Nanjing Da Bao'en Temple Ruins Scenic Area Travel Guide

The Da Bao'en Temple Ruins are remnants of a Ming Dynasty royal temple, originally built during the Yongle period. It was once famous for its 'Porcelain Tower,' which was considered one of the 'Seven Wonders of the Medieval World.' Today, the scenic area combines site preservation with modern design. The core structure, 'Da Bao'en Tower,' is reconstructed with steel and glass, featuring an elevator that allows visitors to reach the top and overlook the city of Nanjing. At night, a light show recreates the splendor of the Porcelain Tower. Artifacts such as the 'Seven Treasures Pagoda of King Ashoka,' unearthed from the underground palace, are displayed in the site museum, showcasing the essence of Buddhist culture and Ming Dynasty craftsmanship. Tickets and Opening Hours Tickets: Adult ticket 85 RMB/person, student/senior discount ticket 45 RMB/person, night ticket (including light show) 80 RMB/person. Opening hours: Daytime 9:00-17:30, Nighttime 17:30-21:00 (light show starts at 19:00). Must-See Highlights Site Museum: Displays archaeological finds from the thousand-year-old underground palace, replicas of the Buddha's relics, and porcelain components, with multimedia interactions to recreate historical scenes. Da Bao'en Tower Climb: Climb the tower to overlook the Qinhuai River and the Old Gate East district, experiencing the visual impact of the blend of ancient and modern. Night Light Show: Uses 3D projection technology to recreate the grandeur of the Porcelain Tower, with sound and light performances telling Buddhist stories, offering a stunning experience. Cultural Experience: The scenic area offers Hanfu rental and workshops where visitors can participate in traditional cultural activities such as rubbings and incense ceremonies. Transportation and Nearby Attractions Transportation: Take Metro Line 1 to Zhonghua Gate Station, then walk for 10 minutes; or take buses 2, 16, or 63 to 'Da Bao'en Temple Station.' Recommended Nearby Attractions: Adjacent to the 'Confucius Temple Qinhuai Scenic Belt' and 'Old Gate East Historical District,' it is recommended to combine them for a one-day tour to experience the charm of Nanjing, the ancient capital of six dynasties. Notes Some areas of the site are outdoors, so it is recommended to bring sun protection in summer and keep warm in winter. The night show attracts large crowds, so it is advisable to purchase tickets in advance and arrive early to secure the best viewing spots. The Da Bao'en Temple Ruins combine a sense of historical significance with modern art, making it both a cultural pilgrimage site and a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. A thorough visit requires 2-3 hours.