NANJING
Nanjing is a city steeped in history, having served as a prominent capital for six dynasties and the seat of government for the Republic of China. It is a metropolis where ancient walls encircle a vibrant modern heart.
This region is a profound center of culture and memory, blending imperial tombs and serene lakes with the poignant sites of 20th-century history. It stands as a compelling destination for those seeking a deep dive into China’s past.
Most Popular Attractions
Imperial and Ancient Heritage:
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum: The magnificent tomb of the Hongwu Emperor, founder of the Ming Dynasty, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
City Wall of Nanjing: One of the longest and best-preserved ancient city walls in the world, dating back to the Ming Dynasty.
Gate of China (Zhonghua Gate): The most well-preserved and complex section of the Nanjing City Wall, an impressive ancient military fort.
Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao): A major cultural and commercial hub on the Qinhuai River, featuring a grand temple complex and traditional architecture.
Zhan Garden: One of the four most famous classical gardens in the south of the Yangtze River, dating back to the Ming Dynasty.
Jiming Temple: A famous Buddhist temple known for its proximity to the city wall and beautiful views of Xuanwu Lake.
Chaotian Palace: A large historical complex and the former site of the imperial examination system, now home to the Nanjing Museum.
Ming Palace Ruins: The remains of the Ming Dynasty’s imperial palace, which served as a prototype for the Forbidden City in Beijing.
Yangshan Quarry: An ancient quarry famous for an enormous, unfinished stele commissioned by the Yongle Emperor, a testament to Ming-era ambition.
Modern Historical and Cultural Sites:
Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum: A majestic memorial to the founding father of the Republic of China, located on Purple Mountain.
Presidential Palace: The former seat of the government for the Republic of China, showcasing architecture and history from the Republican era.
Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders: A powerful and solemn museum dedicated to the victims of the 1937 massacre.
Nanjing Museum: One of China’s most important museums, with an extensive collection covering imperial art, historical artifacts, and regional history.
Meiling Palace: A beautiful European-style villa and the former residence of Madame Chiang Kai-shek, nestled on Purple Mountain.
Wutaishan Stadium: A large multi-purpose sports facility with significant historical importance, having hosted major national events.
Natural and Scenic Attractions:
Purple Mountain (Zijin Mountain): A scenic mountain and forest area, home to several major attractions, including the Sun Yat-sen and Ming Xiaoling Mausoleums.
Xuanwu Lake: A large park and lake located inside the city wall, offering boating, walking paths, and island retreats.
Qinhuai River Scenic Area: A historic area surrounding the ‘Mother River’ of Nanjing, famous for its night market, traditional barges, and illuminated temples.
Mochou Lake Park: A beautiful, tranquil lake park known for its picturesque landscapes and cultural significance rooted in Chinese legend.
Niushou Mountain (Niushoushan): A site of significant Buddhist heritage, recently developed with impressive architectural complexes like the Usnisa Palace.
Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge: An iconic double-decker road and rail bridge, a major landmark spanning the Yangtze River.
Purple Mountain Observatory: China’s first modern observatory, perched on Purple Mountain and offering a glimpse into the country’s astronomical history.
Activities & Experiences
Walk or Cycle the Ancient City Wall: Explore sections of the spectacular Ming Dynasty City Wall, one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in the world. The wall offers panoramic views of the modern cityscape contrasting with historical landmarks.
Visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (Zhongshan Ling): Pay tribute to the “Father of Modern China” at this massive, majestic monument. The mausoleum is a superb example of Chinese and Western architectural fusion, set amidst the beautiful Purple Mountain (Zijin Shan) area.
Wander through the Presidential Palace (Zongtong Fu): Explore the historic headquarters of the Nationalist Government, which showcases a blend of traditional Chinese gardens and Western-style government buildings, offering a look into modern Chinese political history.
Experience the Qinhuai River and Confucius Temple (Fuzi Miao) at Night: Take a scenic boat cruise along the Qinhuai River to view the beautifully lit-up traditional buildings and the Confucius Temple, and then explore the vibrant Confucius Temple Night Market for local snacks and crafts.
Explore the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum: Discover the tomb of the Hongwu Emperor, the founder of the Ming Dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its Sacred Way, lined with impressive stone animal and human figures.
Contemplate at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall: Visit this solemn and powerful museum to learn about one of the most tragic events in modern Chinese history. It is a profoundly moving and essential cultural experience.
Hike and Relax in the Purple Mountain Scenic Area (Zijin Shan): Spend a day in this vast park, home to several key historical sites like the two main mausoleums, Linggu Temple, and scenic trails.
Discover Art and History at the Nanjing Museum: Explore one of China’s largest and most impressive museums, with a vast collection of ancient ceramics, bronzeware, paintings, and historical artifacts that span over 8,000 years.
Visit Niushoushan Cultural Park (Niushoushan Fo Ding Gong): Experience the breathtaking modern Buddhist temple complex, particularly the incredible Usnisa Palace (Budda’s Bone Relic Palace) which features stunning subterranean halls and a massive dome.
Stroll through the Laomendong Historic District: Wander the revitalized ancient streets of this historical and cultural area, lined with traditional Ming and Qing style architecture, charming shops, and restaurants.
Enjoy a Performance at the Grand Bao’en Temple: See the rebuilt Porcelain Tower of Nanjing and the surrounding complex. The temple is a must-see for its spectacular architecture and cultural significance.
Local Tips & Transport
Metro is Excellent: Nanjing has an extensive, efficient, and modern metro system that is often the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city, especially to major tourist spots and between urban areas.
Digital Payment for Transit: You can typically use digital payment methods to ride the metro and buses. Apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay often allow you to purchase virtual transit cards (like a mini-app) that you can scan at the gates, making travel seamless and eliminating the need for a physical card.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. Ride-sharing apps like Didi are highly recommended, as they make communication easier by allowing you to input your destination in Chinese and pay digitally.
High-Speed Rail: Nanjing is a major hub for China’s high-speed rail network. The Nanjing South Railway Station (Nanjing Nan) connects you quickly to major cities like Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou, making day trips or multi-city travel very easy.
Safety Checks: Be aware that security checks are mandatory at all metro stations, railway stations, and many tourist attractions. Bags are scanned, and you will be asked to take a sip of any liquids you are carrying.
Digital is King: China is nearly a cashless economy. Set up a mobile payment system like Alipay or WeChat Pay before or immediately upon arrival, ensuring your foreign card is linked. You will need this for virtually everything, from street vendors to museums.
Always Carry Your Passport: Your original passport is your primary form of identification and is essential. It’s often required for booking high-speed train tickets, checking into hotels, and purchasing entry tickets to major attractions (which are frequently linked to your passport number).
The Cuisine: Nanjing cuisine is characterized by its emphasis on fresh ingredients and moderate flavors, sitting between the light dishes of the south and the saltier food of the north. Duck is a local specialty, particularly Nanjing Salted Duck (Yanshui Ya) and Roast Duck (Kaoya).
Language Barrier: While staff in high-end hotels and international venues may speak English, most locals do not. Have a translation app like Google Translate (with the offline Chinese language pack) or use the translation mini-app within Alipay to help with directions and menus.
Booking Tickets: For popular attractions, it’s often advisable to book tickets in advance online via the attraction’s official WeChat or Alipay mini-program to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and public holidays.
Hidden Gems:
- Gan’s Grand Courtyard (Ganjia Dajing): A massive, well-preserved former private residence from the Qing Dynasty that showcases traditional architecture and folk art.
- 1912 Bar Street: A lively and modern district built from Republican-era buildings, offering a variety of trendy restaurants, cafes, and bars—a great spot for nightlife.
- Zifeng Tower (Greenland Center): Head to the observation deck or the Intercontinental Hotel bar for a spectacular panoramic view of the city, especially beautiful around sunset.
- Jiming Temple (Jí Míng Sì): A beautiful and popular Buddhist temple set right next to the City Wall and Xuanwu Lake. Its striking architecture and golden pagoda are particularly picturesque.
Top Restaurants
Yongheyuan Restaurant (永和园酒楼) [$15-$30] – A long-standing, old-school restaurant near the Confucius Temple (Fuzi Miao), famous for authentic Nanjing local dishes like Salted Duck, Lion’s Head Meatballs, and a vibrant, historical atmosphere that pre-dates the tourist boom.
Nanjing Dapai Dang (南京大牌档) [$20-$35] – While a popular chain (choose a less-touristy location), this place offers an authentic atmosphere styled like old Nanjing teahouses, serving a wide variety of classic provincial Huaiyang and Nanjing snacks and dishes.
Shizilou (狮子楼) [$25-$45] – A renowned restaurant with a history spanning over 300 years, offering local dishes in an antique architectural setting with painted rafters and carved beams, a local classic.
Xinchang Fa (新长发) [$10-$20] – Famous for its traditional Nanjing-style savory dumplings (often served with a rich broth) and other small, local snacks. Look for a location away from the main tourist areas for a more local experience.
Zhu Yansheng Tang Bao (朱延生汤包) [$10-$20] – A classic, long-standing spot highly recommended by locals for its delicate tang bao (soup dumplings) with a signature blend of soup and juicy pork filling.
Han Fu Zi (汉府滋味) [$15-$25] – Known for reliable, traditional Huaiyang dishes and a focus on local flavors, often found in smaller, less-prominent locations.
Qing Zhen Ma Hua Niu Rou Bao (清真马华牛肉包) [$5-$15] – A local favorite for its Halal-style steamed beef buns and other popular Nanjing street food snacks, perfect for a quick, cheap, and authentic bite.
Laofengxiang Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup (老凤祥鸭血粉丝汤) [$5-$15] – A simple, humble shop specializing in the quintessential Nanjing snack: duck blood and vermicelli soup (Yaxie Fensi Tang), a must-try local delicacy.
Jin Ling Fan Dian Xiao Chi (金陵饭店小吃) [$15-$25] – Located inside the famed Jinling Hotel, the snack area offers a high-quality selection of traditional Nanjing-style small eats and desserts in a more refined setting.
Guangming Fang (光明坊) [$15-$25] – A well-regarded spot for classic Nanjing flavors, particularly known for its various preparations of local poultry.
Shi Zi Qiao Food Street Stalls (狮子桥小吃) [$5-$15] – While a food street, look for the individual, no-frills noodle and jiaozi (dumpling) places here for quick, very cheap, and authentic eats popular with locals.
Deyuelou (得月楼) [$20-$35] – A solid choice for traditional Huaiyang cuisine, with a focus on seasonal and intricate dishes, representing the best of Jiangsu cooking.
Rong Ji (荣记) [$15-$25] – A local spot known for excellent, traditional home-style cooking (jia chang cai), often featuring the kind of food a Nanjing family would eat.
Mei Gui Mian Guan (玫瑰面馆) [$10-$20] – A simple noodle house that’s a local secret for its flavorful broths and hand-pulled noodles, specializing in Nanjing-style noodle soups.
Ma Xiang Xing (马祥兴) [$25-$40] – Considered one of Nanjing’s “Eight Great Restaurants,” it’s famed for its traditional Huaiyang dishes like Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish and beef dishes.
Yue Yuan Lou (悦园楼) [$15-$25] – Often appreciated for its authentic local breakfast and brunch items, including various porridge and savory pastries.
Shi Wei Guan (食为观) [$10-$20] – Another popular spot for local snacks, including different kinds of savory flatbreads and small dishes.
Zhen Bao Fang (珍宝坊) [$20-$35] – A well-respected restaurant focusing on the rich, complex flavors of classic Nanjing cuisine.
Gu Nan Du Jian Kang Fan Dian Restaurant (古南都建康饭店) [$25-$40] – Located within a historical hotel, its dining room is known for authentic food cooked in old, time-tested ways, retaining historical character.
Wei Zhi Zai (卫之斋) [$10-$20] – A small, unassuming spot often highlighted by residents for its genuine, flavorful local snacks and quick meals.
Da Yin Zhi Shi (大隐致食) [$20-$35] – A newer establishment that maintains an authentic connection to traditional Nanjing flavors in a pleasant setting.
Xiao Yang Sheng Jian (小杨生煎) [$5-$15] – A very popular chain, but the Nanjing locations are great for a quick, delicious experience with their signature pan-fried pork buns (sheng jian).
Lao Men Dong Food Stalls (老门东美食) [$5-$20] – Various vendors in the restored historical area, offering higher-quality, curated versions of traditional snacks like Qinhuai eight wonders.
Jia Jia Tang Bao (佳家汤包) [$10-$20] – A highly-regarded spot for its quality tang bao (soup dumplings), a comforting local staple.
Jiao Tou Mian (浇头面) [$5-$15] – Numerous small shops around the city specializing in Nanjing-style “topped noodles,” where you choose your topping (e.g., braised pork, eggs, or vegetables).
Jiangnan Wok (江南灶) [$40-$70] – Located in the Shangri-La Nanjing, this restaurant offers exquisite Huaiyang cuisine led by a renowned chef, known for meticulous presentation and modern techniques.
Tunzhonglao (屯中捞) [$30-$50] – A popular spot known for high-quality dishes, including various hot pot options, in a trendy setting.
Garden No. 1 (花园一号) [$50-$80] – Located in Dazhongting Park, this private kitchen-style restaurant offers exquisitely presented, creative dishes based on classic recipes, with private dining rooms and an elegant environment.
Jiang Nan Asian Fusion (江南) [$35-$60] – A restaurant offering a symphony of flavors where East meets West, blending Chinese tradition and culinary innovation.
Yue Cui Xuan Chinese Restaurant (粤翠轩中餐厅) [$30-$50] – Located in the InterContinental Hotels, this spot offers high-end Cantonese cuisine, often with creative touches, overlooking the bustling city and Xuanwu Lake.
Jimmy’s [$25-$45] – Highly recommended by the local expat community for what many consider the best steaks, burgers, and pizza in the city, providing a creative Western option.
BELLINI’S [$30-$50] – Known for excellent Italian food, often praised as the best in China by some, with a focus on authentic recipes and high-quality ingredients.
Laya Burger [$15-$30] – Offers a great and very unique selection of creative burgers, popular for those looking for a modern, international twist on fast food.
The Place (我的地方) [$35-$60] – Located in an old converted house, this Western-style restaurant is known for its creative dishes, large wine selection, and reliance on word-of-mouth rather than heavy advertising.
Arame [$40-$70] – Offers a fresh take on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, incorporating local produce into its modern dishes (often found in high-end hotels).
Fu Cheng (福承) [$40-$70] – A place where a Michelin-starred chef showcases refined Min (Fujian) cuisine, rooted in Quanzhou traditions but presented with modern elegance.
Tairyo Teppanyaki (大渔铁板烧) [$35-$55] – An all-you-can-eat teppanyaki spot known for surprisingly good food and excellent service, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.
La Casa (吾家) [$30-$50] – A Spanish restaurant offering authentic Spanish cuisine, including tapas and paella, in a warm, welcoming setting.
My Little Restaurant (我的小餐馆) [$25-$45] – A cozy bistro-style spot offering a menu of contemporary European and fusion dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Blue Marlin (蓝马林) [$20-$40] – A well-known venue that often combines a pub atmosphere with a menu of Western favorites and some modern Asian fusion dishes.
Talking Pub [$15-$30] – Located on Shanghai Lu, this spot offers good, very cheap food with a simple menu that appeals to a diverse, often international, crowd.
Wagas (沃歌斯) [$15-$30] – A popular, modern casual dining chain offering creative salads, sandwiches, pasta, and juice blends, ideal for a light, healthy meal.
Baker & Spice [$15-$30] – A popular bakery and café offering high-quality bread, pastries, and simple, modern European brunch and lunch items.
The Grandmother’s (外婆家) [$20-$35] – A popular, modern chain that offers a wide variety of updated and traditional Chinese dishes at good value, often bustling with younger locals.
Green & Safe [$20-$40] – A trendy, modern spot focusing on organic and locally sourced ingredients for its contemporary Western and Asian fusion menu.
Plum Garden (梅苑) [$80-$150] – The high-end restaurant of the Jinling Hotel, helmed by a Huaiyang Cuisine Master Chef, offering exquisitely prepared provincial cuisine in an elegant and quiet ambiance.
Lake-View Revolving Restaurant (玄武湖旋转餐厅) [$50-$80] – Located in the Lakeview Xuanwu Hotel, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience with panoramic views of the city and Xuanwu Lake in a revolving setting.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
FLAIR Bar: Located in The Ritz-Carlton, Nanjing (Xinjiekou Area), this elegant bar on the 62nd floor offers a panoramic view of the city. It provides an upscale, “old money style” ambiance with sophisticated cocktails.
BIBLE CLUB: Found in the Confucius Temple/Qinhuai River Scenic Area, this bar boasts an industrial and retro American aesthetic, known for its great drinks and lively atmosphere.
Water.Cocktail & Whisky: Situated on the 39th floor of a building, this spot offers unparalleled skyline views and a menu of high-value cocktails, making it a spectacular choice for a drink in central Nanjing.
梦境托管所·国潮酒馆 (小西湖店): Located in the Confucius Temple/Qinhuai River Scenic Area, this quaint establishment features a unique Taoist culture theme and a creative, story-driven, China-chic cocktail menu.
漾应的火塘 (中华门店): This bar offers a romantic experience in the Confucius Temple/Qinhuai River Scenic Area, where you can sit around a bonfire on the rooftop terrace while enjoying folk music.
隐市酒馆 (夫子庙店): Near the Confucius Temple area, this spot is a paradise for folk music lovers, featuring retro décor with Chinese cultural and creative elements.
PLUTO: A simple and stylish cocktail bar located in Catherine Square, which focuses on innovative and high-quality cocktails.
Drink Grocery Store: A three-story establishment that specializes in cocktails, with each drink on the menu having its own unique story, making it a fun exploration of mixology.
SLOPE: A quiet cocktail bar known for its English-friendly menu and great service, highly recommended for a more relaxed and intimate evening in Nanjing.
Malt and Hop: Located near Gulou, this is a chilled-out spot known for its excellent selection of drinks and friendly, welcoming owner, popular with those seeking a more relaxed environment.
Wing Station: A great spot to go on Friday/Saturday nights, especially known for its excellent happy hour before 9 PM, a decent pool table, and an overall good vibe for meeting people.
Finnegans: A cozy Irish pub that offers a comfortable environment with good food and a solid selection of drinks, often frequented by the foreign community.
Mood Grocery Store Music Bar: A unique place in the Confucius Temple/Qinhuai River Scenic Area where you can read books during the day and transition into a comfortable, romantic atmosphere for drinking and listening to live music at night.
Ellen’s Bar: A popular spot within the famous 1912 Bar Street district, often chosen for casual drinking and conversation with both locals and international visitors.
Thirteenth District Dance Club: Located in the famous 1912 Block in Xuanwu District, this club blends modern aesthetics with local Nanjing characteristics, perfect for dancing and a lively carnival atmosphere.
Una Club: One of the go-to places for dancing and a high-energy night out, conveniently located within the vibrant 1912 Bar Street area.
MIU CLUB: Renowned for its immense popularity and electric atmosphere, making it one of the hottest and most popular nightclubs in Nanjing.
Z9 Dance Club: Famous for its unique dance floor and a highly fashionable atmosphere, this is considered a trendy destination for nightlife in the city.
MASK CLUB: Situated in the Baijiahu 1912 Street Block in the Jiangning Development Zone, this club offers a very good environment and is noted for having great bartenders.
MOSSO Music Bar: An “Internet celebrity live house” with a distinctive atmosphere and a professional resident singing team, offering a mix of a bar and a performance venue.
YP Tribe: Located in Xinjiekou, this is a famous “never-closes” bar with a strong culture of sharing tables, popular for those who want to party until sunrise.
Nanjing Degree World Craft Beer Museum: Operates with a Live House model, offering a wide array of international craft beers along with live performances and DJ sets.
Mono House: While not always open consistently, this club is known to occasionally host events that draw a crowd for a proper clubbing experience.
Red Room: A popular spot, often frequented by foreigners, known for its lively atmosphere.
Secco: A highly recommended bar known for its friendly owner and for being a good spot for meeting other foreigners.
Blue Marlin: A well-known venue, historically famous for hosting live music, often featuring a resident band.