Meiling Palace

Meiling Palace, known as the "First Villa of the Far East," stands as a magnificent testament to China's Republican era. Located on Xiaohong Mountain in the Zhongshan Scenic Area of Nanjing's Xuanwu District, this historic residence served as the official residence of the National Government Chairman and became particularly famous as the dwelling of Chiang Kai-shek and his wife Soong Mei-ling.

Overview

Completed in 1934, Meiling Palace is a stunning example of East-meets-West architecture. The three-story palace features traditional Chinese architectural elements combined with modern Western amenities. Its most distinctive feature is the green glazed tile roof adorned with over 1,000 intricately carved phoenixes, each unique in its design. The palace is encircled by French plane trees, which create a spectacular "golden necklace" effect when their leaves turn yellow in autumn.

Planning Your Visit

Opening Hours and Best Time to Visit

• Opening hours: 07:30 - 18:00 (last entry at 17:30)
• Best season: Late November to mid-December for the famous "golden necklace" view
• Best time of day: 9:00-11:00 AM or 3:00-5:00 PM for optimal lighting and photography

Admission

• Individual ticket: ¥30
• Combined ticket (including Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum + Linggu Scenic Area + Music Stage + Meiling Palace): ¥100

Getting There

By Metro:

• Take Line 2 to Muxuyuan Station
• Exit and either walk 1.5km (20 minutes) or take a scenic area shuttle bus

By Bus:

• Routes 34, 20, or 202 stop near the palace
• From Route 34, alight at Boai Garden Station
• From Route 20, get off at Meihua Valley Station

Interior Tour

First Floor

The first floor houses reception rooms, secretary offices, and service areas. The layout reflects the careful balance between official functions and daily life needs.

Second Floor

This level features grand halls, dining rooms, and meeting spaces where important gatherings and state affairs were conducted. Today, visitors can enjoy the First Lady Café, offering a unique opportunity to experience the ambiance of the era.

Third Floor

The private quarters include bedrooms, a small dining room, and the Triumph Chapel. This floor offers insight into the personal lives of Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling.

Special Features

First Lady Café

Located on the second floor, this café offers visitors a chance to experience the refined atmosphere of the Republican era while enjoying coffee and desserts. The signature "First Lady Coffee" is specially crafted to reflect Soong Mei-ling's preferred taste.

Meiling Art Exhibition

The basement level houses an exhibition of 26 traditional Chinese paintings by Soong Mei-ling, showcasing her artistic talents and cultural pursuits.

Photography Spots

1. The Golden Necklace View

• Best captured in late autumn when the French plane trees turn golden
• Recommended timing: early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting
• Drone photography permitted at heights above 200 meters

2. Architectural Details

• The green glazed tiles and phoenix carvings on the roof
• The grand entrance with its impressive staircase
• The French plane tree corridor

Tips for Visitors

1. Visit Duration

• Allow 2-3 hours to fully explore the palace
• Consider a full day if visiting nearby attractions like Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum

2. Best Practices

• Photography is permitted in most areas
• Maintain appropriate volume and behavior in respect of the historical site
• Wear comfortable walking shoes as the site involves some climbing

3. Nearby Attractions

• Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum
• Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
• Linggu Temple
• Purple Mountain Observatory

Local Dining

Several restaurants near Meiling Palace offer Nanjing specialties:

• Duck Blood Soup with Vermicelli (鸭血粉丝汤)
• Salted Duck (盐水鸭)
• Nanjing Xiaolongbao (南京小笼包)

The palace area provides a perfect blend of historical exploration and cultural immersion, offering visitors a unique glimpse into China's Republican era through its architecture, art, and historical significance.