Nanjing's Must-See Guide

Must-See Attractions • Zhongshan Mountain National Park: This park encompasses numerous attractions, including the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, and Linggu Scenic Area. The Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a magnificent structure, serves as the final resting place of Dr. Sun Yat-sen. The long stairway leading to the tomb symbolizes the arduous journey of his revolution. Reaching the summit offers a panoramic view of the Zhongshan Mountain scenery, inspiring reverence and reflection. The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum is the joint tomb of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and Empress Ma. The lengthy Sacred Way lined with stone statues, the square city, and the bright tower showcase the majesty and grandeur of the imperial mausoleum. The surrounding environment is simple and serene, transporting visitors back to that era of dramatic change. • Nanjing Museum: One of the three largest museums in China and among the earliest established, the Nanjing Museum boasts a rich and diverse collection spanning history, art, and folk customs. The History Gallery showcases the ancient civilization of Jiangsu, while the Special Exhibition Gallery displays precious artifacts such as the bronze pot with gold and silver bird script inscriptions and the celadon lotus zun, each bearing a unique historical narrative. The Republic of China Gallery recreates street scenes from that period, immersing visitors in the atmosphere and charm of the era. • Confucius Temple-Qinhuai River Scenic Belt: This area features one of the four major Confucian Temples in China and a landmark of Nanjing. The resplendent Confucius Temple complex complements the picturesque scenery of the Qinhuai River. As night falls and the lights illuminate the river, a boat trip along the Qinhuai River offers breathtaking views of the glittering lights and ancient architecture on both banks. Experience the poetic charm of "misty rain on cold water, moonlight on sandy shores," and witness the ancient buildings along the riverbanks, appearing even more solemn and mysterious under the lights, showcasing Nanjing's unique cultural charm. • The Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders: This memorial hall commemorates the Nanjing Massacre perpetrated by the Japanese invaders after they occupied Nanjing. The hall exhibits numerous historical artifacts, photographs, and documents, vividly portraying the atrocities committed by the Japanese army and the suffering endured by the people of Nanjing. A visit here evokes a profound understanding of the cruelty of war and the preciousness of peace, serving as an essential site for patriotic and historical education. • Jiming Temple: One of the most popular temples in Nanjing, Jiming Temple has a long history and houses a solemn statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. Ascending the temple offers a panoramic view of Nanjing, capturing the essence of the ancient capital. During the cherry blossom season, the cherry trees lining the road leading to the temple bloom in breathtaking beauty, attracting numerous visitors. • Xuanwu Lake Park: The largest national urban wetland park within Nanjing and the largest inner-city park in China, Xuanwu Lake Park is divided into five continents and offers a wealth of entertainment and leisure facilities, including boat rides, sightseeing buses, and bicycles. Here, you can stroll along the lakeshore, admire the picturesque scenery, enjoy a refreshing boat ride, or explore attractions within the park, such as the Lansheng Tower on Liangzhou Island and the Cherry Blossom Avenue on Yingzhou Island. It's a favorite spot for locals to relax and unwind. • Laomendong: An integral part of the Confucius Temple-Qinhuai River Scenic Belt, Laomendong is a complex of antique-style buildings constructed in the traditional Chinese architectural style. Preserving many buildings and alleys from the Ming and Qing dynasties, it exudes the charm of the ancient capital. Here, you can savor various Nanjing specialties, such as duck blood vermicelli soup, salted duck, and sweet taro pudding. You can also purchase handicrafts and souvenirs, immersing yourself in Nanjing's traditional culture and folk customs. • Nanjing Presidential Palace: With a history spanning over 600 years, the Nanjing Presidential Palace served as the Guide Marquis Mansion and the Han Palace during the early Ming Dynasty, the Office of the Governor-General of Jiangsu and the Office of the Governor-General of Liangjiang during the Qing Dynasty, and was also part of the Jiangning Weaving Department. The architectural complex blends Chinese and Western styles. Strolling through it feels like stepping back into the Republic of China era, offering a glimpse into the turbulent times and serving as a significant site for understanding modern Chinese history. Personal Opinions • Rich historical and cultural heritage: As an ancient capital of six dynasties and a metropolis of ten, Nanjing boasts a rich and long-standing historical and cultural heritage. Wandering through the city's streets and alleys, you'll encounter ancient buildings, relics, and artifacts, each bearing unique historical stories and cultural connotations, transporting you through time and engaging in a dialogue with history. From the ancient city walls to the solemn Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, from the resplendent Confucius Temple to the Nanjing Presidential Palace, steeped in the atmosphere of the Republic of China, these attractions not only showcase Nanjing's glory and vicissitudes throughout different historical periods but also provide a profound understanding of the breadth and depth of Chinese civilization. • Seamless blend of natural scenery and cultural landscapes: Nanjing not only possesses rich cultural landscapes but also captivating natural scenery. The lush greenery of Zhongshan Mountain National Park, the picturesque scenery of Xuanwu Lake Park, and the charming waterscape of the Qinhuai River complement and enhance the city's cultural attractions. In Nanjing, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while experiencing the essence of historical culture, enjoying both physical and spiritual fulfillment. • Diverse cuisine: Nanjing's cuisine is renowned for its unique flavors and diverse offerings. Specialties like duck blood vermicelli soup, salted duck, pig's skin noodles, chicken soup dumplings, and sweet osmanthus taro pudding are truly mouthwatering. These delicacies are not only delicious but also reflect Nanjing's culinary culture and folk customs. Indulging in the local cuisine is an essential part of the Nanjing experience. • Convenient transportation: Nanjing boasts a well-developed transportation system, with extensive subway lines and comprehensive bus routes providing easy access to various attractions and commercial districts. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also readily available, offering further convenience for travelers. This efficient transportation network makes exploring Nanjing effortless. • Comprehensive tourism facilities: As a popular tourist destination, Nanjing offers comprehensive tourism facilities. A wide range of hotels and homestays cater to diverse budgets, from luxurious star-rated hotels to budget-friendly hostels. The city also provides abundant dining, shopping, and entertainment options, ensuring a fulfilling experience for all visitors. • Moderate pace, ideal for slow travel: Compared to fast-paced metropolises, Nanjing offers a more relaxed pace of life, creating a leisurely and comfortable atmosphere. This pace is perfect for slow travel, allowing you to savor the city's historical and cultural charm. You can spend several days exploring the attractions, delving into Nanjing's history and culture, and experiencing the city's unique allure without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.