Hotels with Lakeside Residence Near Xiaoxihu

Recommended stay at Nanjing Jinling Hotel, a five-star hotel offering premium service and comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding gardens. Located just a 10-minute walk from Xiaoxi Lake, it provides easy access to scenic spots and nearby traditional restaurants. The hotel features an indoor pool, Chinese restaurant, and spacious meeting rooms—ideal for both leisure and business travelers.

Xiaoxi Lake is a well-preserved Qing-era garden, blending natural landscapes with classical architecture. Its tranquil pond, winding bridges, and ancient pavilions make it perfect for morning strolls or evening photography. Nearby attractions like the Confucius Temple and Old Men Dong offer rich cultural experiences, creating a seamless day trip combining history, nature, and local cuisine.

From central Nanjing, take Line 3 of the Metro to "Daxingong Station", then transfer to bus No. 20 or No. 44, getting off at "Xiaoxi Lake Stop"—a journey of about 30 minutes. Alternatively, use shared bicycles or walk along Zhongshan South Road (approx. 1.5 km). For convenience, hail a taxi—around 15 minutes, costing roughly ¥25.

Xiaoxi Lake is surrounded by ample parking, though peak seasons may see congestion. The site is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, free of charge. Combine your visit with nearby landmarks such as the Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River Night Cruise for a full immersion in Nanjing’s historical charm.

At Xiaoxi Lake, visitors can enjoy traditional tea ceremonies and Jiangnan silk bamboo music performances, often held on weekends or during festivals in lakeside pavilions. The park also hosts calligraphy workshops and fan painting sessions, allowing guests to create personalized souvenirs inspired by Nanjing’s heritage.

The garden preserves original Qing Dynasty layouts, with notable structures like the "Listening to Rain Pavilion" and "Moon-Intoxicated Terrace." Guided walking tours highlight design principles such as jiejing (borrowed scenery) and duijing (view alignment), reflecting classical Chinese landscape philosophy. Photography enthusiasts love capturing misty mornings or golden hour reflections on the still waters.

Xiaoxi Lake itself is ideal for families, featuring safe walking paths, a children’s water play area, and shaded rest zones. Nearby, the Confucius Temple Scenic Street offers interactive fun: intangible cultural heritage workshops, folk acrobatics, and local snack stalls. Old Men Dong Historic District includes a children’s playground and science exhibition hall suitable for all ages.

Multiple bus lines and subway access ensure smooth travel. On-site facilities include benches, restrooms, and rental umbrellas or wheelchairs. Plan to visit Xiaoxi Lake in the morning, then head to Confucius Temple for dinner, followed by a night cruise on the Qinhuai River—perfect for a relaxed, enriching family itinerary.

Xiaoxi Lake shines in every season: spring brings blossoming cherry and peach trees, creating a pink-hued canopy above the lake; summer features lotus ponds with lush green leaves and delicate pink blooms, ideal for peaceful walks. Autumn sees maple trees turning gold and crimson, enhancing the historic pavilions with warm hues. Winter, though quiet, reveals a serene beauty—snow-dusted rocks and frozen ripples evoke a classic ink painting.

Seasonal events include the Spring Blossom Festival, Night Lotus Tour, Photography Contest, and Winter Tea Gathering. Each offers unique ways to experience the garden’s changing moods. Early morning visits yield stunning reflections, while sunset views provide poetic backdrops for photos.

Originally built in the 18th century as the rear garden of the Jiangning Prefecture Office, Xiaoxi Lake was a retreat for officials and scholars during the Qing Dynasty. It features authentic architectural elements such as brick-carved gates, Suzhou-style roofs, and stone pathways. After decades of decline due to war, it was restored in the early 20th century by local gentry and later designated a provincial cultural heritage site.

The garden reflects classical Chinese landscaping principles—using mirrors (the lake) to reflect buildings and create depth. Today, interpretive signs explain its history and design philosophy. Its layout exemplifies the concept of "though made by man, it seems natural," making it a living example of traditional Chinese garden artistry.