Nanjing Essential Attractions and Food Guide

Nanjing, historically known as Jinling, is one of China's four ancient capitals, boasting rich historical and cultural heritage along with natural scenery. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the climate is pleasant. Transportation is convenient, with the subway covering major attractions. It's recommended to purchase a transportation card for easy travel. 🎑Must-Visit Attractions: 1. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum: Dr. Sun Yat-sen's tomb features magnificent architecture and beautiful surroundings, offering panoramic views of Nanjing. Visit in the morning to avoid crowds. 2. Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River Scenic Area: Best experienced at night to enjoy the illuminated river, taste authentic snacks, and visit the Jiangnan Imperial Examination Museum. 3. Nanjing Museum: Free admission with rich collections. Focus on the history hall and special exhibition hall. Allow 3 hours for your visit. 4. Presidential Palace: Modern historical complex that witnessed many important historical moments. Visit requires about 2 hours. 5. Ming Xiaoling Tomb: A World Cultural Heritage site and Ming Dynasty imperial mausoleum. The Stone Elephant Road is especially beautiful in autumn. 6. Xuanwu Lake: Central city lake perfect for walking or cycling. The city wall along the lake offers distant views. 7. Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders: A solemn but essential historical education site. Please maintain respectful behavior. 🥯Recommended Local Delicacies: 1. Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup: Most authentic at established restaurants like Huiwei and Jinyuan. Even more delicious with crispy rice. 2. Salted Duck: Best from traditional shops like Han Fuxing and Osmanthus Duck. Available vacuum-packed for takeaway. 3. Soup Dumplings: Jimingxiang and Yin's dumplings feature thin skin and rich broth. Be careful of the hot filling. 4. Qinhuai Eight Delicacies: Including five-spice eggs, tofu pudding, and other snacks available around Confucius Temple area. 5. Huozhuzhi: A Nanjing specialty snack for the adventurous. 6. Sugared Taro: Traditional dessert that's sweet but not cloying. Fangpo Cake Shop is well-known. 🏩Accommodation Tips: Xinjiekou commercial area offers the most convenient transportation, with high-end options like Jinling Hotel. Confucius Temple area has distinctive guesthouses. Budget travelers can choose chain hotels along subway lines. 🛒Shopping Recommendations: 1. Local Products: Yuhua Tea, Yunjin Brocade, Salted Duck, and Jinling Folding Fans. 2. Shopping Areas: Deji Plaza (luxury goods), Xinjiekou Underground Mall (affordable), and Laomendong (cultural and creative products). ❤️Useful Tips: 1. Book attraction tickets online in advance. Some venues are closed on Mondays. 2. Eating and drinking are prohibited on the subway. Bus fares require QR code payment. 3. Spring and autumn have significant temperature differences, so bring a jacket. 4. Some attractions require ID cards for ticket purchase. Keep yours handy. 5. When locals ask "A yao la you" in Nanjing dialect, they're asking if you want spicy oil. Answer according to your preference. 🚗Suggested Itinerary: Classic Three-Day Tour: D1: Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum - Ming Xiaoling Tomb - Meiling Palace - Xuanwu Lake - Music Terrace D2: Nanjing Museum - Presidential Palace - 1912 District - Evening tour of Confucius Temple D3: Memorial Hall for Massacre Victims - Laomendong - Departure For an in-depth experience, add Niushou Mountain, Qixia Mountain, and Yangtze River Bridge. Nanjing has profound cultural heritage, so learning about its historical background beforehand will enrich your visit.