Yuejiang Tower (阅江楼, Yangtze River Viewing Tower), located atop Lion Mountain on the southern bank of the Yangtze River in Nanjing, is a magnificent seven-story structure rising 52 meters high. Its design closely emulates the architectural style of the Ming Dynasty, characterized by striking red pillars and a glistening golden glazed-tile roof that catches the eye from afar. Ascending the Yuejiang Tower, one is greeted with a panoramic view of the vast and awe-inspiring landscapes along the Yangtze River, a sight that truly invigorates the soul.
The origin of Yuejiang Tower can be traced back over 600 years ago to the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Yuanzhang. Before ascending the throne, Zhu Yuanzhang, while stationed at Lulong Moutain, led tens of thousands of soldiers to defeat the formidable enemy, Chen Youliang, who had an army of 400,000. This victory laid the foundation for his establishment of the Ming Dynasty. After becoming emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang renamed Lulong Mountain to Lion Mountain and decreed the construction of Yuejiang Tower. He even personally authored “Yuejianglouji” (Record of the Yuejiang Tower), elucidating the reasons, functions, and architectural style of the tower. Construction began based on Zhu Yuanzhang’s vision, and the foundation was laid. However, due to low productivity, economic constraints, and consecutive years of warfare, among other factors, the tower remained incomplete. It wasn’t until February 1999 that the construction resumed, and it was officially completed in September 2001.
Yuejiang Tower, along with Huanghelou (Yellow Crane Tower) in Wuhan, Tengwangge in Nanchang, and Yueyanglou in Hunan, is collectively known as the Four Famous Towers of Southern China.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Yuejiang Tower
- Vlog about Yuejiang Tower
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Attractions near Yuejiang Tower
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 40 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 17.30; Last admission: 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-025-58590298 |
Location and Transportation
The Yuejiang Tower is situated in Nanjing, a vibrant city located in the eastern part of China. It stands majestically on the banks of the mighty Yangtze River, the longest river in Asia and the third-longest in the world. Its exact address is No. 202, Jianning Road, Gulou District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China. To get there, you can choose the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 10, 12, 21, 54, or 550, get off at Xingzhong Gate Stop (兴中门站), and walk about 300 meters to the west to reach the attraction.
Metro: Unfortunately, there is currently no metro station near the Yuejiang Tower.
Highlights of Yuejiang Tower
Architectural Marvel
Yuejiang Tower’s overall layout forms an “L” shape, with the main wing facing north and the secondary wing facing west. Both wings offer splendid views of the Yangtze River. The main tower, located at the intersection of the two wings, reaches a height of 52 meters. Externally, it appears to have four stories, but it actually contains seven levels in total, with a total building area of approximately 5,000 square meters. The roofs of Yuejiang Tower exhibit a distinctive design, with zigzagging ridges, varying heights, and an array of colorful glazed tiles, including golden and green ones, giving it a resplendent and classical royal ambiance.
Spectacular Views
Ascending to the top of the Yuejiang Tower in Nanjing unveils a mesmerizing world of spectacular views. From this vantage point, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panorama that stretches as far as the eye can see. The tower’s strategic location along the Yangtze River offers commanding vistas of the majestic waterway and its winding course. The cityscape of Nanjing unfolds before your eyes, showcasing a blend of modern architecture and historical landmarks. The awe-inspiring views from the Yuejiang Tower provide a sense of serenity and wonder, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the surrounding landscapes.
Exhibits in Yuejiang Tower
The first floor of Yuejiang Tower primarily features the “Zhu Yuanzhang Dragon Throne,” which is placed in front of a golden inscribed plaque. Additionally, the east wall displays an inscribed plaque by Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty bearing the words “治隆唐宋” (Prosperours Tang and Song Dynasties).
The second floor of Yuejiang Tower is dedicated to a comprehensive display of portraits of emperors from the Ming Dynasty during the time of Zheng He’s voyages to the West. It also showcases Ming Dynasty maps, renowned calligraphy and paintings, scientific and technological achievements, and more, providing insights into China’s advanced scientific and cultural accomplishments during Zheng He’s voyages.
Porcelain Mural
On the third floor of Yuejiang Tower, visitors can marvel at a gigantic porcelain mural titled “Zheng He’s Voyages to the West.” This mural measures an impressive 12.8 meters in height and 8 meters in width, making it the largest Jingdezhen porcelain mural in China. It depicts the history of Zheng He’s seven voyages to the West from 1405 to 1433. The mural is divided into 12 sections, each detailing various aspects of Zheng He’s expeditions, including the construction of treasure ships, scientific navigation, maritime conquest, peaceful diplomacy, friendly neighboring relations, the dissemination of Chinese civilization, equal trade, cultural exchanges, and more.
Vlog about Yuejiang Tower
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Parking at East Gate:
- The parking at the east gate of Yuejiang Tower is relatively ample, making it suitable for visitors arriving by car.
Accessibility at South Gate:
- The south gate of Yuejiang Tower has an elevator that can take visitors directly to the top of the tower, making it convenient for those with limited physical abilities.
- Additionally, there is an elevator for ascending the hill, but it comes with an extra charge of 10 yuan per person.
Photography Recommendations:
- Capture the grandeur of the architecture in front of the main building of Yuejiang Tower for impressive photos.
- The stone steps leading to the main building provide a picturesque setting for photography.
- Inside the tower, the giant ceramic painting depicting Zheng He’s voyages is awe-inspiring.
- Standing on the seventh floor, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Jinling City!
