Nanjing | A Romantic Encounter with the Ancient Capital of Six Dynasties

Nanjing, a city with thousands of years of history, boasts both profound cultural heritage and mouthwatering cuisine. Today, I'll share a Nanjing travel guide to help you discover the unique charm of this city✨ 1. Climate and Temperature The average annual temperature in Nanjing ranges from 13℃ - 22℃. Spring and autumn are ideal for traveling. Spring (March - May) features blooming flowers, while autumn (September - November) showcases fiery red leaves🍁 Summer (June - August) can be quite hot with temperatures above 30℃, so take precautions against heat and sun exposure. Winter (December - February) is damp and cold, so remember to bring warm clothing. 2. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum: The first mausoleum in modern Chinese architectural history, featuring solemn and magnificent architecture. 2. Confucius Temple - Qinhuai River Scenic Area: The Confucius Temple was Nanjing's cultural and educational center during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Qinhuai River is Nanjing's mother river - take an evening boat ride to experience its charm. 3. Nanjing Museum: Houses over 430,000 artifacts, ranking second in China after the Palace Museum in precious cultural relics, allowing you to experience thousands of years of history in one day. 4. Jiming Temple: One of Nanjing's oldest Buddhist temples and royal temples. During spring cherry blossom season, it's breathtakingly beautiful with pink blossoms like clouds🌸 5. Xuanwu Lake: Known as the "Pearl of Jinling," beautiful in all seasons and perfect for leisure walks. 6. Laomendong: Features traditional architecture with gray tiles and blue bricks, offering a taste of old Nanjing along with specialty snacks and artistic shops. 3. Food Recommendations 1. Nanjing Dapaidang: A collection of Nanjing specialties, famous for roasted duck buns, duck blood vermicelli soup, and sweet taro shoots. 2. Salt-water Duck: Tender meat that's flavorful without being greasy, with perfect saltiness. 3. Pidu Noodles: Chewy noodles with crispy pork rind, served with shredded meat and vegetables. 4. Plum Blossom Cake: Plum blossom-shaped pastry with soft texture, moderate sweetness, and rich filling. 5. Beef Potstickers: Crispy outside, juicy inside, with aromatic beef filling. 4. Itinerary Planning - Day 1: Nanjing Museum → Presidential Palace → 1912 District → Xinjiekou - Morning: Visit Nanjing Museum (advance reservation required). - Noon: Try local snacks near the museum. - Afternoon: Visit Presidential Palace, then explore 1912 District. - Evening: Shopping and dining at Xinjiekou, experience Nanjing's prosperity. - Day 2: Jiming Temple → Xuanwu Lake → City Wall → Librairie Avant-Garde - Morning: Visit Jiming Temple, then enter Xuanwu Lake through Jiefang Gate. - Noon: Lunch near Xuanwu Lake. - Afternoon: Climb the City Wall for views of Xuanwu Lake and Nanjing, then visit Librairie Avant-Garde. - Day 3: Confucius Temple → Jiangnan Imperial Examination Hall → Qinhuai River Cruise - Morning: Explore Confucius Temple and Jiangnan Imperial Examination Hall. - Noon: Enjoy local cuisine near Confucius Temple. - Evening: Take a Qinhuai River cruise to enjoy night views. - Day 4: Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum → Music Stage → Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum - Morning: Visit Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. - Noon: Lunch near the scenic area. - Afternoon: Watch doves at the Music Stage🕊️ then visit Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. 5. Important Notes 1. Book attraction tickets in advance, especially for Nanjing Museum and Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. 2. Nanjing subway doesn't accept mobile payments, prepare cash or purchase a transit card. 3. Bring a light jacket in spring and autumn due to temperature differences. In summer, protect against sun and mosquitoes; in winter, dress warmly. 4. Be cautious with spicy food, some Nanjing dishes can be quite hot🌶️ 5. Stay alert in crowded areas like Confucius Temple and Xinjiekou, keep belongings safe. Come start your spontaneous journey in Nanjing, this city will surely leave you with unforgettable memories💕