Purple Mountain

Purple Mountain (Zijin Shan) stands as a majestic natural landmark in Nanjing, renowned as one of the Four Famous Mountains of Southern China. This mountain range, with its three interconnected peaks, stretches across the city's eastern suburbs like a sleeping dragon, creating an impressive backdrop to Nanjing's skyline.

Natural Beauty

The mountain is celebrated for its lush vegetation and seasonal transformations. With an exceptionally high forest coverage rate, it serves as the city's "green lung," providing fresh air and natural beauty to the urban landscape. Each season brings its own distinct charm:

• Spring brings plum blossoms that carpet the mountainside in delicate pink and white
• Summer offers dense green forests and cooling mountain streams
• Autumn transforms the mountain with vibrant red maples and golden ginkgo leaves
• Winter, especially after snowfall, turns the landscape into a serene white wonderland

Historical Significance

Purple Mountain is not just a natural wonder but also a living museum of Chinese history. Since the Three Kingdoms period, it has been an integral part of Nanjing's cultural landscape. The mountain houses several historically significant sites:

Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum

The mausoleum, considered the premier tomb of modern China, was built to honor Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the father of modern China. The complex features:

• A grand 392-step stairway leading to the main hall
• The Memorial Hall with Dr. Sun's marble statue
• The tomb chamber at the highest point
• Architectural elements blending Chinese and Western styles

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays) Admission: Free (Advance online reservation required)

Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum

This UNESCO World Heritage site is the tomb of the Ming Dynasty's founding emperor Zhu Yuanzhang and his wife. Notable features include:

• The Sacred Way lined with stone animal and official statues
• Impressive architectural elements showcasing Ming Dynasty imperial tomb design
• A vast complex demonstrating ancient Chinese feng shui principles

Opening Hours: 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM Admission: ¥70

Linggu Temple

This ancient temple, originally built in the Liang Dynasty, features:

• The unique "Beamless Hall" built entirely of brick without wooden supports
• A peaceful environment perfect for meditation and reflection
• Historical exhibitions including revolutionary period wax figures

Opening Hours: 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM Admission: ¥35

Purple Mountain Observatory

As China's first modern astronomical institution, the observatory offers:

• Historical astronomical instruments from the Ming and Qing dynasties
• Modern telescopes and observation equipment
• Educational exhibits about astronomy and space science

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Admission: ¥15

Practical Information

Getting There

• Metro: Take Line 2 to Muxuyuan Station, Exit 1
• Bus: Routes 20 and 315 stop at Purple Mountain Cable Car Station
• Tourist Buses: Y1 and Y3 connect major attractions within the scenic area

Cable Car

• One-way: ¥60
• Round-trip: ¥100
• Operating hours vary by season

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather
• Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds
• Sunrise and sunset provide the best photography opportunities

Hiking Tips

1. Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
2. Bring water and snacks
3. Allow 1.5-3 hours for hiking depending on your route
4. Start from Jiangwangmiao Station for the easiest ascent to the summit

Summit Views

The summit, Toutuo Peak (448.9m), offers panoramic views of:

• Nanjing's modern skyline
• The Yangtze River
• Surrounding mountains and forests
• Spectacular sunsets over the city

Essential Tips

1. Safety First

• Stay on marked trails
• Avoid hiking after dark or in bad weather
• Check weather forecasts before visiting
• Bring a flashlight if planning for sunset viewing

2. Environmental Protection

• Take all trash with you
• Don't pick flowers or damage vegetation
• Stay on designated paths to prevent erosion

3. Photography

• Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting
• Bring a tripod for sunset shots
• Major viewpoints are marked with signs

4. Facilities

• Restrooms are available at major attractions
• Small shops sell drinks and snacks
• Mobile phone coverage is generally good throughout

Remember to make advance reservations for Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum during peak seasons and holidays. The mountain's attractions can be explored over one full day, but two days allow for a more relaxed experience and deeper appreciation of its natural and historical significance.