Everything You Need to Know About Nanjing

Nanjing, the capital of the Jiangsu province, is a vibrant city located in eastern China. It is known for its cultural heritage, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes. If you are planning a trip to Nanjing, here are the most frequently asked questions about the city with their answers.

What is the history of Nanjing?

Nanjing has a long history that dates back more than 2000 years. It was the capital of several dynasties, including the Ming and Qing, and served as the capital of the Republic of China in the early 20th century. During World War II, Nanjing was invaded by the Japanese army, and the massacre that followed is remembered as the Nanjing Massacre.

What are the tourist attractions in Nanjing?

Nanjing has several tourist attractions that are worth visiting, including:

The Nanjing City Wall

Considered as one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, the Nanjing City Wall was built during the Ming dynasty and stretches over 35 kilometers in length.

The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum

The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum is the burial site of the first emperor of the Ming dynasty, Zhu Yuanzhang. It is located at the foot of Purple Mountain and is known for its beautiful architecture and sprawling gardens.

The Confucius Temple

The Confucius Temple was built during the Song dynasty and is dedicated to the famous Chinese philosopher, Confucius. It is a great place to learn about ancient Chinese culture and customs.

Xuanwu Lake

Xuanwu Lake is a beautiful lake located in the heart of Nanjing. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike and is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

What food is Nanjing famous for?

Nanjing has a rich culinary heritage and is known for its delicious food. Some of the most popular dishes in Nanjing include:

Yunjin Dumplings

Yunjin dumplings are a type of small steamed dumpling that is filled with pork and vegetables. They are a delicious and popular snack in Nanjing.

Nanjing Salted Duck

Nanjing salted duck is a traditional dish that is made by salting and marinating a whole duck in soy sauce and other spices. It is a popular dish during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Jinling Roast Duck

Jinling roast duck is a local specialty that is similar to Peking duck. It is a crispy, flavorful dish that is served with steamed pancakes, scallions, and sauce.

What is the weather like in Nanjing?

Nanjing has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The summers are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F), while the winters are cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 0 to 10°C (32-50°F). The best time to visit Nanjing is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the foliage is beautiful.

How do I get to Nanjing?

Nanjing has a large international airport, Nanjing Lukou International Airport, that receives flights from all over the world. It is also well-connected to other cities in China by a network of high-speed trains and buses. If you are coming from Shanghai, the fastest and easiest way to get to Nanjing is by high-speed train, which takes about an hour and a half.

In conclusion, Nanjing is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and delicious food. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or cuisine, there is something for everyone in Nanjing.

Insider’s Guide to Nanjing

Nanjing, situated in the Yangtze River basin, was once the capital of China during the Ming dynasty. It is a beautiful city with a rich history, great architecture, vibrant nightlife, and endless cultural experiences that have earned it the nickname “Ancient Capital.” Here is everything you need to know about Nanjing as a tourist destination.

Local Attractions

Nanjing has many spots that are worth visiting. One of the top attractions is the Nanjing City Wall, also known as the Zhonghua Gate. This wall is one of the longest city walls in the world and offers an excellent view of the city. The Confucius Temple is another highlight, where you can see over 600 years of Confucian culture reflected in the intricate statues and carvings.

To learn more about the history of Nanjing, head to the Presidential Palace Museum. This museum has a vast collection of cultural relics, some dating back to the Ming dynasty. For an immersive experience of China’s ancient culture, the Nanjing Museum is a must-visit. It has a significant number of historical treasures, including bronze ware, gold-filled ornaments, and silverware.

Other notable attractions include the Xuanwu Lake Park, the Purple Mountain Scenic Area, and the Mochou Lake Park.

Dining Spots

Nanjing prides itself on its diverse culinary scene, and sampling some local dishes should be on everyone’s itinerary. One of the most popular dishes in Nanjing is the duck blood soup, which is usually served at breakfast. The city is also famous for its baozi, or steamed buns, which can be found on almost every street corner. Other must-try dishes include the crispy and juicy Nanjing salted duck, dumplings, and fried rice cakes.

For a more upscale dining experience, head to the Baijiacun Restaurant. They serve a wide variety of traditional dishes and have excellent service. If you’re in the mood for something more modern, try the Maestro Restaurant and Bar, where you can enjoy a delicious steak dinner.

Cultural Experiences

Nanjing is steeped in cultural heritage, and to gain a better understanding of the city’s roots, attend a traditional Chinese Opera performance at the Nanjing Book City Theatre. Despite language barriers, it is a great way to immerse yourself in Chinese culture.

Visit the Yuejiang Tower, also known as the “First Tower under Heaven.” This 600-year-old pagoda is a symbol of the city and offers panoramic views of Nanjing from the top. Take a stroll through the Yangtze River Bridge Park, which has a pedestrian path on the bridge. It provides a magnificent and unique view of the waterways.

Local History

To understand the rich history of Nanjing, visit the Memorial of the Nanjing Massacre. This is a solemn but must-see monument that commemorates the six weeks of the Japanese invasion of 1937 when over 300,000 people were killed.

Another historical site is the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, which is located on the Purple Mountain Scenic Area. This site was built in honor of Sun Yat-sen, who was the founder of the Republic of China. The Ming Tomb is another historical site worth visiting, where you can witness the rich architectural features of the Ming Dynasty.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something more unique and adventurous, try visiting the Tiantang Forest Park, where you can zipline, rock climb, and trek through the forested trails. Or, visit the Jiming Temple, which is off the usual tourist route. The temple has beautiful gardens, and you can climb to the top for an excellent view of the cityscape.

For shopping, locals recommend a visit to the famous Fuzimiao market by the Confucius Temple. You can pick up souvenirs and jewelry, and sample delicious street food.

Conclusion

Nanjing is a city with something to offer everyone, from rich history to delicious food to unique cultural experiences. Make sure you add it to your travel itinerary when visiting China!