Exploring Nanjing: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Nanjing Travel Guide

1. Introduction to Nanjing

Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu province, is a city steeped in history and culture. As one of China's Four Great Ancient Capitals, Nanjing has a rich heritage, having served as the capital of several dynasties. It boasts stunning architecture, lush parks, and a vibrant food scene, making it a must-visit destination for travelers interested in experiencing traditional and modern China. The city is also known for its beautiful Yangtze River views and historical landmarks.

2. Top Attractions

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum

• Overview: Dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China, this grand mausoleum is located on the southern slope of the Purple Mountain.
• Highlights:
  • A grand staircase with 392 steps leading to the main hall.
  • A stunning view of the surrounding area and the Yangtze River.
  • Beautiful gardens and historical buildings surrounding the site.
• Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the area.

Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao)

• Overview: This area is dedicated to Confucius, featuring a temple, a beautiful riverfront, and a bustling marketplace.
• Highlights:
  • The main temple with intricate architecture and serene courtyards.
  • A lively market area selling traditional crafts, souvenirs, and snacks.
  • Scenic views along the Qinhuai River, especially at night when the area is beautifully lit.
• Tip: Try to catch a traditional performance in the nearby square during your visit.

Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum

• Overview: The tomb of the Hongwu Emperor, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, is set in a peaceful area surrounded by beautiful forests.
• Highlights:
  • Impressive stone sculptures and the famous Spirit Way lined with stone animals and figures.
  • The main mausoleum, which is an architectural marvel.
• Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking involved.

3. Local Cuisine

Nanjing is famous for its unique culinary offerings.

• Salted Duck: A local specialty, this dish features duck brined with a mixture of spices and herbs, resulting in a flavorful and tender meat. It’s often served cold and is a must-try when visiting.

• Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup: A warming and hearty dish, this soup is made with duck blood, vermicelli noodles, and various spices. It's often enjoyed as a late-night snack.

• Pan-fried Beef Dumplings: These dumplings have a crispy bottom and are filled with juicy beef and vegetables. They are usually served with a soy sauce dip and are perfect for a quick bite.

4. Practical Tips

Booking Trips

• Ctrip: A popular platform for booking hotels, flights, and train tickets within China. The app is user-friendly and offers competitive prices.
• Booking.com: Great for international travelers, Booking.com offers a wide range of accommodation options and is available in multiple languages.

Making Payments

• Alipay: A widely used payment app in China. Download the app, link your bank account or credit card, and you can make payments at most shops and restaurants with a simple scan of a QR code.

Language Assistance

• Google Translate: Download the offline language pack for Chinese before your trip. The app can help translate text, voice, and even images, making communication easier.

Taxi Services

• Didi: The Chinese equivalent of Uber. Download the app, set up your account, and you can easily book a taxi to navigate the city. Note that most drivers may not speak English, so having your destination written in Chinese can be helpful.

Internet Access and VPN Considerations

• VPN: Since many Western websites and services are blocked in China, consider downloading a reliable VPN before your trip. This will allow you to access your emails, social media, and other blocked sites.

5. Sample Itinerary

1-Day Itinerary

• Morning: Visit Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum
• Afternoon: Explore Confucius Temple and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant
• Evening: Stroll along the Qinhuai River

3-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, local dinner
• Day 2: Confucius Temple, Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, shopping in the area
• Day 3: Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, Xuanwu Lake for a relaxing afternoon

5-Day Itinerary

• Day 1:

Note: This image is for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the exact location.