The Nanjing City Wall
The world's longest, largest, and best-preserved ancient city wall, built during the Ming Dynasty over 600 years ago.
About The Nanjing City Wall
The Nanjing City Wall is one of the most impressive fortifications in the world. Built between 1366 and 1386 during the early Ming Dynasty, it was designed by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang to protect his new capital. At 35.3 kilometers in length, it is the longest, largest, and best-preserved ancient city wall in the world.
The wall originally had 13 gates, of which 4 remain well-preserved today: Jubao Gate (Zhonghua Gate), Shicheng Gate, Shence Gate, and Qingliang Gate. The wall averages 12 meters high and is built from over 350 million bricks, many of which still bear the names of their makers - an early form of quality control.
Zhonghua Gate (Gate of China) is the most magnificent section, featuring a complex fortress with 4 arched gates, 27 defensive vaults, and the capacity to house 3,000 soldiers. The gate's design incorporates trap mechanisms and multiple layers of defense.
Walking along the wall offers unique perspectives of both ancient and modern Nanjing. The Xuanwu Lake section provides beautiful lake views, while the Taicheng section near Jiming Temple offers a stunning contrast between the ancient wall and the modern city skyline.
The Honest Truth
The City Wall is genuinely cool, but here is the thing: you cannot walk the entire 35km. The accessible sections are scattered and each requires a separate ticket. Zhonghua Gate is the most impressive but also the most expensive. The Taicheng section near Jiming Temple is my favorite for photos — the contrast of ancient wall against modern skyscrapers is stunning.
The Downsides (Nobody Talks About)
- Each section requires a separate ticket — there is no single pass for the whole wall
- Zhonghua Gate ticket is pricey (~50 RMB / $7) for what you get
- The wall surface is uneven brick — easy to trip if you are not careful
- Not much shade on the wall — brutal in summer midday sun
- Some sections feel neglected with trash and overgrown vegetation
Yes, but choose one section and do it well. Zhonghua Gate for history buffs, Taicheng for photographers, Xuanwu Lake for a leisurely stroll. Do not try to do multiple sections in one day.
Highlights
- Zhonghua Gate - The largest and most complex castle-style gate in China
- Xuanwu Lake section - Scenic views over the lake and city
- Taicheng section - Picturesque wall segment near Jiming Temple
- Ancient brick inscriptions - Names of Ming Dynasty brick makers
- Museum of the City Wall - Learn about the wall's construction and history
Practical Information
Best Time
Sunset for the most dramatic lighting and views. Spring and autumn for comfortable walking weather.
Location
Multiple access points including Zhonghua Gate, Xuanwu Lake, and Jiming Temple
How to Get There
Metro Line 1 to Zhonghua Gate Station for Zhonghua Gate. Metro Line 3 to Jiming Temple Station for Taicheng section. Metro Line 1 to Xuanwu Gate Station for the lake section.
Recommended Duration
1-3 hours depending on section
Visitor Tips
- Zhonghua Gate is the most impressive section and worth the entrance fee
- The wall is best explored by bicycle - rentals available at some gates
- Evening visits offer beautiful sunset views over the city
- Wear comfortable shoes - the brick surface is uneven in places
- Each section requires separate tickets unless you have a combined pass