Exploring Nanjing: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Nanjing Travel Guide

1. Introduction to Nanjing

Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province, is a city rich in history and culture, often referred to as the "Southern Capital." With over 2,500 years of history, Nanjing served as the capital for several dynasties, making it a treasure trove of historical sites and monuments. The city is beautifully situated by the Yangtze River and is surrounded by lush hills, offering both urban vibrancy and natural beauty. Visitors can explore ancient architecture, bustling markets, and picturesque parks, making it a perfect destination for history buffs and food lovers alike.

2. Top Attractions

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum

• Overview: Dedicated to Sun Yat-sen, the founder of modern China, this mausoleum is set against the backdrop of the scenic Purple Mountain.
• Features:
  • A grand staircase of 392 steps leads to the mausoleum, symbolizing the 392 million people in China at the time of his death.
  • The main hall houses a statue of Sun Yat-sen and features beautiful views of the surrounding area.
  • The architectural style blends traditional Chinese and Western influences.

Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao)

• Overview: This area is a cultural hub dedicated to Confucius, with a rich history dating back to the Song Dynasty.
• Features:
  • The temple itself is an elegant example of traditional Chinese architecture, surrounded by a picturesque area filled with shops and eateries.
  • Nearby is the Qinhuai River, which you can explore by taking a boat ride.
  • The area hosts various cultural activities and festivals throughout the year.

Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum

• Overview: The tomb of the Hongwu Emperor, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Features:
  • A long Sacred Way lined with stone statues of animals and officials leads to the mausoleum.
  • The mausoleum is set amidst beautiful woodland, offering a serene atmosphere.
  • The architecture showcases the grandeur of the Ming Dynasty, making it a significant historical site.

3. Local Cuisine

Salted Duck

• A Nanjing specialty, this dish features duck that is brined and then cooked, resulting in tender, flavorful meat with a distinctive savory taste.

Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup

• This comforting soup includes duck blood, vermicelli noodles, and a variety of spices, creating a rich and hearty meal that is both warming and filling.

Pan-fried Beef Dumplings

• These dumplings are a popular street food; filled with seasoned beef and vegetables, they are pan-fried to achieve a crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside.

4. Practical Tips

Booking Trips

• Ctrip and Booking.com: Use these platforms to book hotels, train tickets, and tours. They have user-friendly interfaces and often provide discounts.
  • Ctrip: Offers a comprehensive range of travel services in Chinese.
  • Booking.com: Available in English and provides a wide selection of accommodations.

Making Payments with Alipay

• Alipay is widely accepted throughout Nanjing. Set up your account, link your bank card, and you can make payments easily via QR codes in restaurants, shops, and markets.

Using Google Translate

• Google Translate can assist with language barriers. Download the app and consider pre-downloading the Chinese language for offline use, as internet access may be limited in some areas.

Using Didi for Taxi Services

• Didi is a popular ride-hailing app in China. Download the app, register, and use it to book taxis. Ensure you input your destination in Chinese to avoid confusion.

Internet Access and VPN Considerations

• Internet access is generally good in Nanjing, but certain websites and apps (like Google) are restricted. Consider using a VPN to access these services while traveling.

5. Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

• Arrive in Nanjing, check into your hotel via Booking.com.
• Stroll around the Confucius Temple area; explore shops and try local street food.

Day 2: Historical Sites

• Morning: Visit Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum.
• Afternoon: Explore Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum and the surrounding park.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant featuring Salted Duck.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

• Visit the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall.
• Afternoon boat ride on the Qinhuai River.
• Try Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup for dinner.

Day 4: Nature and Relaxation

• Spend the day at Xuanwu Lake, enjoying walking trails and scenic views

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