Xuanwu Lake Park

Xuanwu Lake Park lies in Xuanwu District at the northern edge of Nanjing's old city centre, in Jiangsu province, China. The lake covers roughly 3.7 square kilometres and is enclosed by the Ming city wall on one side and the slopes of Purple Mountain in the distance. It has served as a royal garden and naval training ground in its long history, and today it is one of the largest urban lakes in the country. The park is made up of five islands, Huanzhou, Yingzhou, Liangzhou, Lingzhou and Cuizhou, connected by causeways and bridges, and visitors can walk or cycle the lake perimeter of about ten kilometres. Paths pass willow-lined banks, lotus ponds, pavilions, rose and plum gardens and sections of the Ming wall, which can be climbed for lake and skyline views. Small boats and ferries cross the water, with prices roughly ¥30 to ¥80 for boat rides and island attractions. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer mornings offer lotus blooms, and sunset produces a skyline view of the city towers across the water. A typical visit lasts two to three hours, and a full circuit on foot takes closer to three to four. The park is free to enter, opening from about 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with island areas closing earlier in winter. Weekends and holidays draw families, and early mornings are used by locals for tai chi, jogging and singing, adding local colour. The best vantage points are the wall near Jiming Temple and the eastern shore, which gives a view back to Zifeng Tower. Entrances at Xuanwu Gate and Jiefang Gate are accessible from Xuanwumen Station on Metro Line 1. Cycling rentals are available near the entrances, and food and drink kiosks are scattered around the islands.