Dong Shuiguan Ruins Park

Dong Shuiguan, a cultural heritage site in Nanjing, has a history of over 1000 years. It is located [...]

Dong Shuiguan, a cultural heritage site in Nanjing, has a history of over 1000 years. It is located outside Tongji Gate on the west side of Longpan Middle Road and marks the entry point of the Qinhuai River into the city of Nanjing, originally constructed during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. After Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang of the Ming Dynasty established his capital in Nanjing, he expanded it into the Tongji Water Gate. The water gate is a brick and stone structure consisting of three levels, each with 11 arches, totaling 33 arches. These arches are also known as ‘Yueyue Dong’. The first level was destroyed due to the wars of the time, leaving only the middle and lower levels. In ancient times, the upper two levels were for housing soldiers guarding the city and storing supplies, while the lower level was for regulating the water level of the Qinhuai River and flood control. The iron grating in the middle was to prevent enemy forces from launching a surprise attack via waterways, hence the gate allowed water passage but not navigation. Dong Shuiguan integrates water gate architecture with city wall architecture, a rare sight in the history of national architecture, and can be considered a unique masterpiece. Dong Shuiguan Ruins Park is composed of four parts: the sluice gate, bridgeways, hidden soldier caves, and city walls, forming a beautiful picture that includes Qinhuai Stone Boat, Stone Ship Fragrance, Waterfront Platform, Stone Bridge Sunset, and Sluice Gate Ruins. It has now become a place for citizens to relax, entertain, and exercise. The park is open all year round and available 24 hours a day, with specific opening hours subject to on-site announcements at the scenic area.


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