Best Hiking Areas in Nanjing, China

Nanjing, the capital city of Jiangsu Province and a historic city, is not only rich in cultural heritage but also offers beautiful natural scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking areas you should explore when visiting Nanjing:

1. Mochi Mountain (墨池山)

Located in Xiaoling District, Mochi Mountain is a popular hiking destination with various trails of different difficulty levels. The highest peak, Longevity Peak (长寿峰), offers stunning views of the city and Qinhuai River. Don’t forget to visit the Mochi Mountain National Forest Park (墨池山国家森林公园) for a more immersive experience in nature.

2. Purple Mountain (纯阳山)

Purple Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is named after the lavender-colored rocks that cover its slopes. The mountain has numerous hiking trails with varying lengths and difficulty levels. Some popular destinations include Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (孙中山陵), Xuanwu Temple (玄武寺), and Fubo Hill (福波岭).

3. Qixia Mountain (七峡山)

Qixia Mountain, located in Qixia District, offers a challenging hike with beautiful views of the surrounding areas. The mountain’s highest peak, Huanglong Peak (黄龙峰), stands at 406 meters above sea level and offers stunning vistas of Nanjing. Additionally, there are several temples along the way, such as Qixia Temple (七峡寺) and Xuanwu Temple (玄武寺).

4. Xianlin Campus (咸林校园)

Although not a traditional hiking spot, Xianlin Campus of Nanjing University is worth exploring if you’re looking for a peaceful stroll in nature. The campus has several beautiful trails and scenic spots, including the Lake of Thousand Islands (千岛湖), which offers picturesque views and tranquil surroundings.

5. Liuhe Pond Scenic Area (六合池景区)

Liuhe Pond is a large freshwater lake located in Xuanwu District, offering several hiking trails around its perimeter. The area is rich in biodiversity and features several scenic spots such as the ancient city walls, Liuhe Bridge (六合桥), and Qixia Temple (七峡寺). This area is perfect for a leisurely hike and birdwatching.

Enjoy your hiking adventures in Nanjing! 🏞️🌲🐾