Nanjing

Nanjing: Ancient charm of Jinling, mountains, rivers and forests

Nanjing, formerly known as Jinling and Jiankang, is the capital of Jiangsu Province, an ancient capital with over 2,500 years of history as a city and nearly 500 years as a capital. It is not only the "Capital of Six Dynasties," but also the political and cultural center of multiple dynasties, including the Ming Dynasty and the Republic of China. With its unique historical heritage, rich cultural relics, beautiful natural scenery, and tempting local cuisine, Nanjing attracts countless tourists from home and abroad. Xootour will take you on an in-depth exploration of Nanjing, allowing you to experience the unique charm of this city that transcends time.

The weight of history and the accumulation of culture

The Splendor of the Ancient Capital of Six Dynasties

Nanjing's history is an epic saga of dramatic ups and downs. From Sun Quan establishing his capital in Jianye, thus beginning the era of the "Six Dynasties Capital," to Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, establishing the Ming Dynasty here, and finally to the Republic of China making its capital here, Nanjing has witnessed countless vicissitudes in Chinese history. These historical imprints are deeply etched in every corner of the city, waiting to be discovered.

Must-visit historical landmarks

• Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum: The final resting place of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the great pioneer of China's modern democratic revolution. Built against a mountain, it is magnificent in its grandeur. Climbing the steps, one can feel the charisma of the great man and the solemnity of history. It is a landmark building in Nanjing.
• Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum: A World Cultural Heritage site, it is the joint tomb of Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and Empress Ma. The lifelike stone statues on both sides of its spirit path fully demonstrate the imperial grandeur and are valuable artifacts for studying the mausoleum system of the Ming Dynasty.
• The Presidential Palace: a significant witness to modern Chinese history, from the Heavenly King's Palace of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom to the Viceroy's Office of Liangjiang, and then to the Presidential Palace of the Republic of China, it has witnessed countless vicissitudes. Strolling through it, one can almost hear the echoes of history.
• Nanjing City Wall: The longest existing Ming Dynasty city wall, stretching for tens of kilometers, is one of the largest and best-preserved city walls in the world. Climb the wall to overlook the city and feel the vicissitudes and weight of history.
• The Memorial Hall of the Victims of the Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders: This is a painful history that must be remembered. With its unique architectural style and powerful exhibits, the memorial hall serves as a reminder to the world never to forget national humiliation and to cherish peace.
• Nanjing Museum: One of China's three major museums, with a rich collection covering various precious cultural relics from prehistoric times to modern times, it is an important window for understanding Nanjing and even Chinese civilization.

The romantic scenery of Qinhuai and the everyday life of the city

Mooring on the Qinhuai River at night, the sound of oars and the reflection of lanterns

"Mist shrouds the cold waters, moonlight veils the sand; moored at night on the Qinhuai River near a wine shop." These lines from the Tang Dynasty poet Du Mu vividly depict the enchanting scenery along the Qinhuai River. As night falls, a leisurely cruise on the Qinhuai River offers a breathtaking view of the antique-style buildings shimmering under the lights. Attractions such as the Confucius Temple, the Jiangnan Examination Hall, and Taoye Ferry come into view, transporting you back to a bygone era of prosperity and allowing you to experience the unique romance of Nanjing.

Confucius Temple: A fusion of culture and cuisine

The Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River Scenic Area is one of the most popular areas in Nanjing. It not only houses the Confucius Temple, dedicated to Confucius, but also the Jiangnan Examination Hall, the largest imperial examination hall in ancient China. More importantly, it's a hub for Nanjing's most authentic local snacks, such as duck blood soup with vermicelli, salted duck, and the "Eight Delicacies of Qinhuai," making it an excellent place to sample Nanjing's culinary delights and experience the vibrant local life.

Natural scenery and urban greenery

Zijin Mountain: A place blessed with natural beauty and outstanding people

Purple Mountain is Nanjing's "green lung," combining historical sites and natural scenery. Besides the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, there are also attractions such as Linggu Temple and the Nanjing Observatory. Climbing the mountain offers panoramic views of the entire city of Nanjing, making it an ideal place for leisure, fitness, and getting close to nature. It also provides a superb perspective for experiencing the unique landscape of Nanjing's mountains, rivers, and forests.

Xuanwu Lake: A Pearl in the City

Xuanwu Lake is China's largest royal garden lake, and together with West Lake in Hangzhou and South Lake in Jiaxing, it is known as one of the "Three Famous Lakes of Jiangnan". With its picturesque scenery, willows swaying in the breeze, and tranquil atmosphere, it's a perfect place for citizens and tourists to stroll, boat, and admire lotus flowers, and an excellent choice to experience Nanjing's slow-paced lifestyle. Walking along the lakeside, feeling the gentle breeze on your face, you can enjoy the peace and beauty of the city.

Nanjing Cuisine: A Temptation for the Palate

The cuisine of Nanjing is an important part of the city's culture. From street food to upscale restaurants, everything embodies the flavors of Jinling, leaving a lasting impression.

• Salted duck: A representative delicacy of Nanjing, with white skin and tender meat, fatty but not greasy, and moderately salty, it is a good gift for relatives and friends.
• Duck blood and vermicelli soup: a top choice for breakfast and late-night snacks in Nanjing. The soup is rich and flavorful, the duck blood is tender and smooth, the vermicelli is chewy and refreshing, and it is served with duck liver, duck intestines and other ingredients, making it a delicious dish.
• Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings): Thin skin, generous filling, juicy and delicious. A gentle sip leaves a lingering fragrance in your mouth, making them a must-try delicacy.
• Beef potstickers: with a golden and crispy outer skin and a fresh and juicy filling, they are a star among Nanjing's specialty snacks.
• Mixed Vegetable Buns: Vegetarian buns with rich fillings, fragrant and delicious, a blessing for vegetarians.
• Sweet Osmanthus Taro Sprouts: Sweet and soft taro sprouts paired with the rich fragrance of osmanthus flowers make for a classic Nanjing dessert.

In-depth experience: More than just sightseeing

In addition to visiting famous attractions, Xootour encourages you to delve deeper into the unique charm of Nanjing:

• Explore Laomendong: This area is a concentration of traditional Nanjing residences, with their blue bricks and gray tiles, exuding a simple and elegant charm. Stroll through the area, experience the everyday life of old Nanjing, sample local snacks, browse creative shops, and immerse yourself in the authentic Jinling lifestyle.
• Stroll along the Yihe Road mansion district: This area is a collection of former residences of celebrities from the Republican era. With plane trees providing shade and small Western-style buildings standing side by side, it is full of romance and historical charm, making it an excellent choice for photography and leisurely walks.
• Savor the tea culture: Nanjing has many teahouses. Why not find one, enjoy a cup of Yuhua tea, listen to a storytelling performance or Kunqu opera, and experience the slow-paced life of Jiangnan?
• Visit art districts such as 1865 Creative Park and Vanguard Bookstore to experience Nanjing's modern art atmosphere and artistic sentiment.

Conclusion

Nanjing, a city brimming with stories, offers something for everyone, whether you're a history buff, a culinary adventurer, or a seeker of natural beauty. Xootour looks forward to joining you on an in-depth exploration of every corner of this ancient capital, discovering its hidden charm and surprises, and embarking on an unforgettable cultural and culinary journey.