Mochou Lake

Mochou Lake (Mochou Hu) is a beautiful urban park centered around a historic lake in Jianye District. The lake is named after Mochou, a legendary beauty from the Liang Dynasty (6th century) whose tragic love story has been celebrated in Chinese poetry and opera for over 1,500 years.

According to legend, Mochou was a beautiful and talented woman who was forced to marry against her will. Her sorrow was so deep that she became known as 'Mochou' (No Sorrow) in an ironic twist. The lake and park are said to be where she spent her final days.

The park covers 58 hectares, with the lake occupying most of the area. It features traditional Chinese garden design with pavilions, bridges, rockeries, and willow-lined shores. The main attractions include the Shengqi Tower, Yujin Hall, and various memorials to the legendary Mochou.

The park is particularly popular with locals for morning exercises, tai chi, and ballroom dancing. In summer, the lotus flowers bloom in profusion, creating a spectacular display. The park's more relaxed atmosphere compared to Xuanwu Lake makes it a favorite among Nanjing residents seeking tranquility.