Audio Guide of Tianyi Pavilion

The site generally opens from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in summer (May-October) and until 5:00 p.m. in winter, with last admission 30 minutes before closing. It is located in central Ningbo and is accessible by getting off at Ximenkou Metro Station (Line 1) and walking a few minutes toward Moon Lake.

The visit is not free; general admission costs approximately 30 CNY per adult, a very affordable price given its historical importance. There are reduced rates for students and children, and it is recommended to carry cash or use Alipay/WeChat Pay.

To explore the library, the gardens, and the Mahjong museum at a relaxed pace, it is recommended to allow between 1.5 and 2 hours. If you want to enjoy the architectural details and take photos without rushing, plan for about 3 hours.

Founded in 1561 by Fan Qin, it is the oldest surviving private library in China and one of the three oldest in the world. Its Ming dynasty architecture and extraordinary collection of ancient books make it an unmatched cultural treasure.

Spring and autumn are ideal for enjoying the gardens at their finest; try to go early in the morning (8:30 a.m.) on weekdays. That way you will avoid the biggest tourist crowds and get better light for your photos.

As it is a historic Ming dynasty building, accessibility is limited due to high door thresholds and stone steps. Although the gardens are walkable, access to the interiors of the pavilions may be difficult for wheelchair users.

Right next door is the beautiful Moon Lake Park, perfect for relaxing. You are also within walking distance of Drum Tower and the historic shopping street Nantang Old Street, where you can try local cuisine.

Do not miss the exhibition hall on the history of Mahjong inside the complex; it is one of a kind. To truly understand the history of every corner without missing anything, we suggest using a specialized audio guide such as those from IAudioguia.com during your visit.