Must-Visit Ancient Architecture Spots in Nanjing

4-Day Nanjing Itinerary! This well-planned guide ensures no backtracking—even locals give it a thumbs-up 👏 🏯 Highlights: Covers iconic landmarks + hidden gems with efficient routes, all conveniently connected by subway! 【Day1 Old Town Charm】 📍 Hongshan Forest Zoo (¥40): China's most adorable zoo! Arrive by 8am for fewer crowds and active animals 🐼 📍 Xuanwu Lake (Free): 10-min walk, stunning lakeside views (especially at sunset) 📍 Jiming Temple (¥10 incense ticket): Crowded during cherry blossom season but vegetarian meals are worth it 📍 Ming City Wall (Taicheng Section ¥30): Best sunset viewpoint 🍜 Dinner at "Nanjing Impressions" (Lion Bridge location)—must-try salted duck 【Day2 Republic of China Era】 📍 Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (Free, reservation required): 392-step climb tests endurance 📍 Music Terrace (¥10): Arrive before 10am for magical pigeon flights 🕊️ 📍 Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (¥70): Impressive stone statues along Sacred Way ⚠️ Tips: Wear sneakers! Take shuttle carts between sites (¥10/ride) 【Day3 Artsy Hotspots】 📍 Presidential Palace (¥35, closed Mondays): Perfect for Republic-era architecture photos 📍 Librairie Avant-Garde (Wutaishan): China's most beautiful bookstore 📚 🌙 Evening at Laomendong: Visit after 4pm when lanterns light up—prepare to queue for Lu's Plum Blossom Cakes 【Day4 History Lesson】 📍 Memorial Hall of Victims (Free, reservation required): Maintain solemnity 🍱 Lunch at nearby "Yadebao" duck blood vermicelli soup 📍 Niushou Mountain (¥98): Enter via West Gate—Buddhist Palace is awe-inspiring 🚇 Transportation: • Subway covers all attractions (get e-card via Alipay) • Shared bikes work great (avoid hilly routes) 🍜 Food Hall of Fame: • Zhangyun Salted Duck (Pingshi Street): Locals queue here • Fangpo Rice Cake Shop: Must-try sticky rice wraps (go early) • Li's Halal Restaurant: Juicy pan-fried dumplings! ⚠️ Important Notes: • All memorial halls closed Mondays! • Hotel prices triple during cherry blossom season (Mar-Apr) • Audio guides at sites aren't cost-effective • Eating on subway incurs fines!