Laomendong Historic District

Overview

Laomendong Historic District, located in the southern part of Nanjing, is a beautifully preserved area east of Zhonghua Gate. Dating back to the Three Kingdoms period, this historic district showcases well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and traditional street layouts. After careful restoration, it reopened to the public in September 2013 as a cultural and leisure destination that perfectly blends historical heritage with modern amenities.

Best Time to Visit

Laomendong is beautiful year-round, with each season offering unique experiences:

• Spring (March-May): Perfect for viewing cherry and plum blossoms
• Summer (June-August): Best visited in early morning or evening to avoid heat
• Autumn (September-November): Ideal for enjoying golden ginkgo leaves and red maples
• Winter (December-February): Magical when snow covers the traditional architecture

The district is particularly enchanting at night when traditional lanterns illuminate the ancient streets. Special festivities during the Lantern Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival make these times especially memorable for visitors.

Getting There

• By Metro:

  • Line 3 to Wudingmen Station (Exit 2), 500m walk west
  • Line 1 to Zhonghuamen Station, 2km walk north

• By Bus:

  • Routes 14, 46, 88: Get off at Gutong Xiang Station
  • Routes 23, 33, 43, 63, 81, 301: Get off at Pipa Xiang Station
  • Routes 701, 706: Get off at Junshi Xiang Station

Highlights

Historical Architecture

The district's entrance features an impressive 17-meter-high archway adorned with intricate stone carvings depicting traditional Chinese elements. The ancient streets - Zhongying, Bianying, and Santiaoying - are paved with bluestone and lined with traditional buildings featuring white walls, black tiles, and distinctive horse-head walls characteristic of Jiangnan architecture.

Cultural Venues

1. Avant-Garde Bookstore (先锋书店)

   • Located at Bianying No. 2
   • A restored Qing dynasty building
   • Features a beautiful courtyard and extensive collection
   • Opening hours: 10:00-21:00

2. Jinling Art Gallery (金陵美术馆)

   • Regular art exhibitions
   • Blend of traditional and contemporary art
   • Free admission
   • Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (Closed on Mondays)

Traditional Arts & Crafts

• Nanjing Paper Cutting (National Intangible Cultural Heritage)

  • Live demonstrations
  • Interactive workshops
  • Available for purchase as souvenirs

• DeYun Club (德云社)

  • Traditional Chinese comedy performances
  • Shows Tuesday through Sunday
  • Authentic tea house atmosphere

Local Delicacies

Street Food

1. Lu's Plum Blossom Cake (陆氏梅花糕)

   • Location: Jianzixiang No. 54
   • Specialties:
     • Traditional red bean paste
     • Purple sweet potato
     • Cheese flavor
   • Price: 8-10 CNY

2. Miaodong Pork Ribs (庙东排骨)

   • Location:
     • Madao Street No. 36
     • Santiaoying No. 63
   • Must-try dishes:
     • Fragrant ribs
     • Spicy flavor option
   • Price: 15-20 CNY per person

Restaurants

1. Nanjing Da Pai Dang (南京大牌档)

   • Location: Fuhua Road 346, L236
   • Signature dishes:
     • Mei Ling Rice Porridge
     • Pork Intestine with Stinky Tofu Hot Pot
   • Average cost: 60-80 CNY per person

2. Minguo Hong Mansion (民国红公馆)

   • Location: Jianzixiang No. 58
   • Republican-era themed restaurant
   • Signature dishes:
     • Pan-fried beef
     • Braised pork belly
   • Average cost: 300 CNY per person

Shopping

Souvenirs

• Traditional handicrafts at "Jinling Crafts"
• Paper cuttings and traditional art pieces
• Nanjing-themed creative products
• Folding fans
• Local snacks and tea

Tips

1. Best Visiting Hours

   • Weekday mornings for fewer crowds
   • 5 PM onwards for night views
   • Advance booking required during peak seasons

2. Practical Advice

   • Wear comfortable walking shoes
   • Bring cash for street food vendors
   • Allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit
   • Combine with visits to nearby Zhonghua Gate and Confucius Temple

3. Nearby Attractions

   • Zhonghua Gate (10 minutes walk)
   • Confucius Temple (20 minutes walk)
   • Qinhuai River (15 minutes walk)
   • White Egret Park (25 minutes walk)

Laomendong Historic District offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern entertainment, making it an essential stop on any Nanjing itinerary. Whether you're interested in traditional architecture, local cuisine, or cultural experiences, this beautifully preserved area provides an authentic glimpse into Nanjing's rich heritage.