Exploring the Wonders of Zhongshan Mountain in Nanjing, China

Nanjing is known as the “Ancient Capital of Six Dynasties,” having served as the center of dynasties and kingdoms throughout its centuries-long history. Zhongshan Mountain is the heart of this legacy. The mountain is abundant with sacred historical sites and cultural wonders, from temples to imperial mausoleums. These architectural marvels, artistry, and workmanship are appreciated by countless travelers today. Notably, the Ming Xiaoling Tomb and Sun Yat-Sen’s Mausoleum are among China’s most impressively constructed historical sites.

Also referred to as “Purple Mountain,” thanks to the purple-hued mist that envelops its peaks at dawn and dusk, it warrants a spot high on any Nanjing bucket list. At least a day should be dedicated to exploring its offerings. For those planning a trip to China’s old capital, here are six must-visit sites on sacred Zhongshan Mountain.

Ming Xiaoling Tomb

The Ming Xiaoling Tomb is one of the largest imperial tombs in China, where Zhu Yuanzhang – the founder of the Ming Dynasty – is believed to be buried with his wife, Queen Ma.

Zhu Yuanzhang’s tomb and its verdant surroundings have been impressively preserved. At the entrance of the grounds are the Great Golden Gates, where a large stone bixi (a mythical Chinese tortoise-like animal) welcomes visitors. The bixi carries a plaque on its back, inscribed with the emperor’s merits. The walkway leading to the tomb, known as “The Sacred Way,” is lined with pairs of enormous carved stone animal statues. Lions, elephants, horses, camels, and more collectively guard the tomb, warding off any evil spirits. Tradition continues to carry through the architecture, as The Sacred Way path takes a sharp turn; Chinese mythology states that evil spirits can only travel in straight lines.

The central area comprises a series of manicured courtyards and pavilions, as well as “The Hall of Prominent Favor,” which showcases a portrait of the emperor and a collection of Ming Dynasty relics. Moving further in, visitors will find a mammoth, unexcavated burial mound where the emperor’s body is said to rest. The 1,300-foot-wide mound is surrounded by grand, castle-like walls, with stairs leading to a terrace that tops the mound. Known as the “Soul Tower,” visitors can conclude their visit by walking up for an elevated view of the grounds.

Sun Yat-Sen’s Mausoleum

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, honored as the “Father of Modern China,” requested that his burial site be at Zhongshan Mountain. The 20-acre mausoleum area unites traditional architecture and incredible forest scenery. Sun Yat-Sen’s Mausoleum is undoubtedly a must-visit site when in Nanjing.

From an aerial viewpoint, the mausoleum is shaped like an alarm bell, symbolizing the time and devotion Sun Yat-Sen dedicated to the Chinese people. He spearheaded the revolution and independence of China and served as the first President of the Republic of China.

The mausoleum’s architecture reflects Sun Yat-Sen’s life, blending Chinese and Western ideologies. The primary style is that of Chinese classical palace architecture, seen in the roof’s shape, while Western design elements are also incorporated. Today, it is recognized as a significant piece of Chinese modern architecture.

The memorial hall, mainly white with a striking blue roof, offers visitors a feeling of calm. Three doors lead into the hall, with messages inscribed above each: “nationalism,” “people’s rights,” and “people’s livelihood” – essential elements of Sun Yat-Sen’s work.

A pailou, or memorial arch, at the site’s entrance is inscribed with two gold characters representing “fraternity.” A lengthy, tree-lined path guides the way to the formal gate, marked by three large arched entries. To reach Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s memorial chamber and crypt, visitors climb a stairway of 392 steps, divided into eight platforms. The steps represent the estimated 392 million population of China at that time, and the eight platforms symbolize Sun Yat-Sen’s Three Principles of the People and the five branches of the Chinese government. A marble statue of the doctor awaits at the top.

Linggu Temple

On the eastern side of Zhongshan Mountain is the Linggu Temple, an expansive area submerged in the forest with freshwater springs trickling through. The temple was built in the Ming Dynasty and named by emperor Zhu Yuanzhang himself. Today, it remains an active place of worship.

It’s home to the Beamless Hall, one of Nanjing’s most historically significant and architecturally unique structures. Built in 1382 from a combination of brick and stone, this hall has no beam support – an architectural wonder that continues to puzzle architects today. Additionally, a memorial hall honors Xuan Zang, the Buddhist monk who brought Buddhist scriptures to China following his pilgrimage to India. Linggu Temple is accessible via walking trails from the Ming Xiaoling Tomb.

Purple Mountain Observatory

Chinese folklore suggests that you’ll be granted a wish if you bow to God while a meteor is shooting across the sky. The modern-day prevalence of this legend underscores how integral astronomy is to contemporary Chinese culture. Nanjing’s Purple Mountain Observatory was a pioneer in this development.

The observatory was China’s first modern astronomical institute and is referred to as the “cradle of modern astronomy in China.” Most subdisciplines of Chinese astronomy were established here.

Visitors can explore the Nanjing Astronomy and History Museum at the observatory, featuring a collection of rare apparatuses, an impressive library, and beautiful white-domed observatory architecture. Completed and first operational in 1934, world-leading calibrated telescopes are on display alongside modern technologies for observing celestial bodies.

Outside, several large and stunningly ornate pieces of bronze astronomical equipment are on display, including the Armillary Sphere, designed to determine the position of the stars, and the Simplified Armillary Sphere, which operates with improved efficiency. The Armillary Sphere is supported by four dragons in Ming Dynasty-style architecture.

Zhongshan Botanical Garden

To the south of the observatory lies the Zhongshan Botanical Garden, one of four major botanical gardens in China. Its lawns and lake areas host over 3,000 species of decorative and medicinal plants. It’s not just beautiful; it also serves as a key research center dedicated to China’s central and northern subtropical plants.

The garden is divided into two sections: the north is the older part, while the south features large-scale greenhouses built in 1999, shaped like three large leaves when viewed from above.

It’s a popular destination for families, couples, and avid nature photographers. A visit here guarantees a blissful afternoon, immersed in green spaces that leave lasting memories.

Zixia Lake

For those wishing to experience wild swimming, Zixia Lake is an excellent choice. This secluded and peaceful lake is enveloped by forest foliage, attracting visitors year-round. Brave locals even swim during winter, motivated by perceived health benefits of cold-water swimming.

Event: China Nanjing International Plum Blossom Festival

In spring, pink and white plum blossoms sweep across Zhongshan Mountain, celebrated by a festival attracting travelers from all over the country. Approximately 35,000 plum trees decorate Zhongshan Mountain’s plum blossom hill, which is home to a stunning exhibit of bonsai plum trees and is believed to house China’s oldest plum tree, the “King of Plum Blossoms,” over 400 years old. A performance stage is set up during the festival, with traditional musicians, singers, and dancers adding to the joyful celebration.

Getting to and around Zhongshan Mountain

There are multiple ways to reach Zhongshan Mountain, and the route you take will depend on the sites you plan to see and the order of your itinerary. We recommend starting at Ming Xiaoling Tomb, accessible via Metro Line 2 to Muxuyuan Station. After arriving, getting around is easy, with sightseeing buses connecting various scenic areas and sites.

How to prepare for a day on the mountain

Perhaps the most important tip is wearing comfortable walking shoes! Walking on a mixture of roads and grass, along with climbing hundreds of stairs, requires proper support. Pack a backpack with plenty of water and snacks. Additionally, check the weather before heading to the mountain; snowy days may call for shoes with improved grip to prevent slipping, while hotter months necessitate sun protection.