The Ultimate Nanjing Travel Guide: Read Before You Go!

Nanjing is a truly captivating city! Rich in history yet infused with modern energy, it offers a complete travel experience. This guide covers everything from food and accommodation to transportation and entertainment in Nanjing. Give it a like and save it before you embark on your journey! Best Time to Visit Nanjing experiences four distinct seasons, with spring and autumn being the most ideal for travel. Spring (March-May) offers stunning plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, and roses. Autumn (September-November) paints the city with vibrant ginkgo and maple leaves. Summers are hot, and winters are cold and damp, so be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip. Transportation Guide - Airport: Nanjing Lukou International Airport. Airport buses connect to various parts of the city. You can also take subway line S1 and transfer to other lines. - Train: Nanjing Railway Station and Nanjing South Railway Station. Both stations offer convenient access to subway and bus lines. - City Transportation: The subway is highly recommended. It has extensive coverage. Download the "Nanjing Metro" app in advance for easy QR code scanning and payment. The bus network is also well-developed, offering scenic views along the way, but be prepared for potential traffic jams during peak hours. Must-See Attractions 1. Confucius Temple - Qinhuai River Scenic Belt: An iconic Nanjing landmark, featuring ancient architecture and dazzling lights at night. Cruise along the Qinhuai River on a traditional boat, and feel transported back to ancient Jinling. Enjoy a variety of local Nanjing snacks and experience the city's vibrant atmosphere. 2. Nanjing Museum: "One museum, six branches," housing a rich collection of artifacts from ancient times to modern history, providing a comprehensive overview of Jiangsu's history and culture. Remember to book your free visit in advance through their official WeChat account. 3. Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum: A magnificent and solemn architectural masterpiece. Climb the 392 steps for a panoramic view of Nanjing and a profound sense of history. 4. Xuanwu Lake Park: A former imperial garden lake, offering diverse scenery throughout the year. Take a leisurely stroll along the lake, go boating, admire the picturesque landscape, and enjoy a relaxing time. Local Specialties 1. Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup: A Nanjing must-try! Savory duck broth with smooth vermicelli noodles, duck liver, and duck intestines, topped with fresh cilantro and spring onions. Xiaopanji and Yadebao are highly recommended. 2. Beef Guotie (Pan-fried Dumplings): Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, with a satisfying crunch. The aroma of beef fills your mouth with each bite. Li Ji Halal Restaurant's guotie are incredibly popular. 3. Nanjing Roast Duck: Different from Beijing roast duck, Nanjing roast duck features crispy skin, tender meat, and savory gravy. You can't go wrong with roast duck from any local deli. Buy half a duck to enjoy with rice. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Xinjiekou: Nanjing's city center, offering convenient transportation, numerous shopping malls, and a wide variety of restaurants. It's a great location for travel, shopping, and dining, with hotels and guesthouses available at various price points. 2. Near Confucius Temple: Choose this area if you want to immerse yourself in Nanjing's historical and cultural atmosphere. Enjoy the night view of the Qinhuai River, but be aware that prices are relatively higher and the area is more crowded with tourists. Suggested Itineraries 3-Day Trip - Day 1: Nanjing South Railway Station → Hotel check-in → Confucius Temple - Qinhuai River Scenic Belt (night view and snacks) - Day 2: Nanjing Museum → Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum → Music Stage (watch the doves) → Laomendong (local Nanjing cuisine) - Day 3: Xuanwu Lake Park → Jiming Temple (pray for love, admire cherry blossoms, best time to visit is March-April) → Departure 5-Day Trip - Day 1: Arrive in Nanjing → Check in to hotel in Xinjiekou → Explore Xinjiekou for shopping and food - Day 2: Confucius Temple - Qinhuai River Scenic Belt (visit Confucius Temple and Zhan Garden during the day) → Qinhuai River cruise (night view) - Day 3: Nanjing Museum → Jiming Temple → Xuanwu Lake Park - Day 4: Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum → Music Stage → Linggu Temple → Nanjing Impression (local Nanjing dishes) - Day 5: Niushou Mountain (visit Foding Temple, Foding Pagoda, and other scenic spots) → Departure Travel Budget - Accommodation: CNY 300-1,000/day. Xinjiekou and areas near Confucius Temple are more expensive, while other areas are relatively cheaper. - Food: CNY 100-300/day. Diverse choices of snacks and restaurants. - Entrance Fees: CNY 200-500. Some attractions are free. - Transportation: CNY 100-300. Mainly for city transportation and round-trip train/plane tickets. Overall, a 3-day trip budget is around CNY 2,000-4,000, and a 5-day trip is around CNY 3,000-6,000. Adjust according to your personal spending habits. Tips to Avoid Pitfalls 1. Book your Nanjing Museum visit in advance. Queuing on-site may result in not being able to enter. 2. Prices at the Confucius Temple snack street are relatively high, and some snacks may not be worth the price. Compare prices before buying. 3. Nanjing summers are hot, so take precautions against sun and heat. Winters are cold and damp, so pack warm clothes. Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to Nanjing!