The largest of the Nanjing City Wall's gates—totaling 13 during the Ming Dynasty—Zhonghua Gate (Zhōnghuá Mén, 中华门) was built on the site of a pre-Ming southern gate. The outer part of the gate featured a door that could shut, trapping invaders inside. Outside, characters inscribed on the wall are based on the calligraphy of Chiang Kai-shek, one leader of China during it's republican period.

The gate is built like a fort, with multiple protected courtyards and interior rooms, some of which today act as exhibits on the wall's history. The courtyards also today serve different purposes, from a touristy mini archery range to a bonsai tree garden. Shallow-step-lined ramps, formerly giving horse-mounted soldiers access to the top of the wall, welcome tourists with flag-holding guard statues.

Bike rental (starts at RMB 10 for 30 min) is available from atop Zhonghua Gate, although the presence of workers to rent from depends on the crowds, or lack thereof, and the heat.

Tour guides are also available starting at RMB 30 for a group under 10 people. A personal audio guide is available for RMB 10 with an RMB 100 deposit.

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