Nanjing Travel Guide with WakaChina Service - Explore China's Historic Imperial Capital
keywords: "Nanjing travel guide, WakaChina Nanjing service, 中山陵，明孝陵，秦淮河，夫子庙，南京博物院"
1. Introduction
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.
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.
Ticket Price: Free (reservation required). Duration: 2–3 hours. Visit Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum with WakaChina
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.
Ticket Price: 70 RMB ($10 / €9). Duration: 3–4 hours. Explore Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum with WakaChina
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 秦淮八绝 (Eight Qinhuai Delicacies).
Ticket Price: Boat tour: 140 RMB ($20 / €18); Confucius Temple: 30 RMB ($4 / €4). Duration: 2–3 hours. Experience Qinhuai River with WakaChina
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.
Ticket Price: Free (reservation required). Duration: 3–4 hours. Discover Nanjing Museum with WakaChina
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 with WakaChina
Nanjing’s accommodation balances historical charm and modern comfort:
- Purple Mountain Area: 南京东郊国宾馆 (Dongjiao State Guesthouse) offers serene gardens and proximity to Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum.
- Qinhuai Riverfront: 南京金陵饭店 (Jinling Hotel) provides river views and easy access to Confucius Temple.
- Budget: 南京国际青年旅舍 (Nanjing International Youth Hostel) in the Old Town offers affordable beds and organizes city bike tours.WakaChina prioritizes hotels with cultural themes, such as Ming Dynasty–style furnishings or Jiangnan garden designs. Browse Nanjing accommodations
4. Savor Jiangnan Cuisine with WakaChina
Nanjing’s cuisine, part of the Jiangnan (South of the Yangtze) tradition, emphasizes fresh ingredients and delicate flavors:
- 盐水鸭 / 桂花鸭 (Salted Duck/Osmanthus Duck): Nanjing’s signature dish, known for its tender meat and subtle seasoning. Try it at 章云板鸭 (Zhangyun Braised Duck) for a local favorite.
- 秦淮八绝 (Eight Qinhuai Delicacies): A set of eight snacks, including 蟹粉汤包 (crab roe soup dumplings) and 桂花糖芋苗 (osmanthus taro soup), best enjoyed at 南京大牌档 (Nanjing Dapaidang).
- 芦蒿炒香干 (Stir-Fried Selaginella and Dried Tofu): A seasonal dish featuring a local wild herb.
- 糖粥藕 (Sugar Lotus Root Porridge): A sweet dessert from the Confucius Temple area, symbolizing reunion and good fortune.WakaChina’s food guides highlight historic eateries like 清真韩复兴板鸭店 (Han Fuxing Halal Braised Duck) and night markets like 老门东 (Laomendong) for street food. Explore Nanjing’s food scene
5. Cultural Tips and Services
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (mild weather); avoid summer humidity (June–August).
- Historical Sensitivity: When visiting sites like the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, dress modestly and maintain silence out of respect.
- Transportation: Use WakaChina’s private car service to explore outlying attractions like the 牛首山文化旅游区 (Niushoushan Cultural Tourism Zone) or 总统府 (Presidential Palace).
6. Conclusion
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. Let us be your guide to Nanjing’s timeless allure—start planning your adventure today and uncover the layers of China’s past in this remarkable city.