Purple Mountain (Nanjing)

Purple Mountain, locally known as Zijin Shan, is a prominent hill east of central Nanjing in Jiangsu province noted for its historical tombs, memorials and scientific institutions.

Major cultural sites on the mountain include the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, both significant heritage monuments, alongside the Purple Mountain Observatory and several parks and gardens. Trails and paved routes connect these attractions across the ridge and forested slopes.

Ming Xiaoling was constructed in the late 14th century as the burial complex of the founding Ming emperor, while the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum was built in the early 20th century and completed in 1929 as a modern memorial. The mountain has been a focus for both imperial and republican commemorations and for scientific activity since the 20th century.

Purple Mountain sits on the eastern edge of Nanjing city, within Jiangsu province, rising above the urban area and forming a green belt of forested slopes and cultural sites.

• Elevation: The mountain's highest point is about 448 metres above sea level and offers panoramic views over eastern Nanjing and the Yangtze floodplain.

What to See #

• Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum: The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum complex on the mountain includes a long ceremonial stairway, memorial hall and terraces completed in 1929 and built to commemorate Dr Sun Yat-sen.
• Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum: The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum is the tomb of the Hongwu Emperor of the Ming dynasty, its tomb complex and spirit way date from the late 14th century and are major heritage features on the mountain.
• Observatory and other sites: Purple Mountain Observatory and several botanical and cultural sites are located on the ridges, forming part of the mountain's scientific and recreational facilities.