Nanjing
Overview
Nanjing, one of China's four ancient capitals, is a city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. With over 2,500 years of history, it served as the capital for ten dynasties, earning its reputation as the "Ancient Capital of Six Dynasties" and "Capital of Ten Dynasties." The city's rich cultural heritage is evident in its well-preserved historical sites, traditional architecture, and vibrant cultural scenes.
Along the banks of the Qinhuai River, traditional boats glide through waters that have witnessed centuries of history. The city's ancient walls, among the longest and best-preserved in the world, stand as silent guardians of time. Ming Dynasty's Xiaoling Mausoleum, with its imposing stone animals along the Sacred Way, tells stories of imperial grandeur.
As a cradle of Chinese civilization, Nanjing has made significant contributions to literature and culture. It was home to China's first Literary Institute and saw the birth of several groundbreaking literary works, including "Wen Xin Diao Long" (文心雕龙), the first systematic work of literary criticism in China.
Today, Nanjing seamlessly blends its historical heritage with modern development. While ancient temples and traditional gardens dot the cityscape, contemporary shopping districts and innovative architectural designs showcase its progressive spirit.
Nanjing Routes
Nanjing Trending Attractions
Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum
Confucius Temple
Purple Mountain
Qinhuai River
Xuanwu Lake Park
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
Nanjing Museum
Ancient Jiming Temple
Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall
Linggu Temple
Mount Niushou
Meiling Palace
Laomendong
Hongshan Forest Zoo
Xiaguan Railway Theme Park
Pre-Trip Planning
Best Time to Visit
Nanjing experiences four distinct seasons, with spring and autumn being the most pleasant times to visit.
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Spring (March - May): Ideal for viewing plum blossoms at Plum Blossom Hill and cherry blossoms along Yihe Road. Temperatures are mild and comfortable.
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Autumn (September - November): Perfect for enjoying the red maple leaves at Xiixia Mountain. The weather is crisp and clear with comfortable temperatures.
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Summer (June - August): Hot and humid with temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F). Frequent rainfall.
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Winter (December - February): Cold with temperatures around 2-3°C (35-37°F). Occasional snow creates picturesque winter scenes.
Essential Items to Pack
- Documents
- Valid passport and visa
- Travel insurance documents
- Student/Senior ID for discounts
- Clothing
- Spring/Autumn: Light jackets, long-sleeve shirts
- Summer: Light, breathable clothing, sun protection
- Winter: Warm coats, thermal wear, gloves, scarves
- Electronics
- Camera/Phone
- Power bank
- Universal adapter
- Medical Supplies
- Personal medications
- Basic first-aid kit
- Motion sickness pills if needed
Transportation
Getting There
- By Air
- Nanjing Lukou International Airport serves domestic and international flights
- Airport shuttle buses run to city center (¥20-30)
- Metro Line S1 connects to Nanjing South Railway Station
- By Train
- Nanjing Railway Station: Traditional trains
- Nanjing South Railway Station: High-speed trains
- Connected to major cities via high-speed rail network
Getting Around
- Metro
- Extensive network covering major attractions
- Operating hours: 6:00-23:00
- Fares: ¥2-9 based on distance
- Bus
- Comprehensive bus network
- Regular routes: ¥2-3
- Tourist special lines available
- Taxi/Ride-hailing
- Starting fare: ¥11 (first 3km)
- Night rate (23:00-5:00): ¥13
- Major ride-hailing apps available
Major Attractions
Historical Sites
- Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum
- Location: Purple Mountain
- Admission: Free (reservation required)
- Highlights:
- Grand marble stairs (392 steps)
- Memorial hall
- Beautiful surrounding gardens
- Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao)
- Location: Qinhuai District
- Admission: ¥50
- Highlights:
- Traditional architecture
- Night market
- Qinhuai River cruise
- Nanjing Museum
- Location: 321 Zhongshan East Road
- Admission: Free (reservation required)
- Highlights:
- Ancient Chinese artifacts
- Jade collection
- Ming and Qing dynasty exhibits
Natural Attractions
- Xuanwu Lake
- Location: City center
- Admission: Free
- Highlights:
- Five islands connected by bridges
- Traditional gardens
- Boat rides available
- Niushou Mountain
- Location: Jiangning District
- Admission: ¥100
- Highlights:
- Buddhist cultural park
- Modern architecture
- Panoramic city views
Local Cuisine
Must-Try Dishes
- Nanjing Salted Duck (南京盐水鸭)
- A local delicacy with over 2,500 years of history
- Tender meat with a perfect balance of saltiness
- Best enjoyed at room temperature
- Recommended restaurants:
- Han Fuxing (韩复兴)
- Osmanthus Duck (桂花鸭)
- Duck Blood Soup with Vermicelli (鸭血粉丝汤)
- Popular local breakfast
- Contains duck blood curd, vermicelli, and duck offal
- Rich broth with various herbs and spices
- Recommended restaurants:
- Xiao Pan Ji (小潘记)
- Jin Zhong (金中)
- Other Local Specialties
- Beef dumplings (牛肉锅贴)
- Plum blossom cake (梅花糕)
- Sweet osmanthus rice balls (桂花酒酿元宵)
Accommodation
Recommended Areas
- Xinjiekou District
- City center location
- Excellent shopping and dining
- Major metro lines intersection
- Suitable for luxury and business travelers
- Fuzimiao Area
- Historical district
- Traditional architecture
- Close to major attractions
- Perfect for cultural experience
- Nanjing South Railway Station Area
- Convenient for travelers
- Modern facilities
- Good value hotels
- Ideal for short stays
Travel Tips
- Reservations
- Book major attractions in advance
- Use official WeChat accounts or websites
- Popular sites often fully booked during holidays
- Weather Preparation
- Check forecast before visiting
- Bring umbrella during summer
- Layer clothing in spring/autumn
- Warm clothing essential in winter
- Transportation
- Download metro app for schedules
- Consider travel card for public transport
- Use official taxi stands or ride-hailing apps
- Cultural Considerations
- Dress modestly at religious sites
- Respect local customs
- Maintain quiet in memorial sites
- Follow photography guidelines
- Food Safety
- Choose reputable restaurants
- Carry basic medicine for emergencies
- Be cautious with street food
- Drink bottled water