
Nanjing
Nanjing Travel Guide with WakaChina Service - Explore China's Historic Imperial Capital
Nanjing Travel Guide 2025 - China's Ancient Capital
Your complete guide to exploring Nanjing - where imperial history meets modern culture in China's ancient capital
1 Welcome to Nanjing - China's Ancient Capital
Nanjing, the ancient capital of six dynasties and a pivotal city in modern Chinese history, is a treasure trove of imperial relics, scenic gardens, and vibrant cultural experiences. Known as "Jinling" in ancient times, this city on the banks of the Yangtze River blends the grandeur of Ming Dynasty palaces with the solemnity of wartime memorials and the charm of riverside lantern festivals.
With WakaChina's tailored services, you can explore Nanjing's layered history, from its role as a republican capital to its natural beauty, while enjoying seamless travel logistics.
Quick Nanjing Facts
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) for mild weather
- Language: Mandarin Chinese, with some English in tourist areas
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY) - approximately $1 = ¥7.2
- Getting Around: Efficient metro system, buses, and taxis
- Must-Try Food: Nanjing salted duck, Qinhuai delicacies, Jiangnan cuisine
2 Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions in Nanjing

2.1 Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (中山陵)
A symbol of modern China, this mausoleum honors Sun Yat-sen, the "Father of the Nation." Built in 1929, its blue-tiled roofs and white marble architecture embody his political philosophy of "Three Principles of the People." Climb the 392 steps to the main hall for panoramic views of Purple Mountain (Zijinshan).
WakaChina provides guided tours to explain Sun's legacy and arranges early-morning visits to avoid crowds.

2.2 Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (明孝陵)
The largest imperial mausoleum in Nanjing, built for the Hongwu Emperor (founder of the Ming Dynasty), this UNESCO site features elaborate stone carvings, sacred paths, and the iconic "Stone Elephant Road." The mausoleum's design influenced subsequent Ming and Qing Dynasty tombs.
WakaChina's guides highlight its architectural symbolism and can arrange combined tours with nearby Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Linggu Temple.

2.3 Qinhuai River Scenic Area (秦淮河景区)
Immerse yourself in Nanjing's romantic past along the Qinhuai River, famous for its poetic legacy and vibrant nightlife. Cruise along the river in a traditional painted boat to see illuminated bridges and ancient buildings, or visit the nearby Confucius Temple (夫子庙) to explore cultural relics and enjoy seasonal lantern festivals.
WakaChina can book private boat tours and recommend riverside restaurants for Eight Qinhuai Delicacies.

2.4 Nanjing Museum (南京博物院)
One of China's top three museums, Nanjing Museum showcases over 430,000 artifacts, from prehistoric jade to Ming Dynasty porcelain. Highlights include the "Yongle Canon" manuscript fragments and the imperial robes of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom.
WakaChina offers free reservation services and English-guided tours to highlight Jiangsu's cultural contributions, including Suzhou embroidery and Yixing teapots.

2.5 Jiming Temple (鸡鸣寺)
A Buddhist temple with a 1,700-year history, Jiming Temple is renowned for its pink cherry blossoms in spring (late March-early April), which line the nearby "Blossom Road." Climb the temple's pagoda for views of Xuanwu Lake and Nanjing's skyline, or participate in prayer ceremonies to seek blessings.
WakaChina can arrange incense-burning experiences and recommend vegetarian meals at the temple's restaurant.
3 Accommodation Options in Nanjing
Nanjing's accommodation balances historical charm and modern comfort:
WakaChina prioritizes hotels with cultural themes, such as Ming Dynasty-style furnishings or Jiangnan garden designs.
Browse Nanjing Accommodations4 Savor Jiangnan Cuisine
Nanjing's cuisine, part of the Jiangnan (South of the Yangtze) tradition, emphasizes fresh ingredients and delicate flavors:
4.1 Must-Try Dishes
- Salted Duck/Osmanthus Duck (盐水鸭/桂花鸭): Nanjing's signature dish, known for its tender meat and subtle seasoning
- Eight Qinhuai Delicacies (秦淮八绝): A set of eight snacks, including crab roe soup dumplings and osmanthus taro soup
- Stir-Fried Selaginella and Dried Tofu (芦蒿炒香干): A seasonal dish featuring a local wild herb
- Sugar Lotus Root Porridge (糖粥藕): A sweet dessert from the Confucius Temple area, symbolizing reunion and good fortune
4.2 WakaChina's Top Restaurant Picks
- Zhangyun Braised Duck: For authentic Nanjing salted duck
- Nanjing Dapaidang: Traditional restaurant serving Eight Qinhuai Delicacies
- Han Fuxing Halal Braised Duck: Historic eatery with century-old recipes
- Laomendong Night Market: Vibrant street food market with local specialties
5 Popular Activities in Nanjing
6 WakaChina Services in Nanjing
Essential Nanjing Travel Tips
- Carry your passport - required for hotel check-ins and certain attractions
- Download WeChat or Alipay before arrival - essential for payments in China
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases - "nihao" (hello), "xiexie" (thank you)
- Respect historical sensitivity - dress modestly and maintain silence at memorial sites
- Visit popular attractions early to avoid large crowds, especially in peak season
- Try local specialties but be mindful of food allergies and hygiene standards
- Carry cash - some smaller establishments may not accept digital payments
7 Plan Your Nanjing Adventure
Nanjing is a city where every alleyway whispers stories of emperors, poets, and revolutionaries. Whether you're walking the sacred paths of Ming tombs, cruising under the lanterns of Qinhuai River, or savoring a plate of osmanthus duck, WakaChina ensures your journey through this historic capital is both educational and inspiring.
With WakaChina's professional services, you can explore Nanjing with peace of mind and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to Explore Nanjing?
Book our private car service with English-speaking drivers and expert guides. Experience Nanjing's highlights with comfort and convenience.
Start Your Nanjing JourneyNanjing Travel Guide 2025 for International Visitors
Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Qinhuai River & Nanjing Museum
Complete guide to Nanjing travel for international tourists. Learn how to visit Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, explore Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, experience Qinhuai River, discover Nanjing Museum, and visit Jiming Temple. Essential reading for travelers planning to visit China's ancient capital.
Our private car service in Nanjing with English-speaking drivers makes your travel experience seamless. Book your transportation and tours with WakaChina for historical and cultural travel in Nanjing.
- Nanjing Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum Purple Mountain
- Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Qinhuai River scenic boat tours
- Nanjing Museum cultural artifacts
- Confucius Temple cultural district
- Private car service Nanjing English speaking drivers
- Nanjing cuisine food guide salted duck
- Jiangnan culinary traditions
- Jiming Temple cherry blossoms
- Nanjing travel tips for foreign visitors