Nanjing - 2,500 years of history meets modern vitality
Nanjing, one of China’s Four Great Ancient Capitals, seamlessly weaves history into modern life. As the capital of six dynasties and the Ming Dynasty, this Yangtze River city offers UNESCO sites, revolutionary landmarks, stunning scenery, and exceptional street food.
Must-See Historical Landmarks
Zhongshan Mausoleum (中山陵)
392 steps to Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s memorial
Honoring Dr. Sun Yat-sen, “Father of Modern China,” this magnificent structure on Purple Mountain features 392 steps symbolizing national rejuvenation. The climb requires moderate fitness but rewards visitors with stunning views. Free entry, but book 3 days ahead. Nearby Music Platform (¥10) offers white dove photography—afternoons work best.
Tip: Metro Line 2 to Muxuyuan, then rent e-bikes or take shuttle (¥10).
Presidential Palace (总统府)
A 600-year capsule from Ming Dynasty gardens to Republican headquarters. The ¥35 entrance reveals classical Jiangnan gardens merged with government buildings—a fascinating historical layering.
Location: Metro Line 2 to Daxinggong Station.
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (明孝陵)
The Sacred Way’s 600 meters of stone statues
This UNESCO World Heritage Site features the famous Sacred Way—600 meters of stone animals creating otherworldly atmosphere. Early-bird tickets ¥35 (regular ¥70). Visit late October-November for golden autumn leaves.
Qinhuai River - Soul of Nanjing
“Smoke veils cold water, moonlight shrouds the sand”
The Confucius Temple-Qinhuai River area represents Nanjing’s soul. Night cruises reveal the river’s magic—colorful lights reflecting off water as painted boats glide past. The area bustles with 200+ snack varieties representing “Qinhuai Eight Delicacies.”
Warning: Evening boat queues often exceed 3 hours—arrive early!
Laomendong (老门东) - Authentic Old Nanjing
Ming-Qing architecture housing traditional workshops
This free historic district preserves authentic architecture with intangible cultural heritage workshops and time-honored food brands. Small Zheng’s Duck Oil Biscuits, Lu’s Plum Blossom Cake, and Jiming Soup Dumplings are just the beginning.
Insider Tip: Side alley vendors offer identical products at 40% lower prices!
Essential Nanjing Food
Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup (鸭血粉丝汤): Nanjing’s signature—duck blood, gizzards, intestines, liver, broth, and vermicelli. Try “Huiwei” chain.
Salted Duck (盐水鸭): Nanjing’s famous export, perfect souvenir with vacuum-packing available.
Beef Pot Stickers (牛肉锅贴): Golden-crispy bottoms, juicy beef filling. Jiang Youji on Dading Lane is the best.
Plum Blossom Cake (梅花糕): Flower-shaped glutinous rice cakes. Lu’s shop in Laomendong excels.
Nanjing Dapaidang: The city’s most famous restaurant chain. Book ahead via WeChat—register your birthday as current month for ¥30 voucher (usable next day).
Quick Three-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Purple Mountain
- Morning: Zhongshan Mausoleum → Music Platform → Ming Xiaoling
- Evening: Laomendong → Confucius Temple → Qinhuai River cruise
Day 2: Republican Era
- Morning: Presidential Palace (2-3 hours)
- Afternoon: Nanjing Museum (book ahead!)
- Evening: 1912 Bar District or Xinjiekou shopping
Day 3: Parks & Local Life
- Morning: Jiming Temple → Ming City Wall
- Afternoon: Xuanwu Lake (boat or cycle)
- Evening: Shiziqiao Food Street
Other Notable Spots
Xuanwu Lake: Free imperial garden with boat rentals (¥60/hour)
Jiming Temple: Ancient Buddhist temple, cherry blossoms in spring
Nanjing Museum: One of China’s top 3 museums, free with ID (book instantly—slots sell out fast)
Niushou Mountain: Buddhist Palace with sacred relics, ¥145 (often ¥65 discounted)
Practical Information
Getting There: High-speed rail from Shanghai (1.5hr), Beijing (3.5hr), Hangzhou (1hr)
Best Seasons:
- Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms, wisteria
- Autumn (Sept-Nov): Golden leaves, crisp weather
Accommodation: Stay in Xinjiekou area—central, metro hub, walkable to major sites
Budget: ¥300-500/day including accommodation, meals, attractions
Language: Major sites have English signage; translation apps help with food ordering
Cultural Tips
- Book popular sites (Zhongshan Mausoleum, Nanjing Museum) days in advance
- Dress modestly at temples
- Arrive at sites early or late afternoon to avoid 10 AM-3 PM peak crowds
- No tipping in China
Conclusion
Nanjing rewards travelers seeking authentic Chinese history beyond Beijing’s imperial grandeur or Shanghai’s modern glitz. From climbing 392 steps to Zhongshan Mausoleum to savoring duck blood soup at midnight street stalls, the city offers experiences connecting visitors to China’s complex narrative.
The perfect balance of historical preservation and modern development, combined with genuine local warmth and exceptional food culture, makes Nanjing essential on any China itinerary.
Plan with advance bookings, comfortable walking shoes, and an appetite for China’s finest cuisine.