal or holiday hours, but it's generally accessible from early morning until late evening.
No, advance booking is not usually required for general entry to Xuanwu Lake Park as it is free. However, if you plan to visit any specific paid attractions within the park, it's advisable to check their individual booking policies.
Xuanwu Lake Park often hosts seasonal events and festivals, particularly during spring for flower viewing and summer for lotus festivals. Keep an eye on local event listings for any special happenings during your visit.
To avoid crowds, try visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon. Weekends and public holidays can be very busy, especially during spring and summer.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the picturesque Blossom Tunnel (spring), the serene Lotus Viewing Path (summer), the charming mandarin ducks, and the scenic lake itself. The Ming city wall also borders parts of the park.
Yes, boat rentals are available on Xuanwu Lake, offering a unique perspective of the park and the surrounding city skyline. It's a great way to enjoy the water and get some exercise.
There are several cafes and small eateries within Xuanwu Lake Park offering snacks and light meals. For more extensive dining options, you can explore areas just outside the park.
Absolutely! Xuanwu Lake Park is a photographer's paradise, especially during spring for blossoms, summer for lotuses, and evenings for stunning sunsets. The mix of nature and city views is captivating.
The park is known for its abundant birdlife, most notably the charming mandarin ducks. You'll also likely see various other waterfowl and pigeons.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The Blossom Tunnel in spring, the Lotus Viewing Path in summer, and the western shores for sunset are prime photography locations. Don't forget to capture the mandarin ducks and the city skyline.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography. Early mornings are also great for softer light and fewer crowds.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the expansive lake and city views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife like the mandarin ducks.
Drone usage is generally restricted in public parks in China to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
The best vantage points for this iconic shot are from the western or northern parts of the lake, especially during sunset when the tower is beautifully illuminated.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Splendors: Xuanwu Lake Through the Year
Summer brings lush greenery and the vibrant spectacle of lotus flowers. A dedicated lotus viewing path allows visitors to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of these iconic blooms. Evenings in summer are particularly pleasant, with gentle breezes and the chance to witness stunning sunsets over the water. Autumn offers a more subdued beauty, with the sweet fragrance of blooming osmanthus trees filling the air. The changing leaves provide a warm palette, and the cooler weather is perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides. Winter can be quiet but offers a different kind of charm, with frost-kissed landscapes and fewer crowds, providing a peaceful retreat.
Regardless of the season, the park's expansive lake and surrounding gardens provide a constant source of natural beauty. The presence of mandarin ducks adds a delightful touch of wildlife to the scenery throughout the year. Planning your visit around these seasonal highlights can significantly enhance your experience.
Exploring Xuanwu Lake: Activities and Relaxation
For a more tranquil experience, boat rentals are available on the lake. Gliding across the water offers a unique perspective of the park, the Ming city wall, and the distant Zifeng Tower. You can also find opportunities to simply relax by the water, perhaps with a picnic or by feeding the abundant pigeons that frequent the park. The park's numerous islands, connected by bridges, offer secluded spots for contemplation and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Beyond the natural beauty, the park is also a place where locals gather. You might see people practicing tai chi, flying kites, or simply enjoying the fresh air. It’s a vibrant hub of community life, offering a glimpse into the daily routines of Nanjing residents. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful escape, Xuanwu Lake Park caters to a wide range of preferences.
The Iconic Skyline Views from Xuanwu Lake
During the golden hour, the Zifeng Tower and surrounding buildings are bathed in warm, ethereal light, creating a breathtaking panorama that is a favorite among photographers. The reflections on the lake's surface amplify the visual spectacle, making it a truly memorable experience. The Ming city wall, which borders the park to the south and east, adds a layer of historical grandeur to these modern vistas.
Visitors can find numerous vantage points around the lake to capture these iconic views. The western shores are particularly popular for sunset photography, offering unobstructed sights of the illuminated city. The contrast between the ancient city wall, the tranquil lake, and the soaring skyscrapers provides a unique and compelling visual narrative of Nanjing's evolution.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit