Exploring Nanjing: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Travel Guide to Nanjing, China

1. Introduction to Nanjing

Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province, is one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. Rich in history, it has served as the capital for various dynasties, including the Ming Dynasty and the Republic of China. The city is known for its historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and stunning natural scenery along the Yangtze River. With a blend of ancient and modern, Nanjing offers visitors a captivating experience.

2. Top Attractions

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum

• Location: Purple Mountain
• Overview: Built in honor of Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China, this mausoleum is a magnificent structure featuring a grand staircase of 392 steps, symbolizing the 392 million people of China at that time. The site includes a beautiful park and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• Highlights:
  • The main hall where Sun Yat-sen's coffin is located.
  • The stunning architecture blending traditional Chinese and Western styles.
  • Beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.

Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao)

• Location: Along the Qinhuai River
• Overview: This temple complex is dedicated to Confucius, the great philosopher. It is a vibrant cultural hub filled with shops, cafes, and historic architecture. The area is beautifully illuminated at night.
• Highlights:
  • The stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
  • Scenic boat rides along the Qinhuai River.
  • The bustling market selling traditional crafts and snacks.

Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum

• Location: Southern foot of Purple Mountain
• Overview: The burial site of the Hongwu Emperor, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features impressive stone sculptures and a serene atmosphere.
• Highlights:
  • The Sacred Way lined with stone animals and human statues.
  • The majestic archway leading to the tomb.
  • The tranquil beauty of the surrounding forested area.

3. Local Cuisine

Nanjing is famous for its unique and flavorful dishes. Here are some must-try local specialties:

• Salted Duck (盐水鸭):

  • A famous dish known for its tender meat and balanced flavor. The ducks are marinated in a blend of salt, spices, and herbs, resulting in a savory and aromatic taste.

• Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup (鸭血粉丝汤):

  • A comforting soup featuring duck blood, vermicelli noodles, and various vegetables. It is hearty and warming, making it a popular choice among locals.

• Pan-fried Beef Dumplings (生煎包):

  • These dumplings are filled with juicy beef and pan-fried to create a crispy bottom. Served hot, they are often accompanied by a dipping sauce.

4. Practical Tips

Booking Trips Using Ctrip and Booking.com

• Ctrip is a popular travel booking platform in China for hotels, flights, and tours. Ensure you have a local phone number for verification.
• Booking.com is also widely used and offers many international accommodations. Check cancellation policies before booking.

Making Payments with Alipay

• Alipay is a widely accepted mobile payment platform in China. Download the app, link it to your bank account or credit card, and use it for purchases at stores, restaurants, and for transportation.

Using Google Translate for Language Assistance

• Google Translate can be a helpful tool. Download the app and use the offline feature for translation. The camera function can translate signs and menus in real-time.

Using Didi for Taxi Services

• Didi is the Chinese equivalent of Uber. Download the app, create an account, and you can easily book rides in English. Ensure your destination is entered correctly.

Internet Access and VPN Considerations

• Internet access can be limited without a VPN due to the Great Firewall. Consider purchasing a reliable VPN before your trip to access restricted websites.

5. Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Nanjing

• Check into your hotel.
• Visit the Confucius Temple and explore the Qinhuai River area.
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Historical Landmarks

• Morning visit to the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum.
• Afternoon at Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum.
• Try local cuisine for dinner.

Day 3: Culture and Leisure

• Visit the Nanjing Museum.
• Relax at Xuanwu Lake.
• Evening boat ride on the Qinhuai River.

Day 4: Day Trip

• Take a day trip to the nearby Yangzhou or the scenic area of Purple Mountain.
• Return to Nanjing for dinner.

Day

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