Exploring Nanjing: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Nanjing Travel Guide

1. Introduction to Nanjing

Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu province, is one of China's most historically significant cities. The city boasts a rich history that dates back over 2,500 years and has served as the capital for several Chinese dynasties. Today, Nanjing is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant modern life. Visitors can explore ancient architecture, serene lakes, and bustling markets, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and food lovers alike.

2. Top Attractions

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum

• Overview: Dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founder of modern China, this mausoleum is located on the southern slope of the Purple Mountain.
• Highlights:
  • Impressive architecture with a grand staircase of 392 steps.
  • Beautiful gardens and scenic views of the surrounding area.
  • Important symbol of Chinese nationalism and history.

Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao)

• Overview: A cultural complex that honors Confucius, this temple is situated near the Qinhuai River and features traditional architecture.
• Highlights:
  • Explore the ancient temple and learn about Confucian philosophy.
  • Visit the adjacent Confucius Market for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river with picturesque views, especially at night when the area is beautifully lit.

Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum

• Overview: The burial site of the Hongwu Emperor, the first emperor of the Ming dynasty, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is set in a lush forest area.
• Highlights:
  • The impressive Spirit Road lined with stone statues of animals and officials.
  • Architectural marvels that showcase the grandeur of the Ming dynasty.
  • Stunning natural surroundings that make for great hiking opportunities.

3. Local Cuisine

Nanjing's culinary scene is rich and varied, with a focus on duck dishes and unique local flavors.

• Salted Duck: A local delicacy, this dish features duck that is brined and seasoned, resulting in tender meat with a distinct flavor. Often served cold, it’s a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

• Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup: A comforting dish made with duck blood, vermicelli noodles, and a savory broth. It's often garnished with herbs and served hot, perfect for chilly days.

• Pan-fried Beef Dumplings: Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these dumplings are filled with seasoned beef and served with a soy-based dipping sauce. A must-try for dumpling enthusiasts!

4. Practical Tips

Booking Trips

• Ctrip and Booking.com:
  • Both platforms offer a user-friendly interface for hotels, flights, and train bookings.
  • Use filters to find accommodations that suit your budget and preferences.
  • Be sure to check for cancellation policies.

Making Payments

• Alipay:
  • Widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and markets.
  • Download the app and link it to your bank account.
  • You may need to set it up in Chinese, so consider using a translation service initially.

Language Assistance

• Google Translate:
  • A valuable tool for translating text and speech.
  • Download the language pack for offline use as internet access can be spotty in some areas.

Taxi Services

• Didi:
  • Similar to Uber, this app provides safe and convenient taxi services.
  • Download the app and set up your account; it operates in English as well.

Internet Access and VPN Considerations

• VPN:
  • Essential for accessing blocked websites and apps like Google, Facebook, and Instagram.
  • Download and set up a reliable VPN service before traveling.

5. Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Local Exploration

• Arrive in Nanjing, check into your hotel.
• Visit Confucius Temple and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant nearby.

Day 2: Historical Sites

• Morning: Explore Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum.
• Afternoon: Visit Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum.
• Evening: Stroll by the Qinhuai River and sample street food.

Day 3: Museums & Culture

• Visit the Nanjing Museum.
• Explore the Presidential Palace.
• Enjoy local cuisine for dinner.

Day 4: Nature & Relaxation

• Hike in the Purple Mountain area.
• Visit the Ming Dynasty City Wall.
• Relax at Xuanwu Lake Park.

Day 5: Shopping & Departure

• Spend the morning shopping at local markets.
• Last-minute sightseeing or revisit favorite

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