1-Day Xuanwu Lake Walking Route At a Glance

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To plan your trip, review Nanjing Lukou International Airport.

The route takes you through islands named Liang, Cui, and Cherry. Each island has its own unique theme and beautiful garden style. You will see ancient temples and modern art along the way. The path follows the shoreline for most of the journey.

Walking here allows you to see the Ming Dynasty city wall. This wall is one of the longest in the entire world. It provides a great backdrop for your morning and afternoon photos. Make sure to bring a camera for the scenic lake views.

The park is very popular with families and fitness enthusiasts. You will see many people jogging or walking their dogs here. It is a peaceful escape from the busy city streets nearby. The atmosphere is very relaxing and welcoming for all visitors.

Most people spend about four to five hours exploring the park. You can take breaks at the many benches along the path. There are also small shops where you can buy water and snacks. This makes the long walk much easier for casual travelers.

• Day 1: Scenic 10-kilometer loop around five historic islands
  • Morning: Enter via the main gate.
  • Afternoon: Explore the five scenic islands.
  • Evening: View the sunset from the wall.

Detailed 1-Day Xuanwu Lake Walking Route Nanjing

Start your journey at the Xuanwu Gate on the west side. This gate is a historic entrance that leads directly to the water. You can explore more nature spots in Nanjing after this walk. The first island you will reach is Liang Isle.

Liang Isle is famous for its traditional bonsai garden and museum. Spend some time looking at the ancient trees and stone carvings. From here, cross the bridge to reach the beautiful Cherry Isle. Cherry Isle is full of blossoms if you visit during the spring.

Continue your walk toward Cui Isle and the lotus blossom areas. The bridges between the islands offer great views of the skyline. You can see the Zifeng Tower rising high above the trees. This contrast between old and new is very unique to Nanjing.

The eastern side of the lake is quieter and more natural. You will find more shade under the large weeping willow trees. This is a great place to sit and enjoy a quiet lunch. The path here is very wide and easy to navigate.

Finish your loop by walking along the southern city wall path. The wall blocks the city noise and creates a quiet zone. You can exit near the Jiefang Gate to see the Jiming Temple. This completes the most popular walking route around the entire lake.

1. Day 1: Full loop of the five main islands
   • Morning: Visit the historic bonsai garden.
   • Afternoon: See the lotus and temples.
   • Evening: Watch the city lights glow.
   • Time: Four to six hours total.
   • Logistics: Use the local subway station.
   • Optional: Rent a small electric boat.

Best Base for Your Nanjing Adventure

Choosing the right hotel is important for your walking trip. The area around Xuanwu Lake Station is the best choice. You will be within walking distance of the main park entrance. You can check the nature spots in Nanjing costs for your budget.

Another great option is staying near the Xinjiekou shopping district. This area has many hotels ranging from luxury to budget styles. It is only a few subway stops away from the lake. You will also find many restaurants and shops in this area.

Staying near the Jiming Temple is also very popular for tourists. This location allows you to enter the park from the south. You can enjoy early morning views of the lake from your window. The neighborhood is very safe and full of local culture.

Look for hotels that offer bicycle rentals for their guests. Cycling around the lake is a fun alternative to walking. Most hotels in the city center have staff who speak English. This makes booking and getting directions much easier for you.

Nanjing is a very walkable city with many green corridors. Choosing a central base helps you save time on transportation. You can reach most major attractions within twenty minutes by train. This ensures you have more time to enjoy the lake scenery.

Essential Tips for Your Lake Visit

Wear comfortable walking shoes because the path is quite long. The ground is mostly flat but your feet will get tired. You should also check the Nanjing foliage timing for your trip. Autumn is a beautiful time to see the changing colors.

Sunscreen and a hat are necessary during the summer months. There are some shaded areas but many parts are very open. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated while you are walking. You can find vending machines near the main island bridges.

The park is most crowded on weekends and public holidays. Try to visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience. This allows you to take photos without many people in them. The gates usually open very early in the morning.

Download a local map app to help you find your way. The park has many signs but they can be confusing sometimes. Most signs are written in both Chinese and English characters. This helps international travelers navigate the islands with ease.

Keep an eye on the weather forecast before you head out. Heavy rain can make the walking paths a bit slippery. The park is beautiful in the rain but requires an umbrella. Clear days offer the best views of the distant mountains.

Seasonal Highlights for Walkers

Each season brings a new look to the lake area. In spring, the cherry blossoms and tulips are the main attraction. You can also hike Purple Mountain for more spring views. The air is fresh and the temperatures are very comfortable.

Summer is the time for the famous lotus flower festival. Large green leaves and pink flowers cover the lake surface. It is a very traditional Chinese scene that photographers love. The evening breeze from the water helps cool the air.

Autumn brings bright yellow and red leaves to the trees. The ginkgo trees near the city wall are especially beautiful then. This is the best time for long walks without feeling hot. The sky is often very clear and blue during this season.

Winter is quiet and peaceful with fewer tourists in the park. If you are lucky, you might see the lake covered in snow. The ancient architecture looks stunning against a white winter backdrop. Make sure to wear a warm coat for the wind.

No matter when you visit, the lake offers a great experience. It is a central part of life for people living in Nanjing. You will see why it is a top-rated destination in China. Enjoy your time exploring this historic and scenic walking route.