Xuanwu Lake
Vast urban lake at the foot of Purple Mountain
Xuanwu Lake Park, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
Xuanwu Lake is a large, beautiful lake park in the heart of Nanjing, cradled between the ancient Ming Dynasty city wall to the south and the wooded ridges of Purple Mountain to the east. Covering roughly 444 hectares, the lake contains five islands connected by tree-lined causeways and bridges, each offering gardens, pavilions, and waterfront promenades. The park is Nanjing's principal outdoor leisure space, drawing joggers, families, photographers, and anyone seeking open sky and water views within the city.
Admission is free. The park is open 24 hours, though some facilities and island attractions have limited hours.
Details
The Five Islands
The lake's five islands — Huanzhou, Yingzhou, Liangzhou, Cuizhou, and Lingzhou — are connected by causeways and bridges, creating a pleasant network of walking paths over the water. Each island has its own character: gardens and pavilions on some, open lawns and playgrounds on others. Huanzhou, the most developed, houses a small zoo and traditional garden. The causeways lined with willows and flowering trees are the most pleasant paths, particularly in spring when the cherry blossoms bloom.
City Wall Views
The southern shore of Xuanwu Lake runs directly along the Ming Dynasty city wall, creating one of the most iconic views in Nanjing — the massive brick ramparts rising from the lake's edge with the modern city beyond. Several sections of the wall are accessible for walking from points near the lake, and the view from the wall looking down over the lake toward Purple Mountain is equally impressive. The combination of wall and lake is unique to Nanjing.
Boating and Activities
Paddle boats, rowboats, and electric boats are available for rent, offering a relaxing way to explore the lake from the water. The lakefront paths are popular with joggers and cyclists, and a complete circuit of the lake takes roughly two to three hours on foot. In the mornings, the park fills with tai chi practitioners, dancers, and exercise groups.
Getting There
Address: Xuanwu Lake Park, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
**Xuanwu Gate Station** on Line 1 exits near the park's main entrance on the southern shore. **Jiming Temple Station** on Line 3 and Line 4 serves the southeastern corner near the city wall. The park's southern shore is within walking distance of the Presidential Palace and the Nanjing Museum.
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Xuanwu Lake