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A Visitor's Guide to Nanjing's Yuhuatai Scenic Area

Nestled just south of the historic Zhonghua Gate in Nanjing, the Yuhuatai Scenic Area is a place of profound historical significance and serene natural beauty. Comprising three picturesque, pine and cypress-clad hills, this site is renowned as one of Nanjing's premier "red tourism" destinations, commemorating revolutionary martyrs, while also serving as a cherished cultural and recreational hub for both visitors and locals alike. The expansive grounds are thoughtfully divided into six distinct zones: the Martyrs' Cemetery Area, the Historical Sites Area, the Yuhua Stone Culture Area, the Yuhua Tea Culture Area, the Recreational Activities Area, and the Ecological Forest Area. This structure allows visitors to seamlessly journey from solemn remembrance to cultural appreciation and peaceful relaxation.

Historical Significance and Memorial Grounds

  • The Heart of Remembrance: The Martyrs' Cemetery The area's most solemn and impactful section is dedicated to the memory of revolutionary martyrs. During the pre-1949 revolutionary struggles, Yuhuatai was the site of a Kuomintang execution ground, where countless communists and patriots sacrificed their lives. Today, the towering Martyrs' Monument stands as a silent, powerful tribute to their courage and ideals.

  • Preserving Memory: The Memorial and Exhibition Halls Adjacent to the monument, the Revolutionary Martyrs' Memorial Hall and the Martyrs' Deeds Exhibition Hall offer a deeply moving historical narrative. Their exhibits go beyond standard historical accounts, presenting poignant personal artifacts such as faded photographs, handwritten letters, well-worn clothing, and simple writing tools used by the revolutionaries. These items provide an intimate, humanizing connection to the individuals behind the history, making their stories and sacrifices vividly tangible.

Cultural Heritage and Natural Beauty

  • The Legacy of the Yuhua Stone The scenic area derives its name, "Yuhuatai" (Terrace of the Raining Flowers), from a beautiful legend. It is said that during the Southern Dynasties, a revered monk preached sermons so moving that flowers rained from the heavens, which then turned into colorful, patterned pebbles. This is the origin of the famous Yuhua Stones. The Yuhua Stone Culture Area celebrates these unique, naturally patterned stones, which are considered local treasures and artistic collectibles. The annual Yuhua Stone Art Festival in September is a vibrant event showcasing stunning stone collections and carvings.

  • A Tapestry of Flora and Tea Yuhuatai is a haven for plant enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape. The Yuhua Tea Culture Area highlights another of Nanjing's famous products—Yuhua tea, a distinctive green tea. The area is also celebrated for its blossoming trees. From March to June, a large-scale Azalea Exhibition paints the hillsides in brilliant hues. Furthermore, the park is an excellent spot for admiring the delicate blossoms of plum trees in late winter and the elegant magnolias in spring, offering a constantly changing floral panorama throughout the seasons.

  • Ancient Sites and Expansive Greenery Scattered throughout the Historical Sites Area are remnants of ancient steles, temples, and inscriptions, whispering tales from Nanjing's long past. Beyond the specific gardens, the entire landscape is lush and verdant, with the Ecological Forest Area providing dense woodlands perfect for quiet walks. This combination makes Yuhuatai not just a tourist destination but a vital green lung and leisure space for Nanjing residents, who frequent the paths for exercise, family outings, and peaceful contemplation.

Visitor Information

  • Getting There Yuhuatai is easily accessible by Nanjing's efficient public transport system.

    • By Metro: Take Metro Line 1 to Zhonghua Men Station. Use Exit 3 and walk approximately 500 meters east to reach the scenic area.
    • By Bus: Multiple bus routes serve the north and south gates. For the North Gate, take bus 26, 304, 717, or 764 to the Yuhuatai North Gate stop. For the South Gate, take bus 168, 202, 702, or 717 to the Yuhuatai South Gate stop.

  • Admission and Hours

    • Admission: Entry to the main Yuhuatai Scenic Area is free of charge. Please note that some smaller individual attractions or exhibitions inside the park may have separate entrance fees. It is advisable to check the on-site notices for the latest details.
    • Opening Hours: The general operating hours for the park are from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, daily. Last admission is typically at 11:29 AM. However, as these hours are subject to change, verifying the current schedule before your visit is recommended.

  • Suggested Duration A comprehensive visit to explore the memorials, cultural areas, and gardens typically requires 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and interests.

  • Contact For specific inquiries, you can contact the scenic area at: +86 25 6878 3033.

Information last updated: July 2023. Credit to contributors: Tian Gao Yun Dan, Miss Qu.