Exploring Nanjing: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Travel Guide to Nanjing, China

1. Introduction to Nanjing

Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu province, is a city rich in history and culture. It was once the capital of several Chinese dynasties and has many historical sites reflecting its glorious past. Nanjing is known for its beautiful landscapes along the Yangtze River, vibrant local culture, and a mix of ancient and modern architecture. Visitors can experience traditional Chinese culture while enjoying modern city amenities.

2. Top Attractions

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum

• Overview: This impressive mausoleum is dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founder of modern China. Located on the slopes of Purple Mountain, it offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Highlights:
  • A grand staircase of 392 steps leads to the mausoleum, symbolizing the 392 million people Dr. Sun aimed to unite.
  • The tomb features a large stone architectural structure with intricate carvings and a peaceful aura.
  • The surrounding area is a beautiful park perfect for leisurely walks.

Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao)

• Overview: This temple complex is dedicated to Confucius and reflects the importance of Confucianism in Chinese culture.
• Highlights:
  • The site includes a beautiful courtyard, traditional architecture, and a large statue of Confucius.
  • Explore the surrounding Qinhuai River area, a hub for local crafts and snacks.
  • Visit the nearby Confucius Shopping District for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum

• Overview: The burial site of the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, this mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its grandeur and historical significance.
• Highlights:
  • A long, tree-lined path leads to the impressive entrance, featuring the famous Spirit Way adorned with stone animals and figures.
  • The architecture showcases Ming Dynasty design elements, with beautiful carvings and intricate details.
  • The peaceful surroundings and lush greenery make it a perfect spot for reflection and exploration.

3. Local Cuisine

Nanjing is famous for its unique culinary offerings, particularly its duck dishes.

• Salted Duck (盐水鸭): A local specialty, this dish features tender duck seasoned with salt and spices, giving it a savory flavor. It's often enjoyed cold and pairs well with rice or noodles.
• Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup (鸭血粉丝汤): A comforting dish made with duck blood, vermicelli noodles, and a rich broth. It's a popular street food, often found in local markets and eateries.
• Pan-fried Beef Dumplings (锅贴): These dumplings are filled with marinated beef and vegetables, pan-fried until crispy on the bottom. They are a delicious snack or meal option available at many local restaurants.

4. Practical Tips

Booking Trips with Ctrip and Booking.com

• Ctrip: A popular platform for booking flights, hotels, and train tickets in China. Make sure to have a Chinese phone number for verification.
• Booking.com: Great for accommodation, offering a variety of options. Check cancellation policies and customer reviews before booking.

Making Payments with Alipay

• Alipay is widely accepted in Nanjing. Download the app and link your bank account or credit card for seamless transactions. Many vendors may not accept cash, so having Alipay is essential.

Using Google Translate for Language Assistance

• Download the Google Translate app, which offers an offline mode. Use the camera feature to translate signs and menus instantly. It’s helpful for communicating with locals who may not speak English.

Using Didi for Taxi Services

• Didi is a popular ride-hailing app in China. Download the app and create an account. You can book taxis or private cars easily through the app, which provides fare estimates and driver details.

Internet Access and VPN Considerations

• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and public places. However, certain websites and apps (like Google, Facebook, etc.) are blocked in China. Consider using a VPN to access these services while traveling.

5. Sample Itinerary

1-Day Itinerary

• Morning: Visit Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum
• Afternoon: Explore Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
• Evening: Stroll around Confucius Temple and enjoy local snacks

2-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Same as above
• Day 2: Visit Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall and Yangtze River Bridge

3-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
• Day 2: Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River boat ride
• Day 3

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