Timeline
06:06
Arrive at the West Gate of Pearl Spring Scenic Area. The main area opens at 08:00, but you can enter the grounds earlier to find a quiet spot with a view of the horizon. Use the bus D58 from the Gate of China or Bus 694 from outside Liuzhou East Road Station on Metro Line 3.
07:06
Watch the sunrise. On 15 January, the sun rises at 07:06, setting toward the WSW. In spring and summer, the sun rises earlier (05:37 in April, 05:09 in July), offering more time to explore before the heat sets in. The golden light begins around 16:46 in winter and 18:37 in summer, but for this sunrise plan, focus on the early morning clarity.
08:36
Enjoy the morning atmosphere inside the scenic area. The wildlife park opens at 08:00, and the Ice World opens at 09:00. If you are visiting in winter (January), the Ice World is open until 16:30. In summer, the Water World is open until 18:00. Take your time walking the paths and seeing the replica Great Wall section.
09:06
End your morning with a break. Since there are no specific food and drink shops listed in the immediate context for purchase outside the scenic area, check the route for nearby options or utilize the accommodation facilities on site if available. The general admission is ¥40, with additional costs for the wildlife park (¥60), Ice World (¥60), Water World (¥100), or cable car rides (¥80-¥100).
Local tip
The scenic area is large. Wear comfortable shoes. The bus rides can be crowded in the morning, so allow extra time for transit.
Check before you go
- Check the bus schedules for D58 and 694 in advance.
- Opening hours vary by season: Main area 08:00-17:00, Wildlife Park 08:00-16:00, Water World 10:00-18:00, Ice World 09:00-16:30.
- Prices are subject to change. General admission is ¥40.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Nanjing (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).