Niushou Mountain

Address No. 18 Ningdan Avenue, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu
Hours 08:30–17:30 (No entry after 16:30)
Phone +86 400 165 1266
Announcement: Modern Architectural Marvel
Entrance ¥160
Hours 08:30–17:30 (No en...
Best Season Spring and Autumn for the outdoor gardens, though the spectacular indoor palace is great year-round.
Time needed 4–6 hours
Last visit: May 29, 2026
Author: Yan Zhou
Reviewer: Zhihao Wang

Niushou Mountain Overview

A breathtaking modern Buddhist cultural park featuring the awe-inspiring Usnisa Palace, built into a former mining pit, which houses sacred Buddhist relics.

Niushou Mountain Opening Hours & Tickets

  • 08:30–17:30 (No entry after 16:30)
  • Best season: Spring and Autumn for the outdoor gardens, though the spectacular indoor palace is great year-round.
  • Ticket note: Standard adult ticket is around 160 CNY. Internal shuttle bus tickets are purcha...

Essential Niushou Mountain Visitor Information

  • Enquiries: +86 400 165 1266
  • Shuttle buses
  • Escalators inside the palace
  • Vegetarian restaurants
  • Modern restrooms
  • Lockers

How to Get to Niushou Mountain

Metro Line 1 to Tianyuan West Road, then transfer to bus 712 or G70, or simply take a taxi from Nanjing South Railway Station.

Niushou Mountain Travel Safety & Advice

First aid stations are located within the Usnisa Palace and the main visitor center.

Practical Info

  • No. 18 Ningdan Avenue, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu
  • 08:30–17:30 (No entry after 16:30)
  • +86 400 165 1266
Yan Zhou
Yan Zhou
Certified National Tour Guide
Yan Zhou, a Suzhou-based Certified National Tour Guide, specializes in East China itineraries covering the Suzhou classical garden deep dive, ancient water town luxury experience, and Suzhou silk heritage workshop.

We keep this guide current.

Ratings

★★★★☆ 4.2 (5 reviews)

On-site notes & editorial review

Tickets

  • Standard adult ticket is around 160 CNY. Internal shuttle bus tickets are purcha...

Online booking may be required

Tips

Dress code applies for the Buddhist sites (no sleeveless shirts or ultra-short skirts). Photography is allowed but be respectful.

Reality Check

  • High entrance fee
  • Located far from the city center
  • Massive scale requires a lot of walking or paying for shuttle buses
Where to Stay Near Niushou Mountain: Top Areas & Hotels for Easy Access

Where to Stay Near Niushou Mountain: Top Areas & Hotels for Easy Access

Fang Wang 2026-05-31

Struggling to decide where to stay for your Niushou Mountain trip? Get insider tips from a local guide on the best accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget hotels, with practical advice on transportation and itinerary planning to make your visit seamless.

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Recent Reviews

4.2 ★★★★☆ (5)
Wanderlust_P May 28, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

What a lovely surprise! I only stopped by because my friend dragged me, but Niushou Mountain turned out to be so charming. The little stream along the lower trail, the wildflowers in spring, and the quiet meditation area near the top—all felt incredibly serene. Perfect for a solo recharge. Will definitely come back.

Trekker_Aman May 28, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Mixed feelings. The mountain itself has some nice rock formations and greenery, but the visitor center is chaotic and the restrooms were dirty. I also found the trail markers confusing in a few spots. It's decent if you just want fresh air, but I wouldn't plan a special trip just for this. Three stars seems fair.

JL_Explorer May 28, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Went with my family on a Saturday morning. The cable car was a big hit with the kids—smooth ride and the views over the forest are breathtaking. Up top, we had a lovely picnic near the pagoda. The staff were friendly and helpful. Highly recommend for a half-day trip if you're in the area.

mountain_rea May 28, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Niushou Mountain is pretty, but honestly the entrance fee feels a bit steep for what you get. The trails are okay, but some signs were missing and I got a little lost. The temple area is nice but not very well kept. Would be better if they added more benches and shaded areas. It's alright for a short walk, but nothing extraordinary.

Sarah_Jane_T May 28, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely stunning views from the top! The hike up was moderate but totally worth it, especially at sunset. The paths are well-maintained and there are nice resting spots along the way. I loved how peaceful it felt—almost no crowd on a weekday. Definitely a hidden gem!

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Niushou Mountain Travel FAQ

Is Niushou Mountain suitable for young children or elderly visitors?
Yes, but with caveats. The main paths are paved, but there are stairs in Foding Palace. For elderly, rent a wheelchair at the entrance—it's free with a deposit. For kids, bring snacks and avoid peak heat; I've seen toddlers get fussy by noon. The shuttle bus helps if they tire easily.
Can I visit Niushou Mountain without a guide, and is English signage available?
Absolutely, you can go solo. Key signs are in English, but descriptions are brief. Download an offline translation app. I'd suggest grabbing a free map at the ticket counter—it highlights the routes. Guides charge around 200 RMB for a tour, but if you're on a budget, just follow my tips here.
What's the biggest mistake tourists make at Niushou Mountain?
Showing up late. Most arrive after 10 AM and spend half their time in queues. Also, they wear uncomfortable shoes—the terrain is uneven. I once had a client in flip-flops who twisted an ankle. Stick to sneakers.
Are there any discounts or free entry days?
Seniors over 70 with ID get free entry, but it's not widely advertised. Students with international student cards might get 50% off, but it's hit-or-miss—ask at the ticket window. No free days, unlike some museums in Nanjing.
How does Niushou Mountain compare to other Buddhist sites in China, like Shaolin Temple?
It's quieter and more modern. Shaolin is about martial arts; Niushou is about art and serenity. If you want a peaceful experience, choose Niushou. But if you're into history, combine it with a trip to Nanjing's Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum.
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