Overview
Key takeaway
Tomb of the first Ming emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang. UNESCO site. The Sacred Way with stone animal statues is iconic.
Time & cost
Plan 2–3 hours. Budget: $10. Hours: 06:30–18:30.
Best for
Best for first-time Nanjing visitors who want a clear 2–3 hours stop without guesswork.
Practical
Price$10
Duration2–3 hours
Hours06:30–18:30
Getting thereMetro Line 2 to Muxuyuan
Tips
On site
The Sacred Way (石象路) is most beautiful in late November with golden ginkgo leaves.
Timing
Arrive early for photos.
Timing
Leave with hours in mind (06:30–18:30). Weekends and holidays need extra queue time.
Pay
Nearby stalls usually take Alipay or WeChat. Foreign-card terminals are rare — set up Alipay before you go.
Show this
Show the Chinese name “明孝陵” to drivers and staff. It beats a long English explanation.
Location & how to go
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Nanjing
MetroMetro Line 2 to Muxuyuan
BusCity buses serve the area, but routes change. Use Amap/Baidu for the live stop and last bus near Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum.
Taxi / DidiDidi or a licensed taxi is the simplest door-to-door. Set destination to “明孝陵” and pay in-app with Alipay/WeChat.
