Nanjing Travel Guide
Nanjing, located in eastern China along the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, is the capital of Jiangsu Province. Known as the “Ancient Capital of Six Dynasties,” Nanjing is a city steeped in history and rich in modern cultural vibrancy.
The Yangtze River, China’s longest river, bisects Nanjing, dividing it into southern and northern sections. The city center, Xin Jie Kou, features a skyline of towering buildings that stand in harmonious contrast with historical sites like the Ming City Wall and the Presidential Palace, creating a vivid link to its storied past. Historical landmarks such as the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum and the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum invite reflection on the city’s legacy, while places like Ue Lane and Laomendong preserve the charm of olden days, offering living memories of times gone by.
Strolling along the Qinhuai River, which has nurtured the city’s growth, particularly around the Confucius Temple area, one can still experience the essence of old Nanjing. The cityscape here is a blend of traditional and modern, where elderly locals can be heard speaking the distinct Nanjing dialect, adding to the cultural tapestry of the city. Nanjing’s unique appeal lies in its seamless blend of historical depth and contemporary sophistication, making it a captivating destination for all who visit.
Most Popular Nanjing Attractions
Nanjing Confucius Temple (南京夫子庙, Fuzimiao), established in 1034 AD and expanded from the Eastern Jin Dynasty’s academic palace, stands as a venerable...
The Nanjing Ming City Wall (南京明城墙) is a historical marvel and a testament to China’s rich architectural and military heritage. It holds the distinction...
Nanjing Museum (南京博物院), one of China’s three major museums, has a rich history and a remarkable collection of artifacts that showcase the country’s...
Purple Mountain (紫金山), also known as Zhongshan Mountain (钟山), located in Nanjing, China, is a majestic and renowned landmark that holds immense historical...
Bao’en Temple (大报恩寺, Grand Bao’en Temple), also known as the Temple of Gratitude, stands as one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist temples...
Jiming Temple (鸡鸣寺), known as the Rooster’s Crow Temple in English, is a place of profound historical and cultural significance located in Nanjing,...
The Presidential Palace (总统府) in Nanjing stands as an iconic architectural complex, representing one of the most extensive and well-preserved remnants...
Zhanyuan Garden (瞻园), also known as Zhan Garden, is a historical treasure in Nanjing, China, with a history dating back over 600 years to the Ming Dynasty....
The Imperial Examination Museum (中国科举博物馆) in Nanjing, China, stands as a central hub for the country’s civil service examination system, a focal...
Other Attractions in Nanjing
Nanjing Botanical Garden, as known as Zhongshan Botanical Garden (南京中山植物园), is a breathtaking oasis of natural beauty and a haven for plant enthusiasts....
Jiangsu Center for the Performing Arts (江苏大剧院), as known as Jiangsu Grand Theater, located in the vibrant city of Nanjing, China, is a magnificent cultural...
Dingling Temple (定林寺), situated on Fangshan (方山) in Nanjing, boasts a history spanning over 1500 years, making it a significant site in the Southern Dynasties’...
St. Paul’s Church (圣保罗教堂) in Nanjing, built in 1923, boasts a rich history of over 80 years, making it the first official Christian worship hall...
Zheng He Treasure Ship Park (郑和宝船遗址公园), located in Nanjing, China, is a captivating historical site that pays homage to the legendary Chinese explorer...
Located in Nanjing, China, the John Rabe House (拉贝故居), also known as the John Rabe Memorial Residence (拉贝纪念馆), stands as a powerful testament to the indomitable...
Laoshan National Forest Park (老山国家森林公园), situated in the PuKou District of Nanjing, is a sprawling natural haven bordered by the Yangtze River to the south...
Nanjing Folk Museum (南京民俗博物馆), located within the historic Ganxi Mansion, spans a total area of 14,060 square meters. It serves as a specialized institution...
Gaochun Old Street (高淳老街), situated to the south of Nanjing at the border of Jiangsu and Anhui provinces, is a prominent commercial street in the ancient...
Ganxi Former Residence (甘熙故居), also known as Ganxi Mansion or Gan Family Courtyard (甘家大院), is a historical estate located in Nanjing, China. Its construction...
Chaotian Palace (朝天宫), located in Nanjing, stands as the most prestigious, extensive, and well-preserved architectural complex from the Ming and Qing dynasties....
The Porcelain Tower of Nanjing (南京琉璃塔), also known as the Liuli Pagoda, was a remarkable architectural marvel that once stood as the central structure...
Nanjing, a city steeped in history and culture, is home to numerous natural and architectural wonders, and among them, Mochou Lake (莫愁湖, Worry-Free Lake)...
Niushou Mountain (牛首山, Bull Head Mountain, Mount Niushou), located within the Niushou Mountain Cultural and Tourist Area in Jiangning District, Nanjing,...
The Purple Mountain Observatory, known as 中国科学院紫金山天文台 in Chinese, stands proudly atop the third peak of the Purple Mountain, with an elevation of 250 meters....
Jiangning Imperial Silk Manufacturing Museum - TIcket Price, Opening Hours, Location, and Highlights
The Jiangning Imperial Silk Manufacturing Museum (江宁织造博物馆), located in the area of the Nanjing Grand Palace, stands as a modern museum built on the historic...
Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo (南京红山森林动物园) is a unique and nonprofit zoo in China, known for its commitment to self-sustainability. It serves a multifaceted...
Nanjing, a city steeped in history, is adorned with a treasure trove of ancient gates that guard the memories of bygone eras. Among these, the Xuanwu Lake...
Nanjing 1912 Street (南京1912街区) is a distinctive commercial complex in Nanjing, characterized by its architecture reflecting the culture of the Republic...
Spanning the mighty Yangtze River in China, the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge (南京长江大桥) stands as a testament to human ingenuity, engineering excellence,...
The Oriental Metropolitan Museum, also known as the Six Dynasties Museum (六朝博物馆), is a prominent cultural institution located in Nanjing, China. Renowned...
Xinjiekou (新街口), located in the heart of Nanjing, is a renowned commercial center in China, with a history spanning over a century. It is often referred...
Yuejiang Tower (阅江楼, Yangtze River Viewing Tower), located atop Lion Mountain on the southern bank of the Yangtze River in Nanjing, is a magnificent seven-story...
Jiangnan Examination Hall, also known as Jiangnan Gongyuan (江南贡院), is a historical and culturally significant institution in China with a rich legacy as...
Linggu Temple (灵谷寺), originally known as Kaishan Temple, has a storied history that dates back to its inception in the year 515. During the Liang Dynasty,...
Qixia Mountain (栖霞山, Glow Resting Mountain), located in Nanjing, China, is a picturesque and historically significant destination that captivates visitors...
Nestled at the southern foothills of Purple Mountain in Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Meihua Mountain (梅花山, also known as Plum Blossom Mountain) is a vital...
Zhonghua Gate (中华门), one of the thirteen gates of the Ming Dynasty city wall in Nanjing, was originally known as Jubao Gate. Located at the southern end...
The Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall (南京大屠杀纪念馆, also as known as Memorial Hall to the Victims in the Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders), located in Nanjing,...
Yuhuatai Scenic Area (雨花台风景区), located in the northern part of Yuhuatai District in Nanjing, China, spans an expansive 1.537 million square meters. It...
Laomendong (老门东), located to the east of Zhonghua Gate in Nanjing, is a place of historical significance and cultural heritage. Its name, “Laomendong,”...
Qinhuai River (秦淮河), located in the downstream right bank of the Yangtze River in China, is a significant tributary with a rich history and cultural heritage....
The Ming Palace (明故宫) in Nanjing is a historical treasure that comprises both the Imperial City and the Palace City. With its grandeur and significance,...
Nanjing, the capital city of Jiangsu province in China, boasts a hidden gem known as Xuanwu Lake Park (玄武湖公园). Located in the Xuanwu district of Nanjing,...
The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (明孝陵), located in Nanjing, China, is a majestic burial site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built during the Ming Dynasty...
The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (中山陵), located in Nanjing, China, is a significant historical and cultural site that commemorates the life and achievements of...
Meiling Palace (美龄宫), located in Nanjing, China, is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that holds significant historical and cultural importance....
Day 1: Zhongshan Scenic Area Morning: Start your trip in Nanjing from the Nanjing Museum. Here, you can explore the essence of Nanjing’s history and culture in the morning. Afternoon: Take a stroll in the Zhongshan Scenic Area, which houses the solemn Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, beautiful Bell and Drum Tower, and Linggu Temple. You can choose which attractions to visit based on your interests, and spend more time enjoying the beauty of nature. Evening: Enjoy delicious Jinling cuisine, like sautéed… Read more »
Regretting about coming to Nanjing….once you’re here, you won’t want to leave ✔️Make sure to check out the Nanjing travel guide before your departure. Nanjing is a particularly romantic city Hope everyone has a happy trip in Nanjing! – ✅Tips: 1. Try to choose Nanjing Station for the high-speed train, it is closer to the city center 2. Eat at Laomendong, not at Fuzimiao 3. Staying near Xinjiekou or Fuzimiao will be more convenient 4. Remember to take the cable… Read more »
✅Travel tips for Nanjing: 1. Your ID card and student ID are important, so remember to bring them. Treat your ID card as important as your phone, okay? 2. Be sure to bring a mask and sunglasses! Nanjing’s plane tree fluff is large and floats everywhere, which can easily cause itching on your face. 3. Pay attention to sun protection! Nanjing is already in early summer, and it gets very hot at noon, which can lead to sunburn. Remember to… Read more »
The Zhongshan Scenic Area is really huge! If time is limited, it is recommended to choose 1-2 attractions to visit. I highly suggest prioritizing the Music Stand and the Zhongshan Botanical Garden (because they are excellent for taking photos ). Then you can visit either the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum or the Zhongshan Mausoleum. On the way to the Zhongshan Mausoleum, you will pass by Yanque Lake, where there are extensive water fir trees and lotus flowers, very relaxing! Don’t forget… Read more »
【Itinerary】 day1: Nanjing Museum—Xinjiekou—Confucius Temple—Lao Mendong—Xiaoxi Lake day2: Zhongshan Scenic Area—Xuanwu Lake day3: Jiming Temple—Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall—Chananda Street 【Accommodation】 arranged at Xinjiekou or Dahankong, I chose Xinjiekou because all the food I wanted to eat was nearby there. 【Transport】 Nanjing South Station and Nanjing Station are not far from the city center. ✈️It takes over an hour from Lukou Airport to the city. It’s very convenient to go anywhere by subway! Transportation is very convenient. 【Dining】 In addition to… Read more »
In the summer of Nanjing, the tall plane trees are lush green, and flowers like Hydrangeas, Lotus, and Roses are blooming in the Jiangnan gardens. The creeks in Purple Mountain are babbling. Every place here is enough to give one a dopamine rush of happiness, and a long-lost sense of relaxation. When summer comes to Nanjing, here are 10 recommended spots for you: 1⃣️Zixia Lake: Only locals know about its beauty! After a summer rain, a waterfall is formed downstream,… Read more »
Transportation: Line 1: Nanjing Station, Nanjing South Station, Zifeng Tower, Xuanwu Lake, Xinjiekou, Sanshan Street (Confucius Temple) Line 2: Zhongshan Scenic Area (Zhongshan Mausoleum, Music Stage, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum), Nanjing Museum, Presidential Palace, Jiangning Weaving Factory, Memorial Hall for the Nanjing Massacre Victims, Hexi CBD, Yuzui Park Line 3: Nanjing Station, Nanjing South Station, Jiming Temple, Confucius Temple, Laomendong, etc. Accommodation: If you don’t consider the location, you can take the subway to Tangshan Station or Chongming Station… The accommodations… Read more »
✅Transportation: High-speed rail/train: Nanjing Station is the preferred option. ✅Accommodation: 1️⃣Xinjiekou: Convenient transportation, close to various attractions in Nanjing. 2️⃣Confucius Temple, Qinhuai River: Suitable for those who love trying different foods and experiencing the charm of Jinling. 3️⃣Drum Tower, Xuanwu Gate: Close to the train station and Hunan Road food street, hotels here offer views of Xuanwu Lake. —— ✅Nanjing Cuisine Must-try specialties: Salted Duck, Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup, Beef Potstickers, etc. Crab Roe Soup Dumplings: Filled with crab roe… Read more »
✅Nanjing Transportation: 1. Nanjing Lukou Airport: Easily accessible to the city center by subway or airport shuttle bus. 2. Nanjing South Station: The largest train station and high-speed rail station in Asia. 3. Nanjing Station: Very close to the city center. 4. Nanjing Metro: Major attractions are on Lines 1, 2, and 3. ✅Three-day Nanjing Itinerary: Day 1: Jiming Temple – Xuanwu Lake – Presidential Palace – Laomen East – Confucius Temple – Qinhuai River. Day 2: Xuanwu Lake Park… Read more »
Based on the recent must-eat list and the shops truly loved by locals in Nanjing, the following ❼ food streets are summarized: 1️⃣Xinjiekou (accessible by Line 2 and Line 3) 2️⃣Laomendong (Wudingmen Station on Line 3) 3️⃣Chanam (Mochouhu Station on Line 2) 4️⃣Kexiang (Daxingong Station on Line 3) 5️⃣Hongmiao (Fuqiao Station on Line 3) 6️⃣Pingshijie (Zhangfuyuan Station on Line 1) 7️⃣Wufu Street (Sanshanjie Station on Line 1)