Purple Mountain Observatory
紫金山天文台
China's first modern observatory. Its summit retains old astronomical instruments from the Republican era and overlooks Xuanwu Lake and the city.
Completed in 1934, Purple Mountain Observatory is hailed as the 'cradle of modern astronomy in China.' The original site on the Third Peak is now a science education park, displaying replicas and original ancient instruments, including Ming-dynasty armillary spheres and simplified armillary spheres. The stone-built domes have a distinctly Republican-era character, and the terrace offers views over Xuanwu Lake and the city skyline. Admission is about CNY 15. You can take the Purple Mountain cable car or walk up. Driving up Observatory Road requires a reservation. Nearby Toutuo Ridge is the highest viewpoint on Purple Mountain.
Opening hours
09:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
- Nanjing Botanical Garden Mem. Sun Yat-sen
- Purple Mountain (Zhongshan)
- Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum
- Meiling Palace
- Music Stage of Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum
- Nanjing Museum
- Ming Palace Ruins