Nanjing (南京, “Southern Capital”) served as China’s capital under the early Ming Dynasty, the Republic of China, and the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom — three of the most dramatic moments in Chinese history. The city carries all three legacies with unusual thoughtfulness.
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Top Attractions
Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (中山陵)
The tomb of the founder of the Republic of China, set on Purple Mountain in a grand processional approach of 392 stairs through pine forests. The blue-tiled memorial hall at the summit offers views over Nanjing. Free entry to the park; ¥80 for the mausoleum itself. Open daily.
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (明孝陵)
The mausoleum of the Hongwu Emperor — first ruler of the Ming Dynasty — is set in beautiful forested grounds on Purple Mountain. The Sacred Way (神道) leading to the tomb is lined with enormous stone animals and officials, creating one of China’s most atmospheric funerary landscapes. UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entry ¥70.
Nanjing City Wall (南京城墙)
The longest city wall ever built — 35.3km of original Ming Dynasty fortification, much still standing. Parts are open for walking. The Zhonghua Gate (中华门) is the largest surviving city gate fortress in the world — a labyrinth of tunnel chambers and defensive features. Entry ¥55.
Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall (侵华日军南京大屠杀遇难同胞纪念馆)
One of the most important and sobering museums in Asia — documenting the December 1937–January 1938 massacre of an estimated 200,000+ Chinese civilians and POWs by Japanese forces. Deeply affecting. Free entry; book timed tickets online in advance.
How to visit: Allow 2+ hours. The exhibitions are graphic but presented with gravity and historical rigor. A mandatory visit for anyone interested in 20th-century history.
Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River (夫子庙 & 秦淮河)
Nanjing’s most festive district — the restored Qing Dynasty temple market area along the lantern-lit Qinhuai River is especially magical at night. Pleasure boats drift past decorated buildings. Tourist but genuinely beautiful.
Cherry Blossoms
Nanjing is one of China’s best cherry blossom destinations in late March–early April:
- Purple Mountain (紫金山) — hundreds of cherry trees along the hillside roads
- Cock Rock Park (鸡鸣寺) — ancient temple with extraordinary cherry blossom courtyard, best in early morning before crowds
Food
Nanjing duck (南京盐水鸭) — salt-pressed duck is the city’s signature dish; distinctly different from Peking duck. Eat with warm salt-duck broth poured over rice.
Xiaolongbao — Nanjing style is slightly different from Shanghai’s; thicker skin, more filling.
Liuhe crab roe soup dumplings — seasonal autumn specialty; seek out at Confucius Temple market stalls.
Practical Info
Getting there: High-speed from Shanghai (1 hour, ¥100); Beijing (3.5 hours, ¥250); Hangzhou (2 hours, ¥150).
Best time: March–April (cherry blossoms) or October–November (clear autumn).