Step through the Lingxing Gate in Nanjing and be transported to imperial China's scholarly past! This ornate stone archway, adorned with exquisite cloud-dragon carvings, was where Ming and Qing dynasty scholars prayed for success in civil exams. The gate's glazed screen wall shimmers magically at night, and locals say rubbing its pillars brings academic luck – don't miss this photogenic centerpiece of Confucius Temple complex!



Everything you need to know about Lingxing Gate
Jinling Hotel is a top choice located just 1.5 km from Lingxing Gate, offering easy access via public transit or a pleasant 20-minute walk. Known for its blend of traditional Chinese architecture and modern luxury, the hotel features elegant rooms with views of Zijin Mountain. Guests can enjoy authentic Huaiyang cuisine at the on-site restaurant and unwind in the serene tea lounge, reflecting Nanjing’s cultural heritage. Ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and historical immersion near this Confucian architectural landmark.
The most efficient route is taking Metro Line 3 to Daxinggong Station, then transferring to Bus No. 6 or 16, alighting at Jiumenshi Stop, and walking 8 minutes to Lingxing Gate. The journey takes about 30 minutes and passes scenic stretches along the Qinhuai River. Alternatively, rent an e-bike from the museum and cycle through Zhonghua Road, passing through the bustling Confucius Temple area—approximately 4 km with a relaxed pace ideal for exploring old Nanjing’s vibrant streetscapes and cultural layers.
Visitors can participate in the traditional Confucian sacrificial rites held during spring and autumn equinoxes, experiencing the solemnity of ancient Chinese ritual culture. Nearby, the Confucius Temple Book Market hosts monthly events featuring rare manuscripts, hand-written couplets, and calligraphy artworks—perfect for culture enthusiasts. For a more immersive experience, join a Qinhuai River night boat tour, gliding past illuminated bridges while listening to traditional Nanyin melodies, evoking the poetic ambiance of the Six Dynasties era. These activities seamlessly blend history, art, and living tradition, offering deep insight into Nanjing’s legacy as a historic capital.
Yes, the Confucius Temple Qinhuai Scenic Belt is perfect for families, combining historic sites, folk performances, and interactive exhibits. Children can explore intangible cultural heritage workshops—learning paper-cutting, tie-dye, and calligraphy—while enjoying shadow puppet shows and face-changing acts. During festivals, the lantern market comes alive with traditional snacks like Mei Hua Gao and salted duck, plus kid-friendly rides. With clear signage, multilingual guides, and safe pathways, it’s an ideal destination for parents and children to experience Nanjing’s rich heritage and vibrant street life together.
Visit between 7:00 and 9:00 AM for fewer crowds and soft morning light, ideal for capturing architectural details and surrounding ancient trees. Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather and enhanced visual appeal. During major festivals like Mid-Autumn or Dragon Boat Festival, themed lantern displays and cultural performances add vibrancy—but expect larger crowds. Avoid peak afternoon hours due to harsh sunlight and long queues. Arriving early ensures a peaceful atmosphere and optimal photo opportunities.
Must-try dishes include chicken broth xiaolongbao—delicate, juicy dumplings with rich savory soup—available at roadside stalls in the Confucius Temple area. Pair them with beef soup, slowly simmered for hours, tender and aromatic, best enjoyed with a fresh baked pancake. Don’t miss osmanthus sugar yam porridge, a sweet, fragrant dessert made with local yams and osmanthus flowers. All are prepared using time-honored recipes, many served by vendors with over 30 years of tradition. Enjoy these flavors along the Qinhuai River promenade in the evening, blending culinary delight with the city’s historic charm.
Recommended is Jinling Hotel, a five-star property located just 1.5 km from Lingxing Gate, offering elegant rooms with views of Xuanwu Lake. The hotel provides complimentary shuttle services to major attractions and features an elevated rooftop bar ideal for panoramic views of Nanjing’s skyline at night, paired with local cuisine.
Another excellent option is Nanjing International Convention Center Hotel, situated within walking distance (10 minutes) of Lingxing Gate and close to Confucius Temple and the Qinhuai River. Inspired by Ming and Qing architectural styles, the hotel boasts a serene courtyard garden perfect for travelers seeking cultural immersion. Nearby, visitors can explore traditional crafts shops and tea houses, enriching their experience of Nanjing’s historical heritage.
From Lingxing Gate, take Line 2 Metro or Bus No. 8 to quickly reach popular sites like Confucius Temple, Zhan Yuan Garden, and Xuanwu Lake. Line 1 stops at "San Shan Jie Station," just a 5-minute walk from Confucius Temple, while "Ming Palace Station" is near Zhan Yuan, reachable in about 15 minutes.
For a leisurely exploration, rent an e-bike from nearby docking stations—ideal for cruising along the Qinhuai River, where illuminated ancient-style boats and lantern-lit bridges create a magical atmosphere. For a more immersive experience, book a traditional rickshaw tour guided by locals who share stories of Nanjing’s Six Dynasties era and Ming Dynasty history. Some platforms also offer wheelchair-accessible tour vans, ensuring inclusive travel for seniors and guests with mobility needs.
Near Lingxing Gate, visitors can join intangible cultural heritage workshops such as paper cutting, seal carving, and Suzhou embroidery, held daily at the Intangible Cultural Heritage Center near Confucius Temple (bookings required). Don’t miss the weekly Qinhuai Lantern Festival performance on Saturdays, featuring dragon dances, lantern processions, and traditional folk opera under glowing lights.
A standout experience is the Imperial Examination Simulation, where guests dress in scholar robes and take a mock civil service exam in a historically recreated examination hall, learning about Ming Dynasty talent selection systems. Some boutique guesthouses also offer morning calligraphy classes, taught by master artisans using Wang Xizhi-style scripts, accompanied by tea tasting—perfect for immersing in classical Chinese aesthetics and philosophy.
See what other travelers say about Lingxing Gate

Staying at Shuiyue Hotel Xuanwu Lake Forestry University was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just a short walk from Nanjing Station, with the subway station right across the street after crossing a crosswalk. I loved how close it was to Xuanwu Lake; morning walks along the lakeside were peaceful and refreshing. The room was cozy and warmly heated, and the hot water came on instantly—no waiting around. Plus, the zoo is super convenient to reach, either by foot or a quick ride. Cleanliness, comfort, and convenience all in one. The staff were friendly, and everything felt thoughtfully designed. This place offers great value and makes exploring Nanjing so much easier. Definitely planning to come back.

The hotel is incredibly convenient, just steps away from the subway entrance—perfect for getting around Nanjing. There are tons of great food options right outside the door, making it easy to grab a delicious meal anytime. The room comes with a microwave, which is super handy if you want to warm up some takeout or leftovers. Plus, it's only a 15-minute walk to Liu Chang Xing at Gulou, one of my favorite spots for crab. I appreciate how clean, quiet, and well-located this place is. For the price, it’s an outstanding value—definitely coming back.

Staying at Deep Sleep Hotel near Nanjing Fuzimiao Metro Station was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a 5-minute walk from Line 3 metro, and only 300 meters to the historic Fuzimiao area. I loved how surrounded by local street food options, making it easy to explore authentic flavors right outside the door. The hotel itself is clean, modern, and well-maintained, with a quiet, comfortable room that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay. What really stood out was the incredible value—excellent quality for the price. If you're visiting Nanjing and want a convenient, cozy base with great access to attractions and eats, this place is a must-book. I’ll definitely be returning.

The room was spotlessly clean and thoughtfully arranged, making it a truly relaxing stay. The location is perfect—just steps away from Laomen East and the Qinhuai River scenic area, yet surprisingly quiet and peaceful despite being in a bustling district. I loved how easy it was to get around using public transit. The hostess was absolutely wonderful—warm, welcoming, and genuinely attentive. During the holiday, she even opened a bottle of wine for us and personally guided us to a nearby night market, sharing great local food tips along the way. Her hospitality made the whole experience unforgettable. This place offers incredible value and charm—highly recommend for anyone visiting Nanjing!

I had to book this hotel last minute due to a sudden change in plans, arriving late at 11:30 PM. The front desk staff was incredibly helpful—she even printed my documents for me. When the hotel’s printer ran out of ink, she didn’t just leave it at that; she checked when the nearby print shop opened the next day and called me personally to share the info. That level of care is rare! The hotel is just a short 10-minute walk from the subway station, making it super convenient for exploring Nanjing’s city center. My room was spotless, comfortable, and modern—especially loved the robot delivery service for food and snacks. It added a fun, futuristic touch to the stay. Overall, an excellent experience from start to finish. I’d definitely recommend this place and will be back.

We stayed in Nanjing for five nights, and after two less-than-satisfying days elsewhere, we switched to this hotel for the last three—and it was a perfect upgrade. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, the room was spotlessly clean, and all amenities were modern and well-maintained. One small but thoughtful touch: there’s a display on the TV showing how many washing machines are available at any time, so you don’t waste time walking down only to find them all in use. That little detail made laundry day stress-free. The location is fantastic—right next to Liu Chang Xing for great local food, and just a short walk from key attractions like the Presidential Palace, Six Dynasties Museum, Piliu Temple, and the Comfort Station Exhibition Hall. We didn’t get a chance to visit the Memorial Hall of the Victims of the Nanjing Massacre this time, but I’m already planning a return trip—definitely coming back here. Oh, and while booking through the platform, it mentioned complimentary late-night porridge. We didn’t ask for it, so we missed out—but if you’re staying here, don’t forget to request it! It’s a nice surprise worth taking advantage of.

Staying at Guoxin Hotel in Nanjing was an absolute delight. Located just steps away from deji Plaza, with the metro station conveniently underground right next to it, getting around to major attractions like Daxinggong, Confucius Temple, and the Presidential Palace was incredibly easy. The hotel has been recently renovated—everything feels fresh, clean, and comfortable. The room featured a smart toilet and a heated towel rail, which added a nice touch of modern convenience. I booked through a platform, and upon arrival, the front desk staff had already turned on the heating because of the sudden cold snap. They even noticed we came from the south and deliberately gave us a south-facing room with morning sunlight—such thoughtful attention to detail. There was a welcome drink in the mini-fridge, and since we were visiting Nanjing for tourism, they provided a helpful guide with tips on reaching key sights. Late at night, when our bottled water ran out, I called the front desk and within minutes, a robot delivered a new one right to our door—super efficient! Even more touching: when the staff spotted my birthday date on my ID, they surprised me with a small gift. From the front desk to housekeeping, everyone was warm, friendly, and genuinely attentive. Across the street, there are plenty of dining options—our breakfast was at Lao Hun Dun, where we enjoyed authentic Nanjing wontons and crispy little pancakes that were delicious. This stay exceeded expectations. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to friends and family visiting Nanjing—it’s not just convenient, it’s full of heart and excellent service.

This stay at Homeinn Plus Hotel exceeded all my expectations—definitely a five-star experience! The location is incredibly convenient; just a short walk to the metro station, making it easy to explore the city. There are plenty of convenience stores and restaurants nearby, so finding food or essentials is effortless. While the room isn’t huge, it’s well-designed with a clean, bright layout. The bedding was soft and comfortable, and I slept like a baby—no waking up in the middle of the night. The bathroom features a smart dry-wet separation, no unpleasant odors, and excellent water pressure with consistent hot water supply. Front desk staff were friendly, efficient, and even took time to recommend local attractions—great for first-time visitors. Free Wi-Fi was fast and reliable, perfect for work or streaming. The self-service laundry area is spotless and very practical for longer stays. Overall, the value for money is outstanding—no hidden fees, no surprises, just thoughtful touches throughout. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, this hotel hits all the right notes. I’ve already recommended it to friends and will definitely be coming back if I visit Nanjing again.

This hidden gem is a must-stay for young travelers! Located right in the heart of Xinjiekou, the property sits directly above a vibrant street food alley and bustling shopping district—many spots stay open until late night, making it perfect for those who love an energetic nightlife. The room itself is stylish and Instagram-worthy, with a fantastic projector that makes movie nights absolutely enjoyable. Everything is brand new and smartly equipped, from the modern fixtures to the super-fast Wi-Fi that never lags. Cleanliness is top-notch, and check-in was smooth and hassle-free. Special shoutout to our host Xiao Jiang—so friendly and helpful! They even offered free luggage storage, which made our trip much more convenient. Getting to attractions like Zhongshan Mausoleum and Xuanwu Lake is a breeze thanks to excellent transport links nearby. I’ve already recommended this place to friends—it’s truly one of the best values in Nanjing!

Staying at this Lavande Hotel was an absolutely delightful experience from start to finish. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the subway station and surrounded by shopping areas and restaurants, making it super convenient whether you're out for dinner, doing some retail therapy, or just rushing to catch a train. The room matched the photos online exactly—no misleading images here—and was actually more spacious than expected. I could easily unpack my bags and move around without feeling cramped. What stood out most was how quiet it was; once the doors and windows were closed, outside noise disappeared completely, leading to some of the best sleep I’ve had on the trip. Everything was spotlessly clean—the bedding felt fresh, the bathroom was bright and tidy, and all the amenities were present and working perfectly: hairdryer, mini-fridge, plenty of power outlets—everything you’d need, right where you expect it. The front desk staff, especially Xiao Lin, was incredibly friendly and efficient during check-in, answering every question with care and warmth. Even better, they handed me a parking voucher upon checkout—a small but thoughtful touch that saved me a little money. Overall, this stay was everything I hoped for: comfortable, convenient, and well-priced. If I’m ever back in Nanjing’s Kazimen area, I’ll definitely book here again.

Staying at Floral Hotel·Nanjing Yingguitu Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight. The property is beautifully designed with a serene atmosphere—clean, quiet, and very comfortable. I slept like a baby, thanks to the peaceful environment in the evening. It's incredibly convenient, just a short walk from Old Gate East and other nearby attractions—perfect for exploring the historic district without hassle. The breakfast was excellent: fresh, abundant, and full of local flavors. Even better, the staff went above and beyond by upgrading my room at no extra cost—such a nice surprise! The hospitality truly made the experience special. If you're visiting Nanjing, this boutique stay is a must-book. Highly recommend!

Located in a super convenient spot, just a short walk from Nanjing Museum and the Military Hospital—perfect for both sightseeing and medical visits. The hotel is spotlessly clean, and the housekeeping staff were incredibly helpful and patient, even when I asked for extra assistance multiple times. They never seemed bothered—just genuinely kind and attentive. The bedding was crisp and fresh, and while the towels weren’t brand new, they looked thoroughly washed and smelled clean. The mattress was amazing—comfortable enough to fall asleep quickly, which is rare for me since I usually struggle to wind down. The room’s TV was large and worked well with PPTV, though you need to watch ads without a subscription (a small downside, but totally acceptable). During colder weather, the water heater delivered hot water fast, and the heating system kept the room cozy and warm—exactly what I needed. I originally chose this place because of the great value, but ended up loving the overall experience: quiet, private, and respectful of personal space. There’s minimal disturbance—only a polite call during check-in extension. The front desk team, especially Yan Yan and Yao Yao, were absolutely outstanding. I kept asking for help with hot water and other small requests, and they responded with genuine warmth and efficiency. Their kindness made the stay feel special. Overall, this feels like discovering a hidden gem. If you're looking for a peaceful, no-fuss night's sleep with excellent service and comfort, this is a top pick. I’ll definitely be back.
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