The Qingmu Boutique Hotel (Nanjing Qibei Public Service Center)

Location The hotel is near Dongliu Station, but you need to walk about 3 blocks (15 minutes). The walk is flat, but in July and August it can get very hot, so bring an umbrella. The area is quiet and feels isolated. Although the hotel is not far from Nanjing University Xianlin Campus, there is no direct train, you need to change lines and make an awkward turn. Shared bikes (Hello blue bikes) are convenient in Xianlin, but not around this hotel. A good option is to take the B3 shuttle bus from Sanyang Road, which goes to Nanjing University train station (walking distance to NJU). Around the hotel, you will find small eateries (like chicken and duck rice shops) and a few convenience stores, but no malls. Cleanliness The rooms are clean, but there is a smoke smell that stays for about a day. The staff suggested opening the window and using the aircon, but I also bought a reed diffuser from Miniso to make it smell fresher. Bedsheets were changed regularly (every 5 days). The toilet slippers looked dirty, so I did not use them. Also, the hotel does not provide floor towels. Staff & Service The staff were very kind and helpful. They upgraded me to a bigger double room with a sofa and work area, and also gave me a cheaper rate since I stayed for 40 nights. Cleaning staff came daily, bringing bottled water and keeping the toilet clean. The night-shift counter staff were also helpful. Facilities There is a washing machine that can wash and dry in one cycle. Do not overload it, or clothes won’t dry properly. Since the hotel is not very busy, I could use the machine anytime without queuing. Rooms have a hair dryer and a lighted mirror. The aircon makes a small dripping sound, but it is not a real problem. Noise The soundproofing is generally okay, but occasionally you can hear people talking loudly if there are guests next door. It’s not the hotel’s fault—just that people in China often speak very loudly, even inside their rooms or in the corridor. Nothing much you can do about it. Surroundings & Safety The area is safe, with big roads and many residential apartments. In the evenings, families with kids and dogs walk around, and I also jogged nearby. Food delivery is easy drivers can bring food to your room or the counter. Overall It is a quiet and safe place to stay, with helpful staff and decent facilities. The location is not very convenient for NJU Xianlin Campus, but manageable if you use the shuttle bus.